Template 6—Data Matrix symbology with large text field
Example label
Label Editor parameters and preview
Overview
The Data Matrix symbology (with this dot size) encodes roughly the same amount of data that can fit on a label with the Code 128 symbology. So, Template 6 is analogous to Template 1. Because the Data Matrix symbology is so much denser than the Code 128 symbology, the text field can be much larger than the corresponding one that is paired with Code 128 in Template 1.
Specs
Maximum data: 24 numerals or 16 alpha characters (The maximum alphanumeric length depends on the character mix.)
Design features
• Data Matrix is a very dense and popular 2D symbology.
• The dot size used in this template is conservative for good readability.
• Generous margins are provided on both the right and left of the barcode.
• The blank margin above the barcode allows for 0.76‑mm (0.030‑in) vertical print drift.
• The blank margin below the barcode will vary depending on the amount of data encoded. The example shows the maximum data length while still maintaining a 0.76‑mm (0.030‑in) bottom margin.
• The barcode is positioned to the left of the text in the event that too much data is used for the text fields. In this case, the text will run off the right edge of the label and will not interfere with the barcode.
• The Droid Mono Bold font offers consistent character spacing, discernible characters, and a modern look.
• The font size is large to offer optimum legibility.
• The text field is scaled horizontally so it can fit enough characters to match the data that can be encoded in the barcode.
• The text field is left-justified to allow for the longest possible strings for the available space.
• Generous space above and below the text allow for vertical print drift.