The Observer, April 11, 2008
Volume XL, Issue 24
Bar codes thing that ought to get a good headline
Answers provided by
MEM team members
Why are there codes all around campus?
The nation's premier 2D mobile barcode trial is being held right here at Case Western Reserve University. Case is a leader and advocate in shaping emerging technology and is the perfect place to launch this trial. The Masters of Management and Engineering students are bringing codes from a mere concept to a reality here on campus with this trial called [case2Dcode]. Students and faculty have the opportunity to take part in history in the making. Remember when text messages were a complete mystery? Those days are long gone and texting is an integral part of our daily lives. Code scanning is headed down that same path, so check it out.
What is a 2D code?
In a nutshell, 2D code stands for 2-dimensional barcodes. Popular in Asia and European countries, 2D code scanning provides users with the opportunity to access information over the web with their mobile phones. 2D codes can connect your cell phone with all types of information and allow you to cell-surf without having to type a URL into a web browser. For those of you with bigger fingers, you know what I'm talking about. "Mashing the keypad" does not tend to work all that well....
Still not sure? When in doubt – Google it. "A matrix code, also known as a 2D barcode or simply a 2D code, is a two-dimensional way of representing information. It is similar to a linear (1-dimensional) barcode, but has more data representation capability."
If I participate, will I get spam e-mails or texts?
No, you will only receive the information you want to receive. No spam e-mails or texts.
What do I have to do to get started?
You must have a valid @case.edu e-mail address. The trial is only open for Case students, faculty, and staff. Visit www.mobilediscovery.com and register to participate in the trial. Once registered, you'll receive a confirmation e-mail. Click the hyperlink in the e-mail and a text message will be sent to your phone. Then you can download the ScanLife software to transform your camera phone into a code scanner. Plus, you'll be able to create mobile content for the codes you create via your personal dashboard at mobilediscovery.com. Also, add the "Code Book" application to your Facebook profile to track your scans and see what your friends are scanning.
Why should I create codes?
2D codes will be the next big thing to hit cell phones since text messaging. They will revolutionize the way people find and interact with content on their mobile device, much the same way that Google did for PCs. Codes allow you to express yourself, share information, and interact with others. Tag your favorite spot on campus with a code that explains its importance. Tag your dorm room so others can leave a message, or know where you are. Tag your shirt to promote your favorite cause. Create your own personal codes and win prizes from the "Q Code: Make It" campaign. Tag a letter to the editor to share photos, video, or audio content. Use codes to promote your student organization's activities and help accumulate a guest list for an event. You could also create a code that links to your favorite websites or blogs. The options are endless, the key is to experiment and have fun! And there is the added bonus of putting this on your resume – you'll be hot commodity, like COBOL programmers in 1999.
Why should I scan codes?
Scan codes to discover content, learn things, and share information! [case2Dcode] also gives you a number of opportunities to win fantastic prizes. You can win daily prizes by scanning the "Q Code: Break It" campaign.
Is this going on in other parts of the world?
It's really popular in Asia, particularly in Japan and South Korea.
Why is it here at Case?
Case was chosen because it is a major research university and a leader and advocate when it comes to shaping emerging technology. Also, Case has a history of dedication to innovation and a unique mixture of arts and sciences programs.
If I don't have a data plan, can my phone receive data?
Yes. If you can download ringtones, you have data. The question is how you will be charged. If you have free WiFi or unlimited data, you can scan as much as you want. Seriously, go buck wild. You can scan until the cows come home.
If you don't have unlimited data, your wireless carrier will charge you for each and every data session (code scan). The Q Code Break It, Free Magazine subscription codes, and shuttle codes are all inexpensive.
How much does it cost to scan codes?
If you have free WiFi, it costs nothing. Nada. Nil.
Otherwise, it varies per carrier. Below is an estimate of each carrier's charges.
Verizon charges unlimited scanning up to 1Mb (1024 kb) for $1.99 per month.
T-Mobile offers you unlimited scanning for a $1 per day.
AT&T charges $0.01 per kb.
Alltel charges $0.02 per kb.
Sprint charges $0.03 per kb.
If my camera phone can't scan codes, can I still participate in the trial?
Yes, you can create codes and have your friends scan them. In addition, you can win prizes for the codes you create. You're entered into the Q Code drawings just by creating a QVC-specific code and can increase your chances of winning by having your friends scan your code. Nice prizes, too – 19" HDTV, iPod docking station, digital camera, and more.
How are the codes being used on campus?
It's more like how are they not being used on campus. Codes are being utilized everywhere from this newspaper to free magazine subscriptions to the shuttle bus stops. Codes are being used by QVC to give prizes, the promotion of personal blogs, music, and student organization parties. Even laboratory findings. Don't take my word for it, though, take a look at the video:
