GS1 DataMatrix Guideline
Overview and technical introduction to the use of GS1
DataMatrix
Release 2.5.1, Ratified, Jan 2018

GS1 DataMatrix Guideline

Document Summary
Document Item

Current Value

Document Name

GS1 DataMatrix Guideline

Document Date

Jan 2018

Document Version

2.5

Document Issue

1

Document Status

Ratified

Document Description

Overview and technical introduction to the use of GS1 DataMatrix

Contributors
Name

Organisation

Lutfi Ilteris Oney

GS1 Global Office

Ray Delnicki

GS1 US

Cedric Houlette

GS1 France

Jesper Kevin Franke

GS1 Denmark

Alan Gormley

GS1 Ireland

Peta Scavone

GS1 Australia

John Pearce

AxiconIlka Machemer

GS1 Germany

Neil Piper

GS1 UK

Naoko Mori

GS1 Japan

Darryl Zurn

Smiths Medical

Andrew Hearn

GS1 Global OfficeJohn Ryu

GS1 Global Office

Chuck Biss

GS1 Global Office

Marc Benhaim

GS1 FranceDavid Buckley

GS1 Global Office

Doreen Dentes

GS1 Venezuela

Mark Van Eeghem

GS1 Global Office

Raman Chhima

GS1 New ZealandSilvério Paixão

GS1 Portugal

Michaela Hähn

GS1 Germany

Wang Yi

GS1 China

Naoko Mori

GS1 Japan

Jean-Claude Muller

IFAH

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GS1 DataMatrix Guideline

Name

Organisation

Michel Ottiker

GS1 Switzerland

Nora Kaci

GS1 Global Office

Hitesh Brahma

GS1 India

Nevenka Elvin

GS1 Australia

John Pearce

GS1 UK

Frank Sharkey

GS1 Global Office

Jim Willmott

Smiths Medical

Log of Changes
ReleaseDate of change

Changed By

Summary of Change

2.0

15 Jan 2015

Lutfi Ilteris Oney

GSMP Publication

2.1

03 Feb 2015

Lutfi ilteris Oney, John
PearceWR 14-205

2.2

May 2015

Lutfi ilteris Oney, Coen
Janssen, David Buckley

Publication Editing

2.2.1

July 2015

Valerie Hoste

Applied new GS1 branding prior to publication

2.3

May 2016

Lutfi ilteris Oney

WR 15-315: changes on appendix 1 and 7. Errata
edits and community review comments
incorporated.

2.4

Oct 2016

Lutfi ilteris Oney

WR 16-258 : changes on section 2.2

2.5

Sep 2017

Andrew Hearn, David
Buckley, Ilka Machemer,
Gerald Gruber

WR 17-145: resolution of Community Review
comments including editorial corrections (figure
numbering in section 4) and errata.

2.5.1

Jan 2018

David Buckley

Errata fixes to correct and automate crossreferences, Figure 2-4, etc.

Disclaimer
GS1®, under its IP Policy, seeks to avoid uncertainty regarding intellectual property claims by requiring the participants inthe Work Group that developed this GS1 DataMatrix Guideline to agree to grant to GS1 members a royalty-free licenceor a RAND licence to Necessary Claims, as that term is defined in the GS1 IP Policy. Furthermore, attention is drawn to thepossibility that an implementation of one or more features of this Specification may be the subject of a patent or otherintellectual property right that does not involve a Necessary Claim. Any such patent or other intellectual property right is
not subject to the licencing obligations of GS1. Moreover, the agreement to grant licences provided under the GS1 IP Policy
does not include IP rights and any claims of third parties who were not participants in the Work Group.
Accordingly, GS1 recommends that any organisation developing an implementation designed to be in conformance with thisSpecification should determine whether there are any patents that may encompass a specific implementation that theorganisation is developing in compliance with the Specification and whether a licence under a patent or other intellectual
property right is needed. Such a determination of a need for licencing should be made in view of the details of the specificsystem designed by the organisation in consultation with their own patent counsel.
THIS DOCUMENT IS PROVIDED “AS IS” WITH NO WARRANTIES WHATSOEVER, INCLUDING ANY WARRANTY OF
MERCHANTABILITY, NONINFRINGEMENT, FITNESS FOR PARTICULAR PURPOSE, OR ANY WARRANTY OTHER WISE ARISINGOUT OF THIS SPECIFICATION. GS1 disclaims all liability for any damages arising from use or misuse of this Standard,
whether special, indirect, consequential, or compensatory damages, and including liability for infringement of any
intellectual property rights, relating to use of information in or reliance upon this document.

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GS1 DataMatrix Guideline
GS1 retains the right to make changes to this document at any time, without notice. GS1 makes no warranty for the use ofthis document and assumes no responsibility for any errors which may appear in the document, nor does it make acommitment to update the information contained herein.
GS1 and the GS1 logo are registered trademarks of GS1 AISBL.

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GS1 DataMatrix Guideline

Table of Contents
1

Introduction to GS1 DataMatrix .................................................................... 8
1.1

General structure ............................................................................................................ 8

1.2

Technical characteristics ................................................................................................... 8

1.3

2

2.2

Size and encoding capabilities .................................................................................. 9

1.2.3

Error detection methods........................................................................................ 13

1.2.4

Reed-Solomon error correction ............................................................................... 13

General recommendations for defining Application Standards.............................................. 13

The encoding structures ................................................................................................. 14
GS1 element strings ...................................................................................................... 14
2.2.1

Function 1 Symbol Character (FNC1) ....................................................................... 15

2.2.2

Concatenation ...................................................................................................... 15

2.2.3

Pre-defined length vs. fixed length element strings ................................................... 16

2.3

Human readable interpretation (HRI) ............................................................................... 19

2.4

Symbol location ............................................................................................................ 20

2.5

Recommendations on encoding for defining Application Standards ....................................... 20

Reading and decoding GS1 DataMatrix ....................................................... 22
3.1
3.2

3.3

4

Shape and presentation of the symbol ....................................................................... 8

1.2.2

Encoding data ............................................................................................. 14
2.1

3

1.2.1

Principles of reading GS1 DataMatrix ............................................................................... 22
Scanners for GS1 DataMatrix .......................................................................................... 22
3.2.1

Introduction ......................................................................................................... 22

3.2.2

Selecting a scanner ............................................................................................... 23

Decoding...................................................................................................................... 24
3.3.1

The principles of decoding ...................................................................................... 24

3.3.2

Transmission of data strings ................................................................................... 24

Symbol marking techniques........................................................................ 26
4.1

4.2

Basic software functions ................................................................................................ 26
4.1.1

Printing device independent software ...................................................................... 26

4.1.2

Software embedded in the printing device................................................................ 26

4.1.3

Selecting the right software ................................................................................... 26

Symbol marking technologies ......................................................................................... 26
4.2.1

Thermal transfer ................................................................................................... 27

4.2.2

Inkjet .................................................................................................................. 27

4.2.3

Laser etch (Direct Part Marking - DPM) .................................................................... 28

4.2.4

Dot peen (Direct Part Marking - DPM) ..................................................................... 28

4.3

Selecting the right symbol marking technology ................................................................. 29

4.4

General recommendations for symbol quality .................................................................... 30

4.5

Colours and contrast ...................................................................................................... 30

4.6

Verification of symbol (data and print quality) ................................................................... 31
4.6.1

ISO/IEC 15415 Barcode print quality test specification–2D symbols............................ 31

4.6.2

Other print quality standards.................................................................................. 34

4.6.3

Possible causes of low grade................................................................................... 37

4.6.4

The verification process ......................................................................................... 38

4.6.5

Selecting a verifier ................................................................................................ 40

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4.7

A

Recommendations when developing Application Standards ................................................. 40

Annexes ...................................................................................................... 42
A.1

GS1 size recommendations for symbols using GS1 DataMatrix ............................................ 42
A.1.1
Symbol specification table 6 - Regulated healthcare non-retail consumer trade items notscanned in general distribution ........................................................................................... 42
A.1.2

Symbol specification table 7 - Direct part marking .................................................... 42

A.1.3
Symbol specification table 8 - Trade items scanned in retail pharmacy and general
distribution or non-retail pharmacy and general distribution ................................................... 44
A.1.4

Symbol specification table 9 - GS1 keys GDTI, GRAI, GIAI and GLN ............................ 44

A.1.5
Symbol specification table 10 – Regulated healthcare retail consumer trade items notscanned in general distribution ........................................................................................... 44
A.1.6

Symbol specification table 11 – GS1 GSRNs ............................................................. 45

A.2

The International Standard ISO/IEC 646 for representation of each character ....................... 45

A.3

The Extended ASCII Codes ............................................................................................. 47

A.4

Protocol used to encode ASCII in GS1 DataMatrix.............................................................. 50

A.5

Structure of codewords used in GS1 DataMatrix ................................................................ 51

A.6

Use of GS1 DataMatrix for healthcare products ................................................................. 51

A.7

GS1 DataMatrix questions and answers (Informative) ........................................................ 51

B

Bibliography ............................................................................................... 57

C

Glossary of terms ........................................................................................ 58

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GS1 DataMatrix Guideline

Foreword
This document aims to facilitate this process by offering detailed information on GS1
DataMatrix and its technical characteristics: encoding, printing and reading. This document is theresult of the consolidation of technical knowledge of many users on the Data Matrix technology. It
aims to be a repository of reference information that can support the implementation of GS1
DataMatrix in any sector, industry or country. This document is not meant to be all inclusive andis not a replacement for any GS1 standard. The GS1 General Specifications should always bereferred to for all details on GS1 System rules and recommendations.

Who should use this document?
The intended audience for this document includes GS1 member organisation staff, customers,
users of the GS1 System and members of working groups developing application standards andguidelines for GS1 System applications. Please refer to the current version of GS1 GeneralSpecifications for all application standards.
This document is not the development standard required to develop hardware and software to
encode, decode, scan or print GS1 DataMatrix symbology. The technical detail for this level of
implementation shall be found in the standard: ISO/IEC 16022, Information technology - Automatic
identification and data capture technologies - Data Matrix barcode symbology specification.
This document is not intended as a technical reference for development of imaging (printing andmarking), reading (scanning and decoding) and transmission of data technologies; for those whoneed this level of detail, the standards cited in the bibliography (in particular ISO/IEC 16022) shouldbe implemented.
It is assumed that readers of this document are familiar with barcode applications, are able tocreate a barcode and understand the basic principles of automatic identification and data capture.

How to use this document?
GS1 DataMatrix is primarily intended for implementation in an open system (e.g., a system in which
the supplier can mark items in the expectation that all trading partners will be able to read andcorrectly interpret the data encoded). In this context, a standard implementation is essential to
avoid each partner having to re-label products for different customers and / or at different points ofthe supply chain.
This guide is designed to help define standard implementations of GS1 DataMatrix. It is a synthesisof recommendations for encoding, printing and reading GS1 DataMatrix.
GS1 has over 40 years’ experience in the definition, maintenance and management of standards forbarcode applications.

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1

Introduction to GS1 DataMatrix
GS1 DataMatrix is a matrix (2D or two-dimensional) barcode which may be printed as a square orrectangular symbol made up of individual dots or squares. This representation is an ordered gridof dark and light dots bordered by a finder pattern. The finder pattern is partly used to specify theorientation and structure of the symbol. The data is encoded using a series of dark or light dotsbased upon a pre-determined size. The size of these dots is known as the X-dimension.
Before reading this document one should know the difference between data carrier and data
structure. A data carrier is a graphical representation of data in a machine readable form, used toenable automatic reading of the Element Strings. GS1 DataMatrix is the ISO/IEC recognised andstandardised implementation of the use of Data Matrix. The GS1 DataMatrix is formed by adding
FNC1 codeword in the first position of Data Matrix ECC 200 version.

1.1

General structure
GS1 DataMatrix is composed of two separate parts (see figure below): the finder pattern, which isused by the scanner to locate the symbol, and the encoded data itself.
The finder pattern defines the shape (square or rectangle), the size, X-dimension and the numberof rows and columns in the symbol. It has a function similar to the Auxiliary Patterns (Start, Stop andCentre patterns) in an EAN/UPC barcode and allows the scanner to identify the symbol as a GS1
DataMatrix.
The solid dark is called the “L finder pattern”. It is primarily used to determine the size, orientationand distortion of the symbol.
The other two sides of the finder pattern are alternating light and dark elements, known as the“Clock Track”. This defines the basic structure of the symbol and can also help determine its size anddistortion.
The data is then encoded in a matrix within the Finder pattern. This is a translation into the binary
GS1 DataMatrix symbology characters (numeric or alphanumeric).
Figure 1-1 Finder Pattern and the data

Finder pattern

Data

Just like linear (1D) barcodes GS1 DataMatrix has a mandatory Quiet Zone. This is a light areaaround the symbol which must not contain any graphic element which may disrupt reading thebarcode. It has a constant width equal to the X-dimension of the symbol on each of the four sides.
Each Data Matrix symbol is made up of number of rows and columns. GS1 DataMatrix always has
an even number of rows and columns. Therefore it always has a light “square” in the upper righthand right corner (circled in the figure above). Obviously, this corner will be dark if the GS1
DataMatrix symbol is printed in negative (inverse reflectance printing).

