Jun 13, 2006
PDF417 vs. Datamatrix
By Fraser Ross
Question – How do I choose the correct 2D application?
Answer – This is a good question although there is not an easy answer.
If you look around, you will find examples of 2D codes everywhere. In my last column, I discussed the USPS applications for 2D and you saw that they allow both.
There really is no general answer, but if you are producing 2D codes to meet a government specification, I have found that the PDF417 is the one most commonly called for. Some states require the code on proof if insurance documents, many states have PDF417 on the back of driver’s permits and some states have a requirement for PDF417 on trucking labels. The state of Missouri uses PDF417 to eliminate re-keying erros on tax returns.
You are likely to see many other applications of PDF417 coming up since 2D is widely accepted as the best in automatic identification apps.
Datamatrix is also widely used, by the USPS, by the Department of Defense and many post-processing equipment vendors. Datamatrix is much more efficient and you can encode much more data into a smaller space.
In our industry, the need for additional information to provide tracking, security and document integrity value, makes datatrrix the most popular by far.
The Post Office does allow 2D codes. They will accept PDF417 and datamatrix, within their Information-Based Indicia Program (IBIP). In this program, the indicia consists of the 2D code and human-readable information. Producers of the 2D code have flexibility in the appearance of the indicia, provided the basic requirements contained meet USPS performance criteria
The IBIP program supports these new methods of applying postage in lieu of the traditional approach that typically relies on a postage meter mechanically printing often-identical indicia on mailpieces. This also allows mailers the flexibility of printing directly on the media of choice using existing mainframes and printers.
As I mentioned, the contents must follow the specifications set up by the USPS.
If you are interested in this technology, feel free to call me and I can discuss the IBIP and how it relates to the new ‘onecode’ vision from USPS that you may have heard about.
I would love to hear your ideas on how you imagine this exciting technology might help your company. Please feel free to send me your thoughts.
You can read more about 2D symbologies by reading my archives here. .
For more information on the exciting technology, please call Fraser Ross at 888-999-COPI ext ‘FR’.