What Is a QR Code Barcode?
A QR code is a two-dimensional barcode that stores data in a square matrix. Because a smartphone camera reads it in seconds, it is the world's most widely used 2D code for web addresses, Wi-Fi details, payment links and business cards.
Key facts
Year1994
DeveloperDenso Wave (Japan)
StandardISO/IEC 18004
Capacityup to 4,296 characters
NoteThe most common 2D code worldwide; readable with up to 30% damage
Where is it used?
- Send people from a menu, poster or package to a web address
- Join a Wi-Fi network without typing the password
- Payments, transfers and invoices via QR
- Event tickets and access control
- Product traceability and campaign tracking
How to print QR Code in ZPL
On a Zebra printer a QR Code barcode is one command, ^BQ. The example below is a complete label; paste it into the preview to see it drawn before you send it to a printer.
^XA
^FO50,50
^BQN,2,8
^FDQA,https://labelixa.com^FS
^XZ
^BQN,2,8 = model 2, magnification 8. The data starts with QA, — Q for error-correction level (H, Q, M or L), A for automatic encoding — and the address follows after the comma.
Open this example in the ZPL preview → · ^BQ command reference
Related solutions
Frequently asked questions
What is QR Code?
A QR code is a two-dimensional barcode that stores data in a square matrix. Because a smartphone camera reads it in seconds, it is the world's most widely used 2D code for web addresses, Wi-Fi details, payment links and business cards.
How much data can QR Code hold?
QR Code capacity: up to 4,296 characters.
Where is QR Code used?
Main uses: Send people from a menu, poster or package to a web address, Join a Wi-Fi network without typing the password, Payments, transfers and invoices via QR, Event tickets and access control.
Is QR Code 1D or 2D?
QR Code is a two-dimensional (matrix) code.
