Barcode printer

Types of Barcode Printers

Barcode printers come in many types and models, each printer designed to meet specific printing needs. When reviewing the types of printers, it is essential to look at the technology used to print the barcode. The technology plays a crucial role in the quality and durability of the barcode printed.

• Thermal transfer printer: This printer works by using heat to transfer ink onto a label or barcode. The ink is in the form of a wax, resin, or wax-resin ribbon. The printer creates highly durable barcodes that can withstand harsh environments. Thermal transfer printers are widely used because they produce clear and long-lasting barcodes.
• Direct thermal printer: This type of printer, like the thermal transfer printer, uses heat to print the barcode. However, this printer does not use ink ribbons. Instead, it prints directly onto heat-sensitive paper. The direct thermal printer creates images that are prone to scratches easily. Therefore, this type of printer is used in conditions that are not harsh. Direct thermal printers are commonly used in printing labels for shipping or on shelves in retail stores.
• Dot matrix printer: Also referred to as impact printer, it uses a pin line on a dot matrix to make an imprint on the label. The pin strikes the ribbon with enough force to create a dot and can print multiple copies of a label at once. Dot matrix printers make barcodes that are durable and can be easily read even in rough conditions. This type of printer can be used in printing invoices and logistics labels.
• Laser printer: Laser printers can print complex and highly detailed barcodes. They use a laser beam to create an image and are known to produce sharp barcode prints. Laser printers are ideal for printing barcodes that need to be accurate and clear.
• Inkjet printers: Inkjet printers use tiny nozzles to spray ink onto the label and create the barcode image. The printer can produce delicate barcodes and is an economical option for high-quality printing.

Functions and features of barcode printers

Barcode printers come with various features to meet diverse printing preferences and requirements. Users must comprehend the printer's capabilities and examine the features to determine the best printing methods.

The printer's model significantly impacts the features. High-end models have more advanced features than entry-level models. Common barcode printer features include:

• Connectivity options: A barcode printer's connectivity options reveal how flexible it is and the types of devices it can integrate with. Printers with wired connectivity options include USB and Ethernet. On the other hand, wireless models have WIFI and Bluetooth connectivity. These options allow users to print from mobile devices and laptops.
• Print speed and resolution: Barcode printers print at different speeds depending on the model. Print speed is measured in inches per second (IPS) or millimeters per second (MMS). However, entry-level models print at a speed of 3 inches per second. On the contrary, high-end models can print up to 10 inches per second. Additionally, the printer can produce clear and crisp prints at a good resolution. Print quality is measured in dots per inch (DPI). A higher DPI indicates that the printer can produce good-quality images that are easy to scan. Generally, duplicating barcode labels is simple, and exact printing is critical for efficient scanning.
• Media handling: Barcode printers come in various ways to handle media. A tray feeder printer automatically feeds the labels from the tray, while a roll feeder printer uses a spindle to offer continuous label printing. Hold feeder printers store labels in a compact and organized manner. Some barcode printers come with cutting modules that cut labels after printing.
• Display: The display makes it easy to navigate menus and settings. Some models have a basic LCD with limited functions, while others have a color touchscreen with more advanced functions.
• Durability: A printer's durability largely depends on the materials used to construct it. For this reason, businesses in harsh or demanding environments should invest in printers built with robust materials. These printers can withstand shock, vibration, and temperature fluctuations.

Applications of barcode printers

The recording medium can depend on various applications. Printing barcode labels for packaging, retail, and inventory management is the most common. Some industries use barcode label printing to make identification easy. Hospitals and labs often use it for asset management and tracking.

Manufacturers and supply chain managers use it for quality control. Barcodes on products make tracking easier through different production stages.

Logistics companies also print barcodes on labels to facilitate shipment and delivery tracking. They have mobile devices like barcode readers and scanners to scan barcodes on packages. This makes it easy to confirm identities and access information. Barcodes simplify package handling. Workers can scan the codes instead of manually reading the information. Streamlined package scanning enhances efficiency.

