How QR Codes Work?

Quick response codes (QR codes) are two-dimensional barcodes that can store much more information than traditional one-dimensional barcodes. The following are the basics of how it works.

1. Data encoding: The given data (text, URL, contact information, etc.) will be converted into a sequence of bits (binary digits i.e. 0s and 1s).
2. To create “qrcode” and other QR codes in our API, the library uses an error-correcting method that adds extra bits to ensure that even if some parts were damaged during transmission or scanning, it can be rebuilt from scratch.
3. Reading and decoding: A smartphone camera or a reader specifically designed for QR codes is able to recognize unique barcodes. The decoder looks for patterns to find timestamps and grid size. It then ejects the data module together with the error correction bit. The error correction algorithm repairs any possible errors that may occur based on the image.
4. Finally, this decoded data is then reversed to its original form i.e. text, URL etc.

Nowadays, Quick Response (QR) codes have become an integral tool for transferring information quickly and conveniently. This project aims to develop a QR code generation API service using Node.js and Express.js. In addition, it goes further and extends the former by providing more customization options to follow RESTful API design principles and handle errors.

Output Preview: Let us have a look at how the final output will look like.