There are two main categories that 2D bar codes fall into- stacked 2D codes and matrix 2D codes.

Stacked 2D Codes

Stacked symbologies resemble a set of linear bar codes literally “stacked” on top of each other.  The most common stacked symbology is PDF417, pictured at right.

Matrix 2D Codes

Matrix symbologies like the Data Matrix at right, are made up of a pattern of cells that can be square, hexagonal, or circular in shape.  In most cases, matrix bar codes offer higher data densities than stacked bar codes.

Although different in many ways, the intent to encode more information in a smaller space is the same and so are the following benefits:

• Capacity- 2D codes allow you to store more data in a smaller space than 1D codes
• Portability-  2D codes don’t require database access for decoding, instead data travels with the item
• Flexibility- compact matrix 2D codes can be read on curved surfaces
• Increased efficiency- increased data capacity and flexibility make goods move more quickly
• Emerging standards- new standards set the stage for millions of new products to be marked by 2D symbols in the coming years

Let’s Get Mobile!  Contact DecisionPoint Systems, Inc. to learn more about bar code imagers and label software that support 2D bar codes.

A cleanroom is any environment that must be free of nearly all particulate matter.  Due to this rigorous standard, cleanroom environments such as biotechnical labs require special bar code labels.  DecisionPoint provides a wide variety of cleanroom media solutions that minimize the amount of particles and contamination that can threaten your cleanroom environment, including:

• Tags designed for applications where there is zero tolerance for out-gassing from adhesive residue
• Removable labels that leave little to no residue when removed
• Ultra-low leachable labels
• Permanent labels designed to adhere to low surface energy substrates
• Ultra-removable labels

DecisionPoint offers a wide variety of printing media and supplies, so if you’re looking for something outside of the cleanroom you can visit our Consumables page.

Let’s Get Mobile!  Contact DecisionPoint Systems, Inc. for more information about cleanroom solutions.

In our Dec. 15th and 16th posts we went over some RFID basics, so today’s news is a great follow-up.

Motorola has announced the release of their newest handheld RFID reader-the MC3090-Z.  The Motorola MC3090-Z is the lightest high-performance handheld reader in its class and includes Motorola’s newly patented omni-directional antenna.  The MC3090-Z antenna enables orientation-insensitive data capture which offers a new level of read sensitivity and wider read ranges.  Equipped with the ability to also scan bar codes, the MC3090-Z is a versatile handheld RFID reader that is ideal for:

• Retail
• Healthcare
• Business environments

Click Here for more information about the newest addition to Motorola’s business line of RFID readers.

Let’s Get Mobile!  Contact DecisionPoint Systems, Inc. for more information about RFID solutions.

The courier industry is an integral part of the economy and provides the last minute delivery and supply that has become our nature.  Many industries rely on same day or less than 24-hours delivery for vital supplies or sensitive items.  Delivery of important documents and packages is what distinguishes courier services from other types of delivery services.  For this reason, courier workers require a mobile solution they can rely on to satisfy their customers.

X Mobile from CXT Software combines real-time data capture with transmit features necessary for today’s demanding delivery customers in a simple, wireless application.  X Mobile is a Java-based mobile application that can be installed on many mobile devices, giving companies several hardware options from Java-enabled mobile phones to mobile PDA devices on any mobile network.  X Mobile features include:

• Two-way communication to confirm jobs, pickup and proof of delivery
• Download entire route manifest to a driver’s mobile device
• Real-time signature capture
• Scan and track bar codes in real-time
• GPS

Download the DecisionPoint and CXT Software Datasheet to learn about DecisionPoint solutions that combine X Mobile and the powerful Motorola MC55.

Let’s Get Mobile!  Contact DecisionPoint Systems, Inc. for more information about solutions, hardware and software designed for the courier industry.

I’m sure you’ve all been in this situation before.  Is this a 4 or a 9?  Handwritten data can cause costly mistakes, but data capture and mobile printing technologies can eliminate the need to interpret sloppy handwritten data and will reduce errors.  Implementing bar code scanning increases accuracy so data is captured quickly and easily with a simple press of a button.  No more scrutinizing to determine what the data might be.  Mobile printing technologies also eliminate these kinds of mistakes by allowing mobile workers to print documents out in the field that are easy to read and accurate.

Contact DecisionPoint Systems, Inc. to learn how you can reduce costly errors by implementing mobile data capture and mobile printing solutions.

