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Aztec Code Barcode
Aztec Code is a two-dimensional (2D) barcode symbology known for its compact size and high data capacity. Developed by Andrew Longacre at Welch Allyn (now Honeywell Scanning and Mobility) in the 1990s, Aztec Code is capable of encoding a wide range of data, including numeric, alphanumeric, byte, and kanji characters. This versatility makes it suitable for various applications, from consumer product packaging to transportation and ticketing systems. Aztec Code consists of black and white square modules arranged in a unique pattern, with a central bulls-eye finder pattern aiding in the barcode's detection and decoding.
One of the key advantages of Aztec Code is its high data density, which allows it to encode large amounts of information in a relatively small space. Unlike linear barcodes, which encode data only in one dimension, Aztec Code utilizes a grid-based structure to encode data in two dimensions, resulting in significantly higher storage capacity. This makes Aztec Code particularly useful in applications where space is limited, such as on small product labels or mobile device screens. Additionally, Aztec Code is designed to be highly resistant to damage and distortion, ensuring reliable scanning and decoding even in challenging environments. Overall, Aztec Code's combination of compact size, high data capacity, and robustness makes it a versatile and reliable solution for a wide range of barcode applications.
Identified by the bulls-eye pattern in the center of the square, the Aztec Code barcode is easy to recognize. This symbol supports patterns ranging from 15x15 up to 151x151 blocks with one special rune that can encode a single byte. This rune is 11x11 blocks.
The bulls-eye is either 9x9 or 13x13. The ring directly beyond the bulls-eye is the mode section. The remainder of the symbol is the data and error correction. Three of the corners of the core hold the orientation markers. In the image below we have marked the bulls-eye in red, the mode section in green and the orientation markers are in blue leaving the data area in black and white.
The data is stored in pairs of rings that stretch out from the core. The decoding of data starts at the orientation marker made up of three blocks and procedes in a counter-clockwise direction. There is no outer marker to identify the outer boundry because the size is encoded in the core.
Because this symbology is mainly used in industry and not for public consumption, most smart phones can't read them. Try with your smart phone.
Although we don't have a generator here on our site at the moment, there is one availbale at www.racoindustries.com if you wish to create your own Aztec Code barcodes.