1.2

Technical characteristics

1.2.1

Shape and presentation of the symbol
When implementing GS1 DataMatrix, a choice of symbol form must be made (based upon
configuration support, available space on the product type, amount of data to encode, theprinting process, etc.). It is possible to encode the same data in two forms of GS1 DataMatrix:

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Figure 1-2 A square form versus a rectangle form

SquareRectangle

The square form is the most commonly used and enables the encoding of the largest amount of dataaccording to ISO / IEC 16022 Information technology – Automatic Identification and data capture
techniques – Data Matrix barcode symbology specification.
However the rectangular form with its limited height is better suited to some high speed printing
techniques, and to unusual printing spaces.

1.2.2

Size and encoding capabilities
GS1 DataMatrix is capable of encoding variable length data. Therefore, the size of the resulting
symbol varies according to the amount of data encoded. Accordingly, this section can approximate
the size of a given GS1 DataMatrix based on this parameter.
The figure below is extracted from ISO/IEC 16022 (for the full table see Table 1-1). It provides auseful guide to estimating the size of the symbol but the exact size of the GS1 DataMatrix symbol
depends on the exact encoded data. See the figure below for the size and capacity graph.
Figure 1-3 Symbol Size vs. Numeric Capacity

Symbol Size
(Square)Data Capacity (Numeric)Release 2.5.1, Ratified, Jan 2018

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Table 1-1 Table of Data Matrix symbol attributes (square form)
Symbolsize*

Data region

Row

Col

Size

No

10

10

8x8

1

12

12

10x10

14

14

16

Mappingmatrixsize

Total
codewords

Maximum datacapacity
Num

Alpha num.

% ofCodewords
used forerror
correction
no.

Max.
correctable
codewords
error/erasure

Data

Error

Cap.

Cap.

8x8

3

5

6

3

62.5

2/0

1

10x10

5

7

10

6

58.3

3/0

12x12

1

12x12

8

10

16

10

55.6

5/7

16

14x14

1

14x14

12

12

24

16

50

6/9

18

18

16x16

1

16x16

18

14

36

25

43.8

7/11

20

20

18x18

1

18x18

22

18

44

31

45

9/15

22

22

20x20

1

20x20

30

20

60

43

40

10/17

24

24

22x22

1

22x22

36

24

72

52

40

12/21

26

26

24x24

1

24x24

44

28

88

64

38.9

14/25

32

32

14x14

4

28x28

62

36

124

91

36.7

18/33

36

36

16x16

4

32x32

86

42

172

127

32.8

21/39

40

40

18x18

4

36x36

114

48

228

169

29.6

24/45

44

44

20x20

4

40x40

144

56

288

214

28

28/53

48

48

22x22

4

44x44

174

68

348

259

28.1

34/65

52

52

24x24

4

48x48

204

84

408

304

29.2

42/78

64

64

14x14

16

56x56

280

112

560

418

28.6

56/106

72

72

16x16

16

64x64

368

144

736

550

28.1

72/132

80

80

18x18

16

72x72

456

192

912

682

29.6

96/180

88

88

20x20

16

80x80

576

224

1152

862

28

112/212

96

96

22x22

16

88x88

696

272

1392

1042

28.1

136/260

104

104

24x24

16

96x96

816

336

1632

1222

29.2

168/318

120

120

18x18

36

108x108

1050

408

2100

1573

28

204/390

132

132

20x20

36

120x120

1304

496

2608

1954

27.6

248/472

144

144

22x22

36

132x132

1558

620

3116

2335

28.5

310/590* Note: Symbol size does not include Quiet Zones.

1.2.2.1 Size and configuration of the symbol
The sizes provided above are given in terms of numbers of rows and columns. For the GS1
DataMatrix square-form, the number of rows and columns can vary between 10 and 144 providing
24 different potential symbol sizes.

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By contrast for the GS1 DataMatrix rectangle-form, the number of rows can vary between 8 and 16
and the number of columns between 18 and 48. The GS1 DataMatrix in rectangle-form allows six
sizes (the square form has 24) and its use is less widespread than the square- form.

1.2.2.2 The dimensions of the symbol
The size of a GS1 DataMatrix is dependent upon the following factors:■

The amount and format (numeric or alphanumeric) of the encoded information: numbers andcharacters are encoded in terms of bits, represented by dark or light “dots” or “modules” of an
identical size. The larger the number of bits required, the larger the symbol will be.

■

The size of the X-dimension (see A)■

The choice of form: square or rectangular

1.2.2.3 Maximum amount of encoded data
The table above show the maximum amount of data that can be encoded in the square form of
DataMatrix. Data Matrix can encode up to:■2,335 alphanumeric characters, or■

3,116 numbers

As GS1 DataMatrix always requires the use of the Function 1 symbol character in its first position,
its capacity is reduced to 2,334 alphanumeric characters, or 3,114 numbers
This maximum is based upon a square-form symbol made up of 144 rows and 144 columns divided
into 36 Data Regions of 22 rows and 22 columns each.
For GS1 DataMatrix in the rectangle-form, the maximum capacity is:■

71 alphanumeric characters or■

96 numbers

A GS1 DataMatrix symbol can encode a sequence of numeric and alphanumeric data, structured
according to the GS1 Application Identifier rules.

1.2.2.4 Data regions
The matrix symbol (square or rectangle) will be composed of several areas of data (Data Regions),
which together encode the data.
The table below shows an extract of ISO/IEC 16022, which gives details on how the Data Regions
are composed. For example a symbol consists of 32 rows and 32 columns, including four sub-arraysof 14 rows and 14 columns. The number and size of “sub-matrices” within the GS1 DataMatrix
symbol are shown in the column “Data Region”.

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Table 1-2 Symbol size vs. data region table
Symbol size(without Quiet Zones)

Data region

Row

Column

Size

No.

24

24

22 x 221

26

26

24 x 241

32

32

14 x 144

36

36

16 x 16

4

Symbols with one-Data Region----- Changeover Threshold

Symbols with more than one Data Region(For the full table see Table 1-1).

1.2.2.5 Error correction
The table below shows the percentage of space used for Error Correction in the Data Matrix symbol
and the number of codewords (data bytes) which may contain an error or be concealed without it
being detrimental when scanning and reading the symbol. Example: Where 80 numeric digits haveto be encoded
Table 1-3 26X26 Data Matrix symbol attributes
SymbolSize(without
Quiet
Zones)

Data
region

Row

Col

Size

26

26

24x24 1

Mappingmatrix
size

No.
24x24

Total
codewords

Maximum datacapacity
Num. Alpha
num.

Byte

Data Error

Row.

Col.

Size

44

88

64

42

28

% of
Codewords
used forerror
correction
No.

Max.
correctable
codewords
error/erasure

38.9

14/25

(For the full table see Table 1-1).In the extract above from the ECC 200 Symbol Attributes table of
ISO/IEC 16022, we have selected the size of matrix which is equal to, or the next higher than, theamount of data to be encoded – in this case: 88 numeric digits.
Therefore, the matrix is composed of 26 rows and 26 columns.
This matrix is made up of 72 bytes, which is the sum of the total number of data and error
codewords shown in the table above (44 +28)
If the encoded data, irrespective of the encodation scheme in force, does not fill the data capacity ofthe symbols, the pad character (Codeword value: 129) shall be added to fill the remaining datacapacity of the symbol.
Important:■

The size of the Data Matrix symbol is determined by the amount of data to be encoded and noton the desired percentage of error correction.

■

However, applicable application standards define the best options for a given fixed encodation
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1.2.3

Error detection methods
There are several methods of error detection. An example is the check digit used by many linear
barcodes, which use an algorithm to calculate the last digit of the number encoded. Check digits canconfirm if the string of data is encoded correctly according to the specified algorithm. In the case of a
mistake, however, it cannot indicate where the mistake was made.
Another example is to repeat data encoded within a symbol, which will help to obtain a successful
read even if the symbol is damaged. This is called redundancy and can lead to some confusion
when applied to GS1 DataMatrix: for GS1 DataMatrix we will talk about “Error Correction”.
Indeed, the encoding of data in a GS1 DataMatrix symbol can be done using multiple security levels.
The two-dimensional structure allows the encoding of the data and mechanisms for correcting errors
should they occur. These mechanisms enable the scanner to reconstitute some of the information in
the event of a damaged or difficult to read GS1 DataMatrix symbol. Several security levels aredescribed in the Data Matrix standard ISO/IEC 16022 (Information technology - International
Symbology Specification). Each of the Data Matrix code types: ECC 000; ECC 050; ECC 080; ECC
100; and ECC 140 has some form of error detection and correction. ECCs that are no longer used
are mentioned here for completeness.

1.2.4

Reed-Solomon error correction
GS1 DataMatrix (Data Matrix ECC 200) is the only Data Matrix configuration which employs ReedSolomon error correction. This feature allows, to a certain extent, the location of errors and, where
possible, their correction.
The Reed-Solomon error correction:■

Calculates complementary codes and add-ins during the creation of the symbol.

■

Reconstitutes the original encoded data by recalculating the data from the complementary
codes and add-ins. The recalculation regenerates the original data by locating errors at thetime of scanning. Such errors may be the result of printing problems, specular reflection ordegradation of the printed surface.

As outlined above (see section 1.2.2.5), the level of error correction depends on the relative numberof error correction codewords used.
For GS1 Applications only Data Matrix ECC 200 is specified. GS1 DataMatrix is the version as definedin ISO/IEC 16022 which supports GS1 Application Identifiers (GS1 AIs) data and the Function 1
symbol character (FNC1). GS1 AIs and FNC1 are required in the GS1 DataMatrix header structure. In
this way GS1 DataMatrix is different from all other Data Matrix versions and other (non-GS1) data
encoding methods.

1.3

General recommendations for defining Application Standards
Achieving an effective business implementation of any technology depends on correctly matching
the features of technology to the user needs. Please refer to the current version of GS1 GeneralSpecifications for more information on application standards.
When developing application standards for Data Matrix, users must meet to agree on:■

The mandatory data (GS1 Application Identifiers) to be encoded. For example, if it is agreed thatthe business need is met by encoding between 20 and 40 digits of numeric data, then a Data
Matrix symbol with 20 rows and 20 columns will meet the need.

■

The shape of the Data Matrix: square or rectangle. Indeed, both square and rectangle forms
could be an option.

■

The Error Correction. For GS1 Applications only Data Matrix ECC 200 is specified and the error
correction is given.

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2

Encoding data
The sub-sections below outline the various methods that exist for encoding data into GS1
DataMatrix symbols. All methods used to generate the GS1 DataMatrix symbol require the data to
be submitted in a form that is understandable to the encoder.

2.1

The encoding structures
The general version of Data Matrix supports various encoding structures which can be used in thesame symbol simultaneously. Examples include: ASCII, ISO/IEC 646, C40, Text, X12, EDIFACT andBase 256. These structures provide an opportunity to maximise the efficiency of encoding therequired data in a Data Matrix symbol.
The simplest solution, and the one mandated by the GS1 standards, is to encode data using thesubset of ISO/IEC 646 (equivalent to ASCII table 256) for all the information. This limited character
set is supported by almost all computer systems available around the world today. It is strongly
recommended to make ISO/IEC 646 (or the equivalent ASCII 256) the default option.
ISO/IEC 646 is derived from the ASCII (American Standard Code for Information Interchange) thatwas first established in the 1960s as the standard way for the binary representation of digits andthe characters in the Latin alphabet. For example, the character “a” is associated with “01100001”
and “A” to “01000001” in the standard ASCII 256. This enabled digital devices to communicate witheach other and to process, store, and communicate character-oriented information. In particular,
almost all personal computers and computer-like devices in the world started adopting ASCII
encoding.
Although ASCII coding is now supplemented by additional characters, known as extended characters, tosupport computers encoding characters that are not used in English such as accented characters “à”,
“ô” or “é”) these are not allowed for use within the GS1 System, and so not in GS1 DataMatrix.
This is not because Data Matrix is unable to encode these characters, but for global use ambiguity
may arise due to:

2.2■

The same ASCII code being used for different extended characters in different geographicalregions■

The inability of many users to key enter the extended characters (due to computer limitations
and human factors).

■

Only the characters contained in the ISO 646 invariant subset may be used. It should be
noted that spaces cannot be encoded (see International Standard ISO/IEC 646 forrepresentation of each character).

