Data Matrix Rectangular — Barcode Format Guide & Generator
Data Matrix Rectangular is a two-dimensional matrix symbology in the Matrix family. Rectangular DMRE variant for elongated label spaces. Beyond consumer QR codes, matrix symbols mark surgical instruments, electronics PCBs, automotive parts, payment slips and postal items.
- Category
- Matrix
- Symbol
- Matrix (2D) modules
- Data
- Any text within the symbol’s capacity — URLs, numbers or plain text
- Example
- Data Matrix Example
Data format
Any text works, including URLs, numbers and Unicode where the symbology supports byte mode. The encoder enforces the capacity of the symbol you configured — shrink the error-correction level or let the size grow if your payload is long.
Strengths and limitations
Strengths
- Stores far more data than a 1D barcode — URLs, IDs or full text payloads.
- Built-in error correction keeps a partially damaged or obscured symbol readable.
Limitations
- Needs a camera-based reader (imager or phone); red-laser-only checkouts cannot read it.
- Print quality and contrast matter more — poor prints fail more often than large 1D bars.
Generate one in QrDeco
- Open QrDeco and choose Data Matrix Rectangular from the format list.
- Type or paste your data — for example Data Matrix Example.
- Adjust size, colours, quiet zone or human-readable text in the style panel if you need them.
- Export an SVG or PDF for print, or a PNG for screens — generated locally in your browser, nothing is uploaded.
Options
- Symbol size: 8×18 · 8×32 · 12×26 · 12×36 · 16×36 · 16×48 · 8×48 · 8×64 · 8×80 · 8×96 · 8×120 · 8×144 · 12×64 · 12×88 · 16×64 · 20×36 · 20×44 · 20×64 · 22×48 · 24×48 · 24×64 · 26×40 · 26×48 · 26×64
Scanning and printing tips
- Keep the quiet zone clear on all four sides — it is part of the symbol, not margin.
- Use strong dark/light contrast and never print modules and background in the same ink.
- Choose an error-correction level or symbol size with headroom if the code will be handled, worn or partly covered.
- Export vector output (SVG/PDF) so module edges stay crisp at any print size.
Related formats
More from the Matrix family, plus the family overview: