Overview
ISO/IEC 15426-2:2023 is the international conformance specification for bar code verifiers that assess two-dimensional symbols (including multi-row/stacked bar codes and matrix symbologies). It defines the test methods, minimum accuracy criteria, and reference calibration standards for verifiers that apply the ISO/IEC 15415 print-quality methodology. The standard ensures verifier measurements are accurate, repeatable and traceable to primary reference test symbols.
Key topics and technical requirements
- Scope and purpose: Applies to verifiers for multi-row and two‑dimensional matrix symbols; ISO/IEC 15426-1 covers linear symbols.
- Test methods and sampling: Specifies how to select representative equipment samples and perform measurements (Clause 8). Arithmetic means of measurements (10 for multi-row, 5 for matrix) must meet tolerances.
- Accuracy tolerances: Examples of required tolerances include R and Rmax/Rmin reflectance (±5% and ±3% respectively), and symbol-specific parameter tolerances (e.g., decodability, defects, codeword yield, grid/axial nonuniformity). Fixed-pattern damage for Aztec code is addressed.
- Reflectance calibration: Verifiers must support calibration against reference reflectance materials (two calibration points near high and low reflectance), traceable to the ISO/IEC 15415 reference.
- Mandatory functions:
- For multi-row bar codes: collect multi-scan reflectance profiles, analyse profiles, report profile and overall grades, report codeword yield, unused error correction and decoded data.
- For matrix symbols: capture framed grey-scale area including quiet zones, produce reference grey-scale and binarized images, and compute matrix-specific metrics.
- Construction/operational requirements: Installation, power, temperature/humidity ranges, ambient light immunity and maintenance expectations are specified.
- Reference test symbols and reporting: Primary reference test symbols and verification requirements are normative; test reports and labelling/declaration rules are mandated.
Applications and who uses it
- Verifier manufacturers: design and validate conformance of hardware and software verifiers.
- Barcode printers and label producers: ensure printed two‑dimensional symbols meet quality criteria for downstream scanning.
- Quality assurance and production: define acceptance testing and process control for symbol production.
- System integrators and purchasers: evaluate and procure compliant verifier equipment for logistics, retail, healthcare, manufacturing and supply-chain systems.
- Regulatory and certification bodies: establish objective measurement baselines and traceability for interoperability.
Related standards
Keywords: ISO/IEC 15426-2:2023, bar code verifier conformance, two-dimensional symbols, ISO/IEC 15415, barcode verifier calibration, primary reference test symbols, matrix symbologies, multi-row bar code.
Open preview (PDF)Information technology — Automatic identification and data capture techniques — Bar code verifier conformance specification — Part 2: Two-dimensional symbols