QR Codes
QR code (abbreviated from Quick Response Code) is the trademark for a type of matrix barcode (or two-dimensional barcode) first designed in 1994 for the automotive industry in Japan. A barcode is a machine-readable optical label that contains information about the item to which it is attached. A QR code uses four standardized encoding modes (numeric, alphanumeric, byte/binary, and kanji) to store data efficiently; extensions may also be used.
The Quick Response (QR code) system became popular outside the automotive industry due to its fast readability and greater storage capacity compared to standard UPC barcodes. Applications include product tracking, item identification, time tracking, document management, and general marketing.
A QR code consists of black squares arranged in a square grid on a white background, which can be read by an imaging device such as a camera, and processed using Reed–Solomon error correction until the image can be appropriately interpreted. The required data is then extracted from patterns that are present in both horizontal and vertical components of the image.
BM Project Solutions will create/design your QR Code, with the relevant information or links you require for your social media, websites, etc. Below we have listed the QR Codes we can design for you along with a “Buy Now” button. Please ensure that you have read our “Pricing” section in our terms and conditions/privacy policy before selecting the “Buy Now” button.
Pricing starts from R450.00 per QR Code.
See FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions) below regarding QR Codes.
What is the ideal print size of a QR Code?
The print size of a QR Code is an important matter that must not be ignored! QR Codes must be large enough to be recognized and decoded by the smartphone’s reading application. Two topics should be considered when designing your QR Code.
The minimal size
You ought not to print your QR Codes too small, or they could be unreadable (this is one of the most common mistakes). To be sure that your QR Codes are readable, do not print them in less than 3cm square (1.2 inches).
Explanation:
Every smartphone is different and thus has different camera performances. For example, old 3Gs iPhones do not have autofocus (a control system to focus automatically the camera on the QR Code). Printing your QR Code too small can make it unreadable for some smartphones.
To know the ideal size, use the following simple formula:
Size of your QR Code = Distance between the QR Code and the Scanner ÷ 10 Example: 33cm square to read it at 3m away
How to scan a QR Code?
Reading – or scanning – a QR Code is an easy 3-step process. You must open your reading application and point your camera at the QR Code. It is then recognized by the application which carries out the associated action – like opening a web page. To download a QR & Barcode Scanner for Android devices, Click Here. Please visit the iTunes Store to download a QR & Barcode Scanner for Apple devices.
Do QR Codes have a limited lifespan?
You are ready to print your QR Codes on your documents and posters that will last for years and you want to know if they will still be functional next month or in ten years? Don’t worry, QR Codes are here to last, too!
Can a QR Code be hacked?
As for any technology, there are stories of QR Codes being used maliciously. It is important to know what is made-up and what are the real risks. Here is what you need to know on the subject.
No, a QR Code cannot be hacked
Hacking a QR Code means that the action triggered would have been modified through a manipulation.
This is not possible, since this is the way the small square modules are arranged that determines this action (the data is encoded by the module arrangement). To change this action, one would have to change the arrangement of the modules. This implies physically modifying the QR Code if it has been printed.
Example
You just printed a QR Code on a poster. Can somebody with bad intents change the redirection website? No, because they would need to find a way to modify the arrangement of the modules of the QR Code, and not be detected. Besides, they would have to know exactly which modules must be modified to achieve their goal and re-do the hack on every poster!
Can I edit a QR Code?
Having an editable QR Code ensures constant control: if you need to change the encoded website address or if you made a mistake when typing it, you can edit it without having to create a new and different QR Code. This is a very useful and essential feature if you need to print you QR Code on marketing material. BM Project Solutions will be able to amend your QR Code for you.
