Data Matrix Font and Encoder Overview
Data Matrix is a popular 2D barcode symbology
that is
capable of encoding much larger quantities of data than standard linear barcodes.
The
symbology evaluation reveals that in many cases, Data Matrix is more
efficient and compact than other 2D symbologies such as PDF417 and
QR-Code. The data encoded in a Data Matrix barcode may include text letters, numbers and actual bytes of data such as extended characters, Unicode characters and even small images.
IDAutomation recommends
restricting
the data encoded into each symbol due to the fact that many 2D barcode
scanners
have difficulty reading barcodes that contain more than approximately
800
characters of data.
User Manual
Encoder App
DataMatrix FAQ
Download Demo
To print Data Matrix as a font, the data-to-encode must first be formatted with a Data Matrix font encoder, which will return a
text string that, when combined with the Data Matrix 2D Font, will create an
accurate Data Matrix symbol. For example, sending the text of
"IDAUTOMATION DataMatrix Font and Encoder" through the encoder
returns the string of characters as depicted below on the left. An accurate Data Matrix barcode is generated with the appropriate font is applied to that text string.
The text string returned from the Data Matrix Encoder. |
This Data Matrix barcode displays when applying
the font to the text string. |
|
In addition to the advantages mentioned above, the following features
are provided within this package:
- Compatible with the
Barcode
Add-In for Word and Excel,
VBA and
Word mail-merge
for Windows and Mac systems.
- Custom Function Encoding allows easy encoding of tabs and
returns between fields in a single Data Matrix barcode symbol.
- Automatic Square-Symbol Size Selection from 10 x 10 to 144 x 144.
- Rectangular Symbol Support from 8 x 18 to 16 x 48.
- Supports Encoding Modes BASE256, C40, TEXT, ASCII and
GS1-DataMatrix
within ASCII encoding.
- COM DLL was created in C++ ATL and has no dependencies.
- Java Class Library is compatible with JDK 1.4 and above.
- Additional GS1-DataMatrix
support is provided in the Suite version of this product to automatically
format the HRI (Human Readable Interpretation) and is provided as VBA,
Crystal Reports VB and JavaScript code with examples.
- All font encoders provided are compatible with the
Universal 2D Fonts, which create several barcode types from
a single font.
- The
2D XLS Font for Excel is compatible with the font encoding routines of this
product and easily generates multiple symbols within large columns or rows of
spreadsheets.
- With a purchase of the Developer License or above,
Web Fonts are included in WOFF, EOT and SVG formats to easily display barcodes in any web browser.
Font and Encoder Package Features Comparison
IDAutomation provides multiple Data Matrix Font and Encoder packages to fit a
variety of application environments. Additional implementations are provided in the Data Matrix Font and Encoder User Manual.
The
complete source code for any single compiled encoder, such as the ASP.NET Web
Server Control, for example, may be provided by request after the purchase
of an Unlimited Developer License of the Font and Encoder Suite.
Multiple Encoders Provided
Multiple encoders provide more options for integrating Data Matrix barcoding
into application.
Using an encoder is necessary because of the complexity of the 2D
Data Matrix symbology. IDAutomation provides both font and graphic encoders in the package.
The accompanying chart summarizes how font and graphic encoders work to generate accurate Data Matrix barcodes.
Font Encoder |
Data Sent To Encoder |
Text String Returned |
Text String with Font Applied |
Created with the IDAutomation DataMatrix Barcode
Font and Encoder |
A text string is retrieved from the encoder |
 |
Graphic Encoder |
Data Sent To Encoder |
Image Returned |
Image Displayed |
Created with the IDAutomation DataMatrix Barcode
Font and Encoder |
The image is retrieved from the encoder and prepared
for display or printing |
 |
2D Data Matrix for Labels - Very Easy
Staff was extremely helpful. They answered very quickly and was correct.
Works Perfect
I use it at clients to create QR Codes with Crystal Reports from ERP systems.
Works Wonderfully
The product works wonderfully, but the web site is a nightmare to use. Install and configuration directions are convoluted and not step-by-step. Each time I have installed/configured the product, I have to keep my fingers crossed that I installed the right files - the directions just are not clean and do not provide confidence in the process. BUT, when it works - it is great!!!!
It Works Perfectly
We use it with crystal reports to generate reports on our ERP.
Works Perfectly
I had integrated this into our production by now. It is working well and with a few VBA macros and mail merge it works perfectly. My only point would be that this is a shame that I didn't find a way to use it only using Excel cause of the line space problem... By the way, it is more microsoft's fault than yours!