Matrix Barcode Technology
QR codes are two-dimensional matrix barcodes that store information in a square grid of black and white modules. Unlike linear barcodes that store data horizontally, QR codes utilize both horizontal and vertical space, enabling massive data density.
💡 A single QR code can store up to 7,089 numeric characters or 2,953 alphanumeric characters
QR Code Structure & Components
Essential Components
Finder Patterns
Three square patterns in corners that help scanners locate and orient the code
Alignment Patterns
Smaller squares that help correct for perspective distortion
Timing Patterns
Alternating modules that establish coordinate system
Quiet Zone
White border that separates QR code from surroundings
Version & Capacity
40 Different Versions
- • Version 1: 21×21 modules
- • Version 40: 177×177 modules
- • Each version adds 4 modules per side
Data Capacity
- • Numeric: Up to 7,089 digits
- • Alphanumeric: Up to 4,296 characters
- • Binary: Up to 2,953 bytes
- • Kanji: Up to 1,817 characters
Data Encoding Process
Step-by-Step Encoding
Mode Selection
Algorithm determines the most efficient encoding mode: Numeric, Alphanumeric, Byte, or Kanji
Character Count
Data length is encoded using a character count indicator specific to the chosen mode
Data Conversion
Characters are converted to binary using the selected encoding mode's rules
Error Correction
Reed-Solomon error correction codes are generated and appended to the data
✅ Encoding Modes
Numeric Mode
Most efficient for digits 0-9. Groups digits in sets of 3 for optimal compression.
Alphanumeric Mode
Supports 45 characters including letters, digits, and common symbols.
Byte Mode
Raw binary data mode. Can store any 8-bit data including UTF-8 text.
📊 Efficiency Comparison
Smart Optimization: QR encoders automatically switch between modes to minimize data size.
Error Correction Technology
Reed-Solomon Algorithm
How It Works
Reed-Solomon error correction treats data as coefficients of polynomials over finite fields. This mathematical approach enables both error detection and correction without requiring retransmission.
Key Benefits
- • Corrects burst errors (consecutive damaged modules)
- • Handles random errors distributed across the code
- • Works with partial occlusion (logos, damage)
- • No retransmission required
Error Correction Levels
Recovers up to 7% of damaged codewords
Recovers up to 15% of damaged codewords
Recovers up to 25% of damaged codewords
Recovers up to 30% of damaged codewords
Masking and Optimization
Data Masking
- • Prevents large areas of same-colored modules
- • Improves scanner readability
- • 8 different mask patterns available
- • Algorithm selects optimal pattern automatically
Format Information
- • Error correction level indicator
- • Mask pattern reference
- • Protected by BCH error correction
- • Duplicated for redundancy
Scanning & Decoding Process
From Image to Data
Image Capture
Camera captures image and converts to grayscale for processing
Pattern Detection
Algorithm locates finder patterns and determines orientation
Data Extraction
Modules are sampled and decoded using error correction
Advanced Scanning Features
- • Perspective correction for angled scans
- • Automatic brightness and contrast adjustment
- • Multiple QR code detection in single image
- • Motion blur compensation
- • Low-light enhancement algorithms
- • Real-time continuous scanning
Technical Standards & Specifications
International Standards
ISO/IEC 18004
Primary international standard for QR code specification
JIS X 0510
Japanese Industrial Standard (original specification)
ANSI/AIM BC11
American National Standard for QR codes
Performance Specifications
Minimum Size
2cm × 2cm for reliable smartphone scanning
Scanning Distance
Up to 10× the QR code width for optimal performance
Decode Speed
Milliseconds on modern devices with good algorithms
Apply This Technology
Now that you understand how QR codes work, create your own with our advanced generator.