■

The GS1 Application Identifiers (or AIs) are used for all encoded data (see section 2.2).

GS1 element strings
Although it is possible to encode any type of data in Data Matrix symbols, the data must be
structured according to the rules of the GS1 System when using GS1 DataMatrix.
Element strings begin with an Application Identifier which is then followed by the data that the AI
denotes. The system can be characterised by:■

A standard format for encoding data and barcoding specifications■

A symbol architecture that allows multiple data elements (for example, item identification,
expiration date, batch number, etc.) within a single barcode.

These features enable trading partner information systems to be developed in a way that enables
communication via encoding and decoding the information in the GS1 DataMatrix symbol.
GS1 Application Identifiers (AIs) are 2, 3 or 4 digit numbers which define the meaning and theformat of the data that follows. Each AI and its associated data can be encoded into a GS1 DataMatrix
symbol in the same way – and using the same logical rules - as encoding data in the linear barcode
GS1-128. Application Identifiers should be clearly recognisable to facilitate key entry. This isachieved by putting parentheses around Application Identifiers in the Human Readable Interpretation

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under the symbol. The parentheses are not part of the data and must not be encoded in thebarcode.
This table shows six examples of common GS1 element strings:
Table 2-1 GS1 element strings
AI

Data definition

Format (AI & data)*

01

GTIN

N2+N14

10

Batch or lot number

N2+X..20

11

Production date (YYMMDD)

N2+N6

15

Best before date (YYMMDD)

N2+N6

17

Expiration date (YYMMDD)

N2+N6

21

Serial number

N2+X..20

Table 2-2 * Meaning of the format used
FormatMeaning

N

Numeric digit

X

Alphanumeric characters

N2

Fixed length of two numeric digits

X…20

Variable length with a maximum of 20 alphanumeric characters

A complete list of Application Identifiers can be found in the GS1 General Specifications.

2.2.1

Function 1 Symbol Character (FNC1)
By definition in ISO/IEC 16022 GS1 DataMatrix uses a special start sequence to differentiate GS1
DataMatrix from other ISO/IEC Data Matrix symbols. This is achieved by using the Function 1
Symbol Character (FNC1) in the first position of the data encoded. It enables scanners to process
the information according to the GS1 System Rules.
The FNC1 (codeword 232) has two separate uses in GS1 DataMatrix:■

Start character.

■

Separator character to separate element strings that are not in the predefined list (seeTable 2-3).
Important: In accordance with ISO/IEC 15424 - Data Carrier Identifiers (including
Symbology Identifiers), the Symbology Identifier is the first three characters transmitted by
the scanner indicating symbology type. For a GS1 DataMatrix the symbology identifier is ]d2.

2.2.2

Concatenation
Using GS1 DataMatrix, it is possible to concatenate (chain together) discrete element strings(Application Identifiers (AIs) and their data) into a single symbol. When the element string is ofpredefined length, no separator character is required when another element string is added to it.
When the element string is not of predefined length, it must be followed by a separator character
when concatenating more element strings. The separator character may be FNC1 or the control
character <GS> (ASCII value 29 (decimal), 1D (hexadecimal)). FNC1 is the character that has thecodeword value 232. When either FNC1 or <GS> is used as a separator character, the scanner must
transfer the character value as control character <GS>.
A separator character is never required after the last element string encoded in the symbol.

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Example:■There are element strings with abbreviations ES 1, ES 2 and ES 3.

■

ES 1 has a predefined length (see Table 2-3)■

ES 2 and ES 3 do not have predefined lengths (e.g., they contain variable length data)■

FNC1 is used to represent the Function 1 Symbol Character.

■<GS> is used to represent the control character <GS>.

Concatenation of three element strings, ES1, ES 2 and ES 3
Data content of GS1 DataMatrix symbol
FNC1

ES 1 (predefined
length)ES 2 (nonpredefined length)

FNC1 or <GS>

ES 3 (nonpredefined length)

When several element strings have to be concatenated and only one of them is of variable length, it
is strongly recommended to position it at the end of the symbol. This optimises the size of thesymbol by avoiding the use of a separator character.

2.2.3

Pre-defined length vs. fixed length element strings
A common mistake is to believe that any GS1 element string of a fixed length is never followed by aseparator character. Only the element strings with a pre-defined length listed in Table 2-3 do notneed a separator character. All other fixed length element strings require a separator character.
Table 2-3 shows all the element strings that were predefined in length when GS1 Application
Identifiers were first introduced. This table has never been amended and there is no intention tochange it in the future. It enables software decoders to be built without the risk of them having to
be modified by the publication of new GS1 Application Identifiers. This table should be included inany processing software which is intended to process GS1 AIs.
The numbers in parentheses are not yet allocated. They were placed in reserve and may, in the
future, be allocated to new element strings with a predefined length.
For all GS1 element strings that start with two digits that are not included in this table, it ismandatory to follow the element string with a separator character if it is not the last element string
encoded in the symbol.

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Table 2-3 Element strings with pre-defined length using Application Identifiers (GS1 General Specifications
Figure 5.10.1-2).
First two-digits of the Application Identifier

Number of characters (Application Identifier and data
field)

00

20

01

16

02

16

(03)*

16

(04)*

18

11

8

12

8

13

8

(14)*

8

15

8

16

8

17

8

(18)*

8

(19)*

8

20

4

31

10

32

10

33

10

34

10

35

10

36

10

41

16

*Those Application Identifiers are reserved for future assignment
Example: The element string beginning with the AI (426) is defined as N3 + N3 i.e. with a fixed length data
field of three digits. AI (426) does not appear in the table above and must be followed by a separator
character, either FNC1 or <GS>, when other element strings are concatenated after it.

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Figure 2-1 Processing of Data from a scanned GS1 DataMatrix symbol

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2.3

Human readable interpretation (HRI)
It is recommended to have Human Readable Interpretation of the Application Identifiers (AIs) andtheir associated data near the GS1 DataMatrix Symbol in which they are encoded. The precise
location and font used for the Human Readable Interpretation are determined by the specificapplication guidelines (see section 1.3). Typical conventions place the primary information, such as
the Global Trade Item Number (GTIN), in the human readable data underneath the barcode. The
characters, however, should be clearly legible and must be obviously associated with the symbol.
Application Identifiers (AIs) should be clearly recognisable within the Human Readable
Interpretation to facilitate key entry in the event that the symbol cannot be scanned. This isachieved by putting the AI between parentheses. The parentheses are not part of the data and are
not encoded in the symbol. This is in clear contrast to the use of the FNC1 which must be encodedin the symbol, when used as a start or separator character, but never appears in the Human
Readable Interpretation.
The following examples show the encoded data in the GS1 DataMatrix and how the Human Readable
Interpretation could appear:
Figure 2-2 Example 1
Example 1
Encoded String: FNC101034531200000111719112510ABCD1234(01)03453120000011(17)191125(10)ABCD1234
Figure 2-3 Example 2
Example 2
Encoded String: FNC101095011010209171719050810ABCD1234FNC12110(01)09501101020917(17)190508(10)ABCD1234(21)10

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Figure 2-4 Example 3
Example 3
Encoded String: FNC101034531200000111719112510ABCD1234
The Human Readable Interpretation may also use legible text instead of the AI digits using
the standardised Data Titles. In the example below, the data shown for the Application
Identifier for Expiration Date requires a format that does not match the Human Readable
Interpretation. As noted in the GS1 General Specifications, in this situation, only the data title of
the Application Identifier can be printed, the Application Identifier is not printed:

GTIN (01): 03453120000011
EXPIRY: 2019-11-25
BATCH/LOT (10): ABCD1234

Note: HRI legible text instead of AI is only allowed for Healthcare items.
Always refer to the GS1 General Specifications for complete rules and recommendations on theapplication and use of Human Readable Interpretation.

2.4

Symbol location
The exact location of a GS1 DataMatrix symbol on a product is determined by the manufacturer who
will need to consider: (see Section 6 of the GS1 General Specifications for more details)■

The available space on the product package■

The type of product and printing substrate (packaging material)

Other packaging constraints can also greatly affect the reading of the symbol. For example folds or
seams in the packaging, curvature (e.g., blister packs), etc. can all impact scanning and should beconsidered when selecting the most appropriate symbol location. This is especially important whenprinting very small GS1 DataMatrix symbols.
It should be noted, however, that thanks to its intrinsic properties, the orientation of the symbol has
no impact on scanning performance.
Figure 2-5 Rectangular form example

2.5

Recommendations on encoding for defining Application Standards
In terms of encoding data, the application standard must specify the following:

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The Data Matrix syntax and encoding rules. For GS1 Applications, this syntax is already subject
to technical specifications defined and recognised (ECC 200 with leading FNC1 and GS1
Application Identifiers)■

Which Application Identifiers (AIs) to use (mandatory and optional)■

Location and format of Human Readable Interpretation■

If necessary, symbol placement determined by the area of application. Examples of areas ofapplication could include: direct part marking of surgical instruments, unit- dose
pharmaceuticals, logistic applications, etc.

Please refer to the current version of GS1 General Specifications for more information on application
standards.

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3

Reading and decoding GS1 DataMatrix
Once the symbol is printed, a reading or scanning device is required to capture the encoded data. The
word ‘scanning’ is normally used to cover two separate process steps:

1. The actual scan (the reading of the dark and light areas)
2. The decode (the processing of the captured image to determine the encoded data)
In this regard GS1 DataMatrix performs very similar to the well-known linear barcodes endorsed by
GS1, such as EAN-13, ITF-14, GS1-128 and GS1 DataBar. However, it differs from these linear
symbols by requiring a camera or imaging based scan as data is encoded in two-dimensions.
Once decoded, the data will be passed to an information system for further processing.

3.1

Principles of reading GS1 DataMatrix
Like other 2D barcodes, GS1 DataMatrix can only be read by imaging cameras or CCD (Charge
Couple Device) devices. The principle is based upon first capturing the image of the symbol and thenanalysing it. The finder patterns (see section 1.1) are used to recreate a virtual image of thematrix.
Typically, each of the dark and light areas within the matrix are converted to binary values (1 or 0).
This is then processed according to the reference decode algorithm of GS1 DataMatrix as defined in
ISO/IEC 16022 based upon an ideal image
Figure 3-1 Ideal grid
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3.2

Scanners for GS1 DataMatrix

3.2.1

Introduction
GS1 DataMatrix symbols require scanners that can read in 2-dimensions. Typically this requires
camera or imaging technology. This is a different technology from the one used by many of the laser
scanners for reading linear barcodes. A linear symbol, like EAN-13 or GS1-128 can be read by asingle laser beam passing across the length of the symbol. However, to read GS1 DataMatrix symbol
requires the entire image to be read in both the X and Y axis.

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Camera based scanning systems tend to have the ability to distinguish up to 256 levels of grayscale.
This advantage enables some specific camera based scanning systems to better handle very low
contrast symbols such as those directly engraved in the metal (see section 4.5).
It is important to note that almost any scanner capable of reading GS1 DataMatrix can also readlinear barcodes as well (GS1-128, EAN-13, UPC-A, etc.).

3.2.2

Selecting a scanner
There are a number of providers who make suitable scanning equipment. The exact choice of
scanner will depend on many factors including price, operating environment, etc. There are,however, two factors which are likely to impact quality:

1. Software for image processing and decoding,
2. The optics and sensors
3.2.2.1 Image processing and decoding
The exact internal workings of a scanning and the decoding system used in a particular scanner are
normally commercially sensitive information .Companies only publish the capabilities of a scanner.
However, in broad terms, the decoding software must be in line with the reference decodealgorithm.
The quality of the image captured will be determined, in part, by the resolution of the device andsome manufacturers use ‘aggressive’ processing algorithms, using fuzzy logic, to try and read
distorted images or damaged symbols. It is important to note high quality symbols are required notjust to ensure good read rates with any scanner but also to protect against misreads from overaggressive scanners.

3.2.2.2 The ability to program the scanner
Many modern scanners can be fairly simply programmed to enable or disable features. The
manufacturer guide will often allow the scanner to adjust characteristics such as:■

The symbologies that need to be read■

The communication protocol (e.g., using symbology identifiers)■

Reading of reverse / inverse reflectance (“black on white” or “white on black”) images
Manufacturers may also provide features to deal with the non-printable characters, forexample the Group Separator, which is essential for decoding messages containing variable
length data.

3.2.2.3 Optics and sensors
As in the case of digital cameras, the image quality obtained depends on several factors. While
important, the number of pixels is not the only factor. Indeed the sensor will have an ability todeal with a certain number of pixels and, in very broad terms, the larger the number of pixels thebetter the definition of the image will be. The scanner will also make use of lenses. The focal length
will vary and some will be better at reading from a distance and others at reading close up. In verybroad terms, reading very small barcodes is best done with scanner with a short focal distance,reading larger codes with a larger focal distance.
The depth of field is also an important factor. Manufacturers often show the various reading distancesthat the device can achieve based upon the X-dimension used.

