Industrial barcode printers play a crucial role in the transport and logistics industry, where efficient and accurate tracking of goods is essential.
They are used to produce shipping labels, inventory labels, RFID tags, pallet labels, and compliance labels. By using industrial printers to produce these labels, you can improve accuracy, reduce the risk of errors, and ensure compliance with regulations.
To ensure you choose the right printer to meet your needs, here are five things to keep in mind:
Print volume and speed
One of the most important things to consider when buying an industrial barcode printer is the print volume that you will be handling.
If you have a high print volume, you will need a printer that can handle frequent and large print jobs. Look for a printer that has a high duty cycle (the maximum number of prints or copies the machine can produce in a given month) and can handle a large number of labels per day.
Likewise, look for a printer that has a fast print speed that can handle your required print volume, this will contribute to increased productivity and reduce downtime.
Connectivity
The connectivity options of an industrial barcode printer are also important to consider. Look for a printer that has multiple connectivity options, such as Ethernet, USB, or wireless connectivity, so that you can connect it to your existing network and devices.
The Zebra ZT400 comes standard with Ethernet, Serial, USB, dual USB Host and Bluetooth 4.1. Add the optional dual-band wireless card with 802.11ac Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for fast and reliable wireless connections.
Durability
Industrial barcode printers are designed to withstand harsh environments, and durability is a critical factor to consider. Look for a printer that is built with rugged materials, has a solid construction, and is designed to withstand temperature changes, moisture, and dust.
The Zebra ZT600 Series printers are built to withstand the most demanding industrial conditions, virtually eliminating operational downtime due to printer failure. Plus, they meet your high-volume production needs, day in and day out, with superior print quality and speed across the widest range of applications.
Label materials
Consider the types of label materials that you will be using when choosing an industrial barcode printer. Different printers are compatible with different label materials, such as paper, polyester, or vinyl.
Print quality
Print quality is crucial in industrial settings where accurate tracking of goods is critical. The printer should produce high-quality barcodes that are easily readable by scanners. The printer should be able to produce high-resolution barcodes that are crisp and clear, even on small labels. We recommend at least 300 DPI (dots per inch).
The ZT600 series offers 600 dpi printing for labels as small as 3 mm high (length) for applications like circuit boards, chips and miniature components – all without wasting expensive media due to improper printing.
By carefully considering these factors above, you can choose a printer that is well-suited for your specific needs, helping you to increase efficiency and productivity in your operations.
We can supply a range of barcode scanners and mobile computers that easily pair with your label printers. Making it the perfect solution to keep your business operations organised and efficient. For more information and advice on the printers we offer, please get in touch with the ExPD team on enquiries@expd.co.uk.
