| | Barcode Printers | If you are ready to choose a bar code printer for your retail business, keep in mind there are two kinds: thermal transfer and direct thermal.
Different Types of Barcode Label Printers
In thermal transfer, or TT printing, the heat from the barcode printer’s head is applied to the ribbon resulting in the ribbon material being transferred to the label media. Direct thermal, or DT, printing is where the printhead is not protected by the ribbon. In DT, the printhead makes direct contact with the barcode label media, which has a coating that turns black when heat is applied, therefore no ribbon is needed.
Since no ribbon is needed in DT printing, the printhead on a DT thermal bar code printer will tend to wear down pretty fast. That counteracts any money you may think is saved by skipping the ribbon in DT printing. Printheads are more expensive than ribbon, and you’ll buy many when DT printing. If you are TT printing, you’ll be buying ribbons often but your printheads will last longer. In the end, this doesn’t make a whole lot of difference in cost between the two different kinds of thermal barcode printing.
Portable Thermal Barcode Printers and Quality
DT thermal printing does not promise long-term quality. Once printed, these labels will turn yellow as time goes on and the print will fade out to grey. That’s why overnight shipping carriers use DT labels, since they don’t need to last very long. DT labels last about six months. One tip to remember is that since heat is what creates these labels, heat can also ruin them. You should always keep your labels away from heat sources such as windows and lighting.
Take a look at our selection of Sato, Zebra, Argox and other wireless portable barcode label printers. If you have any questions, please use our live help feature or contact us today.
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