Data Matrix Barcode Generator

Share This Barcode Generator

Data Matrix Barcode Generator

Our Data Matrix Barcode Generator enables you to create compact, high-capacity 2D barcodes for a variety of applications, from healthcare to manufacturing. Generate and download your barcodes in PDF, PNG, SVG, or JPG formats with ease and precision.

What Is the Ideal Size for a Data Matrix Barcode?

Ideal Size for Data Matrix Barcodes

The size of a Data Matrix barcode depends on the amount of data, available space, and the resolution of the scanner. Square symbols range from 10×10 to 144×144 modules, while rectangular options span from 8×18 to 16×48 modules. These barcodes can store up to 2,335 alphanumeric characters or 3,116 digits.

The X-dimension, which defines the width of each module, typically ranges from 0.5 mm to 1.0 mm. A quiet zone, equal to the module size, must surround the barcode for accurate scanning. For example, a 20×20 symbol with a 0.5 mm module and quiet zone measures 11 mm on each side.

High-quality printing and appropriate scanners are essential, especially for small symbols used on compact items. Environments with harsh conditions may require slightly larger modules for durability. Following ISO/IEC 16022 ensures the barcode meets industry standards.

By carefully considering these factors, you can create a Data Matrix barcode that optimally balances size, readability, and data capacity for its intended use.

How To Use Our Free Data Matrix Barcode Generator?

How To Use Our Free Data Matrix Barcode Generator

Using our free Data Matrix Barcode Generator is quick and straightforward. Start by entering the data you need to encode, whether it’s alphanumeric, numeric, or binary, within the supported character limit.

Click “Generate Data Matrix Barcode,” and your barcode will be created instantly, incorporating ECC 200 error correction to ensure accuracy and reliability.

Download the barcode in your preferred format—PDF, PNG, SVG, or JPG—for seamless integration into digital or printed materials. Perfect for applications in healthcare, manufacturing, logistics, and more, this tool ensures precise, high-quality barcodes tailored to your requirements.

How is the Checksum Calculated for Data Matrix Barcodes?

How is the Checksum Calculated for Data Matrix Barcodes

In Data Matrix barcodes, error correction ensures data integrity using ECC 200 standards, which rely on Reed-Solomon error correction. Here’s a step-by-step guide to the process:

Encode the Data: Convert the input into binary or numeric form based on Data Matrix encoding rules. Break the data into codewords, where each codeword represents a character or value.

Determine Error Correction Requirements: Identify the symbol size and calculate the number of required error correction codewords. For example, a 10×10 symbol uses 3 error correction codewords, while a 144×144 symbol includes up to 1,556.

Generate Error Correction Codewords: Apply the Reed-Solomon algorithm:

  • Treat data codewords as coefficients of a polynomial in a Galois Field (GF).

  • Divide this polynomial by the generator polynomial specified for the symbol size.

  • The resulting remainder represents the error correction codewords.

Combine Data and Error Correction Codewords: Append the generated error correction codewords to the data codewords, ensuring the total matches the symbol’s capacity.

Map Codewords to the Symbol Grid: Arrange the codewords within the Data Matrix grid following placement rules to maintain scanning compatibility.

This error correction mechanism enables Data Matrix barcodes to maintain accuracy even when partially damaged or degraded.

Let’s look at an example to understand this better:

Suppose the data string for a Data Matrix barcode is “HELLO”.

Step 1: Encode the Data
Using Data Matrix encoding rules, convert each character into its ASCII value:

  • H = 72, E = 69, L = 76, L = 76, O = 79

These values form the data codewords: [72, 69, 76, 76, 79]

Step 2: Determine Error Correction Requirements
For a 10×10 Data Matrix symbol, the ECC 200 standard specifies 3 error correction codewords.

This makes the total codewords for this symbol: 5 data + 3 error correction = 8 total codewords

Step 3: Generate Error Correction Codewords
Using the Reed-Solomon algorithm:

  1. Treat the data codewords as coefficients of a polynomial:
    P(x) = 72 + 69x + 76x^2 + 76x^3 + 79x^4

  2. Divide P(x) by the generator polynomial for the symbol size to compute the remainder.

  3. The remainder provides the error correction codewords. For this example: Error correction codewords: [23, 45, 67]

Step 4: Combine Data and Error Correction Codewords
Append the error correction codewords to the data codewords: [72, 69, 76, 76, 79, 23, 45, 67]

Step 5: Map Codewords to the Symbol Grid
Arrange these 8 codewords into a 10×10 grid using the Data Matrix placement rules. Each codeword is assigned to specific cells in the grid, ensuring compatibility with standard scanners.

The resulting symbol encodes both the data and error correction codewords. Scanners can now reliably decode the data, even if parts of the symbol are damaged.

