Decoding library
The Dokivision decoder packaged for your target platform and processor.
Software decoding
Soft decode
Dokivision decoding algorithms running on your own processor instead of on a decoder chip.
01Overview
With soft decode, the scan engine captures the image and your device’s processor does the decoding, using the Dokivision decoding library. Removing the decoder from the engine makes the hardware smaller, lighter and lower in cost, while you keep full control over decoding settings, data handling and updates. It is the natural choice for Android and Linux devices that already have processing power to spare.
- Decoding library for Android and Linux
- Runs on the host CPU, with NPU acceleration where available
- Same 1D / 2D symbologies as our hardware decoders
- Damaged and low-contrast code recovery built in
02How it works
From image to data on your own processor
- 01
Capture
A global-shutter imaging engine sends raw frames to your device over its camera interface.
- 02
Decode
The Dokivision library locates and decodes 1D and 2D codes on your CPU, using the NPU where available.
- 03
Recover
Our algorithms reconstruct damaged, low-contrast and curved codes before returning a result.
- 04
Deliver
Decoded data is returned to your application through the SDK API, ready to use.
03Choosing
Hardware decode or soft decode?
Both use the same Dokivision decoding technology. The difference is where it runs.
| Hardware decode | Soft decode | |
|---|---|---|
| Where decoding runs | On a decoder inside the engine | On your device’s CPU / NPU |
| What the host receives | Decoded data over UART or USB | Image frames; the library returns the data |
| Engine size and cost | Includes decoder hardware | Smaller, lighter and lower-cost engine |
| Software integration | Plug in and configure | Integrate the SDK into your firmware or app |
| Updates | Engine firmware update | Update the library with your software release |
| Best suited to | Simple hosts and MCU-based systems | Android and Linux devices |
04What you get
Everything needed to integrate
SDK and documentation
API reference, integration guide and configuration options for your developers.
Engineering support
Our application engineers help tune decoding for your codes, optics and lighting.
Evaluation
Evaluate on your own device and measure performance before you commit.
05Questions
Soft decode FAQ
Which hardware works with soft decode?
Soft decode works with imaging hardware that streams raw images to your processor. Contact us and we will confirm the right hardware and platform for your project.
Which platforms does the decoding library support?
The library and SDK target Android and Linux devices. Tell us your processor and operating system and we will confirm support for your project.
Is soft decode slower than hardware decoding?
Not on a typical modern application processor. Decoding speed depends on the host CPU and on other work it is doing, so we help you measure performance on your device during evaluation.
How is the decoding library licensed?
Licensing is arranged per project together with the hardware. Contact our sales team for details.
Start a project
Evaluate soft decode on your device
Tell us your processor, operating system and the codes you need to read. We will send an evaluation engine and SDK.