Data Matrix Code Generator

Data Matrix is the square 2D code you find laser-etched on circuit boards, printed on medicine packs and stamped on tiny machined parts. It packs a lot of data into very little space and stays readable when partly damaged, thanks to built-in Reed-Solomon error correction. Where a QR code is designed for phones and marketing, Data Matrix is built for industrial marking and small labels. Enter any text, a serial number, a URL or several fields separated by a delimiter, up to 1,500 characters, and QRPebble draws an ECC 200 symbol, choosing the smallest size that fits your data.

Design options
Fill in the form to preview your code.

How to make it

  1. Enter the content in the Data box; multi-line text is allowed.
  2. Keep it short for small labels, because each extra character increases the symbol size.
  3. Download SVG for laser markers and label software, or PNG for documents.
  4. Test with the imaging scanner or scanner app your process actually uses.

What gets encoded

The symbol is Data Matrix ECC 200, the current ISO/IEC 16022 variant with Reed-Solomon error correction, sized automatically from 10×10 modules upward. Text is encoded as entered, and numeric runs are compressed. This generator produces standard Data Matrix, not GS1 DataMatrix: healthcare and UDI labels with application identifiers need FNC1 structure that isn't added here. Reading requires a 2D imaging scanner or a barcode app. Built-in phone camera apps generally look for QR codes, so don't rely on them to read Data Matrix.

Where people use it

  • Serial numbers on electronics and circuit boards
  • Direct part marking on tools and machined components
  • Laboratory sample tubes and slides
  • Document tracking on small corner labels

Tips before you print

  • Keep a quiet zone of at least one module around the symbol; industrial scanners need it to find the edge.
  • For laser or dot-peen marking, test on the actual material, because contrast on metal varies a lot.
  • Use a QR code for consumer-facing links; phone camera apps handle QR codes much more reliably.
  • Short, uppercase or numeric content gives the smallest possible symbol.

FAQ

Data Matrix or QR code?

Use Data Matrix for small industrial labels and part marking read by imaging scanners. Use a QR code for anything consumers will scan with a phone.

Can I make a GS1 DataMatrix for medicines here?

No. GS1 DataMatrix needs FNC1 and application identifiers, which this generator doesn't add.

Will my iPhone camera read it?

Don't count on it. Use a barcode scanner app or a dedicated 2D imager.

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