Barcode Printing

The most widely used technologies for dedicated bar coding systems are direct thermal and thermal transfer printing. Both technologies use a heated printhead to create the image on the label, however, they are suited to different applications.

Direct thermal printing utilizes heat-sensitive media that blackens as it passes under the printhead. Because they print without a ribbon, direct thermal printers are noted for their simplicity. Direct thermal printed labels typically have a considerable shelf life but are not well suited for environments that expose them to heat, long periods of direct sunlight, or abrasion.

Thermal transfer printed labels are easily identified by the crisp, often glossy, printed surface. The clarity is achieved by using a thin ribbon roll that when heated by the printhead melts onto the label to form the image. When matched with suitable media, thermal transfer technology is not only impervious to heat and moisture, but the image cannot be rubbed off, making the printed labels the most durable available.

For the IT professional, rolling out thermal printer infrastructure to production should be an easy task built around a robust, streamlined label printing application. For the operations manager, departmental efficiency and improved OPEX call for an integrated, thermal printing solution that delivers high performance with reliability—while reducing per-printer TCO.