ISO/IEC 15415:2024—Two-Dimensional Bar Code Symbols

Two-dimensional (2D) barcode symbols allow for the encoding of complex information like product details, serial numbers, and even URLs in a small space. They are easily scannable with smartphones as well as dedicated scanners, making them ideal for efficient tracking, inventory management, and consumer engagement across various industries. ISO/IEC 15415:2024— Automatic identification and data capture techniques – Bar code symbol print quality test specification – Two-dimensional symbols applies to two-dimensional symbologies for which a reference decode algorithm has been defined.

1D vs 2D Bar Codes

One-dimensional (1D) barcodes consist of black and white lines reminiscent of a zebra print. Linear barcodes are typically used when the encoded data may change more than once, such as prices or product content. On the other hand, two-dimensional (2D) barcodes have black and white dots and shapes that create specific patterns. This type of symbology got the name “2D” because a barcode scanner must capture both the entire width and length of the barcode to decode the data.

2D barcodes are essentially machine-readable codes that store data in a pattern of squares, dots, and spaces. They store data both horizontally and vertically to form a square or rectangle. As a result, the storage capacity for 2D barcodes is much higher than 1D codes, as a single 2D barcode can store up to 7,089 characters instead of the 20-character capacity of a 1D barcode. They have many purposes including storage for UPC codes, importing or exporting data, and sharing URLs. 

What Is ISO/IEC 15415?

ISO/IEC 15415:2024 specifies two methodologies for the measurement of specific attributes of two-dimensional bar code symbols: one which applies to multi-row bar code symbologies, and the other to two-dimensional matrix symbologies.

This standard provides methods for evaluating and grading these measurements and deriving an overall assessment of symbol quality. ISO/IEC 15415:2024 gives information on possible causes of deviation from optimum grades to assist users in taking appropriate corrective action.

Quality Grading in 2D Bar Code Symbols

For 2D barcode symbols, quality grading refers to a system that evaluates the readability and accuracy of a barcode. This process involves detecting various parameters of the barcode, such as the width and spacing of bars and stripes, contrast, and overall clarity. Each scan line receives a grade based on reflectance, decoding, and contrast; the final grade is the average of all scan lines.

ISO/IEC 15415:2024 defines the method of obtaining a quality grade for individual symbols. The document maintains that the measurement of 2D bar code symbols is designed to yield a quality grade, reported as the symbol grade, indicating the overall quality of the symbol. This can be used by producers and users of the symbol for diagnostic and process control purposes and is broadly predictive of the read performance to be expected of the symbol.

ISO/IEC 15415:2024— Automatic identification and data capture techniques – Bar code symbol print quality test specification – Two-dimensional symbols is available on the ANSI Webstore.