Optical readers – Reading and verification of 1D/2D codes

For state-of-the-art production systems, tracing products and parts with machine-readable identification is a central requirement. All production steps for each manufactured part can be planned and executed with the help of a unique code. Changes within the production process or the materials used can also be documented. Direct marking of products also allows the implementation of specified legal requirements for tracing production batches throughout the production system.

What is direct part marking (DPM)?

Direct part marking (DPM) is the application of a mark directly on the surface of a product without the use of a separate carrier material, such as an adhesive label. This makes it possible to identify products in production and trace them after delivery as well.

With so-called 2D codes a coding method is available that meets these user requirements. 2D codes consist of easy to implement, point-shaped basic elements. Laser and needle marking technologies are outstanding with regard to durability, marking speed and material independence. Despite mechanical deformations, e.g. with metallic work pieces, the 2D codes can still be read using 2D readers even after multiple processing steps. 2D codes also provide the advantage of being able to encode data in more limited spaces than comparable barcodes or plain text.