Most people are familiar with the now recognizable bar codes that are found on almost everything the consumer purchases. What most people may not realize is that traditional bar codes can only carry information horizontally and not vertically. What is starting to make more of an appearance in the US are QR (Quick Response) Codes which have become one of the most popular of the 2D bar codes. The reason for this is that the QR Code stores information in both the vertical and horizontal paths of the code. More room for storage is a result of this ability to gather extra data.

Linear barcodes are read by variations in reflected light. For the 3D bar code the bars are read by ascertaining the height of each bar. The time frame it requires for the laser to rebound and be recorded establishes the height as related to distance. The 3D barcodes are also imprinted onto the product. The scanner identifies the new symbols in the string by the lower areas of the code. The new height of a line is recorded by the break in white space and new number or alpha character is created. The added advantage of the 3D barcodes is that it is almost impossible to change or impede the barcode's data. Fewer errors in inventory are made resulting in decreasing the costs of manufacturing. The code becomes a part of the manufacturing process.

A direct part mark (DPM) barcode reader is used for 3D barcodes to gather information about the reflected image. Right after a laser has been passed over the slightly raised 3D barcodes, the data is saved, digitized and translated. This is a growing trend now so that eventually, an increasing number of manufactured products will become encoded with the 3D barcode system. The savings for the companies will be very significant.

Scanners can be handheld as well as integrated into the assembly line process. They can monitor a part on the line for real time tracking. Currently, cell phones cannot read the raised 3D barcodes. 3D barcodes are read with special readers like the Bumpy Bar Code Reader. The elevated surface allows storage of more information such as pictures and manuals. QR codes and 3D Barcodes are revolutionizing the economics of manufacturing products so that the savings will come to the consumer. The consumer too can take advantage of the QR codes to promptly get the information about their business to the Global Community.