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Figure 3-2 Typical reading distance and the depth of a scanner

The figure above is an example of typical reading capabilities of a scanner showing the reading
distance and the depth of field. However, critical factors also include the type of symbol, the exact
X-dimension and the print quality of the symbol.
Where the scanner is in a fixed position, it should of course be positioned at a suitable distance fromthe products it has to read. For hand-held scanners, the operator can easily adjust the scanning
distance to obtain a scan.

3.3

Decoding
As highlighted above (see section 3.1), scanning is in fact a two-step process. Decoding takes thescanned image and decodes the encoded data.

3.3.1

The principles of decoding
The scanner can be programmed to recognise a GS1 DataMatrix symbol, thanks to its decoding
system and the unique patterns (the Data Matrix finder patterns and the leading FNC1). This is a
key security feature allowing the scanner to distinguish between data encoded according to the
GS1 Application Identifiers rules and any other data. This offers system protection and allows GS1
Application Identifiers to be correctly interpreted.
Ideally the scanner then passes the decoded data using the Symbology Identifier (]d2) to theprocessing system. If FNC1 is not in the first position, the scanner will output a different Symbology
Identifier. ]d2 indicates that the decoded data came from a GS1 DataMatrix symbol and cantherefore be processed according to the GS1 Application Identifier rules.
]d2 is a system feature and is never directly encoded into the GS1 DataMatrix symbol.

3.3.2

Transmission of data strings
The scanner does not normally contain any intelligence but simply transfers the string of characters
read from the symbol to the Information System for further processing.
A typical example is below:

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Figure 3-3 Symbology identifier example

The data transmitted to the application software for the first FNC1 (See section 2.2.1), is the
symbology identifier ]d2 and for the second FNC1, when used as a separator character is <GS>Group-Separator. The above example would result in:]d201034531200000111719112510ABCD1234<GS>2110
This string of data is then passed to the processing system or, in some more sophisticatedscanner/decoder devices, the string of data is already interpreted according to the GS1 Application
Identifier rules (see section 2.2.3)
0103453120000011 ; 17191125 ; 10ABCD1234 ; 2110
In other systems the data string may be transmitted in hexadecimal characters:
0000 5d 64 32 30 31 30 33 34 35 33 31 32 30 30 30 30 | ]d20103453120000 |0010 30 31 31 31 37 31 39 31 31 32 35 31 30 41 42 43 | 0111719112510ABC |0020 44 31 32 33 34 1d 32 31 31 30 0d 0a | D1234~2110~~|

Finally in hexadecimal without spaces;
5d6432303130333435333132303030303031313137313931313235313041424344313233341d3231
31300d0aPlease note that, separator character <GS> is transmitted as a “~” character in the second
example above.
This choice is made at the very detailed processing level – and is normally processed totally within a
black box type device.

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4

Symbol marking techniquesThis section provides an overview of the main technologies and the main processes for printing GS1
DataMatrix. It summarises their individual strengths and weaknesses for various applications. It
does not aim to compare or promote a particular technology.
The focus is mainly on technologies that can be used on-demand: that is to say, systems that can
encode dynamic information such as batch numbers or serial numbers. Therefore, it does not detailother conventional techniques such as flexographic or offset which are excellent for printing static
information (e.g. product identification).
Please also bear in mind that the technologies and materials for printing and marking GS1
DataMatrix are developing fast. It is therefore advisable to consult your local GS1 member
organisation and technical partners to take advantage of the latest developments.

4.1

Basic software functions
Software of some type will be required to generate GS1 DataMatrix symbols. The software canformat the data into the syntax required by the printing device. Software can be purchased that is
integrated into the printing device or that is external and separate from it.

4.1.1

Printing device independent software
In principle, this type of software can be used with any type of printing device or indeed several
different ones simultaneously.
The concept is to generate information to be printed and transfer this to the printer either by:

4.1.2

■

Sending the print-file message to the printer, or,■Creating an image that can be reproduced

Software embedded in the printing device
This type of software is characterised by a printing device having a dedicated internal logic that
directly generates the GS1 DataMatrix symbol to be printed.
This is particularly useful when the data contained and/or size and form of the symbol to be printed
vary from one product to the next. Indeed, the computing time can be minimised by using software
integrated with the printing device by, for example, having the device generate a unique number foreach product (e.g., a serial number).

4.1.3

Selecting the right software
The exact choice of software will need to meet the individual business requirements.
In general terms the software must be capable of generating a GS1 DataMatrix symbol in full
conformance to the ISO/IEC 16022 standard. Often a difficult area is the programming of FNC1 in
the first position as each software supplier has (or has not) developed its own method to obtain thecorrect encoding in the form of codeword 232. It is worth ensuring the software has this feature.
The software should also allow for special characters:
Many of the good software programmes provide a ‘wizard’ that helps to check and automate theencoding of data according to the GS1 standards (e.g., Application Identifiers, data formats, checkdigits, etc.).

4.2

Symbol marking technologies
This section only focuses on technologies that can be used on-demand.
The symbol marking technologies most suited to printing GS1 DataMatrix are:■Thermal transfer■

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Laser etch■

Direct part marking (dot-peening, engraving, etc.)

The exact choice will primarily be made in terms of the available support material and exact
business requirement.
Particular attention is required when specifying the X-dimension and the ability of the print substrate
to support it. The target size of the X-dimension is likely to be an important consideration in the
choice of printing system.

4.2.1

Thermal transfer
Thermal transfer printing is one of the most widely used technologies for printing on-demand barcodelabels. The technology works through heat being transmitted onto a ribbon (a tape coated withspecially designed ink) that then transfers the image to the label. Very good quality barcodes canbe achieved when the labelling material and print ribbon are fully compatible.
The choice of ribbon to be used is therefore normally determined by the:■Substrate - its ability to absorb ink and its smoothness,■

Marking system - print head configuration and the print speed

The normal print resolution for thermal transfer printers is between 4 and 24 dpmm (dots per
millimetre), approximately 100 and 600 dpi (dots- per-inch).
A wide variety of thermal transfer ribbons are available and it is very important to match yourribbon selection to the printer. Print quality will also be influenced by heating energy, printing speed
and pressure.
The quality of printed symbols must be checked at regular intervals. One of the main problem
areas with thermal transfer printing is the risk of a ‘print-head burnout’ where one of the heating
elements stops working so creating gaps.

4.2.2

InkjetInkjet is a printing process that does not require contact between the printer and the substrate. The
technology works by propelling tiny drops of ink onto the substrate to create the symbol. There are
two main categories of inkjet printer:■

Continuous Inkjet: A high-pressure pump creating a continuous stream of ink droplets that arethen subjected to an electrostatic field. This results in a controlled, variable electrostatic chargethat determines if the ink drop should be printed on the substrate or recycled (leaving a lightarea).

■

Drops on Demand: Printers in this family only use drops of ink that are required to print. It
is particularly suited to high resolution printing.

The print head needs to be close to the substrate (some products can print from a distant as far as 20mm) and it is suitable for printing on a variety of media and substrates.
Inkjet printing usually prints edges in an irregular shape. This is caused by the absorbency of thesubstrate and by the irregular shape of the single dots. Good quality symbols are possible whenprinting on a suitable substrate, using a high resolution printer and fast drying ink. The inkjet printershould be kept within the operating parameters recommended by the manufacturer.
Special attention must be paid to the consistency of the speed with which the object to be printed
passes the print head. Precision is required to ensure quality symbols.
Example: A GS1 DataMatrix printed using Continuous Inkjet:

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Figure 4-1 Inkjet printed GS1 DataMatrix

4.2.3

Laser etch (Direct Part Marking - DPM)
Laser etch – or laser engraving – uses precisely controlled lasers to engrave or mark the barcode on
the product. The high concentration of laser power burns or etches the symbol and this needs acomputer using a series of mirrors and lenses to focus the laser. The process allows a product to be
directly and permanently marked but is only suitable for “laserable” materials.
The power of the laser needs to be set based on the volume printing required as well as the speed ofprinting. The power must be adapted to substrates and commonly ranges from 10 to 100 watts.
Example: A GS1 DataMatrix printed using Laser:
Figure 4-2 GS1 DataMatrix Laser symbol

4.2.4

Dot peen (Direct Part Marking - DPM)
The technology is used to directly mark the material and is particular suitable for solid materials(metals, plastics, wood, etc.…). It can be used for all the information to be marked on the item (text,
date, logo, etc.) as well as the GS1 DataMatrix symbol. A small head – normally made from a verystrong material such as tungsten – is computer controlled to make a defined series of identicalpunch marks in the surface of the substrate. The depth of marking can be carefully controlled toensure all indents are identical making this technique particular suited for printing GS1 DataMatrix
directly on items made of metal or other material with very hard flat surfaces.
Example: A GS1 DataMatrix printed using Direct Part Marking:
Figure 4-3 GS1 DataMatrix dot-peen symbol

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4.3

Selecting the right symbol marking technology
The technology chosen for a given application should take into account the internal environment
including factors such as substrate.
The table below gives an indication of the compatibility between the substrate (the material uponwhich the GS1 DataMatrix will be printed) and symbol marking technologies. In all cases, it isrecommended to test and confirm that the technology will work in the real environment where it will
be used. This testing should include all aspects of the technology including inks, varnishes,
maintenance cycle, etc.

Table 4-1 Substrate / Marking technology table
Substrate

Paper

Corrugatedfibreboard

Glass

Plastic

Metal

Laser Etch

For specificcolours or
specific finishing

For specificcolours or specificfinishing

Under certain
conditions

If contrast can beachieved or
specific finishing

Painted oroxidised

ThermalTransfer (ondemand)

Useful foradhesive labels

No

No

Plastic films

No

YAG/Fibre
Laser

Colouredbackground or
specific finishing

No

Yes

Yes

No

Ink Jet (ondemand)

Yes

No

No

No

No

Direct Part

Film transfer

Film Transfer

No

Yes

Yes

Technology

Marking■

Available space for printing: The physical size of the symbol and all related Human Readable
Information must take into account the space available to print them. In general terms, larger
symbols will have a better scanning and printing performance than smaller ones but manyfactors – including legally required safety information – will impact the space available forprinting the barcode.

■

Printing speed: When printing symbols on-line (e.g., as part of the production line process foritems), the speed of the overall product line will have a big influence on the choice oftechnology selected.

The technology chosen will also be impacted by external factors such as:■

Sector norms and conventions (e.g., healthcare, automotive, aeronautical, etc.): Many sectors
have norms and conventions for the use of GS1 DataMatrix in terms of quality, symbol location,required data (both encoded and in Human Readable Interpretation). These industry norms
should be considered when selecting the symbol marking technology.
For example, in the healthcare sector, the user community has agreed on a permissible Xdimension for small healthcare products (see A).

■

Customer requirements: As in all business transactions, the needs of the customer should betaken into account. Some customers may impose a set of specifications as a requirement for
doing business. These specifications may favour one technology over others. For example, bysetting an extremely high minimum quality verification threshold (see section 4.6) the customer
may in effect be imposing a given printing technology.

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Within the open environment where GS1 standards are used, it is very important for all players
to work to industry established standards. This creates a critical mass of particular usages andreduces overall costs as many competing technology providers work to meet the common
requirements.
■

4.4

Regulatory requirements: In some highly regulated industries (such as healthcare or aerospace)and/or in some countries, regulations may be in place. The technology’s ability to meet theseregulatory requirements will then be a key consideration when making a purchase.

General recommendations for symbol quality
Symbol quality is of great importance and should be included in any production quality control
process. As a quick check the following should be confirmed with any technology supplier:■

Full compliance to the ISO/IEC 16022 standard■

The software is able to support GS1 Application Identifiers■

Data Matrix ECC 200 (not older, obsolete versions of Data Matrix) is supported■

The FNC1 is supported both as a start and separator characterAs outlined earlier (see section 1.1) the size of the GS1 DataMatrix symbol can vary. In generalterms, larger X-dimension symbols will have a better scanning and printing performance thansmaller ones but many factors (available space, amount of data encoded, etc.) will influence the sizeof symbol.
It is of critical importance for the final quality of the printed symbol that the ability of the printer toachieve the selected X-dimension.
Note: the print-head individual element size will determine which X-dimensions can and cannot be
achieved. For more information please refer to 2D Barcode Verification Process Implementation
Guideline. The guideline is available at www.gs1.org.

