2-D Matrix Symbologies

A two-dimensional (2-D) matrix symbology has a pattern of elements that carries information in two directions: vertically and horizontally. Matrix symbols can encode hundreds of times as much data as linear barcodes. For example, the well-known QR Code symbol can hold more than 7,000 digits or 4,000 characters of text, whereas the most complex linear codes have a maximum capacity of approximately 30 characters. Matrix symbols can be printed in very small spaces, which further enhances their versatility and usability in numerous applications.