Using QR Codes and Barcodes on ID Cards with eMedia CS2
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QR codes and barcodes are widely used on modern ID cards to simplify identification, access control, and data retrieval. With eMedia CS2, you can easily add and print QR codes and standard barcodes directly on your card designs — fully integrated with your database. 📲
Why Use QR Codes and Barcodes on ID Cards?
Machine-readable codes allow fast and reliable identification without manual checks. A simple scan is enough to retrieve an ID number, membership reference, or database record.
- Faster access control and check-in
- Reliable identification without manual entry
- Database-driven automation
- Reduced errors and improved efficiency
Supported Code Types in eMedia CS2
eMedia CS2 supports the most commonly used barcode formats for ID cards and badges:
- QR Code – ideal for unique identifiers, URLs, or reference numbers
- Code 128 – compact and widely supported alphanumeric barcode
- Code 39 – simple and robust barcode format
- EAN – commonly used for numbering and product references
These formats cover the vast majority of professional badge and ID card use cases.
How to Add a QR Code or Barcode to a Card Template
Adding a barcode or QR code in eMedia CS2 is straightforward:
- Open your project in Design Mode
- Select Insert → Barcode
- Choose the barcode type
- Link it to a database field or fixed value
- Resize and position it on the card layout
The code is generated automatically for each record during printing.
Dynamic Codes from Databases 📊
eMedia CS2 allows you to generate dynamic QR codes and barcodes from database fields such as:
- Employee or student ID numbers
- Membership references
- Card serial numbers
- Unique internal identifiers
When printing in batch, each card receives its own unique, scannable code.
Best Practices for Reliable Scanning ✔️
- 📏 Use sufficient size for QR codes (minimum recommended size)
- 🎯 Maintain strong contrast between code and background
- 🚫 Avoid placing codes too close to card edges
- 🧪 Always test scanning before mass printing
- 🖨️ Use proper printer settings for sharp output
Typical Use Cases
- Employee badges: identification and access systems
- Events: attendee check-in and validation
- Education: student cards
- Retail: loyalty or reference cards
- Healthcare: patient identification
Get Started with eMedia CS2 🛒
With eMedia CS2, adding QR codes and barcodes to your cards is simple, reliable, and fully database-driven.
FAQ ❓
Are QR codes generated automatically?
Yes. QR codes and barcodes are generated dynamically from database fields during printing.
Can I use QR codes on PVC cards?
Yes. QR codes print and scan perfectly on PVC cards when size and contrast are respected.
Which eMedia CS2 edition supports barcodes?
Barcode and QR code features are available from the Standard edition.
Should I store personal data inside QR codes?
For security reasons, we recommend using reference IDs rather than personal data.
Conclusion ✅
QR codes and barcodes enhance ID cards by making them faster to scan, easier to manage, and fully integrated with databases. With eMedia CS2, you can generate reliable, professional, and scannable cards — without complexity.