Decoding the Anatomy of a QR Code: What You Need to Know
Understanding the anatomy of a QR code is key to fully integrating these machine-readable square patterns in marketing, event management, cashless payments, retail and inventory, and more.
QR codes have a lot of technology going on amid their tiny footprints. Every pattern, square, and design corresponds to a piece of data, which is essential in facilitating accurate scanning.
These two-dimensional barcodes can store large amounts of data and are helpful in various personal and professional applications.
Due to their practicality, even the latest smartphone models now support these codes, allowing everyone to access the information they store with a simple scan conveniently.
Free QR Code Generator takes a comprehensive look into the advanced technological innovation behind QR codes.
Table of Contents
What is a QR code?
The QR from the term QR code simply means quick response. This type of two-dimensional barcode is called that because it is so fast to decode.
You don’t need any particular machine to scan a QR code. All you need is a modern smartphone with scanning capability.
If you’re wondering where to find one, the moment Denso Wave invented QR codes in 1994 for tracking vehicle parts, mobile devices with built-in QR scanners were also developed. The smartphones on the market today already have this feature.
Once you point the camera at a QR code image, you can immediately see how this quick response takes place—not even taking the device a minute to open the content.
QR codes are usually in black-and-white square patterns and can store a range of information, typically URLs and files.
With the constant development of QR code technology and the emergence of advanced QR code software, it is now possible to encode more types of information into them and customize their appearance into a QR code art.
This puts them in demand beyond the logistics industry, particularly in e-commerce, education, marketing, and pharmaceuticals.
QR code types: Static and dynamic
Before breaking down the anatomy of a QR code into parts, it is vital to understand the two types of QR codes: static and dynamic. Both types can store a wide range of information but may vary in storage capacity.
Static QR codes store information that can’t be overwritten or edited. Once the data is embedded in the code, it’s fixed.
This attribute makes them ideal for storing information that doesn’t change and is practical for one-off marketing campaigns only.
Meanwhile, dynamic QR codes store information that can be overwritten or edited in the future. Even after printing and deploying the code, it can redirect to new content by simply updating the data and ensuring that the content is accessible at all times.
Dynamic QR codes work for multi-channel marketing campaigns where regularly changing information inside the code is necessary.
Crucial features that make up the QR code structure
The structure of the QR code can be categorized into three essential components: the data area that holds information, patterns that improve scannability, and levels of error correction for scanning.
While QR codes can have many different parts, they only serve one of these purposes. Here’s a more detailed look:
Data area that holds information
The data area occupies the largest surface area in a QR code. It comprises different patterns to hold information inside the code. The larger the information size, the more complex the QR code patterns.
A regular QR code can store up to 7089 digits or 4296 characters, including punctuation marks and special characters. These data modules should be enough to store even large media files like photos and videos.
Scanning indicators
Aside from the data area, QR codes have prominent elements that help a scanner decode the information stored in the code. Within the data area, some patterns serve as scanning indicators.
In addition, elements like the eye and even blank space surrounding the QR code help a scanner unveil the information quickly and easily. These scanning indicators significantly improve users' scanning experiences.
Error correction levels
Even when the QR code on print is partially damaged, scanners can still decode the stored information because of various levels of error correction. Each level offers different degrees of data capacity and error tolerance.
- Level L (Low) can correct up to 7% of data loss. It provides the highest data capacity but the lowest error correction capability.
- Level M (Medium) can correct up to 15% of data loss. It is the most used level due to a balance between data capacity and error tolerance.
- Level Q (Quartile) can correct up to 25% of data loss. It enables higher error tolerance, which is ideal in environments prone to damage or dirt.
- Level H (High) can correct up to 30% of data loss. It provides the highest error correction capability.
The higher the level of error correction, the less information a QR code can store. The same is true if the level of correction is lower.
Breaking down the anatomy of a QR code
Now that you know more about QR codes and the features that make them function with a quick response, it’s time to take a deep dive into the different parts that comprise one.
What may look like a random matrix of black-and-white squares or a pixelated image is much more complex than it appears. Check out the different parts of a QR code and their purpose:
Positioning detection markers
Also known as finder patterns, position detection markers are located at the three corners of each QR code. They consist of a 3x3 matrix of black modules surrounded by alternating white and black modules.
Positioning detection markers are scanning indicators that help scanners quickly identify the correct orientation of the QR code.
