Symbologies
Data Matrix barcode generator
Write datamatrix for a plain Data Matrix, used inside a plant. It is not the retail checkout carrier.
A plain Data Matrix is a small square 2D code for internal and industrial use: parts, tools, bins, and production lines. Write datamatrix in the formula to draw one. Beepable never picks it on its own. It is not the 2D code for retail checkout; for that, use a QR code of a GS1 Digital Link.
Which 2D code do I need?
| You need | Write in the formula | Holds |
|---|---|---|
| A code for a part, a bin, or a machine | datamatrix | Your text or address, as it is |
| A retail 2D code for Sunrise 2027 | auto or qr, with a GS1 Digital Link | A web address with the GTIN |
| A code a healthcare or fresh-food partner asks for | gs1datamatrix | A GS1 element string, such as (01)09506000134352 |
The QR or GS1 DataMatrix guide explains the retail choice in detail.
How do I generate a Data Matrix?
- Decide that a plain Data Matrix is what your specification asks for.
- On the barcode form, choose Data Matrix as the symbology.
- For a column, put the text in A2, your picture key in Z1, and this formula in B2:
=IMAGE("https://beepable.app/i/datamatrix.png?v="&ENCODEURL(A2)&"&k="&$Z$1) - Scan one code with the reader used on the line, not only a phone, and compare the content character for character.
A single picture address looks like this, for the text BIN-A-17:
https://beepable.app/b/datamatrix.png?v=BIN-A-17&k=YOUR_PICTURE_KEYHow is this different from a QR code?
Both hold text, and both can hold a web address. With auto, every web address becomes a QR code, because phones open QR codes most reliably. Writing datamatrix draws the same content as a Data Matrix instead, which is smaller and common on industrial readers. If the value cannot be drawn, the cell shows a card; Beepable never switches to QR on its own.
What if the cell shows a card?
| The cell shows | Why | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Value is longer than 2,000 characters. | The text is too long. | Shorten it. |
| Enter a GTIN or a URL. | The cell is empty. | Fill in the value. |
| This barcode needs an API key. | Z1 is empty, or the formula does not point at it. | Paste your picture key in Z1, and keep both dollar signs in $Z$1. |
| This API key has been revoked. | The key was revoked on the Account page. | Create a new picture key and paste it in Z1. |
What does the picture contain?
Black modules on white, with a white margin all around. Do not crop the margin. The content is exactly the text you entered, with spaces at the ends trimmed. A Data Matrix of a URL is still a plain Data Matrix: it is neither the retail QR code nor a GS1 DataMatrix, and a till will not read it as a product.
In a CSV upload or a batch request, set symbology to datamatrix on the rows that need it. If the pack also needs retail bars, generate them in a separate column on the EAN-13, UPC-A, or ITF-14 page.
Frequently asked questions
When does auto draw a Data Matrix?
Never. auto draws a QR code for every web address. Write datamatrix in the formula when you need a Data Matrix.
Is this a GS1 DataMatrix?
No. A plain Data Matrix holds your text as it is. A GS1 DataMatrix holds a GS1 element string, such as (01) followed by a GTIN. Write gs1datamatrix for that.
Can a Data Matrix replace the retail barcode?
No. The retail bars come from EAN-13, UPC-A, EAN-8, or ITF-14. Use a separate cell when a pack needs both.
How much text fits?
Up to 2,000 characters on this site. A longer value shows: Value is longer than 2,000 characters.
Is the content private?
No. Anyone who scans the code or sees the image address can read it. Do not encode a private link.
Keep going
