How to print product barcode labels
Printing product labels using Zebra label printer
Written by Ian Oldrey
Updated at October 3rd, 2024
Table of Contents
In the standard Merchanter system is the ability to print barcode product labels.
Unlike barcode scanners that open to the makes and models available, the product label printing uses Zebra label printers.
With a Zebra label printer comes the Zebra Label designer. This can be used to configure the data and its layout on the label stock.
Label sizes and label stock can be chosen according to the end application of the labels (i.e. inside/outside, read from a distance, etc.)
Ten-25 recommend a Thermal Transfer Desktop Zebra for most clients, but please refer to the Zebra printer guide on the next page for more detail.
If you would like Merchanter to print labels for other types beyond product labels, please contact Ten-25 to discuss a development project.
Guide to Zebra Label Printers
Zebra Printer Guide
Printers come in 4 categories, that determine how many labels per day they can print, based on a 102mm/4’’ width
- Desktop up to 200 labels per day
- Mid-range up to 3000 per day
- Industrial up to 8000 per day
- High end 24/7 printing
Print methods
DT direct thermal
DT direct thermal this is a semi-permanent print method, this uses the printhead and a chemically coated label. The heat in the printhead reacts with the chemical to create the print. Most garages and supermarkets use this form of print on till receipts, as I’m sure you are aware if left on the dashboard of a car they fade. They will also fade over time or exposed to hot or cold environments.
TT Thermal transfer
TT Thermal transfer, uses a ribbon like an old fashioned type writer and physically transfers wax or resin onto the label to create the print. This is far longer lasting and is advised for labelling in hot, daylight or cold environments or in situations where a label needs to be water or chemical resistant, or for long term storage.
What print method do my current labels use?
If you want to know what print method your current labels use, the simple test is to scratch your nail over one of their labels, if a grey line appears its DT if it only creases with no grey line then it is TT
Factory Options
Factory options can include:
- Internal rewinders, this allow labels to be re wound onto another care as they are printer
- Peel and present removes label from the backing presenting it to be used straight away
- WLan/Lan or wireless capability
- Larger memory
Connectivity
Most printers will come with USB as standard, with at least one other option
Like USB/serial or USB/Ethernet some with ship as USB/serial /parallel
Please discuss the connectivity you will require for the printer when ordering.
Printer Cables
Cables are not included as standard with a printer and will need to be ordered if required