What is a Compact PDF417 (Truncated) barcode?
Compact PDF417, also called Truncated PDF417, is PDF417 with the right-hand row indicator removed and a shortened stop pattern. The symbol becomes narrower while still holding the same kinds of data as standard PDF417.
The saving in width comes at a cost: there is less redundancy, so it is less tolerant of damage and poor printing. Use it in clean environments where space is tight. If the label may be scratched or printed on rough material, standard PDF417 is the safer choice.
What data can Compact PDF417 (Truncated) hold?
Any text or data, up to 1,108 bytes. We warn you as you get close to the limit.
Recommended size
Keep a quiet zone of at least 2 modules on every side and keep rows at least 3 times as tall as the narrowest bar. Print in good conditions, because the compact form has less redundancy.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Most PDF417 readers support the compact form, but check your scanners before using it in production.
No. It holds the same data. Only the row indicators and stop pattern change.
Where labels may get damaged or be printed poorly. Standard PDF417 recovers better in those conditions.