What are 1D, 2D, and 3D barcode readers?
As technology evolves, so do the tools that support it, from RFID labels or tags to barcodes.
Traditional Codes
There are two groups of barcodes: traditional ones known as 1D codes and 2D codes. Traditional barcodes are composed of parallel bars and are primarily used to identify products or packaging. Using a laser scanner, product information can be obtained, from a shipment of products to patient information in the healthcare sector.
2D Codes
However, 2D codes are increasingly being implemented; these can be QR codes or Datamatrix codes. QR codes can hold more information than traditional codes and generally consist of three squares in the corners. QR codes can be used to attach, for example, URLs, contact information, and even entire documents. These codes can only be read by a camera-equipped device, such as image scanners and smartphones, and are therefore more expensive than laser readers.
Datamatrix is different from QR codes; it is a label that allows the generation of a large amount of information in a very small format. It can be read with a code scanner or a camera on a mobile device equipped with special software.
RFID Tags
On the other hand, RFID readers are used in logistics, supported by devices in the form of tags, cards, or RFID transponders. These are not only 3D readers, as they not only identify a product but also exchange information through electromagnetic waves, allowing, for example, product traceability or helping warehouse software perform inventory or control merchandise movements.
Conclusion
Each type of code and its characteristics, when evaluated, can be applied to different areas of intralogistics, from verifying an entry into the warehouse to preparing an order. In addition, 1D, 2D, and 3D code technology will continue to evolve in the future.