What is Aztec Code & what are its specifications
The Aztec Code is a two-dimensional matrix code that was invented by Andrew Longacre, Jr. and Robert Hussey in 1995 at Welch Allyn, Inc. Despite its patent, the code has been released to the public domain.This barcode symbology was published as ISO/IEC 24778:2008 standard and is widely used for a variety of applications.
The Aztec Code is a compact, efficient, and secure way to store and transmit information. With a square shape and a distinctive concentric square pattern (bulls-eye) in the center, Aztec Codes can be thought of in two basic formats: A compact symbol will display a 2-ring bulls-eye and the full range symbol will display a 3-ring bulls-eye. Together, the two formats create a sequence of 33 distinct symbol sizes. This enables the Aztec Code to encode small to large amounts of data, despite its small size (13 to 3832 numeric characters or 12 to 3067 alpha characters). The Aztec character set includes the entire ASCII and extended-ASCII set (character 0 – 255).
One of the key benefits of the Aztec Code is its high data density. The Aztec Code uses a unique square pattern to store data, which allows it to store more information in a smaller space than other barcode symbologies. This high data density makes the Aztec Code ideal for applications where space is limited, such as product labeling, event tickets, and identification cards.
Another advantage of the Aztec Code is its error correction capabilities. The Aztec Code uses Reed-Solomon error correction to ensure that data is accurately read, even if the barcode is damaged or partially obscured. This helps to reduce the risk of scanning errors, ensuring that the information stored within the barcode is accurate and reliable.
The Aztec Code is also highly secure, as it is difficult to duplicate or forge. The symbology uses complex algorithms to encode and decode data, making it more difficult for malicious actors to manipulate the information contained within the barcode. In addition, the barcode’s high data density and error correction capabilities help to prevent data loss, ensuring that the information stored within the barcode remains secure and protected.
The Aztec Code is also versatile, as it can be used to encode a wide range of data, including text, numbers, and images. This makes it a popular choice for a variety of applications, including product tracking, inventory management, and mobile ticketing. Additionally, the Aztec Code can be easily integrated into existing systems and software, making it an easy solution for businesses to implement.
Despite its many benefits, there are some challenges associated with the use of the Aztec Code. One of the main challenges is that it requires specialized software to generate and read the barcodes. This means that businesses must invest in software and hardware in order to implement the Aztec Code, which can be an obstacle for some companies.
Another challenge is that the Aztec Code is not as widely used as other barcode symbologies, such as QR codes. This can make it difficult for businesses to find the software and hardware they need to implement the Aztec Code, and can also make it more difficult for consumers to scan and access the information contained within the barcodes.
Despite these challenges, the Aztec Code remains a valuable technology for businesses and organizations that require high data density and security in their barcode solutions. Its high data density, error correction capabilities, and security make it an ideal solution for a variety of applications, from product labeling and event tickets to inventory management and mobile ticketing.
Features
- Name is derived from the resemblance of the central finder pattern to an Aztec pyramid that is seen from above.
- Has the potential to use less space than other matrix barcodes because they do not require a surrounding blank ‘quiet zone’.
- Data is encoded in concentric square rings around the distinct center finder pattern.
- Can encode from small to large amounts of data with user-selected percentages of error correction.
- Widely used in rail ticketing because of error-correction, readability in difficult conditions
- It is published as ISO/IEC 24778:2008 standard.
How can the barKoder SDK help with your Aztec Code scanning requirements
The barKoder barcode scanner SDK can empower any enterprise or consumer mobile or desktop app with state-of-the-art barcode scanning functionality with very little integration efforts.
Download the free trial SDK, evaluate barKoder via its Barcode Scanner demo app, explore our documentation hub, blog posts and more.