4.5

Colours and contrast
Contrast is the technical name for the difference between the dark and light areas in a barcode and,in particular, how the difference is seen by the scanner. It is imperative that the printing processensures that the scanner can discriminate clearly between the dark areas and light areas of thesymbol.
Contrast is heavily impacted by the colour and reflectance of the substrate used. When
implementing GS1 DataMatrix it is therefore necessary to think about the colours used for bothsubstrate and inks (if used).
These simple recommendations should help selecting a good colour combination and achieving good
symbol contrast:■

Use of black (dark colours) and white (light colours) in printing is generally accepted as the bestcolour combination.

■

It should be noted that one feature of GS1 DataMatrix is that the colours can be reversed: light
modules on a dark background or dark modules on a light background. When using thisreverse/inverse image feature scanner/imager capability to read reverse/inverse images must
be checked.

■

Dark areas should use solid dark colours (black, blue, or colours that contain a very highproportion of black).

■

Light areas should use bright and reflective colours (white, yellow or red (note some scanners
use a red light therefore red appears ‘white’ to the scanner).

■

Intermediate colours or hues – those that appear neither light nor dark – should not be used■

Certain substrate materials, particularly highly reflective metals, and highly reflective inks (e.g.,gold or silver) should be avoided as the reflectance can ‘blind’ the scanner.

Some common contrast problems are caused by:

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4.6■

A bad choice of colours for the dark and/or light areas.

■

The use of a transparent background (known as ‘Opacity’)■A ‘blurring’ of the dark colours into the light area.

■

Excessive reflectance from very shiny or glossy surfaces.

Verification of symbol (data and print quality)
This section highlights those parameters that can affect the overall symbol quality and how they canbe checked or verified. It is important to stress that quality covers both:■

Conformance of the encoded data (e.g., correct use of GS1 Application Identifiers, Check Digits,
etc.)

■

Symbol print quality (e.g., according to ISO/IEC 15415).

Quality should not be seen as a simple check at the end of the process, but should be built into thedevelopment process with the appropriate conformance checks made at each stage. It is also
important to verify that the final printed symbol meets the requirements of the appropriate
application standard in terms of encoded data, print quality, symbol size, symbol location, etc.

4.6.1

ISO/IEC 15415 Barcode print quality test specification–2D symbols

4.6.1.1 Print quality testing methodology(see the GS1 General Specifications – Barcode production and quality assurance)
ISO/IEC 15415 and the GS1 General Specifications define the methodology to test the print
quality of printed GS1 DataMatrix symbols. This methodology is widely covered in 2D Barcode
Verification Process Implementation Guideline. It is available at www.gs1.org.
Under this methodology the symbol grade is only meaningful if it is reported in conjunction with theillumination and aperture used expressed as: grade/aperture/light/angle 1
Grade: is the overall symbol grade as defined in ISO/IEC 15415. It is a numeric grade (4 being thebest and 0 the worst). ISO/IEC 15415 was based upon – and is fully compatible with – an ANSI
verification methodology. One of the main differences is that ISO/IEC 15415 uses a numeric grading
structure, expressed up to one decimal place, while ANSI used a scale of A to F. The conversion
between the two grading systems is summarised as:
Figure 4-4 Symbol grade in ISO/IEC 15415

A
4

B

C

D

3

2

1

F
0

Aperture: is the aperture reference number defined in ISO/IEC 15416 (expressed in mils or
thousandths of an inch)
Light: defines the illumination: a numeric value indicates the peak light wavelength in nanometres(for narrow band illumination); the alphabetic character W indicates that the symbol has beenmeasured with broadband illumination (“white light”) but for GS1 Applications 670 is the norm.
Light sources for barcode scanning applications normally fall into two areas:
Narrow band illumination in either the visible or the infra-red spectrum, or broadband illumination
covering a large part of the visible spectrum, sometimes referred to as “white light” although it may

1 Angle: is an additional parameter defining the angle of incidence (relative to the plane of thesymbol) of the illumination. It is only required in the overall symbol grade if is different from 45°.
All GS1 Application Guidelines specify a 45° angle.

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have a bias to a colour; a very few specialised applications may call for light sources of unusual
characteristics such as ultra-violet for fluorescent symbols.
Multi-row barcode scanning almost always uses narrow band visible light, with light sources with apeak wavelength in the red part of the spectrum, between 620 and 700 nm. Infra-red scanning uses
sources with peak wavelengths between 720 nm and 940 nm.
Two-dimensional matrix symbols are scanned under a variety of illumination conditions, with themost common being white light and, in a number of hand-held reading devices, the same visible red
area of the spectrum as for linear and multi-row barcode symbols.
The most common light sources used for these purposes are:
Narrow band:■

Helium-neon laser (633 nm) (multi-row barcode symbols only).

■

Light-emitting diode (near-monochromatic, at numerous visible and infra-red peakwavelengths).

■

Solid-state laser diode (most usually 670 nm) (multi-row barcode symbols only).

Broadband:■

Incandescent lamp (nominally white light with a colour temperature in the range 2800 °K to3200 °K).

■

Fluorescent lighting (nominally white light with a colour temperature in the range of 3200 °K to5500 °K).

Example: A print quality test carried out with an aperture of 10 mils, a light source of 660 nm andat an angle of 45° gave the grade of 3.0(B). The results should be expressed as:

3.0/10/660
4.6.1.2 Parameters measured and their significanceISO Symbol Grade: The overall ISO symbol grade is the most important parameter forcommunicating the print quality of a symbol. The scan grade is the lowest grade achieved for sevenparameters which are Symbol Contrast, Modulation, Fixed Pattern Damage, Decode, Axial
Nonuniformity, Grid Nonuniformity, and Unused Error Correction, with others specified for a given
symbology or application. The overall ISO symbol grade is the arithmetic mean of the individual
scan grades for a number of tested images of the symbol.

Parameter

Significance

DecodeThis is the first step in the verification and applies the reference decodealgorithm - the set of rules/steps for decoding the symbol defined in ISO/IEC
16022 - to the elements seen by the verifier. If a valid decode results, thedecode parameter passes and is given grade 4, otherwise it fails (grade 0).

Symbol Contrast

The Symbol Contrast is the difference between the highest and the lowest reflectance values
in the profile – in simple terms the difference between the dark and light areas (including
the Quiet Zones) as seen by the scanner. Symbol contrast is graded on a scale of 4 to 0.
Figure 4-5 A symbol with very poor Symbol Contrast.

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Parameter

Significance

Axial Nonuniformity

Axial Nonuniformity measures and grades (on the 4 to 0 scale) the spacing of the mapping
centres and tests for uneven scaling of the symbol along the X or Y axis
Figure 4-6 An Axial Nonuniformity problem

Modulation

Modulation is related to Symbol Contrast in the sense that it measures the consistencyof the reflectance of dark to light areas throughout the symbol
Figure 4-7A Symbol with poor Modulation caused by irregular dark areas.

Grid Nonuniformity

Grid Nonuniformity measures and grades (on the 4 to 0 scale) the largest vector deviationof the grid intersections, determined by the theoretical position prescribed by the reference
decode algorithm and the actual measured result.
Figure 4-8 A Grid Nonuniformity problem

Unused Error Correction

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Measures and grades (on the 4 to 0 scale) the reading safety margin that error correction
provides. Unused error correction indicates the amount of available Error Correction in a
symbol. Error Correction is a method of reconstructing data that is lost via damage,erasure of the symbol, or poor printing. 100% unused Error Correction is the ideal case.

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Parameter

Significance

Fixed Pattern Damage

Measures and grades (on the 4 to 0 scale) any damage to the Finder Pattern, Quiet Zone
and Clock Track in the symbol. The example below highlights the areas of the symbol thatare tested under these parameters by showing the various defects:
Figure 4-9 Fixed Pattern Damage

The example shows defects in the L-Shaped Finder Pattern and in the Clock Track:
L1: Irregular L-Shaped Finder Pattern on the left
L2: Irregular L-Shaped Finder Pattern on the lower edge
QZL1: Note: the issue of L1, also means the Quiet Zone on the left is irregular
QZL2: Note: the issue of L2, also means the Quiet Zone as the bottom is irregular
OCTASA (Overall Clock Track and Adjacent Solid Area): Issues in the Clock Track (thedotted line opposite the L-Shaped Finder Pattern) can take one of three forms:
CTR (Clock Track Regularity test): A pass/fail test on the elements that make up the
Clock Track;
SFP (Solid Fixed Pattern test): A graded measure (on a 4 to 0 scale) of the dark and lightareas of the Clock Track
TR (Transition Ratio). A graded measure (on a 4 to 0 scale) of the sequencing of the dark
and light areas of the Clock Track
Average Grade: In addition to the assessment of the individual tests above (which arevery useful for symbol diagnostics), an Average Grade can be reported that takes into
account the cumulative effect of any damage. It is calculated using the results of L1, L2,
QZL1, QZL2 and OCTASA together. This is particularly useful as, when combined, manysmall errors may cause scanning problems.
Print growth

Print growth is not a graded parameter but is a very informative measure for the
purposes of process control. It is a measure of how symbols may have grown or shrunkfrom target size. If the growth or shrinkage is too large, then scanning performance will
be impacted.
Print growth may be measured and evaluated independently on both the X and Y axis toassess both horizontal and vertical growth. The two examples below show:
Figure 4-10 Too much Print Growth

Figure 4-11 Print Loss

4.6.2

Other print quality standards
ISO/IEC 15415 and ISO/IEC 29158:2011 are for measuring the print quality of GS1 DataMatrix
symbols. However, there are number of other emerging quality standards for GS1 DataMatrix
including, AS9132 and ISO/TR 29158. They were developed primarily for direct part marking (DPM)
and their main features are described below for information purposes only.

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4.6.2.1 AS 9132
AS (American Standard) 9132 deals with general print quality for part marking. It is referenced by anumber of aeronautical companies that require 2D symbols to be used by their suppliers. The main
print quality features are:Angle ofdistortion

Figure 4-12 Angle Distortion

This figure above shows how distortion is measured. The standard allows a distortion
up to 7°.

Filled cells

This is a measure, expressed as a percentage of the filled cells versus the ideal as given
by symbology specifications
Figure 4-13 Filled Cells

This example shows marked cells which have been filled (when they should not havebeen) as a result of the print process used. The error correction capabilities of GS1
DataMatrix allow such symbols to be decoded if the error is not too large.

Centre point
discrepancy

Slight discrepancy can occur between the actual centre of a cell and its theoretical
position. Centre Point Discrepancy measures any deviation in this area:
Figure 4-14 Centre Point Discrepancy

Actual centre of the cell

Ideal [theoretical] centre of the cell

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Elongation

Figure 4-15 Elongation

Ideal form of thepoint
ModuleElongation of individual cells may occur due to a variety of printing conditions.
Elongation is measured as a deviation from the perfect circle. The standard allows for a
20% difference between D and d.

Number ofdots perelement

Figure 4-16 Number of dots per element

10 pixels

For many printing technologies each X-dimension is made up of a number of dots.
When viewed under magnification, these dots (or pixels) can be measured. The
example above shows four GS1 DataMatrix Cells each made up of 10x10 pixels.

Quiet Zone

Figure 4-17 Quiet Zones of a GS1 DataMatrix

A Quiet Zone with a minimum width of one module (X) is required all around the symbol
as shown in the image above. If the Quiet Zone is less than one module (X) it will fail
ISO/IEC 15415 verification. It can also be measured for diagnostic purposes.
The contrast is also a parameter of ISO/IEC 15415 verification, (see section 4.5)

4.6.2.2 ISO/IEC TR 29158 Direct Part Mark quality guideline
AIM Global (the Association for Automatic Identification and Mobility) has acknowledged that
ISO/IEC 15415 Print Quality Specifications are not sufficient for measuring the quality of GS1
DataMatrix symbols printed using Direct Part Marking (DPM) technologies. The AIM Global TechnicalSymbology Committee has developed an AIM Global Document and submitted to ISO/IEC TR 29158,
Direct Part Mark (DPM), Quality Guideline for this purpose. The guideline is available at the ISO
Global Website www.iso.org.
Apart from the other parameters listed above, key parameters within the ISO/IEC TR 29158
document include Modulation within a cell and Minimum Reflectance (> 5 %).

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Modulation
within a cell

Figure 4-18 Modulation within a CellAs the name suggests, modulation within a cell requires uniformity of the reflectanceof light and dark areas within one cell of the symbol. The example above highlights thetype of printing problem that can lead to modulation within a cell.

4.6.3

Possible causes of low grade

Parameter

Possible causes of low grades

ExampleSymbolContrast

Low background or light area reflectance,
due to:Figure 4-20 Symbol Contrast■

Poor choice of substrate (e.g., dark
background)■

Glossy laminate or overwrap

High dark module reflectance, due to:■

Unsuitable formulation or colour of ink■

Insufficient ink coverage (e.g., on-overlapping dots)

Inappropriate angle of illumination
particularly for symbols printed using
Direct Part Marking (DPM).

DecodeMany factors can cause the symbol to failto decode. A major failure in any of thetested parameters or software errors in
the printing system should be checked
first.

