Why you should test your data matrix barcodes
When a data matrix barcode is unreadable by a scanner, this can lead to not only a loss of time, but also have severe financial and security implications for your products. Data matrix codes contain vital production and product information which are used globally – notably in the medical industry, but also in many other sectors too including electronics and packaging.
If a data matrix was unable to be scanned, this could lead to a range of issues, including hold-ups in the production and supply chains, products having to be sent back to the factory or even destroyed due to the lack of required information contained within these codes.
How can print quality differ?
The printing quality of data matrix barcodes depends on a combination of different factors, including:
- The material that the code is being printed onto
- The type of ink used and how it is being printed
- Physical wear such as abrasion
- Environmental wear from sunlight
- Ageing
How Smithers can help?
Our experts can help you test your printing processes and data matrix barcode readability by utilising our specialist equipment. Our Axicon 12000 2D Barcode Verifier is 21 CFR Part 11 compliant and allows us to generate an accurate ‘score’ for your data matrix codes, before, during and after our testing program.
Smithers runs an accelerated ageing program on data matrix barcodes, simulating up to 10 years of use. This leads to a guaranteed shelf life of the code, as well as being able to measure how well your ink and material choice can withstand abrasion and environmental wear through physical and lightfast testing.
Find out more about our print quality testing services and data matrix barcode testing at Smithers.