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ScanHatch

Data Matrix Generator

Data Matrix stores text in a tiny square code that still reads when partly damaged. Enter your text, set the printed size and download.

Choose a barcode format

Need a QR code? Use the QR Code Generator, which adds styling and logos.

Enter the text to encode.

Read the Data Matrix guide for data rules, common mistakes and printing advice.

Checking an existing number? Barcode Validator

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How to use it

  1. Enter the text to encode: letters, digits, symbols and line breaks.
  2. Set the printed width in millimetres. Leave at least one module of blank border around it.
  3. Download and scan it with the camera or scanner that will be used.

What makes Data Matrix different

Data Matrix (the ECC 200 version, the one in use today) is a square or rectangular grid with a solid L-shaped border on two sides and a broken timing pattern on the other two. Scanners find it by that L shape.

It uses Reed-Solomon error correction, so a code can often still be read when part of it is scratched or smudged. And because it stores data in both directions, it holds far more than a barcode in a small space. A 20-character serial number fits comfortably in a square a few millimetres wide.

Common uses

  • Marking electronic components, circuit boards and industrial parts, sometimes etched directly into metal.
  • Serial numbers and tracking codes on small items and labels.
  • Healthcare packaging and medical devices, which usually use GS1 Data Matrix, a structured version (see below).

Standard Data Matrix, not GS1 Data Matrix

ScanHatch generates standard Data Matrix with plain text. GS1 Data Matrix, required for pharmaceutical serialisation and some medical devices, uses a special FNC1 start character and Application Identifiers, such as (01) for the GTIN and (17) for the expiry date. ScanHatch doesn't generate that variant, so don't use these codes where GS1 Data Matrix is required.

ScanHatch's Data Matrix accepts standard English characters (ASCII). For other languages, a QR code is a better choice.

Size and scanning

  • Phone cameras generally need a code at least 10–15 mm across; industrial scanners can read much smaller codes.
  • More data adds more rows and columns, so the same printed size means smaller modules. Test at your final size.

Frequently asked questions

Data Matrix or QR code?

For people scanning with phones, QR codes are more familiar. Data Matrix is preferred for small industrial and product marking, where its compact size and robustness matter.

Can phones read Data Matrix?

Many scanning apps can, including ScanHatch's barcode scanner, but some built-in phone cameras only recognise QR codes.

Can I make a GS1 Data Matrix here?

No. ScanHatch makes standard Data Matrix only.

Related formats

Further reading

Need another format? The full Barcode Generator supports 15 barcode and 2D code types.

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