QR Codes
Dana Labels can design a custom QR Code for your needs. From a simple black and white QR Code containing text or your URL to a more elaborate code designed with your logo, let us help you generate and print the QR Codes that work for you.
What is a QR Code?
A QR Code (Quick Response Code) is a two-dimensional code (matrix barcode) originally created by Denso-Wave. As shown in the Denso-Wave image below, the code consists of black modules arranged in a square pattern on a white background. Because QR Codes contain information in both the vertical and horizontal directions, they can hold a greater volume of information than a standard barcode. (Standard barcodes only contain data in one direction.) The content of the QR Codes can be decoded at high speed by QR barcode readers/scanners and smartphones. The information encoded may be text, URL (website) or other data. QR Codes are used widely in Japan, the Netherlands, and South Korea. They are just beginning to gain popularity in the US. QR reader software is available for most mobile platforms and, in many cases, can be downloaded free of charge.
Do I have to register/license QR Codes?
The use of QR Codes is free of license or registration. The QR Code is clearly defined and published as an ISO (International Organization Standardization) standard. Denso Wave owns the patent rights on QR Codes, but has chosen not to exercise them at this time. Therefore, there is no need to register. However, the term QR Code is a registered trademark of Denso Wave Incorporated.
What are QR Codes used for?
Because QR Codes allow large amounts of information to be decoded at high speeds, they are an excellent way to market your business. Customers or associates can get information quickly and easily. Plus, its pretty cool! Use them for:
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Labels. QR Code labels can be placed on anything, anywhere. They are especially useful for providing additional information on products.
- Business cards. Print them on your business cards. They are a great way to send information quickly and easily for business. Plus, they look great.
- Store Fronts. Make a sign with your QR Code on it and display it in store or window display. Now your customers can get information about your business any time they stop by – even if you aren’t open!
- Website. Direct business directly to your website or social media links.
How do I scan QR Codes?
Step One:
Download/install a QR Code reader/scanner to your mobile device or smartphone. There are several free QR readers for smartphones. Here are some readers that have received good reviews: Android: Barcode Scanner; Blackberry: Blackberry Messenger; iPhone: QR Scanner; Nokia: Nokia Barcode Scanner.
Step Two:
To scan QR Codes, open your QR Code reader. Most readers have a focus area or framed area on the screen where you scan the code. Align the QR Code in the frame as best as possible. (Depending on the type of code, this may take a few seconds.) Once the QR Code has been scanned, it will read the data in the code. If the code contains text, the information should show immediately on the screen. If the code contains a URL (web address), the website information will be provided and you may have an option to be redirected to a website. (Other types of data can be programmed in the QR Code, but these seem to be the most common.)





