Scan This! How QR Code Works?

QR codes, the universal black and white squares, are more than just a fancy way to scan something. They have a rich history and offer distinct advantages over traditional barcodes. Let's dive into their story!

Born in the Factory: The History of QR Codes

Believe it or not, QR codes weren't invented to track groceries! In the 1990s, Masahiro Hara, working for a Japanese company (Denso Wave, a subsidiary of Toyota), needed a better way to manage car parts during manufacturing. Traditional barcodes couldn't hold enough information. So, Hara developed the QR code, which could store much more data in a smaller space. Think of it like going from a tiny notepad to a full-fledged notebook for your part information!

Why QR Codes Rule (Compared to Barcodes):

So, why are QR codes so popular now? It boils down to storage space:

• Limited Talkers: Traditional barcodes, like the ones on your groceries, can only hold around 20 alphanumeric characters (letters and numbers). Imagine them as shy introverts, only whispering basic product information.
• Chatty Squares: QR codes, on the other hand, are like social butterflies. They can store hundreds of times more data – website addresses, contact details, even small chunks of text! This makes them perfect for sharing a lot of information in a small space.

Barcode Structure

Let's take a closer look at how each code works. Traditional barcodes use a series of vertical lines with varying widths and spacings. A barcode reader scans these stripes and translates them into product information like price or ID number. Imagine it like a simple code using black and white lines to represent basic information.

QR Code Structure

QR codes are more complex. They use a grid of black and white squares, but the key lies in the arrangement. Specific patterns are formed by these squares, encoding the data. Special features like alignment boxes and quiet zones (empty areas around the code) help the scanner accurately read the information, like having stage markers and a silent audience for a clear performance!

QR code can store the data in 4 different formats:-

1. Numeric
2. Alphanumeric
3. Binary
4. Kanji

What Fits in the QR Code?

Here's the exciting part: QR codes can store a surprising amount of information:

• Website URLs: Imagine seeing a QR code on a magazine ad. Scan it, and you're instantly on the brand's website, learning more about their product.
• Contact Information: Share a QR code on your business card, and people can add your details (phone number, email) to their phones with a quick scan. No more fumbling with tiny business cards!
• Location: QR codes can hold GPS coordinates, guiding you right to a specific restaurant or museum exhibit.
• Text Messages: Need to share a short message or a WiFi password with a friend? A QR code can handle that too, eliminating the need for typing.

Beyond the Basics: QR Codes Get Fancy

QR codes are constantly evolving. Here are some cool things they can do now:

• Multiple Languages: A single QR code can hold different website addresses depending on the language you're in. Imagine scanning a code at a tourist attraction and getting the information in your preferred language!
• Smart Actions: Imagine scanning a QR code on your gym membership card that automatically checks you in for your workout – no need to swipe a card!

So, the next time you see a QR code, remember – it's not just a random pattern! It's a tiny technological marvel with a rich history, ready to bridge the gap between the physical world and the digital one with a simple scan.