scanning data matrix on a curved surface

[xjlkx]

does anyone know anything about scanning a barcode, specifically data matrix, on a curved surface? The part I'm trying to scan has a fairly gradual curve in reference to the barcode (the barcode is 8mmx8mm, the circumference of the part is approx 56mm).

I'm currently using a HHP IT4410, but I'm having no success. Any suggestions? Different font? Different gun?

 

[DougP]

did you call HHP?
does the scanner read any barcode on a flat surface?

DougP, MCP

 

[xjlkx]

I haven't spoken to HHP directly, although I have spoken to a reseller who wasn't optomistic about the possibility

The gun will scan the datamatrix code on a flat surface, but when I affix it to the part, it fails...so I would logically conclude that the curve is the problem.

I just wasn't sure if anyone knew of a device or method that could address this problem.

 

[DougP]

Which direction is the barcode located according to the product
can you try to rotate it 90 deg and see if it will scan better?


DougP, MCP

 

[xjlkx]

Hmm, I can do that, and I'll defnitely give it a try. thanks for the suggestion

 

[xjlkx]

No luck -

This curve is giving me fits? I'm desperate!

 

[DougP]

can you make the Datmatrix a smaller density there for a smaller barcode?
Instead of being 1" square make it 3/4" or something

DougP, MCP

 

[xjlkx]

Yes, I've tried this in an effort to minimize the impact of the curve. The problem is, the printer (thermal transfer) gives lousy resolution at lower label dimensions, so the scanning problem becomes a result of a muddled image, rather than a curve.

 

[DougP]

Other than making the barcode smaller or getting a 300dpi barcode printer or making the package larger I don't know what else to tell you. Unless you can try a different scanner brand.

Can you take a photo of the item and email it to me?

dposton@barcodeone.com

DougP, MCP

 

[xjlkx]

Sure, I'll send out some photos asap. I'm creating these barcodes using and Intermec 4440e 406dpi printer.

 

[DougP]

Well you have a good enough Printer.
Make sure you are actually using the 400 dpi setting.
What software are you using to create the label?

DougP, MCP

 

[xjlkx]

Since this is development work, I haven't yet purchased a 2D font. I've been using a datamatrix generator at idautomation, and inserting the .jpg. of that image into a word document and printing from there.

 

[DougP]

You don't need the font if you have the Intermec Printer.
It comes built in
If you don't have any software to test the Intermec download this.
Label View

http://www.teklynx.com

I think you are spinning your wheels here trying to scan a copy of a copy.



DougP, MCP

 

[xjlkx]

Ok I've downloaded this software - looks good. I've created a datamatrix code, and I've been asked to the code to someone who is going to attempt a differnt way of printing it. Is there any way to export the image? I haven't been able to figure it out. The person printing will be using photoshop and wants a high res bmp or jpg. Thanks again for all the help!

 

[DougP]

No not from that program.
You keep switching back and forth.

Do you want to print it yourself? Then use Label View

If you want someone else to print it, then use the app you were using before to give them an image.


DougP, MCP

 

[tech217]

You might also consider printing the datamatrix in the rectangular version, so it would not wrap as far around the curve. This can be done with Label Matrix from Teklynx if not in Labelview.

 

[KenHN]

Hi,
What is the model of the HHP IT4410 that you use? Is it a high dense model.

You can try Bartender from Seagull Scientific.

http://www.seagullscientific.com.

There is a trial version for 30-days.

I have try printing datamatrix using Bartender on a 300 dpi. For 24 character, you can get a size as small as 5mm by 3.5mm on 3 dot resolution. Then you can use IT4410HD10 version to scan the code.

Ken