Unused Error

Physical damage due to:

Correction■

Scuffing■

Tearing■

Deletions

Bit errors due to print defects
Excessive print Growth
Local deformation Misplaced Modules

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Parameter

Possible causes of low grades

Modulation

Print growth or loss

ExampleFigure 4-21 Print Growth

Verifier aperture set too large for Xdimension used
Defects - print spots or voids (see defects)
Irregular substrate reflectance
Figure 4-22 Print Loss

Variation in ink coverageShow-through (often caused by printing
on a transparent background)
Transparency

Fixed Pattern
DamageSpots of ink or other dark marks on the
backgroundFigure 4-23 Fixed Pattern Damage

Voids in printed areas
Faulty print head elements or other print
setup fault.
Verifier aperture set too large for Xdimension used

Axial
Nonuniformity

Mismatch of transport speed in printing
with symbol dimensions

Figure 4-24 Axial Nonuniformity

Printing software errors
Verifier axis not perpendicular to symbol
plane

Grid
Nonuniformity

Problems with the speed during printing(accelerations, decelerations, vibration, or
slippage)

Figure 4-25 Grid Nonuniformity

Variable distance between the print head
and the print surface
Verifier axis not perpendicular to symbol
plane

Print
Growth/Loss

4.6.4

Largely dependent upon the exact print
process used. Factors may include:■

Ink absorbency of the substrate■

Dot size (Inkjet and DPM)■

Incorrect thermal print head settings

The verification process
The 2D Barcode Verification Process Implementation Guideline explains the practical implications ofverification GS1 2D barcodes. It is available at www.gs1.org.
The primary function of any barcode is carrying data from the point at which it is originated to thepoint at which the data has to be captured. Verification aims to check that the symbol is able to fulfil
this function by ensuring compliance with the appropriate standard.

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To be reliable, the verification process must be:■

Fully compliant and in accordance with standard ISO/IEC15426-2,■

Performed by a qualified operator.

■

Cover both the print quality aspects (explained below) and the data content requirements
explained by application guidelines (see section 2).

For each of the parameters tested (see section 4.6.1.2) the lowest achieved grade is taken and thisis the Overall Symbol Grade. The verification should be performed under laboratory conditions using
the required aperture, light and angle as described in ISO/IEC 15415.
During the verification testing, the intended area of application should be considered (forexample, for healthcare applications a certain data content may be required
Note: It is important not to confuse scanning with verification. At best, scanning a symbol can beused as a “go/no-go” test of whether a symbol can be read by that particular scanner.
Verification provides diagnostic information about any problem with a symbol and provides a highlevel of confidence that the symbol will scan in an open environment within its intended area of
application. However, it should be noted that some symbols that fail verification will still be readable
by some barcode readers.
To control print quality during production, three main approaches can be taken:

1. Integrate barcode verification as part of the normal quality control procedure
2. Perform online scanning of all symbols to ensure readability
3. Perform sample scanning at periodic intervals during production
These three approaches are complementary and should be implemented according to overall quality
requirements of the production line. However, there may be practical difficulties in scanning each of
the printed symbols given the speed of some production lines and testing itself should also be used
to ensure systems are maintained at the correct level by, for example, picking up a trend toward
less high quality symbols.
Within the recommendations of the standards it is possible to check print quality online with one
check from a fixed position.
The results should be recorded and reported in the same way as a for a general verification report(see section 4.6.1.1):
grade/aperture/light/angle
The size of the measuring aperture affects whether voids in the symbol will be ignored during theverification process. Therefore, the measuring aperture must be selected with reference to therange of nominal module size and expected scanning environment. An aperture that is too small
will detect unintentional voids, or gaps between elements of the symbol that would lead to low
grades or undecodable symbols. On the other hand, a measuring aperture that is too large will
blur individual modules, resulting in low modulation, and may prevent the symbol from being
decoded.
In general, the larger the aperture, the larger the acceptable size of spots and voids. Conversely,
the smaller the aperture, the smaller the acceptable module size that can be read. Therefore, a
successful application specification must select a measuring aperture that will predict thereadability of both the largest and smallest module size symbols. The ideal theoretical size for themeasuring aperture is between 40% and 80% of the maximum size of the X-dimension used in thesymbol. However, as stated before, any application guideline will have to be taken into account. In
order to demonstrate aperture, the aperture used to verify the symbol is represented by a yellow dot
in the figure below.

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Figure 4-26 Aperture on a symbol

It is also useful to note on the verification report:

4.6.5

■

An indication of the verifier used (name and serial number)■

The date of the test and the name of the operator who performed it■

Comments on the substrate and, if possible, the print process used (in case either is changed
at some point in the future, thus invalidating the test report)

Selecting a verifier
Firstly, compliance with the appropriate standards is a pre-requisite. The four standards GS1 GeneralSpecifications, ISO/IEC15426-2, ISO/IEC15415 and ISO/IEC 16022 should be supported by theverifier.
Secondly, the verifier must be capable of consistent performance (e.g., the same symbol will yield
the same result when tested). Initially, this is achieved by the factory set-up of the verifier.
However, to maintain this consistency the verifier should be calibrated using a GS1 Calibration
Conformance Test Card in line with the manufacturer’s instructions.
Other features that should be considered, include:■

The pixel size of the camera used should be suitable for the size of the GS1 DataMatrix symbols
being tested■

What wavelength light source does it use? The GS1 General Specifications require 670 nm.

■

What measuring aperture(s) is/are available?

■

What form of output is available (e.g., LEDs, display, printout of details, PC connection, etc.)?

■

Fuzzy logic should be avoided in verifiers. While some aggressive scanners use fuzzy logic to
try and read poor quality barcodes, such features should be avoided in verification equipment
whose goal is to help improve barcode quality.

■

The manufacturer’s control / re-calibration requirements.

Independent of the verification equipment used, extensive studies have shown that operators ofverifiers require proper training. Additionally, in order to achieve consistent results, verifiers require
regular calibration by using the GS1 Calibrated Conformance Standard Test Card for GS1 DataMatrix
from GS1 US, in accordance with manufacturer recommendations.

4.7

Recommendations when developing Application Standards
Any Application Standard for GS1 DataMatrix must set the clear, achievable and independently
measurable print quality requirements. Users of the Application Standard are likely to make theirchoice of printing technology based upon the print quality requirements stated.

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In terms of print quality an Application Standard must, at minimum, specify:■

The methodology for measuring the print quality. For GS1 ISO/IEC 15415 is considered the defacto methodology■

A minimum acceptable Print Quality Grade as per the methodology used. For example, grade 1.5
according to ISO/IEC 15415■

Depending upon the exact Application Standards, it may include:□

Symbol location guidelines□

Minimum and Maximum X-dimensions□

The print process used to create the symbol (e.g., printed labels may create a perfectsymbol but will not be suitable for products that require heat-sterilisation)

Please refer to the current version of GS1 General Specifications for more information on application
standards.

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Annexes

A.1

GS1 size recommendations for symbols using GS1 DataMatrix
Some extracts of the GS1 General Specifications (version 16) are given below.
Please refer to the current version of GS1 General Specifications System Symbol Specification Tables
6, 7, 8, 9, 10 and 11 for the normative specification.

A.1.1

Symbol specification table 6 - Regulated healthcare non-retail consumer trade
items not scanned in general distribution

Symbol(s)specified

GS1
DataMatrix(ECC 200)(*)(*)

X-dimension
mm (inches)

Minimum symbol height for given X
mm (inches)

Minimum

TargetMaximum

0.254(0.0100")

0.380(0.0150")0.495(0.0195")

For
minimum
Xdimension

For target
Xdimension

Formaximum
Xdimension

Height is determined by Xdimension and data that is
encodedQuiet Zone

Left

Minimum quality
specification

Right

1X on all four sides

1.5/08/660

2D X-dimension - Optical effects in the image capture process require that the GS1 DataMatrix symbol be
printed at 1.5 times the equivalent printing X-dimension allowed for linear or Composite symbols.

A.1.2

Symbol specification table 7 - Direct part marking

Symbol(s)specified

X-dimension
mm (inches) Note 1 Note 6

Minimum symbol height forgiven Xmm (inches)

Quiet Zone

For minimum, Target andMaximum X-dimension

Minimum

TargetMaximum

GS1
DataMatrix

0.254(0.0100”)

0.300(0.0118”)

0.615(0.0242”)Height is determined by Xdimension and data that is
encoded1X on allfour sides

GS1
DataMatrix

0.254

0.300

0.615

(0.0100”)(0.0118”)(0.0242”)Height is determined by Xdimension and data that is
encoded1X on allfour sides

0.100

0.200

0.300

(0.0039”)(0.0079”)(0.0118”)

Height is determined by Xdimension and data that is
encoded1X on allfour sides

Ink Based
direct part
marking
GS1
DataMatrix
direct part
marking - A
Note 2
GS1
DataMatrix
direct part
marking - B
Note 2

0.200

0.300

0.495

(0.0079")(0.0118”)(0.0195")

Minimum
qualityspecification

Height is determined by Xdimension and data that is
encoded

1.5/06/660
Note 3

1.5/08/660
Note 3

1X on allfour sides

DPM1.5/0412/650/(45Q|30Q|30T|30
S|90)

For direct markingof items otherthan medical
devices
For direct markingof medical devices
such as small
medical / surgicalinstruments

Note 5For direct markingof medical devices
such as small
medical / surgicalinstruments

DPM1.5/0820/650/(45Q|30Q|30T|30
S|90)

For direct markingof small medical /surgical
instruments

Note 5

These notes have been taken from the GS1 General specifications. Please refer to the current
version of GS1 General Specifications System Symbol Specification Table 7 for the normative
specification.
Note: The largest X-dimension in a given range that will allow a symbol with the needed data content
to fit within the available marking area should be used to maximise marking and reading
performance (depth of field, tolerance to curvature, etc.).
The angle is an additional parameter defining the angle of incidence (relative to the plane of
the symbol) of the illumination for direct part marking verification. It SHALL be included in theoverall symbol grade when the angle of incidence is other than 45 degrees. Its absence

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indicates that the angle of incidence is 45 degrees. See ISO/IEC 15415 and ISO/IEC TR
29158 (AIM DPM).
In small instrument marking, mixed marking technologies used within the same scanningenvironment should be avoided to ensure highest reading performance. Laser etching is
recommended for small instrument marking.
Note 1: Optical effects in the image capture process require that label based GS1 DataMatrix
and GS1 QR Code symbols be printed at approximately 1.5 times the equivalent X-dimension
allowed for linear symbols in the same application.
Note 2: There are two basic types of non ink based direct part marks, those with “connected
modules” in the “L” shaped finder pattern (GS1 DataMatrix direct part marking – A) created by
DPM marking technologies such as laser or chemical etching and those with “non connected
modules” in the “L” shaped finder pattern (GS1 DataMatrix direct part marking – B) created by
DPM marking technologies such as dot peen. Due to the marking technologies andcharacteristics of reading they each have varied ranges of X-dimensions and different quality
criteria recommended and may require different reading equipment.
GS1 DataMatrix – A is suggested for marking of medical devices such as small medical /surgical instruments. The Minimum X-dimension of 0.100mm is based upon the specific needfor permanence in direct marking of small medical instruments which have limited marking
area available on the instrument with a target useable area of 2.5mm x 2.5mm and a data
content of GTIN (AI 01) plus serial number (AI 21).
Note 3: The effective aperture for GS1 DataMatrix and GS1 QR Code quality measurements
SHOULD be taken at 80 percent of the minimum X-dimension allowed for the application. For
direct part marking - A this would equate to an aperture of 3; for direct part marking – B thiswould equate to an aperture of 6 and for general healthcare label printing, an aperture of 8. See
ISO/IEC 15415 and ISO/IEC TR 29158.
Note 4: In practical application, where very small symbol sizes are needed, it may benecessary to work with GS1 DataMatrix module X-dimensions smaller than those suggested.
Where dimensional restrictions prohibit the application of a full size code, reduced Xdimension AIDC marking is encouraged to facilitate information capture. It should be notedthat these practices may limit the symbol effectiveness, including but not limited to:-the effect of smaller X-dimensions on reading performance,-

the need for, and limited availability of, special scanners/imagers for reading,-special processes for marking,-the overall cost considerations.

These smaller X-dimensions should therefore only be used internally or by mutual
agreement between trading partners
Note 5: Any “Type A” mark that meets the grade requirements under the quality techniques
specified in ISO/IEC 15415 is considered acceptable. If the letters “DPM” precede the grade it
indicates that the grade was obtained by following ISO/IEC TR 29158 (AIM DPM) and not
ISO/IEC 15415 whether “Type A” or “Type B”.

