Published on: January 11, 2025 / Update from: January 11, 2025 - Author: Konrad Wolfenstein
GS1 DataMatrix Code Data diversity in the smallest space: Why Direct Part Marking (DPM) is becoming the new standard - Image: Xpert.Digital
Markings of the future: How GS1 DataMatrix and DPM are setting standards
Digital and flexible: Supply chain management with GS1 DataMatrix and IoT
Advancing globalization, increasing quality demands and stricter legal requirements mean that companies have to make their supply chains increasingly transparent. In this context, the marking of products, parts and components with the GS1 DataMatrix in combination with Direct Part Marking (DPM) has established itself as an extremely reliable solution. In contrast to conventional one-dimensional barcodes, the GS1 DataMatrix can store significant amounts of data in a small space and remains readable over a long period of time even in demanding environments thanks to robust marking processes. This future-oriented approach not only enables complete traceability in the event of recalls or maintenance work, but also creates the basis for expanded quality management and seamless integration into digital systems. Companies in industries such as automotive, aerospace, electronics manufacturing, medical technology and pharmaceuticals benefit equally from this standard, which combines flexibility, security and efficiency.
Thanks to internationally valid GS1 standards, the information collected can be easily integrated into ERP systems, supply chain management solutions and cloud-based track and trace platforms. This creates a comprehensive network in which each individual part can be clearly identified throughout its entire life cycle. This not only offers advantages in quality assurance and service, but also enables better customer loyalty and compliance with regulatory requirements. The GS1 DataMatrix and DPM allow the physical world to be linked to the digital world, which is becoming increasingly important in the context of Industry 4.0 and the Internet of Things (IoT). Companies can access data in real time, optimize processes and thus achieve competitive advantages.
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What is the GS1 DataMatrix and what advantages does it offer over one-dimensional barcodes?
The GS1 DataMatrix is a two-dimensional code that can store more information in a smaller area compared to traditional barcodes (e.g. EAN, UPC). This makes it particularly suitable for products, components and individual parts. The most important advantages include:
- High data density: Extensive information such as serial numbers, batch numbers or quality data can be stored in a small space.
- Longevity: Even under adverse conditions (e.g. extreme temperatures, chemicals), a cleanly applied code often remains readable for years.
- Error tolerance: Thanks to integrated error correction procedures (e.g. Reed-Solomon), even damaged codes can still be read.
- Future-proof: GS1 DataMatrix is an internationally recognized standard that can be integrated into modern IT systems and supply chain solutions.
What does Direct Part Marking (DPM) mean and why is it so important?
Direct Part Marking (DPM) describes the direct and permanent application of a mark to the product itself, rather than using a label or sticker. This is particularly important because:
- Durability: The marking remains even under heavy use or aging.
- Security: A “removable” label can be lost; With DPM, the code becomes an integral part of the component.
- Transparency: Complete labeling enables parts to be clearly identified throughout their entire life cycle.
What role does code longevity play in practice?
Longevity is crucial in order to be able to reliably identify products even after years or decades. This is important for:
- Recalls: Affected components can be clearly traced.
- Maintenance and repair: Even older components can be easily identified.
- Quality assurance: Long-term data on production and usage makes it easier to analyze defects.
A production manager from the automotive industry says: “With the GS1 DataMatrix and DPM, we can still trace exactly when and where a part was manufactured, even after many years, so that we can react immediately and appropriately in the event of a defect.”
Why is the high data density of the GS1 DataMatrix so relevant?
Large amounts of data can be stored in a small space. This is particularly advantageous in industries with very small components, e.g. B. in electronics production or medical technology. Here, information such as serial numbers, production batches, quality parameters or safety certificates can be stored in a tiny code - for example on a chip housing or a screw.
How does the integrated error correction work and what are its advantages?
The GS1 DataMatrix uses e.g. B. Reed-Solomon algorithms for error correction. This means that parts of the code (up to a third of the area) can be corrupted without losing any data. This is particularly important for industries where products are exposed to extreme conditions, such as aerospace or military.
