DotCode
Sparse circular dots rather than contiguous squares distinguish DotCode, a matrix symbology AIM published in 2009 for production lines where marking is applied by non-contact methods at high speed. Thermal inkjet and laser heads deposit discrete dots reliably but cannot hold the sharp edges a conventional module grid demands, so the encoding tolerates variation in dot placement and omits any solid finder pattern. Tobacco and beverage manufacturers adopted it for unit-level serialisation at line speeds where Data Matrix print quality would degrade. Capacity varies with the chosen grid dimensions, three dots of quiet zone are required, and binary payloads are supported. Nominal dot spacing of 0.254 mm is typical, and DotCode is not itself a GS1 data carrier.
A 2D matrix symbology designed for high-speed industrial printing applications where dots are more reliable than squares or lines. DotCode uses a sparse grid of circular dots that can be reliably printed by inkjet, laser, and other non-contact marking technologies on fast-moving production lines.