Alignment markings
Alignment markings are part of the QR code structure that correct the distortion of a QR code on an angled or curved surface. They are smaller than position detection markers and are commonly found slightly off-center of a QR code.
Note that the more information a QR code stores, the larger the alignment markings or the more alignment patterns it contains.
Timing patterns
These are represented by the sequences of alternating black-and-white patterns located within the data area of a QR code. They run both horizontally and vertically, which helps the scanner determine the data grid's size and structure.
Format information
The format information is located adjacent to the positioning detection markers. It indicates the error correction levels, which help the scanners correctly interpret the QR code data and apply appropriate algorithms to decode it.
Version information
This one simply indicates the version the QR code belongs to. There are currently 40 QR code versions, each with varying sizes and data capacities.
The version information is located slightly off the top right and slightly off the bottom left of positioning detection markers.
Data and error correction keys
Data and error correction keys refer to the QR code elements that store the information and specify error correction and tolerance.
Apart from the components above, everything is considered data and error correction keys. They occupy the largest surface area of a QR code.
Quiet zone
A QR code is not complete without a quiet zone. It is a blank space or a white margin surrounding the QR code.
This zone has no design element or pattern; its sole purpose is to serve as a buffer from the QR code with other components.
A quiet zone is essential for accurately reading a QR code. It tells a scanner where each code starts and ends.
Easy steps to create a QR code using a free QR code generator
After establishing the definition, types, purposes, and components of a QR code, the next step is to learn how to create it using a trusted QR code software.
Static QR codes can be created for free, while dynamic QR codes may require a monthly or annual subscription fee. If you’re only starting to explore QR codes, you can begin with static ones and then build your way from there.
Simply follow this 5-step process in creating a QR code:
1. Go to Free QR Code Generator online.
2. Choose a QR code solution and fill the empty fields with information.
3. Choose between Static and Dynamic QR codes, then generate.
Pro Tip: Opt for a dynamic QR code to edit the content and design whenever necessary, track its performance using the in-platform analytic tools, and retarget users.
4. Customize the QR code by choosing from different eye and pattern designs, colors, frames, and templates. You can also create a QR code with logo and a call to action tag.
5. Scan the QR code using your smartphone to check if it is recognizable. Then, download it as PNG for digital use and SVG for prints.
Top common uses of QR codes
QR codes have since evolved from their early use to track supplies and production. Because of their versatility, many industries now use QR codes in their day-to-day operations.
Take a look at these 5 most common uses of QR codes:
Supply chain, inventory, and logistics
As QR codes are meant for inventory tracking, they are extensively used in supply chain management and inventory tracking.
Using these codes streamline operations and improve efficiency and productivity.
Comprehensive product information
92% of brands in consumer packaged goods are integrating QR codes in their product packaging as an easy way for their consumers to access detailed product information.
It aims to enhance transparency and boost customer engagement rates.
Contactless payment methods
Thanks to the revolutionary QR codes, contactless payment methods have become possible.
They enable secure and convenient contactless transactions, which also aid in the rise of online and mobile shopping.
These codes are also integral in many information-sharing methods, particularly during pandemics and situations that require contactless interactions.
Improved workflows and processes
Brands can enhance productivity and efficiency by integrating QR codes in workflows and processes across various industries. Common applications for this method include document management and task delegation.
Interactive marketing and promotions
QR codes marketing, promotions, and advertising are powerful. Offering an interactive and engaging way to connect with customers, they streamline management, boost engagement, and increase sales for many brands.
QR code: A small but terrible tech
The anatomy of a QR code may feature a tiny footprint in totality—but don’t be fooled.
While small, QR codes are packed with robust technologies many industries use, from logistics to retail, healthcare, and beyond.
You, too, can benefit from their usefulness. Start by creating custom QR codes using a free QR code generator anytime and use them for your different needs.
They are a marvel in technology that has influenced and will continue influencing day-to-day living for many years.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the different parts of a QR code?
The different parts of a QR code are:
- Quiet zone
- Positioning detection markers
- Alignment patterns
- Timing patterns
- Version information
- Format information
- Data and error correction keys
How does QR code error correction work?
Error correction allows scanners to decode the data inside the QR code even if it is partially damaged. Reed-Solomon error correction algorithms, the technology behind QR code scanning, enable this feature.
