Key technical parameters for barcodes

X Dimension (Module Size)

Defines the smallest unit width of a barcode (usually in mils or mm). Affects scanning reliability – too small may be unreadable, too large wastes space.

Typical values:

PDF417: 0.0067–0.0150 in (0.17–0.38 mm)
QR Code: 0.0059–0.0157 in (0.15–0.4 mm)
Data Matrix: 0.0039–0.0118 in (0.1–0.3 mm)

Y/X Ratio (Height-to-Width Ratio)

Relevant for stacked barcodes like PDF417, which consist of multiple rows. Defines the barcode shape – a higher ratio creates a taller barcode.

Typical values:

PDF417: 2:1 to 5:1 (common: 3:1)
Data Matrix: Square modules, so ratio is 1:1

Redundancy Level (Error Correction Level)

Determines how much data capacity to sacrifice for error handling. Higher levels increase barcode size but improve readability if parts are missing.

Typical values:

PDF417: 2% to 50% (selectable in 1–8 error correction levels)
QR Code: Four levels (L = 7%, M = 15%, Q = 25%, H = 30%)
Data Matrix: Not selectable
Uses ECC 200, which supports using up to 30% for error correction.

Best practices for barcodes in PDF files

Choose the right X dimension—small for high-resolution print, larger for low-quality print.
Adjust redundancy levels based on expected damage (higher for industrial labels, lower for digital use).
For PDF417, use a balanced Y/X ratio to prevent excessive height or width.