Data Matrix Code printer - Printing Data Matrix Codes

Professional marking with Data Matrix Code

The Data Matrix Code is one of the best known and most widely used 2-dimensional codes today. Although it is quite old (80s), its breakthrough only came with the mass distribution of high-resolution printers and especially reading devices such as tablets and smartphones. Today, we are most familiar with the Data Matrix Code from the two labelling systems Stampit and Frankit of Deutsche Post.

The more modern "brother" of the Data Matrix Code is more familiar today, namely the QR code. It is basically based on the same procedures, but can store more characters (especially Japanese characters) and became popular mainly through its use to display internet addresses. Nevertheless, the industry nowadays often prefers the Data Matrix Code because its space consumption is about 10-20% less than that of the QR code. For the limited space on product packaging, this is often the decisive criterion, for example in the pharmaceutical industry.

Compared to the "old" barcode, such point-based 2D codes are characterised by a much higher information density. Readability is also better and error detection and correction are already integrated. The error correction of the Data Matrix Code can compensate for up to 25% of faulty or destroyed codes. Data Matrix Codes are therefore also well suited for other marking methods besides pure printing. Punched needle markings or laser engravings can serve as marking techniques.

In order to print a Data Matrix Code, it must first be created by a corresponding generator. Since the code is usually intended to represent extensive texts or information, these generators are practically never integrated into the printing systems themselves; instead, the codes are generated externally and then transferred to the marking device. This is usually done as a simple monochrome graphic.

Hand printers for printing Data Matrix codes

Whether a handheld printer or a stationary solution for printing Data Matrix codes depends primarily on the quantity of items and the nature of the product. However, hand printers can be a very useful alternative or supplement for smaller margins or non-industrially produced goods.

The relatively low acquisition costs and its low operating costs speak in favour of a hand printer. In addition, handheld inkjet printers are very flexible. They can easily carry out several labelling processes in succession (product labelling, shipping labelling,...) without having to change device or ink. This saves time and therefore also effort.

Inkjet processes, such as the TIJ from Hewlett Packard, are characterised by reliability and economy. There is a huge range of inks and special inks to choose from, making it possible to print on almost every conceivable surface and material. Since printing is contactless (ink is "thrown" onto the print object), unevenness and irregular surfaces also play less of a role.

Hand printers of the NasaJet® family can import and output Data Matrix codes as monochrome graphics. With a resolution of 300dpi, these are razor-sharp and the contactless printing prevents smearing or smudging. The great strength of the NasaJet®s is that they can combine several print contents. The Data Matrix code can be combined with text, other graphics and consecutive serial numbers. Depending on the model used, the maximum print height is between 12 and 50mm.

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Print Data Matrix Code with NasaJet^® NJ-1000 und NJ-2000

Whether a handheld printer or a stationary solution for printing Data Matrix codes depends primarily on the quantity of items and the nature of the product. However, hand printers can be a very useful alternative or supplement for smaller margins or non-industrially produced goods.

The relatively low acquisition costs and its low operating costs speak in favour of a hand printer. In addition, handheld inkjet printers are very flexible. They can easily carry out several labelling processes in succession (product labelling, shipping labelling,...) without having to change device or ink. This saves time and therefore also effort.

Inkjet processes, such as the TIJ from Hewlett Packard, are characterised by reliability and economy. There is a huge range of inks and special inks to choose from, making it possible to print on almost every conceivable surface and material. Since printing is contactless (ink is "thrown" onto the print object), unevenness and irregular surfaces also play less of a role.

Hand printers of the NasaJet® family can import and output Data Matrix codes as monochrome graphics. With a resolution of 300dpi, these are razor-sharp and the contactless printing prevents smearing or smudging. The great strength of the NasaJet®s is that they can combine several print contents. The Data Matrix code can be combined with text, other graphics and consecutive serial numbers. Depending on the model used, the maximum print height is between 12 and 50mm.

We would be happy to demonstrate our NasaJet^®s for Data Matrix Code printing. Just give us a call..