1D and 2D codes
Barcodes, Data Matrix and QR on labels, packaging and parts. Selection depends on factors including code size, print quality, orientation and motion.
Industrial code reading and traceability
Industrial code reading for DPM, 1D/2D and OCR
An unreadable code interrupts the flow of materials and data: the operator scans again, looks up a serial number or removes a product from the line. Sedeco selects and tests the code reader, camera, optics, lighting and software for DPM, Data Matrix, barcodes and text recognition using representative products and the required cycle time.
The mark, surface and motion determine the imaging setup
A decoder can only use information that is visible in the image. Contrast may disappear because of reflections on metal, curved packaging, variation in engraving depth, contamination or motion blur. We therefore assess the marking method, code size, module size, viewing angle, working distance, product speed and available installation space as one imaging problem.
DPM on parts
Direct Part Marking on metal, plastic and cast surfaces. Laser, dot-peen and other marking methods each require suitable lighting direction and acquisition geometry.
OCR and OCV
OCR reads variable text such as lot numbers and dates. OCV checks whether expected text is present and correct. Font, character height and print variation determine the approach.
From samples to line integration
Turning a reading problem into a testable machine function
Testing starts with representative good, poor and borderline samples. We define which content must be read, the variation in position and mark quality, and what the machine must do after a no-read or incorrect result.
01 · Define requirements
Code or text type, smallest relevant details, working distance, product variants, speed, trigger, interface and required fault handling.
02 · Test the imaging setup
Multiple combinations of reader or camera, lens and lighting are tested with the samples. We assess readability and stability across the agreed variation.
03 · Define machine behaviour
The result is sent to the PLC, robot or MES as decoded content, status and, where required, quality information. No-reads, duplicate reads and recovery become part of the control logic.
Architecture choice
When should you use a code reader, smart camera or PC station?
A compact image-based code reader suits a clearly defined reading task. A smart camera adds inspection logic. PC-based vision becomes relevant for multiple cameras, combined inspections, central recipe handling or custom software. Sample testing establishes whether the simplest suitable architecture has sufficient margin.
| Production requirement | Likely route | Boundary to test |
|---|---|---|
| One code per position, stable presentation | Image-based code reader | Code quality, motion and reading distance |
| DPM, low contrast or variable orientation | Code reader or smart camera with tested optics and lighting | Surface, mark variation and lighting direction |
| Identification combined with OCR or defect inspection | Smart camera or PC-based vision | Processing load, cycle time, recipes and interfaces |
Product example from the range
Hikrobot MV-ID5000 for fixed code reading
The MV-ID5000 is a family of fixed smart code readers. The specifications below apply to the MV-ID5050M-08S-WBN and illustrate the properties that matter when selecting a reader for Data Matrix, QR and 1D codes.
Resolution and acquisition
2560 × 2048 pixels, monochrome and global shutter. Maximum frame rate according to the product specification: 40 fps.
Lens and illumination
8 mm M12 lens with mechanical autofocus. White light is standard; red, blue and infrared are optional configurations.
Machine integration
Gigabit Ethernet, digital I/O and RS-232. Supported protocols include PROFINET, EtherNet/IP and Modbus.
Industrial housing
IP67 when the waterproof lens cap is installed correctly. Specified operating temperature: 0 to 50 °C.
These product specifications do not establish that a code can be read in your process. Code quality, working distance, motion, lighting direction and product variation must be tested with representative samples.
View the MV-ID5000 familyRelated decisions
Define the complete imaging chain and inspection task
Smart camera or PC vision
Compare local processing with a central PC by camera count, logic, recipe management and maintenance.
→Lighting for code contrast
Choose lighting direction and geometry based on material, marking method, curvature and reflection.
→Identification and quality inspection
Determine whether the same image must check presence, position, print or product features in addition to identity.
→
Have your codes and products tested
Send representative easy-to-read, difficult and borderline samples together with code dimensions, marking method, working distance, speed and available installation space. Also specify the required PLC or MES interface and the expected response to a no-read. Sedeco tests the imaging chain and advises on components and the next implementation step.
Applications and background
Explore specific reading problems
Technical guidance
From reading principle to product selection
Use the knowledge articles to examine terminology and selection criteria. Use the product page when the reading principle, imaging setup and acceptance criteria are known and you want to compare reader families.
Selecting code readers and DPM
Selection path for a code reader, smart camera or PC, including optics, lighting and feasibility testing.
What is Direct Part Marking?
Explanation of marking methods and how contrast, curvature, damage and motion affect image acquisition.
How does a smart code reader work?
Compare integrated readers with area-scan cameras and separate vision software.
Compare industrial code readers
Review fixed, line-scan and handheld families after working distance, code size, speed and interface have been defined.
Business-case inputs and test preparation
Calculate the current effort from manual scans, repeat attempts, rework, line stops and products with missing traceability. Compare this with components, engineering, integration, maintenance and remaining operator interventions. Use quantities per product variant and shift, average handling time and the consequences of a no-read as inputs; do not assume savings without production data.
Acceptance criteria
Define when the reading solution has passed
For each code and product class, test the agreed reading performance, false reads, no-reads and cycle time. Include good, poor and borderline samples across the permitted variation in position, surface, mark quality and motion. Also verify decoded content, PLC or MES output, logging, duplicate triggers and recovery after an interruption. Thresholds are agreed with the customer in advance; representative samples are required for a substantiated acceptance decision.
View the DPM-on-metal application example when preparing your own sample test.