Though perhaps not as widely recognized as QR codes, DataMatrix barcodes are vital 2D tools. In electronics manufacturing and healthcare, they're essential for identifying small components and supporting UDI compliance. If you're after a dependable online solution for generating these codes, this DataMatrix barcode generator guide will get you up to speed.
What Is a DataMatrix Barcode?
A DataMatrix barcode is a two-dimensional (2D) barcode composed of black and white cells arranged in either a square or rectangular pattern. It was developed by International Data Matrix, Inc. in the 1980s and is now the ISO/IEC 16022 international standard.
Key Characteristics:
✔️High data density in a small space
✔️Supports numeric, alphanumeric, and binary data
✔️Error correction using ECC200 standard, providing high fault tolerance.
✔️Readable even when partially damaged
DataMatrix barcodes impressively pack over 50 characters into a tiny 3x3 millimeter square. This makes them perfect for marking miniature components like microchips and circuit boards. Crucially, even if scratched, smudged, or partly obscured, industrial scanners can still reliably read them, a must-have for tough production environments.
Beyond electronics, you'll find DataMatrix codes widely used in medical device labeling, pharmaceutical tracking, automotive parts, and warehouse logistics—essentially, anywhere durable, high-density identification is key.
Understanding GS1 DataMatrix: How It Differs
A common variation of the DataMatrix is the GS1 DataMatrix barcode, which follows the GS1 global data formatting standard. While visually identical, GS1 DataMatrix encodes structured data.
For example, a typical UDI code for medical devices may use a GS1 DataMatrix formatted like this:
(01)04012345678903(17)261231(10)BATCH123(21)SN456789
Here's what each part of the code represents:
✔️(01) Global Trade Item Number (GTIN)
✔️(10) Batch or lot number
✔️(17) Expiration date
✔️(21) Serial number
This structured format ensures interoperability, traceability, and compliance across global supply chains—especially in regulated industries like healthcare, food, and logistics.
Best DataMatrix Barcode Generator
If you're looking for a fast, reliable way to create a DataMatrix code for products or inventory, our barcode generator tool offers a free and user-friendly solution, offering:
✔️100% free access, no paywalls, no watermarks
✔️Full support for standard 1D, 2D, and GS1-compliant barcodes
✔️Various image download format, including PNG, JPG, and SVG
How to Use DataMatrix Barcode Generator
Here is the steps to generate your DataMatrix code:
1. Visit the DataMatrix Generator Page
Navigate to the DataMatrix section of our free barcode generator tool.
2. Input Your Data
Enter the text, serial number, or binary data you want to encode. Our tool supports all common data types.
3. Generate and Download
Click "Create Barcode" to instantly generate your 2D barcode and preview it on screen. Then select your preferred output format (PNG, SVG, etc.) and download a high-resolution version for free.
No software installation or registration is required—our 2D DataMatrix barcode generator is optimized for both desktop and mobile users. Try it today and experience the simplicity and precision of professional barcode generation.
