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

2. 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

3. 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
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4. 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

5. 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

6. 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

7. 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

8. Okay, let’s go use the workbook