The symbol comprises a rectangular array of disconnected dots, organized like the dark squares of a checkerboard, surrounded by a quiet zone. Sequences of dots represent symbol characters. Check characters account for about a third of the symbol's capacity.

Using structured append, several DotCode symbols can be linked to increase data capacity as needed.

This symbology supports the full ASCII and extended ASCII character sets. It also supports three function characters, which enable Extended Channel Interpretation (ECI) protocol functionality.

DotCode uses the Reed-Solomon algorithm for error correction.

The size of a DotCode symbol depends on the amount of data that is entered. The minimum height is typically seven dots. There is no maximum capacity, although 124 x 124 dots may be a practical limit. The symbol's aspect ratio can be adjusted to fit the available space as needed.

A three-dot-wide quiet zone is required on all sides.