5 Markets That Are Buying 2D Bar Code Scanners

By Jeremy Miller, Industrial Automation and Advantech Product Specialist, L-Tron

Although 1D bar codes are still prevalent across all industries, the implementation of 2D bar codes has skyrocketed. The reason is simple; smaller size and increased information.

Technology has evolved to the point where application space on product is at a minimal. With a 2D bar code, it has become very easy to implement a traceable and readable bar code that is under one-half inch in width and one-half inch in length. Even at its small size, a 2D Aztec, Data Matrix, PDF417, QR Code, etc. can hold a significant amount of information as compared to a 1D bar code, enabling the implementer to include all required data that an the end user will need for their respective process.

These five markets are buying 2D bar code scanners, and in turn, taking advantage of the perks 2D bar codes have to offer.

1. Manufacturing. 2D bar codes have become quite prevalent in manufacturing due to the increasing demands for lot traceability. The increased amount of information requested by the customer along with the fact that there is limited space for implementation has made the 2D Data Matrix code a popular option. You will find these bar codes on board arrays, components, print circuit boards (PCB) and the finished product. The bar codes are usually applied via direct part mark (DPM), laser etching or a physical synthetic label.

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