A 2D barcode scanner (also called a QR code scanner or imager) is a device that uses a camera to capture a barcode image and then uses built-in software to process and decode the image. Most modern 2D barcode scanner can easily scan 1D barcodes (such as UPC, EAN, Code 128, etc.). Traditional 1D barcode scanner, laser scanners decode the bar width by emitting a laser line and measuring the change in the intensity of the reflected light. Alternatively, some newer 1D scanners also use image sensors (similar to miniature cameras).
Since a 2D barcode scanner is based on image recognition, it can "see" the entire image. Recognizing patterns with bar and space changes in a certain direction in the image (i.e., 1D barcodes) is a subset of its decoding capabilities. The algorithm required to recognize 1D barcodes is relatively simple and is one of the basic functions of most 2D decoding engines
Versatility is one of the biggest advantages of 2D scanners. Buy a 2D scanner and you can process both 1D barcodes (such as the barcode on the product packaging) and 2D barcodes (such as QR codes, Data Matrix codes, commonly used for electronic tickets, payments, industrial tracking, etc.). Flexibility: 2D barcode scanner usually have lower requirements for the direction and position of the barcode (omnidirectional scanning), and can even read damaged, wrinkled or poorly printed 1D barcodes (because it can see the entire image and perform image processing and repair). Very early professional 1D laser scanners These devices use pure laser scanning principles and have no image sensors, so they cannot read any 2D codes. Very few specially customized 2D barcode scanner In theory, there may be customized 2D scanner for certain special application scenarios, and their software is streamlined to only recognize specific 2D code formats and ignore 1D codes. But this is extremely rare in general commercial and industrial scanners, and is usually clearly marked in the specifications.
Our commonly used 2D barcode scanner are often used in
1, Retail/Supermarket: Scan the 1D barcode of the product and process the QR code of the membership/payment at the same time.
2. Logistics and warehousing: Read the Data Matrix code on the package (including order number, batch and other information).
3. Medical: Scan the QR code of the medicine to trace the origin, or the encrypted barcode on the patient's wristband.
4. Manufacturing: Identify the tiny 2D code on the parts (directly engraved on the metal/plastic surface).
5. Mobile payment: Convenience store barcode scanners read the user's Alipay/WeChat payment code.