Building on the successful MC3000 Series, Motorola has announced the release of the MC3100 Series mobile computer that offers advanced computing power.  Built for within the four-walls, the MC3100 Series provides anytime mobility in retail stores, warehouse aisles, out in the yard or on the loading dock.  The MC3100 offers the latest in mobile technology and security features, including:

• Integrated RFID tag that allows enterprises to track and locate MC3100 devices right out of the box
• Motorola’s new Mobility Platform Architecture 2.0 for easy and cost-effective porting of applications from other Motorola mobile computers
• Motorola MAX Rugged design meets applicable MIL-STD and IEC specifications for drop, tumble and sealing
• Motorola Max Secure FIPS 140-2 certification and support for the most advanced encryption and authentication algorithms
• Motorola MAX Sensor provides enterprise-class Interactive Sensor Technology (IST) that enables leading edge motion-based applications, including dynamic screen orientation, power management and free-fall event logging

As with all Motorola devices, you’ll also have the best-in-class data capture technology right at your fingertips.  Available with a Symbol 1D laser scanner or 1D/2D imager, the MC3100 provides superior performance no matter what type of data you need to capture.  Download the Datasheet to learn more about the superior features of the MC3100.

Contact DecisionPoint Systems, Inc. for more information about the six different models of the MC3100 and we’ll help to determine which device will best meet your business needs.

Item Unique IDentification (IUID) is an asset identification system instituted by the United States Department of Defense (DoD) to uniquely identify an asset or component by assigning a unique identifier.  All government property, contracts and deliverables are required to be marked with a unique number. 

Compliance requires that all IUID labels, marks or tags use a two-dimensional (2D) Data Matrix symbol with the data formatted in accordance with syntax and formatting standards necessary to ensure accurate scanning and tracking.  The Commercial And Government Entity Code (CAGE Code) is a unique identifier assigned to suppliers. The IUID is comprised of the CAGE Code, serial number and part number.

The Data Matrix marking can be applied in one of the three following ways, but must remain permanent through the lifecycle:

• Direct Part Marking:  Symbol is permanently placed directly on an asset using laser etching, dot peening, chemical etching, laser bonding, or ink jet printing. 
• Data Plates:  Plates are attached to assets with screws, adhesive or bolts. 
• Adhesive Labels:  Labels are typically made from polyester or foil and attached to the asset with adhesive .

The U.S. Federal Government maintains an IUID Registry data system to store records for all assets delivered to the government or in the custody of contractors that have UID marks or have been assigned an IUID in anticipation of future possible UID marking.

As other government agencies recognize the benefits of the DoD’s IUID mandate, it’s expected they will institute their own IUID programs.

Linear or one-dimensional (1D) bar codes are limited in the amount of data that can be encoded.  This limitation led to the development of a two-dimensional (2D) symbology composed of rows of data arranged in a rectangular or square pattern. The rows of data are stacked onto each other to encode an array of data. 

One example of a a two-dimensional (2D) bar code symbology is Data Matrix (also known as datamatrix).  As you can see in the sample image at the right, the Data Matrix symbol consists of light and dark square data modules representing zeroes or ones.  In addition, a Data Matrix has an L-shaped border called the “finder pattern” which is used to locate and orient the symbol.  The other two borders consist of alternating dark and light cells called the “timing pattern” which provides a count of the number of rows and columns. Within the borders are rows and columns of cells of encoded data.   As more data is encoded in the symbol, the number of rows and columns will increase ranging from from 8×8 to 144×144.  Data Matrix can encode up to 2,335 alphanumeric characters and has built-in error checking and correction algorithms that enable reconstruction of encoded data when the symbol is damaged.  By the way, the above sample contains the text “Get mobile with DecisionPoint”.

The most popular application for Data Matrix is marking small items.  Data Matrix is used for the Item Unique Identification (IUID) asset identification system instituted by the United States Department of Defense (DoD) because it can encode item details such as manufacturer ID, serial number and part number. 

Our August 17 post introduced the topic of Intelligent Mail Barcode (IMB)—also known as OneCode and the 4-State Barcode.  IMB replaces the postal POSTNET and PLANET barcodes and will be required starting this fall for companies looking to receive the maximum USPS automation discounts.

Motorola offers several imagers capable of decoding the new IMB symbology.  One model is the DS9808 digital imager scanner.  This scanner features a hybrid form factor for both handheld and hands-free scanning modes. Its latest scanning technology enables it to support 1D and 2D omnidirectional bar code scanning and sub-second image capture, as well as the ability to capture images and signatures.

Contact DecisionPoint Systems, Inc. to learn more about the line of imager scanners that can decode the IMB sysmbology. 

In our September 16 post, we shared the news that Motorola just released the MC9500, an industrial-class addition to the best-selling Motorola MC9000 series.

Now we have just learned the carrier certification dates:

• AT&T: September 21
• Sprint: September 21
• Verizon: September 23

Once a chipset is certified by the FCC and the PTCRB (PCS Type Certification Review Board), T-Mobile does not require further certification to run on their network.

Contact DecisionPoint Systems, Inc. to learn more about the state-of-the art Motorola MC9500 Enterprise Digital Assistant (EDA) .