2.1. Introduction

When you run the installer to install the DataMatrix Fontware, The DataMatrix Encoder GUI program is automatically added to your system and a shortcut is placed on your desktop. You may launch the program by clicking on the desktop icon, or you can launch it by selecting Start -> Programs -> Morovia -> DataMatrix Fontware -> DataMatrix Encoder (GUI).

The GUI program serves two purposes. First, you can use this program to create barcodes and transfer to other programs, when all you need is to create some barcodes and add to document files. Secondly, if you are working on a custom application based on the DataMatrix encoder ActiveX, you can use this program as a verification tool. Internally the DataMatrix Encoder GUI calls the ActiveX interface to retrieve the results. Your application should get identical results if all other conditions are the same.

Note: this program formats the encoding results with typeface MRV DataMatrix at 12 points. You may use another typeface, or a different font size. Many factors have impacts on the quality of printed barcodes, such as printer resolution and font size used. Always test the barcode quality before going into mass production.

Some text processing programs calculate the line height based on the real point size. You'll see noticeable gaps between lines. When this is the case, use typeface MRV DataMatrixR1 instead. This font is designed to match the real point size. However, when using MRV DataMatrixR1 you will need to change the font size to a lower value, such as 3 points.