If you are implementing a thermal label printer solution there are a few things that are necessary such as the label printer and consumables however there are a few things which you may also need to purchase to meet your application requirements including label software and additional printer accessories. In this blog we discuss the elements that make up a thermal label printer solution.
Thermal Label Printer
Critical to an effective thermal label printer solution is a thermal label printer that meets your business requirements. As a starting point you need to decide whether you require a direct thermal printer or a thermal transfer printer. Direct thermal printers are suitable for applications requiring a short shelf life such as shipping labels. Thermal transfer printing is suitable for longer life applications such as asset labels. In our blog we discuss the difference between direct thermal and thermal transfer printing, we also have a guide to help you choose the right label printer for your requirements which includes considerations such as print speed, resolution and connectivity options.
Labels
Choosing the right labels and media is essential for a successful thermal label printer solution. You will either be purchasing direct thermal labels for direct thermal printers or thermal transfer labels for a thermal transfer printer. For direct thermal printing the label material options are much more limited than thermal transfer printing as it requires chemically treated, heat-sensitive material, the options are mainly paper however a polypropylene material is also available.Thermal transfer printing has a much wider variety of label materials available including various papers, polyester and polypropylene. Choosing the right labels for your application includes confirming what size, material, adhesive and finish you require as well as making sure these labels are compatible with your label printer. Our team can work with you to recommend a suitable label solution.
Ribbon
If you are using a thermal transfer printer you will require a thermal ribbon which is effectively the printer's ink, when heated by the printhead the ribbon melts onto the label to form text / barcodes / images. It’s important to choose a thermal ribbon that is compatible with your label printer, that is larger in width than the label you are printing on and also is a ribbon grade that is suitable for your application requirements. The main three ribbon grades include Wax ribbon, wax/resin ribbons and resin ribbons. In our blog we explain the different types of ribbon grade and when they should be used.
Label software and Drivers
Labelling software enables you to design and print your labels. There are different software packages that are tailored to different business sizes and also for varying complexity requirements. Most label printers come with a very basic free version of software, this software will typically allow you to add text, barcodes and images to a label design. As requirements become more complex, for example connecting to a database or integrating with an ERP system, paid software packages are required. We supply software from leading brands including BarTender, Zebra Designer and NiceLabel. For the label printer to communicate with your computer and network it’s important that the correct drivers are installed.
Printer accessories
There are various printer accessories that may be required as part of your label printer solution. Popular additional label printer accessories include a cutter which cuts the labels in between the backing liner so they are individually presented. Label Dispensers automatically peel the backing off labels making it easier to apply quickly. A label rewinder is used when printer labels are required to be rolled back on to a spool, this is a popular choice when using a label applicator or if large quantities of labels are required to be stored. A label unwinder facilitates the feeding of large label rolls into the printer which reduces the frequency of roll changes and downtime, this is useful when a large quantity of labels are being printed.
Maintenance and Maintenance contracts
It’s important to properly maintain and care for your thermal printer to ensure high quality prints, reduction in printer errors and also to increase the lifespan of your printer. We advise purchasing a thermal printer cleaning kit which is useful for cleaning the print head and other printer components. Label printers are often critical to business operations and if they breakdown can bring production to a halt. We advise that any label printer used in an operationally critical environment is covered by a maintenance contact.
A comprehensive thermal label printer solution comprises not just the printer but also the labels, ribbons, software, and maintenance support necessary to maintain efficient and high-quality label production. By carefully selecting and integrating these components, you can streamline your labeling process, enhance productivity, and ensure your labels meet the demands of your specific applications. Invest in quality components and stay up-to-date with maintenance to get the most out of your thermal label printer solution.
