Introduction to QR Codes © EIT, Author Gay Robertson, 2017

What is a QR Code? Traditional Barcode QR Code Known as a Quick Response Code Is a form of barcode, similar to barcodes on items purchased from a store It is a machine readable label that contains information about the item Unlike regular barcodes, a QR code consists of black squares arranged in a square grid, unlike the regular black bars arranged in a rectangle like more traditional barcodes Traditional Barcode QR Code

How do QR Codes work? A cell phone can scan and read a QR code by using its built-in camera The code holds information or details that are picked up and read by your phone once the code is scanned The technology is similar to a bar code scanner at a supermarket or store, but the advantage is that QR Codes can store and share much more data than traditional codes Want more Information? Go to http://www.mobile-barcodes.com/about-qr-codes/

Common barcodes generally hold a set of numbers to identify a product within a data base QR codes can also include: URLs (Web addresses) Geographic coordinates (For navigation) Text (Such as contact or product information) Embedded Information

Reading QR Codes To be able to read/scan a QR code, you will need to install an application onto your phone, which picks up the image of the code taken by your camera, translates the information and presents it to you – a QR Code decoder There are a range of free QR Code Scanners on both the Android and iOS app stores, simply search for QR Code Scanner on the app store Find an app that appears to be from a trustworthy source and has positive reviews. We will discuss application security in the next module, if unsure talk to a facilitator to discuss an application that would be suitable

Generating QR Codes It is also possible to create your own QR codes to store contact information or URLs to a website you run There are a range of free websites that will generate a code with the information you request, which can then be copied or printed in a form that you wish to use the code for Simply search for free QR Code generators on the web if you wish to create a QR Code http://www.mobile-barcodes.com/qr-code-generator/

Why use QR Codes QR Codes bring together multiple mobile hardware and software technologies, to allow seamless sharing and reading of small bits of data to any mobile device user Uses for QR codes include: Product details Contact details (business or personal use) Sales or “limited offer” deals Event or competition details Coupons or tickets Social media and YouTube links Geographical co-ordinates

Okay, let’s go use the workbook