An engineer from the aviation industry emphasizes: “We work with parts that are exposed to extreme temperature fluctuations, vibrations and chemical stress. The GS1 DataMatrix ensures that we can still access the encoded information even after a long time.”
Which materials can be used for DPM?
The flexibility of the marking methods allows the GS1 DataMatrix code to be applied to a wide variety of materials:
- metal
- plastic
- Glass
- Ceramics
- Wood
Depending on the substrate, different processes are used, such as laser engraving, etching or needle embossing. This means that almost all parts can be clearly identified in industries with very heterogeneous component groups.
In which industries is DPM with GS1 DataMatrix already standard?
DPM and GS1 DataMatrix are used across industries, for example:
- Automotive industry: labeling every single part in complex supply chains.
- Aerospace: Marking critical parts such as turbine blades or landing gear components.
- Electronics manufacturing: Miniaturized components for comprehensive traceability.
- Medical technology and healthcare: Clear identification of implants, instruments or laboratory samples.
- Pharmaceutical industry: Anti-counterfeit labeling of medications.
What challenges can arise with direct part marking?
Although DPM offers many advantages, there are also challenges:
- Expertise: The correct process must be selected depending on the material.
- Quality of marking: To ensure long-term readability, quality standards (e.g. at least 1.5 according to ISO/IEC 15415) should be followed.
- Verification: Modern code verifiers check contrast, modulation and quiet zone to ensure code remains readable throughout the product lifecycle.
Why are special reading devices necessary?
Conventional scanners quickly reach their limits when it comes to directly marked codes, as DPM codes:
- Not as high contrast as printed labels are.
- Often applied to curved, rough or reflective surfaces.
Special DPM scanners have optimized lighting and image processing technologies to reliably read out even difficult-to-see markings.
How does the GS1 DataMatrix contribute to traceability and quality assurance?
With the GS1 DataMatrix, structured data such as serial numbers, batch information or production data can be recorded in IT systems. Seamless integration with ERP and supply chain management solutions enables:
- Real-time tracking: Companies know where a product is in the supply chain at all times.
- Efficient traceability: In the event of problems, affected parts can be precisely identified.
- Comprehensive quality assurance: Data on production and life cycles helps with error analysis and process optimization.
What is the significance of the GS1 DataMatrix in highly regulated industries?
In industries with strict regulations – such as pharmaceuticals, medical technology or aviation – complete traceability is required by law. The GS1 DataMatrix offers:
- Anti-counterfeit protection: Clear labeling of medications makes counterfeit products more difficult.
- Regulatory compliance: The traceability of implants or instruments increases patient safety and meets legal requirements.
- Complete documentation: Clear identification of each component simplifies recalls and root cause investigations in the event of malfunctions.
How is the technology around DPM and GS1 DataMatrix evolving?
Research and development focuses on the following points:
- More precise marking methods: Improved laser and etching techniques for consistent and error-free codes.
- Optimized scanners: New lighting concepts and image processing for even more robust reading results.
- Automated processes: Robots can apply markings while performing quality checks, increasing reliability.
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What role do digitalization and the Internet of Things (IoT) play?
The GS1 DataMatrix code links physical products with their digital identity. With each scan, information about origin, production process or logistical data can be retrieved in real time. This enables:
- Dynamic supply chains: Respond quickly to changes or customer requests.
- Transparency: Relevant product data is available across all levels.
- Improved customer trust: Consumers benefit from clear information about origin and quality.
Why is the GS1 DataMatrix with DPM a future-proof tool?
The GS1 DataMatrix with Direct Part Marking offers a robust, long-term readable marking solution for a wide range of industries. Companies benefit from:
- Greater efficiency thanks to digital and automated processes.
- Better quality assurance throughout the entire product life cycle.
- Optimized traceability and compliance with legal requirements.
- Global standardization and seamless integration into modern IT systems.
The GS1 DataMatrix with DPM thus represents a crucial link between the physical product and the digital world and will continue to play a central role in global supply chains and quality assurance processes in the future.
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