What is a HIBC Data Matrix Rectangular barcode?
HIBC Data Matrix Rectangular encodes the same HIBC data as the square HIBC LIC Data Matrix, but in one of the rectangular Data Matrix sizes. The symbol is wider than it is tall, so it fits strips of label space where a square code would be too tall.
Typical places are the side of a vial, a syringe barrel, a catheter tag or the edge of a blister pack. The data and error correction work the same way; only the shape changes.
For the same data a rectangular symbol often covers a little more area than the square one, so use it only when the height of the label is the limit. If you have room for a square, the standard HIBC LIC Data Matrix is the safer default.
What data can HIBC Data Matrix Rectangular hold?
Uppercase letters A-Z, digits 0-9 and the symbols - . space $ / + %. Enter the HIBC data without the leading + sign; the encoder adds the + flag and the modulo 43 check character.
Recommended size
Rectangular Data Matrix sizes hold less data than the largest square ones, so keep the content short. Leave a quiet zone of at least one module and test-scan on a curved surface if the label wraps around a vial.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Most modern 2D imagers do, as rectangular sizes are part of the Data Matrix ECC 200 standard. Still, test with your customers' scanners before a big print run.
No. The HIBC content is the same; only the symbol shape changes.
Shorten optional secondary data if your standard allows it, or switch to the square HIBC LIC Data Matrix, which offers larger sizes.