All about – QR Code

A QR Code® (quick response code) is a 2D codeWhat is a 2D barcode?In the case of barcodes, information can be encoded only in the transverse direction (one dimension), while in the case of 2D codes, information can be encoded in both the transverse and the longitudinal directions (two dimensions). By using 2D codes, the range of information content that can be encoded is dramatically increased. (a type of matrix barcode or two-dimensional barcode) developed by DENSO WAVE in 1994, and is most commonly used in Japan.

Feature 1: Encoding a large amount of data with a small code

A QR Code® can encode numerals, alphabetical characters, kanji charactersWhat is a Kanji charachter?As a symbology developed in Japan, QR Code is capable of encoding JIS Level 1 and Level 2 kanji character set. In case of Japanese, one full-width Kana or Kanji character is efficiently encoded in 13 bits, allowing QR Code to hold more than 20% data than other 2D symbologies., katakana and hiragana characters, symbols, binary data, control codes and other data.

Feature 2: Printing in a small area

Since QR Codes encode data in the transverse and longitudinal directions, a QR code can represent data using approximately 10 times less space than a traditional barcode.

Feature 3: Readable regardless of the scanning angle

QR Codes® can be read at high speed regardless of the scanning angle. The secret lies in three position detection patterns, which are located in each code, enabling stable high-speed reading without being affected by the background patterns.

Feature 4: Resistant to dirt and damage

Since QR codes have an error correction function, data can be restored* even if a code is partially stained/missing.

* Data may be unable to be restored depending on the dirt/damage level.

QR Code Model 1

The original QR Code, a code capable of coding 1,167 numerals with its maximum version being 14 (73 x 73 modules).

QR Code Model 2

The QR Code Model 2 is the updated version of Model 1 and capable of coding 7,089 digits. Today, Model 2 is the most widely used QR Code.

Micro QR Code

The largest version of the Micro QR-Code is M4 (17x17 modules) and capable of storing 35 digits. It’s minimal margin is width of two modules.

SQRC

SQRC (Secret-function-equipped QR code) is the worlds only ISO/IEC18004 compliant 2D barcode that can securely trigger a public and private action. SQRC has data reading restricting function.

rMQR Code

This is a rectangular QR Code, that is easy to display in narrow spaces. It can store from 12 digits (7x43 modules) to 361 digits (7x139 modules).

Frame QR Code

A frame QR Code has a canvas field, that can be used in the code. These have gained popularity recently and are used by companies for promotional purposes like print media adverts which displays their logos in the canvas field.