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A.1.3

Symbol specification table 8 - Trade items scanned in retail pharmacy andgeneral distribution or non-retail pharmacy and general distribution

Symbol(s)specified

GS1
DataMatrix(ECC
200)(*)

(*)

A.1.4

Minimum symbol height for given X
mm (inches)

Minimum

TargetMaximumForminimum
Xdimension

0.750(0.0300")

0.750(0.0300")

1.520(0.0600")

Height is determined by X-dimension
and data that is encoded

For target
Xdimension

Quiet Zone

For
maximum
Xdimension

Left

Minimum
qualityspecification

Right

1X on all four sides

1.5/20/660

2D X-dimension - Optical effects in the image capture process require that the GS1 DataMatrix and GS1 QR
Code symbols be printed at 1.5 times the equivalent printing X-dimension allowed for linear symbols.

Symbol specification table 9 - GS1 keys GDTI, GRAI, GIAI and GLN

Symbol(s)specified

GS1
DataMatrix(ECC
200)(*)(*)

X-dimension
mm (inches)

X-dimensions mm(inches)

Minimum symbol height for given X
mm(inches

Minimum

TargetMaximumForminimum
Xdimension

0.380(0.0150")0.380(0.0150")0.495(0.0195")

Height is determined by Xdimension and data that is encoded

For target
Xdimension

Formaximum
Xdimension

Quiet Zone

Left

Minimum quality
specification

Right

1.5/08/660
1X on all four sides

2D X-dimension - Optical effects in the image capture process require that the GS1 DataMatrix symbol be
printed at 1.5 times the equivalent printing X-dimension allowed for linear or Composite symbols.

Note: For location marking barcodes may be printed at a higher maximum X-dimension at
1.520 mm (0.00600 inches)

A.1.5

Symbol specification table 10 – Regulated healthcare retail consumer trade
items not scanned in general distribution

Symbol(s)specified

GS1
DataMatrix(ECC
200)(*)(*)

X-dimension

Minimum symbol height for given X

mm (inches)

mm (inches)

Minimum(*)

TargetMaximum

0.396(0.0156")

0.495(0.0195")

0.990(0.0390")For
minimum
Xdimension

For target
Xdimension

Quiet Zone
For
maximum
Xdimension

Height is determined by Xdimension and data that is encoded

Left

Minimum
qualityspecification

Right

1X on all four sides

1.5/08/660

2D X-dimension - Optical effects in the image capture process require that the GS1 DataMatrix symbol be
printed at 1.5 times the equivalent printing X-dimension allowed for linear or Composite symbols.

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A.1.6

Symbol specification table 11 – GS1 GSRNs

Symbol(s) specified

GS1 DataMatrix(ECC 200)(*)

X-dimensions mm(inches)

Minimum symbol height for given X
mm(inches

Minimum

TargetMaximumForminimum
Xdimension

0.254(0.0100")

0.380(0.0150")0.495(0.0195")

Height is determined by Xdimension and data that is encoded

For target
Xdimension

Formaximum
Xdimension

Quiet Zone
Left

Minimum quality
specification

Right

1X on all foursides

1.5/08/660(*)

2D X-dimension - Optical effects in the image capture process require that the GS1 DataMatrix symbol be
printed at 1.5 times the equivalent printing X-dimension allowed for linear or Composite symbols.

A.2

The International Standard ISO/IEC 646 for representation of eachcharacter

Graphic

Name

SymbolCoded
Representation

Graphic

Name

SymbolCoded
Representation!

Exclamation mark2/1

M

Capital letter M

4/13

"

Quotation mark2/2

N

Capital letter N

4/14

%

Percent sign

2/5

O

Capital letter O

4/15

&

Ampersand

2/6

P

Capital letter P

5/0

Apostrophe

2/7

O

Capital letter Q

5/1(

Left parenthesis

2/8

R

Capital letter R

5/2)

Right parenthesis

2/9

S

Capital letter S

5/3*

Asterisk

2/10

T

Capital letter T

5/4+

Plus sign

2/11

U

Capital letter U

5/5

,

Comma

2/12

V

Capital letter V

5/6-

Hyphen/Minus

2/13

W

Capital letter W

5/7.

Full stop

2/14

X

Capital letter X

5/8/

Solidus

2/15

Y

Capital letter Y

5/9

0

Digit zero

3/0

Z

Capital letter Z

5/10

1

Digit one

3/1_

Low line

5/15

2Digit two

3/2

aSmall letter a

6/1

3

Digit three

3/3bSmall letter b

6/2

4

Digit four

3/4

cSmall letter c

6/3

5

Digit five

3/5

dSmall letter d

6/4

6

Digit six

3/6eSmall letter e

6/5

7Digit seven

3/7

fSmall letter f

6/6

8

Digit eight

3/8

gSmall letter g

6/7

9

Digit nine

3/9hSmall letter h

6/8

:

Colon

3/10

i

Small letter i

6/9;

Semicolon

3/11

j

Small letter j

6/10

<

Less-than sign

3/12

k

Small letter k

6/11

=

Equals sign

3/13

l

Small letter l

6/12

'

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Graphic

Name

SymbolCoded
Representation

Graphic

Name

SymbolCoded
Representation>

Greater-than sign

3/14

m

Small letter m

6/13

?

Question mark

3/15

n

Small letter n

6/14

A

Capital letter A

4/1

o

Small letter o

6/15

B

Capital letter B

4/2

p

Small letter p

7/0

CCapital letter C

4/3

q

Small letter q

7/1

D

Capital letter D

4/4r

Small letter r

7/2

E

Capital letter E

4/5s

Small letter s

7/3

FCapital letter F

4/6t

Small letter t

7/4

GCapital letter G

4/7u

Small letter u

7/5

HCapital letter H

4/8v

Small letter v

7/6

I

Capital letter I

4/9w

Small letter w

7/7

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A.3

The Extended ASCII Codes

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Binary representation
Worked example of conversion for decimal to binary:
204 (decimal) = 1x27+1x26+0x25+0x24+1x23+1x22+0x21+0x20

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A.4

Protocol used to encode ASCII in GS1 DataMatrix

Table A-1 Codeword values
Codeword

Data or Function

1-128

ASCII data (ASCII value + 1)

129

Pad

130-2292-digit data 00-99 (Numeric Value + 130)230

Latch to C40 encodation

231

Latch to Base 256 encodation

232

FNC1

233

Structured Append

234

Reader Programming

235

Upper Shift (shift to Extended ASCII)

236

05 Macro

237

06 Macro

238

Latch to ANSI X12 encodation

239

Latch to Text encodation

240

Latch to EDIFACT encodation241

ECI Character242-255

Not to be used in ASCII encodation

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A.5

Structure of codewords used in GS1 DataMatrix
Figure A-1 Representation of a codeword in a symbol character for ECC 200

1

2

3

4

6

7

MSB

5

8

LSB

LSB = Least significant bit
MSB = Most significant bit

A.6

Use of GS1 DataMatrix for healthcare productsWorking in close co-operation with healthcare regulators, hospitals, pharmacies and medical
suppliers, GS1 has and continues to develop standards to improve patient safety needs by using GS1
DataMatrix to encode the information such as, but not limited to, the following:■

AI (01) Global Trade Item Number (GTIN)■

AI (17) Expiration Date■

AI (10) Batch Number■

AI (21) Serial Number

The GTIN is a globally unique identification number for medical products and can be used to meetmany requirements in the healthcare supply chain including but not limited to (refer to:
http://www.gs1.org/healthcare for more detailed information):■

Ensuring the right drug is used at the point of administration■

Providing efficiency in product ordering and cost re-imbursement schemes■

A globally recognized system of identification and barcoding for pharmaceutical and medical
device traceability■

A reference key for ensuring compliance to any local regulatory requirements (e.g., Unique
medical device identification - UDI - for traceability & efficient recall procedures), pharmaceuticaltraceability, etc.,

The expiration date and batch number are used in combination with the GTIN to provide traceability
and ensure out-of-date products are never administered. For certain medical equipment (e.g.,
specialist medical devices), a GTIN and AI (21) Serial Number are being recommended.
For more information on the use of both GS1 DataMatrix and the recommended GS1
Application Identifiers in the healthcare sector please visit the GS1 Healthcare User Group
Website: http://www.gs1.org/sectors/healthcare/

A.7

GS1 DataMatrix questions and answers (Informative)
The examples that follow are intended to show the reader a method to approximate symbol
parameters such as symbol size (by module), symbol dimension and symbol data capacity.
However, these parameters depend on the characteristics of the specific data elements used andto the specific arrangement of these data within the data string.
Detailed information on the process for minimisation of symbol size may be found in ISO/ IEC
16022:2006 - Annex P, Encoding data using the minimum symbol data characters for ECC 200.

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Note: The use of “off the shelf ” encoding software (conforming to ISO/IEC 16022:2006) is anefficient way to obtain exact values for specific data content and arrangement.
Q.1: How much data can I get into a GS1 DataMatrix symbol with a 20 X 20 symbol size (including
Finder Pattern)?
■

Step 1: From Table 1.2.2-1, look down column “Symbol Size” until you find the row that
contains Row 20 – Col 20■

Step 2: Follow this row to the columns labelled Maximum Data Capacity to find the maximum
numeric or alphabetic data capacity.
Note: For GS1 DataMatrix, the first character is the Function 1 Character (FNC1). This will
reduce the maximum data capacity by 2 for numeric or by 1 for alphabetic encoding. Use of
subsequent FNC1 and shift characters will also decrease the maximum data content by 2
numeric characters or 1 alphanumeric character per instance of use.

■

Step 3: The table shows that 44 numeric, minus 2 numeric for FNC1, for a total of 42
numeric data capacity; it shows 31 alphabetic, minus 1 alphabetic for FNC1, for a total of 30
alphabetic data capacity.
Figure A-2 Data Matrix data capacity
Symbolsize*

Data region

Mappingmatrixsize

Total
codewords

Maximum
data capacity
Num.

Alpha-% of codewords used
for error
corrections

Max.
correctable
codewords
error/erasu
re

num.
Row

Col

Size

No.

Data

Error

Cap.

Cap.

10

10

8x8

1

8x8

3

5

6

3

62.5

2/0

12

12

10x10

1

10x10

5

7

10

6

58.3

3/0

14

14

12x12

1

12x12

8

10

16

10

55.6

5/7

16

16

14x14

1

14x14

12

12

24

16

50

6/9

18

18

16x16

1

16x16

18

14

36

25

43.8

7/11

20

20

18x18

1

18x18

22

18

44

31

45

9/15

22

22

20x20

1

20x20

30

20

60

43

40

10/17

Q.2: I want to print a GS1 DataMatrix symbol with symbol size of 18 X 18. I only have enoughspace to print a symbol with total size of 5.08 mm X 5.08 mm (0.2” X 0.2”); what X-dimension willallow me to print this symbol?
■

Step 1: The number of modules, per side, is the value of the symbol size plus 2 (for quiet
zones) for each dimension, so the number of modules required to print a symbol size of 18 X 18
is 20 modules X 20 modules.

■

Step 2: Divide the length (l) given by the number (n) of modules to obtain the module size (X)X = l/n = 5.08 mm/ 20 = 0.254 mm (0.010”)

Q.3: I want to print a GS1 DataMatrix symbol containing a GTIN and a 10 digit serial number:
What is the smallest square symbol size that I can use?
How large will the symbol be if my X-dimension is 0.25 mm (0.010”)?
■

Step 1: To encode GTIN + Serial Number, determine the total amount of data needed to
encode the GS1 DataMatrix symbol:

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Figure A-3 Symbol size calculation
Number of Codewords

Element<FNC1>

1<AI 01>

1<GTIN>

7<AI 21>1<Serial Number>

5

Total

15

■

Step 2: Using Table 1.2.2-1 find the smallest size symbol that will support the number ofcodewords required. Under Total Codewords – Data, the symbol size supporting 18 codewords
is the smallest symbol that will support 15 codewords. The Symbol Size column shows that thisis an 18 X 18 symbol.
The final symbol size, including Finder pattern is 18 X 18. With quiet zones, the total size is
20 X 20.
Figure A-4 Symbol size calculation

Symbolsize*

Data region

Mappingmatrixsize

Total
codewords

Maximum datacapacity
Num.

Alpha-% of codewords used
for error
corrections

Max.
correctable
codewords
error/erasure

num.
Row

Col

Size

No.

Data

Error

Cap.

Cap.

