A Quick Response (QR) code is a two-dimensional barcode, used to encode all kinds of data (alphanumeric, binary, etc.). A QR code can be read using a smartphone with a QR scanning application. Scanned data could include a text message, contact information or a web address (url).

QR codes can be printed on or adhered to virtually any flat surface. Using a web-enabled smartphone, scanning a QR code can take you directly to a URL via the phone’s mobile browser. This is handy if you’re traveling or in a remote location without access to an internet-connected PC and you need quick access to product information.

As it turns out, many of the service technicians and field engineers who use DATAQ Instruments products spend a lot of time on the road, working in the field. That got us thinking; wouldn’t it be convenient if they could flip over one of our instruments, scan a QR code with their smartphones and be directed to a datasheet containing pertinent information relating specifically to that product?

To test this theory, beginning in early 2012, all DI-145 and DI-149 starter kits will ship with QR codes printed on their labels. The QR codes will be encoded with urls that link to PDFs of their respective datasheets.