A QR Code (short for Quick Response Code) is a type of barcode that can easily be read by digital devices like smartphones or tablets. The data in QR code is stored in a series of black and white squares or pixels, arranged in a square shaped grid. Most modern smartphones have built-in QR code readers that are able to quickly process the data contained in a QR code into human readable information.
QR codes were invented in 1994 by the Japanese motor manufacturing company Denso Wave. The company used them to enable high-speed scanning and tracking of vehicle parts during the assembly process.
Unlike conventional barcodes that can only be read in one direction, QR codes can be read both vertically and horizontally. This allows them to store more data.
How do QR Codes work?
The patterns in a QR Code contain a string of binary data that can be revealed when it is scanned. A QR reader identifies a standard QR code by the three large squares outside the QR code. When it identifies these three squares, it knows that everything inside the square is a QR code.
Structure of a QR Code
QR codes can usually be identified by the following elements:-
- Quiet Zone:- An empty white border around around the outside of a QR Code.
- Positioning Patterns:- The three black squares in the bottom-left, top left and top right corners.
- Alignment Pattern:- A small square near the bottom right corner that makes it possible to scan a QR code even if it’s skewed or at an angle.
- Timing Patterns:- An L-shaped line that helps to identify individual squares in the code. The timing pattern makes it possible for a damaged QR code to be read.
- Version Information:- This identifies which version of QR code is being read.
- Data Cells:- The rest of the QR code which is the actual information – the URL, phone number or other data.
