Micro QR Code Scanner

What is a Micro QR Code?

The Micro QR Code is a smaller version of the traditional QR Code, standardized in 2004 under Japanese Industrial Standards (JIS-X-0510). It achieves its smaller footprint by using only one position detection pattern instead of three and requiring just a two-module-wide quiet zone.

There are four sizes of Micro QR Codes. The data density is high: The smallest – at only 11×11 modules – can still store 5 numeric digits. The largest, at 17×17 modules, can store up to 35 numeric or 21 alphanumeric characters and can encode kanji characters and binary data besides alphanumeric data (see table below).

Structure and components

Micro QR Codes are compact variants of standard QR Codes, designed to encode essential information in a smaller space. Their structure consists of four main components:

• Data modules: These are small squares that form the data area of the Micro QR Code. They encode information as binary data, with black modules representing 1 and white modules representing 0.
• Finder pattern: This is a single square bull’s eye in one corner of the code, allowing for quick and accurate scanning at any angle.
• Timing pattern: They have one row and one column of alternating black and white modules. This pattern helps determine the symbol version, alignment, and orientation, ensuring proper grid synchronization during scanning.
• Quiet zone: This is a margin around the code, typically two modules wide for Micro QR Codes (regular QR codes require four). It helps scanners identify the code’s boundaries.

Micro QR Codes come in four versions, three of which provide error correction (EC):

Error correction

Micro QR codes use Reed-Solomon error correction to restore data when parts of the code are damaged or obscured. The following three levels are supported:

• Level L (Low): Restores up to 7% code damage.
• Level M (Medium): Restores up to 15% code damage.
• Level Q (Quartile): Restores up to 25% code damage.

Higher error correction levels reduce the data capacity of the Micro QR. As shown in the table above, M1 Micro QR Codes only support error detection, not correction.

Applications of Micro QR Codes

Small electronic components

Micro QR Codes are often used on circuit board components for tracking information and serial numbers, as well as for access to information like manufacturing details or usage instructions.

Product tags

In retail, they help manage inventory for small items like jewelry or electronics accessories. Placed on product tags, they allow quick lookup of product details, stock levels, and pricing information.

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities utilize them on patient wristbands, medical devices, and laboratory samples to provide access to critical patient information and test results.

Security and authentication

Micro QR Codes are often employed on ID cards, access passes, and security tags to store encrypted information such as employee details or access permissions.

Advantages of Micro QR Codes

• Compact size: They contain less information than the normal QR Code. However, Micro QR Codes still have sufficient capacity to store SKU codes, and even URLs in the larger versions.
• Error correction: Advanced error correction mechanisms (from L to Q levels) allow them to remain readable even if partially damaged or obscured.
• Versatility: Micro QR Codes encode numeric data and alphanumeric data, allowing them to meet the specific data capacity needs of space-constrained applications.
• Omnidirectional reading: They can be scanned from any angle.

Why choose the Scanbot SDK for Micro QR Code scanning?

The Scanbot Barcode Scanner SDK is specifically designed to handle the challenges of decoding Micro QR Codes in real-world scenarios.

What sets us apart:

• Exceptional performance: Reliably decodes even damaged, low-contrast or distorted barcodes.
• High-speed scanning: Read Micro QR codes in as little as 0.04 seconds.
• Cross-platform compatibility: Easily integrate with Android, iOS, cross-platform, web, Windows, and Linux platforms.
• Customizable UI: Customize the ready-to-use components to match your app or website design.
• Privacy-first: Operates offline for complete data security.

Whether your use case involves Micro QR Codes, UPCs or any other barcode, the Scanbot SDK delivers the accuracy, speed, and reliability you need to succeed.

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