How to Generate a Data Matrix Barcode for Your Website
Introduction: Why Add Data Matrix Barcodes to Your Website?
Data Matrix barcodes are compact, 2D codes widely used in packaging, logistics, and asset tracking. Their ability to encode large amounts of data in a small space makes them ideal for digital labeling on websites and in documents. In this guide, we’ll explore how to generate a Data Matrix barcode for your website using the GdPicture.NET SDK.
Use Cases for Web-Based Data Matrix Barcodes
- Digital product labeling
- QR-style login or check-in systems
- Inventory management tools
- Secure document generation
Understanding Data Matrix Code Fundamentals
Technical Specifications of Data Matrix Codes
A Data Matrix is a 2D barcode that can encode alphanumeric text in a square or rectangular pattern. It offers high data density, supports up to 2,335 alphanumeric characters, and uses Reed-Solomon error correction to restore data even if parts of the code are damaged.
How Data Matrix Codes Store and Transmit Information
Data is encoded in a grid of black and white cells. The layout includes alignment patterns and timing patterns, enabling fast and accurate scanning across industrial-grade hardware and mobile devices.
Data Matrix vs. Other 2D Barcodes
Compared to QR codes, Data Matrix is smaller and better suited for very small labels or items. Unlike PDF417 or Aztec, it’s highly reliable for high-resolution marking (e.g., medical tools, electronics).
Preparing Your Website for Data Matrix Integration
Required Server Configurations
To generate barcodes server-side, you’ll need a .NET-compatible hosting environment with the GdPicture SDK installed. For dynamic generation, set up ASP.NET Web API routes.
Compatibility Considerations Across Browsers
Since barcode generation occurs server-side with GdPicture.NET, browser compatibility mainly applies to rendering the resulting images (e.g., PNGs), which are universally supported.
Data Security Implications
Ensure that dynamic barcode data (especially if user-generated or confidential) is sanitized and securely transmitted over HTTPS. Barcodes used for authentication or document access should have short lifespans or encryption layers.
Step-by-Step Data Matrix Generation Process
Selecting Appropriate Data Encoding Methods
Choose the correct encoding (ASCII, C40, Text, Base256) depending on your data type. GdPicture.NET provides automatic encoding mode selection.
Implementing Error Correction Levels
Data Matrix codes use built-in Reed-Solomon error correction. The GdPicture SDK handles this automatically but be mindful of data density vs. size for scanning reliability.
Generating the Matrix Using Programming Libraries
Using GdPicture.NET SDK, you can generate a Data Matrix image server-side with the following approach:
using Microsoft.AspNetCore.Mvc;
using GdPicture14;
using System.IO;
using System.Drawing;
namespace WebApplication.Controllers
{
[ApiController]
[Route("api/[controller]")]
public class DatamatrixController : ControllerBase
{
[HttpGet]
public IActionResult Generate(string data)
{
if (string.IsNullOrWhiteSpace(data))
return BadRequest("Missing barcode data.");
using (GdPictureImaging gdpictureImaging = new GdPictureImaging())
{
BarcodeDataMatrixEncodingMode encodingMode = BarcodeDataMatrixEncodingMode.BarcodeDataMatrixEncodingModeUndefined;
BarcodeDataMatrixVersion version = BarcodeDataMatrixVersion.BarcodeDataMatrixVersionAuto;
gdpictureImaging.BarcodeDataMatrixGetSize(data, encodingMode, ref version, 4, 8, out int width, out int height);
int imageID = gdpictureImaging.CreateNewGdPictureImage(width, height, 32, gdpictureImaging.ARGB(255, 255, 255));
gdpictureImaging.BarcodeDataMatrixWrite(imageID, data, encodingMode, ref version, 4, 8, 0, 0, 0,
gdpictureImaging.ARGB(0, 0, 0), gdpictureImaging.ARGB(255, 255, 255));
using (MemoryStream ms = new MemoryStream())
{
gdpictureImaging.SaveAsPNG(imageID, ms);
gdpictureImaging.ReleaseGdPictureImage(imageID);
return File(ms.ToArray(), "image/png");
}
}
}
}
}
Implementing Data Matrix Codes on Your Website
Static vs. Dynamic Data Matrix Implementation
- Static: Pre-generate barcodes and store them as image assets.
- Dynamic: Generate on-the-fly based on user input or session data using an API.
Embedding Options for Various Website Platforms
Use standard <img> tags to embed the barcode on any platform:
<img src="/api/datamatrix?data=Example123" alt="Data Matrix Barcode" />
Testing and Validation Procedures
Use barcode scanner apps or libraries (e.g., ZXing) to test that generated barcodes can be decoded reliably across devices. Validate output data matches input exactly.
Alternative JavaScript Solutions (Optional)
If you need a fully client-side solution today, open-source options like BWIP-JS or Zint (via WebAssembly) can help, though they may lack the accuracy and enterprise support of GdPicture.
Conclusion
Using GdPicture’s robust .NET SDK today is a reliable way to power barcode generation on your website. Whether you’re building secure check-ins, product labels, or inventory tools, GdPicture’s barcode engine can support your use case.
If you’re ready to get started, we recommend downloading the GdPicture SDK for evaluation and testing the Data Matrix capabilities in your environment.
For tailored guidance or licensing inquiries, reach out to the GdPicture sales team — they’ll help you identify the best configuration for your application needs.
FAQ
What image formats does GdPicture support for barcode output?
GdPicture supports several formats including PNG, JPEG, BMP, and TIFF. PNG is generally recommended for barcode clarity and compression.
Can I use GdPicture in an ASP.NET Core Web API?
Yes, GdPicture is fully compatible with ASP.NET Core Web API projects. You can use it to generate barcodes server-side and return them as image files.
Does GdPicture require a license for development?
GdPicture offers a free trial for evaluation purposes. For production use, you will need a valid license. You can contact their sales team for pricing and licensing options.
Is it possible to generate other types of barcodes with GdPicture?
Absolutely. GdPicture supports a wide range of 1D and 2D barcodes, including QR Code, PDF417, Code 128, and Aztec, among others.
How do I handle barcode generation for different languages or character sets?
GdPicture handles Unicode characters and supports Base256 encoding, allowing you to encode international characters and special symbols.
Hulya is a frontend web developer and technical writer at GDPicture who enjoys creating responsive, scalable, and maintainable web experiences. She’s passionate about open source, web accessibility, cybersecurity privacy, and blockchain.
Tags: