Considering how many barcode printers are available, you may feel overwhelmed when deciding to use a barcode printer. Hope these tips will help you narrow your choices and simplify the buying process.
1. Determine the type of barcode printer you need
Barcode printers are divided into four categories: desktop, industrial, mobile, and dedicated. The choice that suits you best depends on average print volume, mobility requirements, and print type.
Desktop-Desktop bar code printers can create approximately 100 to 500 labels per day and are ideal for offices and retail stores.
Industrial-With greater capacity than desktop printers, industrial printers can produce approximately 1,500, 3,000, or even 5,000 labels per day, depending on the model. Some printers can also print larger labels up to 8 inches wide. These barcode printers are suitable for manufacturing and distribution centers as well as large retailers.
Mobile-Mobile printers provide similar output as desktop printers, but do not require a physical connection to the computer; however, the print width is often smaller, no more than 4 inches. Mobile printers are particularly useful for creating labels on the move.
Specialization-Although standard printers can usually professionalize labels, wristbands, cards, etc., if you only need a specific type of label, a dedicated barcode printer is a more economical and efficient choice.
2. Understand different printing methods
Bar code printers are further classified according to the printing method they use, direct thermal or thermal transfer. When choosing a printer, it is important to understand the difference between the two, because it affects everything from the life of the label to the materials that can print barcodes.
Thermal-In thermal printers, the heat of the machine forms an image on the label. These models have several advantages, including their simplicity, no ribbons, and their ability to generate clear barcodes for easy scanning. However, because the bar code images are temporary, thermal printers are only suitable for labels that have not been used for more than six months.
Thermal transfer-In these printers, thermal transfers the image from the printer ribbon to the label. Bar codes can be used for up to 20 years under normal warehouse conditions and can withstand extreme temperatures. Thermal transfer printers can also create barcodes on a variety of materials, including polypropylene and polyester, and print them in multiple colors. Since thermal transfer printers tend to be more expensive than thermal printers, it is best to select this option only when you need additional printing capabilities.
3. Consider connectivity
You also need to decide how you want the barcode printer to communicate with your computer. All printers have a USB connection, but for businesses, you need to make sure that your printer is connected to your network via Ethernet or WiFi.
4. Decide on the print resolution
Print resolution is the number of dots per inch (dpi) that the print head can produce. The higher the resolution, the clearer the bar code quality. Depending on the type of label you are printing and the amount of data that needs to be printed on the label, you may need very high resolution capabilities.
5. Decide if you need additional components
Before you complete an order, you should always consider which add-ons are useful for printing barcodes in your business. Common features include cutting machines, rewinders, peelers, labels, ribbons, consumables, service agreements, and the ability to create RFID-based labels.
6. Can only be purchased from authorized barcode dealers
Finally, you should consider from whom to buy a barcode printer. Authorized bar code distributors are always the best way. They have expertise, experience, quality service and warranty, and usually provide more than just barcode printers. Authorized resellers are a good way to protect your barcode printer investment and get the best support for your printing equipment.
