So, I must put a QR code on every piece of equipment when using Manifest AR-enabled work instructions?

No. Manifest offers an option to use a virtual QR code.  But, if possible, physically affixing a QR code to every piece of equipment is often the best approach. 

To understand how QR codes are used with AR-work instructions, please review this blog post.  

Ideally, QR codes are affixed on all equipment, vehicles, or places where workers will use step-by-step Manifest work instructions for operational or maintenance procedures and inspections. It will make it easier and quicker to identify what equipment the user is working on and easier to align steps and spatially anchored, 3D content in place. However, if necessary, a virtual QR code can be used and instructions on how to manually place the QR code in the correct location can be added to the procedural instructions. Manifest has an Alignment Template which enables this.  Virtual QR codes do not require anything to be physically affixed to equipment, but they may not be as easy to use or as accurate as physically putting a QR code on every piece of equipment.