i.Code - An Introduction to Visual Codes

What is a Visual Code?

A Visual Code (also known as 2D barcode or mobile code) is a two-dimensional way of representing information. It is similar to the ordinary linear (1-dimensional) barcode but can hold much more data due to their matrix structure.

What can I do with Visual Codes?

Quite simply, anything you want. The possibilities are endless.

Visual codes can contain a web address (URL), an email address, a phone number and SMS text or plain text into a mobile code. Once scanned by a visual code reader, the encoded information is displayed immediately. The user can then act on the encoded information – to visit a URL, store a business card, send an SMS, download a ringtone, and much more.

Whatever it is, visual codes make accessing information a one-click process.

What do I need to scan a Visual Code?

You will need at the very least a mobile device like a mobile phone or PDA with a camera, and visual code reader software installed. Ideally, your mobile device would also have a browser, multimedia playback and Wi-Fi capability.

Where can I get a Visual Code reader?

Here's a list of URLs where you can download free visual code reader software. You should check for compatibility with your mobile device before installing.

Please refer to your mobile device's documentation on installation procedures.

How do I scan a Visual Code?

The process is very simple, and almost identical for most, if not all visual code readers:

  1. GET A READER – Make sure you have a reader installed. Pictured below are a number of visual code readers installed on a Nokia E61i.
  2. AIM – Hold your phone's camera about 20cm (8 inches) away from the visual code and aim it at the code. You may or may not have to snap your camera to read the visual code, depending on the reader youinstalled. Most readers will recognize, focus, snap and decode the visual code without user intervention.
  3. CLICK – Follow your visual code reader's instructions to act on the decoded information. Most readers will automatically select the appropriate action and present you with a simple one or two click process. Illustrated below are how the QuickMark reader displays different types of decoded information.

Are there different kinds of Visual Codes?

Yes, there are many different kinds. You'll find them in many industrial applications nowadays, especially shipping and product labels. The most common consumer visual code standards are Data Matrix (below, left) and QR Code (below, right). The URL "www.icellwireless.net" is encoded in the examples below.

Where can I find out more about Visual Codes?

You can follow these links for more information about visual codes: