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Data Matrix Generator

Encode text and identifiers in a compact two-dimensional symbol

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What is a Data Matrix barcode?

A Data Matrix barcode stores data in a two-dimensional pattern of modules instead of a single row of bars. A compatible 2D reader returns the encoded value. QR Code AI's Data Matrix editor accepts up to 500 supported ASCII characters, including tabs and line breaks. This is a generic Data Matrix generator; GS1 DataMatrix is not offered by this editor. See the ISO Data Matrix specification for the underlying format.

For an internal component label, encode PART-2048 and scan it into the matching field in your parts system. Verify that the reader supports Data Matrix; a linear-only scanner cannot read a 2D symbol. Preserve clear space on every side and test the downloaded symbol at the intended physical size.

How to create a Data Matrix barcode

Enter the data, check the symbol and test the downloaded label in the workflow where it will be scanned.

  1. Step 1

    Enter the correct data

    Enter an internal identifier such as PART-2048 or other supported ASCII text. Confirm that the receiving application expects the same data and any line breaks you include.

  2. Step 2

    Review the symbol and contrast

    Choose a dark foreground on a lighter background. Keep the built-in quiet zones and add padding if needed. Review the preview and resolve validation or scannability errors.

  3. Step 3

    Download and test a label

    Choose PNG, JPG, WebP, SVG, PDF or EPS. Preserve proportions and clear margins in your layout, then scan a printed sample with the intended reader and compare the returned data.

Barcode detailsCode 128Code 39EAN-13EAN-8UPC-AUPC-EITF-14GS1-128ISBNData MatrixAbC-128x9You

Prepare your Data Matrix label for its destination

Check your data, preserve clear margins and choose the right file for your label.

Data Matrix or QR code?

Use Data Matrix for internal identifiers read by a compatible 2D scanner. For a website link intended for phone cameras, choose a URL QR code. This generator creates generic Data Matrix symbols; it does not provide GS1 DataMatrix.

PART-2048 Internal ID / web linkData Matrix · PART-2048QR Code · qrc.sh/guide

Keep clear margins

The generator preserves required quiet zones around the symbol. Keep these areas clear in your layout, and test a printed sample at its intended size with the scanner you will use.

... Quiet zone Padding ... Quiet zone Padding

Choose your export format

Download SVG, PDF or EPS vectors, or PNG, JPG or WebP images. Every export is checked against the saved data; test the final print on its intended material too. Compare the six barcode download formats in our guide.

PNGJPGWebPSVGPDFEPS
Compare barcode formats

Data Matrix barcode questions

Input, printing and saved barcode behavior

This editor accepts 1 to 500 printable ASCII characters, plus tabs and line breaks. It does not accept arbitrary Unicode text. These are the product's supported input limits, not the maximum capacity of every Data Matrix implementation.

No. This tool creates generic Data Matrix symbols. It does not provide the GS1 DataMatrix mode required by some healthcare or regulated supply-chain applications. Select a tool and workflow that explicitly support the required GS1 standard.

The scanner must support Data Matrix and two-dimensional imaging. A linear-only scanner cannot read it. Check the scanner's supported symbologies and verify the decoded value in the receiving software before printing your labels.

Yes. QR Code AI offers SVG, PDF and EPS vector exports, plus PNG, JPG and WebP raster files. Keep the complete symbol and its blank margins in the layout. Verify a printed sample at its intended size with a compatible scanner.

A downloaded barcode contains fixed data and has no built-in expiration date. Changing a saved value requires downloading and printing a new symbol; existing copies keep their original data. These Barcodes do not provide scan analytics or editable redirects. A connected inventory or checkout system may update its own record for the same identifier. For customer-facing web links with scan analytics, consider a URL QR code and QR code tracking.

Yes. A personal account and each non-Premium Workspace can create three Barcodes. Archiving a Barcode does not free a creation slot; Premium allows additional creations. Creating, editing or downloading a Barcode does not start the seven-day trial. The trial begins with the first QR code or Smart Link in that scope. The barcode itself retains its directly encoded value when a trial ends; it has no managed redirect to keep active.

Encode text and identifiers in a compact two-dimensional symbol. Review the value, download your chosen format and check the label in its intended scanning workflow.