1D vs. 2D Barcode Scanners: What You Need to Know
In the world of barcode scanning, understanding the differences between 1D and 2D barcode scanners is crucial for businesses looking to optimize their operations. 1D barcode scanners, also known as linear scanners, read traditional barcodes consisting of vertical lines and spaces of varying widths, commonly used in retail and logistics. On the other hand, 2D barcode scanners can read both linear and matrix barcodes, such as QR codes, which store more information in a smaller space and can be scanned in any orientation.
This comparison article will go over the functionalities, advantages, and ideal use cases for each type of barcode and scanner, helping you make an informed decision on which technology best suits your needs. Whether you're focused on speed, data capacity, or versatility, understanding these key differences will guide you toward the right choice for your business's specific requirements.
What is a 1D Barcode Scanner?
1D Barcode Scanners have been used in retail stores for over 50 years, but were invented much earlier – in 1952 by Norman Joseph Woodland and Bernard Silver. The first implementation however, wasn’t until 1972 – 74 when George J. Lauer invented the first U.P.C. or Uniform Product Code which was then placed on products to be scanned at checkout.
A 1D barcode scanner reads both the black lines and white spaces on a 1D barcode. Each scanner uses a laser beam, which is directed through a series of mirrors to illuminate the barcode. The scanner detects the light reflected back from the barcode, which corresponds to the varying widths of the black lines and white spaces and is interpreted by the scanner’s sensor. This information is then processed and checked against a database to retrieve specific details, such as the product type, price, and other unique identifiers. A 1D barcode scanner can typically read 1D barcodes from a range of a couple inches, to about 2 feet in distance.
Because 1D barcodes are read via a laser horizontally left to right, 1D barcode scanners are also called Linear Barcode Scanners, Linear Handheld Scanners, or Laser Barcode Scanners.
What is a 2D Barcode Scanner?
2D barcode scanners operate quite differently from typical 1D barcode scanners, as they do not rely on a laser to read barcodes. Instead, 2D barcode scanners use imaging technology to capture an image of the 2D barcode. This captured image contains a complex pattern of dots, squares, or hexagons. The scanner then employs a sophisticated decoding algorithm to interpret the encoded data within this image. The algorithm analyzes the various shapes and their relative positions to accurately reconstruct the information embedded in the barcode.
A 2D barcode scanner uses an imager, or an area imager, to take the picture of the 1D or 2D barcode. A 2D barcode imager is a camera-based imaging scanner that is similar to a digital camera.
A 2D barcode scanner can typically read 2D barcodes from a range of a couple inches, up to 68 feet in distance. 2D barcode scanners are typically able to read both 2D and 1D barcodes, which makes a 2D barcode scanner a more flexible solution.
1D Barcode Scanners vs. 2D Barcode Scanners: Main Differences
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1D Barcode Scanner |
2D Barcode Scanner |
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Visual & Cost Differences |
Form |
Often smaller and more rectangular |
Often larger and square shaped |
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Cost |
Less expensive |
More expensive |
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Scanning Differences |
Scan Direction |
Horizontally, from left to right |
Horizontally and vertically from any direction |
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Scan Technology |
Laser Scanning |
Captured image by an Area Imager |
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Scan Speed |
Slightly Faster |
Slightly Slower |
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Scan Range |
A few inches to up to 2 feet in distance |
A few inches to up to 68 feet in distance |
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Functionality Differences |
Type Barcodes |
1D barcodes or linear barcodes only |
1D barcodes or linear barcodes, 2D barcodes, QR codes |
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Digital Scan |
Cannot read a barcode on a phone or display screen |
Can read a barcode on a phone or display screen |
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How They Work |
1D Barcode Scanners read a series of varying lines that’s translated into a number, and that number is searched for in a database |
2D Barcode Scanners take an image of a barcode and use a decoding algorithm to decode the data into meaningful information |
Barcode Scanner Use Cases - 1D vs. 2D
Below are some of the most common use cases for 1D and 2D barcodes within popular industries.
1D Barcodes
- Retail – Point of Sale (POS)/Checkout
- Public Service – Library Cards
- Public Service – Postal Services, track & route mail
- Public Service – Government issued ID (Driver’s License)
- Security – Access control for neighborhoods, parking
2D Barcodes
- Transportation – Flight Boarding Passes
- Retail – Coupons
- Pharmaceutical – Serialization & Traceability
- Healthcare – Patient Identification (Wristbands)
- Entertainment – Ticketing for events
- Advertising – Event promotions
Conclusion
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