An information bearing device comprising a data bearing pattern, the data bearing pattern comprising M×N pattern defining elements which are arranged to define a set of characteristic spatial distribution properties (Îu,vM,N(x,y)), wherein the set of data comprises a plurality of discrete data and each said discrete data (ui,vi) has an associated data bearing pattern which is characteristic of said discrete data, and the set of characteristic spatial distribution properties is due to the associated data bearing patterns of said plurality of discrete data, wherein said discrete data and the associated data bearing pattern of said discrete data is related by a characteristic relation function (βk1,k2ui,vi(x,y), the characteristic relation function defining spatial distribution properties of said associated data bearing pattern according to said discrete data (ui,vi) and a characteristic parameter (k) that is independent of said discrete data.