Aztec Barcode Explained

Aztec Barcode Example

Aztec is a two-dimensional or matrix code that can encode up to 2,000 characters. The code is easily recognized by the central "bulls eye". When decoding an Aztec symbol, the scanner works its way from the center outwards. As a consequence Aztec codes can be used without a quiet zone around the barcode, resulting in the lowest possible space requirements of all 2D codes, at least for small amounts of data.

Like other 2D symbologies, Aztec too has several compaction modes; the barcode generator will usually try to minimize the symbol size. Applications are in transport, warehousing and retail. This photo shows an Aztec code from a supermarket weighing scale; the code contains store number, date, weight, price among other data:

Aztec Sample Code Weight and Price

Another example (online ticket of Deutsche Bahn); to prevent counterfeiting, the encoded data is encrypted:

Aztec Online Ticket Deutsche Bahn

Aztec Specifications

Aztec is standardized. The relevant standard is ISO/IEC 24778-2008 and can be obtained from ISO.

Aztec Barcode Samples

Aztec sample barcode encodes mixed content, "ABCabc123":

Aztec Barcode Sample Mixed Content

Aztec can directly encode accented and diacritic characters like german umlauts from the ISO 8859-1 code page. Sample code encodes "ÄÖÜäöü":

Aztec Barcode Sample Umlauts Accented

This code has been verified to scan properly on Mac and Windows PCs. Check the settings of your scanner if the scan result is different or if the code doesn't scan at all.

Common problems when scanning Aztec with non-ASCII data:
  • The Aztec symbology is deactivated in the scanner
  • The keyboard layout setting of the scanner does not match the locale setting in your computer

Create Aztec Barcodes in Illustrator, InDesign

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Barcode in Illustrator

Easy to use barcode plug-ins and extensions for Adobe InDesign and Illustrator. For more videos, see the Softmatic Youtube Channel

The Softmatic barcode plug-ins and extensions for InDesign, Illustrator and Photoshop are available from the Softmatic store.

Aztec Barcode Generator

Softmatic BarcodePlus V5 creates Aztec and will export the barcode as PDF / SVG (resolution-independent vector) oder raster image (PNG, TIFF). The app will automatically format the data according to the specs to create the smallest possible symbol:



Create Aztec Barcodes in Bulk

For bulk creation of Aztec codes, see Softmatic BarcodeFactory V5. Ideal for personalized 2D codes for tickets, event, mailings. Video shows generating bulk QR codes from email addresses

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2D Barcode in Bulk Generator