Barcode printers have many applications across industries. They are also used in retail to print labels with barcodes for pricing. These printers can make shelf labels and receipts with barcodes for easy scanning during checkout. In warehouses, workers use barcode labels for inventory counting. The labels reduce human error in stock management tasks.

Hospitals and clinics use barcode printing for patient identification, medication management, and asset tracking. They put barcodes on wristbands to identify patients. Medical staff can scan the codes on the bands to get a patient's details. Barcode labels also help with locating and tracking medical equipment.

Schools can also use these printers to create barcodes for asset management and library systems. Printers are used to make ID cards with barcodes for student identification. They are also used to generate barcodes for books to simplify checking in and out.

Pharmacies use barcode printers to put labels with barcodes on prescription bottles. The labels help with inventory management and confirming prescriptions.

How to choose a barcode printer

Business buyers need to carefully consider the printing volume when deciding on a barcode printer. This is because, in most cases, a higher printing volume will require higher printer durability. For businesses that anticipate high-volume printing, it is best to go for printers specifically designed for high-volume barcode printing. Such printers have robust hardware and can withstand the wear and tear associated with frequent use. They are also fast and efficient, capable of printing thousands of labels per day without compromising quality or speed.

On the other hand, if the business only needs to print a small number of barcodes occasionally, a desktop or departmental printer may be sufficient. These printers, while not built for high volumes, can handle occasional printing tasks without any issues.

When it comes to barcode printing, speed and efficiency are crucial, especially for businesses that require printing in large quantities or need to print labels rapidly. Different barcode printers come with varying printing speeds, measured in labels per minute (LPM) or inches per second (IPS). Higher printing speeds can significantly enhance productivity and reduce waiting times.

At the same time, businesses need to maintain consistent quality in their printed barcodes to ensure accuracy and readability. The printing quality, typically measured in dots per inch (DPI), affects the clarity and sharpness of the printed barcode. Higher DPI ensures that the barcodes are crisp and clear, even for complex designs or small sizes.

Another important factor to consider when choosing a barcode printer is the connectivity options. Businesses may need to connect the printer to a computer, a network, or even mobile devices for printing purposes. USB is the most common connectivity option for barcode printers, allowing direct connection to a computer or workstation. However, Ethernet and Wi-Fi connectivity offer more flexibility and convenience, as they enable multiple users to share the printer over a network or print wirelessly from smartphones and tablets.

Some barcode printers also come with Bluetooth connectivity, which allows printing from mobile devices or laptops within range. In addition to USB connectivity, it is advisable to consider other connectivity options, such as Ethernet, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth, to ensure that the printer can meet the printing requirements. These options provide greater flexibility, as they allow multiple users to share the printer, print wirelessly, or connect to the printer on the go.

Barcode printer Q&A

Q1 Is it possible to print on both sides of the label with a barcode printer?

A1 Some barcode printers can print on both sides of the label. Hence, double-sided printing is possible. However, this feature is mainly available in high-end models.

Q2 What type of power supply does a barcode printer use?

A2 Most barcode printers use the standard 110v to 220V AC power supply. They also come with an internal power supply unit. This unit converts the voltage to the level the printer components require.

Q3 Can a barcode printer be connected to a network?

A3 Yes, some models have network connectivity options, such as Ethernet and Wi-Fi. They allow users to connect the printer to a network so that multiple computers can access it. Businesses don’t have to connect the printer to a single PC.

Q4 Does a barcode printer make labels of different sizes?

A4 A barcode printer can print labels that come in various dimensions. This feature enables the labels to have the right fit for different packaging.

Q5 What type of maintenance does a barcode printer need?

A5 Barcode printer demands regular cleaning. Residue from ink, adhesive, and label paper can build up in the printhead. It also needs periodic replacement of parts like the printhead, platen roller, and cutter.