10

10

8x8

1

8x8

3

5

6

3

62.5

2/0

12

12

10x10

1

10x10

5

7

10

6

58.3

3/0

14

14

12x12

1

12x12

8

10

16

10

55.6

5/7

16

16

14x14

1

14x14

12

12

24

16

50

6/9

18

18

16x16

1

16x16

18

14

36

25

43.8

7/11

20

20

18x18

1

18x18

22

18

44

31

45

9/15

22

22

20x20

1

20x20

30

20

60

43

40

10/17

■

Step 3: Calculate the symbol dimension for X-dimension of 0.254 mm (0.010”):The symbol dimension (D) is the total number of modules (m) times the X-dimension.
D = 20 * 0.254 mm = 5.08 mm (0.20”)
Therefore, the final symbol size is 5.08 mm X 5.08 mm (0.20” X 0.20”)

Q.4: I want to print a GS1 DataMatrix symbol containing a GTIN and an 8 alphanumeric character
serial number:

1. What is the smallest square symbol size that I can use?
2. How large will the symbol be if my X-dimension is 0.254 mm (0.010”)?
■

Step 1: To encode GTIN + Serial Number, determine the total number of codewords needed to
encode the GS1 DataMatrix symbol:

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Figure A-5 Symbol data size calculation
Element

Data

Number of Codewords<FNC1>

1 alpha (2 digit equivalent)1<AI 01>

2 digits

1<GTIN>

14 digits

7<AI 21>

2 digits

1<Shift to alpha>1 alpha1<Serial Number>

8

Total

19

Step 2: Using Table 1.2.2-1 find the smallest size symbol that will support the number ofcodewords required. Under Total Codewords – Data, the symbol size supporting 22 codewords
is the smallest symbol that will support 19 codewords. The Symbol Size column shows that this isa 20 X 20 symbol.

■

The final symbol size including finder pattern is 20 X 20. With quiet zones the total size is 22 X 22.
Figure A-6 Symbol size calculation
Symbol size*

Data region

Mappingmatrixsize

Total
codewords

Maximum datacapacity
Num.

Alpha-% of codewords used
for error
corrections

Max.
correctable
codewords
error/erasure

num.
Row

Col

Size

No.

Data

Error

Cap.

Cap.

10

10

8x8

1

8x8

3

5

6

3

62.5

2/0

12

12

10x10

1

10x10

5

7

10

6

58.3

3/0

14

14

12x12

1

12x12

8

10

16

10

55.6

5/7

16

16

14x14

1

14x14

12

12

24

16

50

6/9

18

18

16x16

1

16x16

18

14

36

25

43.8

7/11

20

20

18x18

1

18x18

22

18

44

31

45

9/15

22

22

20x20

1

20x20

30

20

60

43

40

10/17

■

Step 3: Calculate the symbol dimension for X-dimension of 0.254 mm (0.010”):The symbol dimension (D) is the total number of modules (m) times the X-dimension.
D = 22 * 0.254 mm = 5.59 mm (0.22”).
Therefore, the final symbol size is 5.59 mm X 5.59 mm (0.22” X 0.22”)

Encoding example (Informative)
In this example, we will encode a six digit string “123456”.
■

Step 1: Data encodation
ASCII representation of the data is:
Data Characters: ‘1’ ‘2’ ‘3’ ‘4’ ‘5’ ‘6’
The ASCII encodation converts the 6 characters into 3 bytes. This is done through thefollowing formula
Codeword = (numerical value of digit pairs) + 130

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So, the details of this calculation are as follows: “12” = 12 + 130 = 142“34” = 34 + 130 = 164 “56” = 56 + 130 = 186
Therefore, the data stream after data encodations is: Decimal: 142 164 186
Consulting the configuration table for GS1 DataMatrix (see Table 1-1), we can see thatthree data codewords correspond to the capacity of a 10 rows x 10 columns symbol.
Similarly that symbol carries five error correction codewords. If the number of encoded
codewords required is fewer than the available capacity, the remaining space should be filledwith pad characters.
■

Step 2: Error correction
By using the Reed-Solomon algorithm (see Annex E from Standard ISO/IEC 16022), thefive error correction codewords give us the following total chain:

Codeword

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

Decimal

142

164

186

114

25

5

88

102

Hex

8E

A4

BA

72

19

05

58

66

On the other hand, the binary translation (see, The International Standard ISO/IEC 646 forrepresentation of each character (hex, decimal, octal and binary)) would be:
10001110 10100100 10111010 01110010 00011001 00000101 01011000 01100110■

Step 3: Matrix Building
The final binary codewords are placed in the matrix as symbol characters according to thealgorithm described in Annex F from Standard ISO/IEC 16022 (F.3), where 1.1 corresponds
to the 1st bit of the first codeword, 1.2 corresponds to the 2nd bit of the first codeword, 1.3
corresponds to the 3rd bit of the first codeword etc. The final matrix would be:This will lead to a following pattern:

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After colouring the patterns which are numbered 1:

Finally we add the finder pattern to cover the symbol above:

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B

Bibliography
The documents listed below are either directly or indirectly quoted within the document.
■

GS1 General Specifications■

2D Barcode Verification Process Implementation Guideline■

ISO/IEC 16022:2006 Information technology – Data Matrix barcode symbology specification■

ISO/IEC 15415 Barcode print quality test specification – Two-dimensional symbols■

ISO/IEC 15418 GS1 Application Identifiers and ASC MH 10 Data Identifiers and Maintenance■

ISO/IEC 15434 Syntax for high-capacity ADC media■

ISO/TR 29158: Information Technology – Automatic Identification and Data Capture Techniques– Direct Part Mark (DPM) Quality Guideline■

Semiconductor Association (SEMI): SEMI T2-0298E Marking wafers with a Data Matrix code■

USA’s Department of Defence: MIL STD 130 Identification Marking of U.S. Military Property■

Electronics Industry Association (EIA): EIA 706 Component Marking■

The [USA’s] National Aeronautics and Space Administration: NASA STD 6002 Applying Data
Matrix Identification Symbols for Aerospace products

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C

Glossary of terms
Please refer to the www.gs1.org/glossary for the latest version of the glossary. The list below aims toprovide the reader with summary of the technical terms and acronyms used in the context of GS1
DataMatrix. The objective is to aid the understanding and ensure unambiguous use of terminology
throughout the document.

Term

Definition

2-Dimensional symbology

Optically readable symbols that must be examined both vertically and horizontally to readthe entire message. Two-dimensional symbols may be one of two types: matrix symbols
and multi-row symbols. Two-dimensional symbols have error detection and may include
error correction features.

alphanumeric (an)Describes a character set that contains alphabetic characters (letters), numeric digits(numbers), and other characters, such as punctuation marks.

aperture

A physical opening that is part of the optical path in a device such as a scanner,photometer, or camera. Most apertures are circular, but they may be rectangular or
elliptical.

attributeAn element string that provides additional information about an entity identified with a
GS1 identification key, such as batch number associated with a Global Trade Item
Number (GTIN).

automatic identificationand data capture (AIDC)

A technology used to automatically capture data. AIDC technologies include barcodes,
smart cards, biometrics and RFID.

barcode verification

The assessment of the printed quality of a barcode based on ISO/IEC standards using
ISO/IEC compliant barcode verifiers.

batch / lot

The batch or lot number associates an item with information the manufacturer considers
relevant for traceability of the trade item. The data may refer to the trade item itself or toitems contained in it.

carrier (logistics)

The party that provides freight transportation services or a physical or electronicmechanism that carries business information.

check digit

A final digit calculated from the other digits of some GS1 identification keys. This digit isused to check that the data has been correctly composed. (See GS1 check digit
calculation on http://www.gs1.org/check-digit-calculator)

concatenation

The representation of several element strings in one barcode.

configuration level

Assignment or grouping of trade items that includes one or more of the same trade item.

couponA voucher that can be redeemed at the point-of-sale for a cash value or free item.

customer

The party that receives, buys, or consumes an item or service.

data character

A letter, digit, or other symbol represented in the data field(s) of an element string.

Data Matrix

A standalone, two-dimensional matrix symbology that is made up of square modules
arranged within a perimeter finder pattern. Data Matrix ISO version ECC 200 is the only
version that supports GS1 system identification numbers, including the Function 1 Symbol
Character (FNC1). Data Matrix symbols are read by two-dimensional imaging scanners orvision systems.

full string

The data transmitted by the barcode reader from reading a data carrier, including thesymbology identifier as well as the encoded data.

Function 1 Symbol
Character (FNC1)

A symbology character used in some GS1 data carriers for specific purposes.

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Term

Definition

GS1 AIDC data carrier

A means to represent data in a machine readable form; used to enable automatic readingof the element strings as specified for use by GS1.

GS1 Application Identifier

The field of two or more digits at the beginning of an element string that uniquely defines
its format and meaning.

GS1 Application Identifier
data field

The data used in a business application defined by one GS1 Application Identifier.

GS1 Company Prefix

A unique string of four to twelve digits used to issue GS1 identification keys. The first
digits are a valid GS1 Prefix and the length must be at least one longer than the length of
the GS1 Prefix. The GS1 Company Prefix is issued by a GS1 Member Organisation. As the
GS1 Company Prefix varies in length, the issuance of a GS1 Company Prefix excludes all
longer strings that start with the same digits from being issued as GS1 Company Prefixes.
See also U.P.C Company Prefix.

GS1 DataMatrix

GS1 implementation specification for use of Data Matrix

GS1 identification key

A unique identifier for a class of objects (e.g. a trade item) or an instance of an object(e.g. a logistic unit).

GS1 Member Organisation

A member of GS1 that is responsible for administering the GS1 system in its country (orassigned area). This task includes, but is not restricted to, ensuring user companies makecorrect use of the GS1 system, have access to education, training, promotion andimplementation support and have access to play an active role in GSMP.

GS1 Prefix

A unique string of two or more digits issued by GS1 Global Office and allocated to GS1
Member Organisations to issue GS1 Company Prefixes or allocated to other specific areas.

GS1 system

The specifications, standards, and guidelines administered by GS1.

human readable
interpretation(HRI)

Characters, such as letters and numbers, which can be read by persons and are encodedin GS1 AIDC data carriers confined to a GS1 standard structure and format. The humanreadable interpretation is a one-to-one illustration of the encoded data. However start,stop, shift and function characters, as well as the symbol check character, are not shownin the human readable interpretation.

identification number

A numeric or alphanumeric field intended to enable the recognition of one entity versus
another.

linear barcode

Barcode symbology using bars and spaces in one dimension.

magnification

Different sizes of barcodes based on a nominal size and a fixed aspect ratio; stated as apercentage or decimal equivalent of a nominal size.

moduleThe narrowest nominal width unit of measure in a barcode. In certain symbologies,
element widths may be specified as multiples of one module. Equivalent to X-dimension.

point-of-sale (POS)

Refers to the retail checkout where omnidirectional barcodes must be used to enable very
rapid scanning or low volume checkout where linear or 2D matrix barcodes are used withimage-based scanners.

Quiet Zone

A clear space which precedes the start character of a barcode and follows the stop
character. Formerly referred to as “clear area” or “light margin”.

scanner

An electronic device to read barcode and convert them into electrical signals
understandable by a computer device.

separator character

Special character(s) that are defined as part of GS1 symbologies and used to separate
concatenated element strings, based on their positioning in the GS1 barcodes.

serial number

A code, numeric or alphanumeric, assigned to an individual instance of an entity for its
lifetime. Example: microscope model AC-2 with serial number 1234568 and microscopemodel AC-2 with serial number 1234569. A unique individual item may be identified withthe combined Global Trade Item Number (GTIN) and serial number.

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GS1 DataMatrix Guideline

Term

Definition

special characters

Special characters that are designated by the symbology specification.

substrate

The material on which a barcode is printed.

Supplier

The party that produces, provides, or furnishes an item or service.

SymbolThe combination of symbol characters and features required by a particular symbology,
including Quiet Zone, start and stop characters, data characters, and other auxiliary
patterns, which together form a complete scannable entity; an instance of a symbology
and a data structure.

symbol character

A group of bars and spaces in a symbol that is decoded as a single unit. It may represent
an individual digit, letter, punctuation mark, control indicator, or multiple data characters.

symbol check character

A symbol character or set of bar/space patterns included within a GS1-128 or GS1
DataBar symbol, the value of which is used by the barcode reader for the purpose of
performing a mathematical check to ensure the accuracy of the scanned data. It is notshown in human readable interpretation. It is not input to the barcode printer and is nottransmitted by the barcode reader.

symbol contrast

An ISO/IEC 15416 parameter that measures the difference between the largest andsmallest reflectance values in a Scan Reflectance Profile (SRP).

symbology

A defined method of representing numeric or alphabetic characters in a barcode; a typeof barcode.

symbology element

A character or characters in a barcode used to define the integrity and processing of thesymbol itself (e.g., start and stop patterns). These elements are symbology overhead andare not part of the data conveyed by the barcode.

symbology identifier

A sequence of characters generated by the decoder (and prefixed to the decoded datatransmitted by the decoder) that identifies the symbology from which the data has been
decoded.

X-dimension

The specified width of the narrowest element of a barcode.

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© 2018 GS1 AISBL

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