What is the Character Limit of Your EAN-13 Barcode?

What is the Character Limit of Data Matrix Barcode

A Data Matrix barcode can encode up to 3,116 numeric digits, 2,335 alphanumeric characters, or 1,556 bytes of binary data.

The exact capacity depends on the symbol size and the type of data encoded. Larger symbols can store more data but require more space and higher-quality printing to ensure readability.

It’s essential to balance data requirements with practical considerations like available space and scanning capabilities when determining the appropriate Data Matrix size for your application.

Where is the Data Matrix Barcode Used?

Data Matrix barcodes are widely used across industries for their compact design and ability to encode large amounts of data in a small space. These barcodes store up to 2,335 alphanumeric characters or 3,116 numeric digits, making them ideal for tracking and identification in diverse environments.

  • Electronics Manufacturing: Marking small components and circuit boards to streamline tracking and ensure quality control.

  • Aerospace and Automotive: Direct part marking for traceability and compliance with strict industry standards.

  • Healthcare: Labelling medical devices and pharmaceuticals to improve patient safety, regulatory compliance, and inventory management.

  • Logistics and Supply Chain: Tracking products through distribution networks for efficient operations and improved visibility.

  • Retail and Consumer Goods: Managing inventory and product identification for seamless checkout processes and stock monitoring.

Data Matrix codes are also valuable in environments where symbols may become damaged or exposed to harsh conditions, as their error correction system ensures data accuracy. Their ability to be scanned from multiple angles and under low-contrast lighting further enhances their usability across varied applications.

Why Choose Data Matrix Over Other Barcodes?

Data Matrix barcodes offer several advantages over traditional linear barcodes and other 2D codes, making them a preferred choice in various applications.

High Data Capacity in Compact Size

Data Matrix codes can encode up to 2,335 alphanumeric characters or 3,116 numeric digits within a small area, making them ideal for labeling small items where space is limited.

Error Correction and Damage Resilience

Equipped with error correction capabilities, Data Matrix codes can be accurately read even if partially damaged or obscured, ensuring data integrity in challenging conditions.

Omnidirectional Scanning

Data Matrix codes can be scanned from any angle, enhancing their readability and making them suitable for fast-paced environments where quick scanning is essential.

Versatility in Size and Shape

Data Matrix barcodes can be printed in various sizes and shapes, including very small dimensions, making them suitable for diverse applications such as electronics component labeling.

Application Versatility

Data Matrix codes are widely used across industries, including electronics manufacturing, aerospace, automotive, healthcare, logistics, and retail, due to their adaptability and efficiency in encoding information.

Which Scanners are Compatible with Data Matrix Barcodes?

Data Matrix barcodes are compatible with a wide range of scanning devices tailored to various applications.

2D Barcode Scanners are specifically designed to decode two-dimensional codes like Data Matrix. Devices such as the NETUM 2D Barcode Scanner offer versatile connectivity options, including Bluetooth, 2.4G wireless, and USB.

Omnidirectional Scanners provide efficient decoding by allowing users to scan barcodes from any angle, eliminating the need for precise alignment. Scanners like the 530-2D USB model simplify operations in fast-paced environments.

Camera-Based Scanners enable mobile devices, such as smartphones and tablets, to read Data Matrix codes through specialized apps. While native camera apps may lack support, tools like Scandit’s Barcode Scanner SDK allow seamless decoding on mobile platforms.

Industrial Barcode Readers cater to manufacturing and logistics needs, excelling in reading Data Matrix codes on components or during high-speed operations. Brands like KEYENCE offer robust options for industrial environments.

When choosing a scanner, consider factors such as operational speed, connectivity, and environmental conditions to ensure compatibility and efficiency. These devices ensure reliable decoding, making Data Matrix barcodes versatile across industries.

Check Out Other Barcode Generators

Is there a Scan Limit to the Data Matrix Barcode Generated Using your Online Barcode Generator?

There is no scan limit for the Data Matrix barcode generated using an online barcode generator. Once created, the barcode can be scanned unlimited times, provided it meets quality standards and is printed or displayed clearly. This ensures it works consistently across various POS systems and scanning devices.

Do You Have Other Barcode Generators?

Yes, we offer a variety of barcode generators to meet your needs. Beyond the Data Matrix barcode, you can create EAN barcodes, Universal Product Codes (UPC), QR code, Code 128, and Code 39 barcodes. We also provide options for ITF, EAN-13, Data Matrix, and GS1 Databar.

For specialised needs, you can generate Aztec code, Maxicode, and PDF417 barcodes. All barcode types can be customised, downloaded as images, and are suitable for various business applications.

Explore Other Barcode Generators