Overview
EN ISO/IEC 15426-2:2006 (ISO/IEC 15426-2:2005) specifies conformance requirements for bar code verifiers that evaluate multi‑row and two‑dimensional matrix symbols. The standard defines test methods, minimum accuracy criteria and reference calibration artefacts for verifiers implementing the ISO/IEC 15415 measurement methodology. It is intended for verifying the performance and consistency of AIDC (automatic identification and data capture) verification equipment using representative samples.
Key topics and technical requirements
- Scope and purpose: Defines how to test verifiers for two‑dimensional symbols (stacked/multi‑row and matrix symbologies) and specifies primary reference test symbols for calibration and accuracy assessment.
- Measurement methodology: Verifiers are assessed using ISO/IEC 15415 test methods; results must be repeatable and consistent across instruments and over time.
- Sampling and reporting: Test results use statistically representative samples; the standard requires averaging multiple measurements - typically ten measurements for multi‑row symbols and five measurements for matrix symbols - for each reported parameter.
- Measured parameters: Tolerances are specified for parameters such as reflectance, decodability, defects, codeword yield, grid nonuniformity, modulation, and fixed pattern damage. Primary reference test symbols provide traceable calibration standards.
- Operational requirements: Covers general constructional and operational criteria including installation, power, temperature, humidity and ambient‑light immunity to ensure verifier stability.
- Test environment and certification: Describes test environment, test reports, certification and labelling practices and requires reading in conjunction with relevant symbology specifications (PDF417, Data Matrix, QR Code, etc.).
Practical applications and users
EN ISO/IEC 15426-2 is used by:
- Verifier manufacturers to demonstrate product conformance and to calibrate equipment against traceable reference symbols.
- Quality assurance and test laboratories performing verifier performance testing and issuing conformity reports.
- Barcode printers and label converters who need to verify printed two‑dimensional symbols for production control.
- Systems integrators and supply‑chain managers ensuring symbol quality for reliable scanning in logistics, retail, healthcare and manufacturing.
By applying EN ISO/IEC 15426-2, organizations ensure consistent, measurable verifier performance, reducing decoding errors and improving interoperability across AIDC systems.
Related standards
Keywords: ISO/IEC 15426-2, bar code verifier, two-dimensional symbols, AIDC, verifier conformance, ISO/IEC 15415, primary reference test symbols, symbol verification.
