There are many of types of barcode printers available to Houston, TX companies. Which barcode printer works best in your environment depends on the application. Each Houston, TX company should identify the specific type(s) of barcode printer required to help their system operate efficiently. Barcode printers image individual labels that are placed on product packaging. The labels are available in different material (media) types suitable for different barcoding needs. There are three reasons to match medias with the correct types of barcode printers:
- All labels print differently.
- Ensure a long-lasting image.
- Avoid a barcode image that will not scan.
Types of Barcode Printers
Direct Thermal Barcode Printers
Houston, TX companies may choose to use a direct thermal barcode printer. A direct thermal barcode printer works by using the printhead to heat chemically treated paper or synthetic labels. The labels react by producing a black image. These types of barcode printers are easy to operate and efficient to use as they require no ink or toner refills. The imaging is crisp and clean, producing a barcode image that is easy to scan. A direct thermal barcode printer is reliable in applications where the barcode images require only a short shelf life. A disadvantage is that the chemically treated label material can be affected by other heat sources.
Thermal Transfer Printers
Another type of barcode printer is the thermal transfer printer. This printer also uses a printhead and heat to “transfer” an image on the label. However, the “transfer” occurs in a fashion that differs from direct thermal barcode printers. Thermal Transfer printers use an ink-coated ribbon that transfers the image onto the label (media). This type of imaging will last longer, plus thermal transfer printing may be less expensive than direct thermal printing. It is critical to ensure the ribbon is compatible with the printing surface. Without compatibility, the thermal ink will not adhere.
Types of Non-Thermal Barcode Printers
In addition to Direct Thermal and Thermal Transfer barcode printers, there are three additional types available to Houston, TX companies. These types of printers have their advantages and disadvantages.
Dot Matrix Printers
Advantages of dot matrix printers for Houston, TX companies:
- relatively inexpensive.
- widely available.
- print on most types of available label media.
- use a ribbon to print and create an image.
Three potential disadvantages:
- The need to replace the ribbon with a degree of frequency.
- A low-density print image which may not scan easily.
- Ink that can bleed thereby changing the characters which can, in turn, effect scanning accuracy.
Inkjet Printers
Inkjet printers are a type of barcode printer that will create clean, crisp-looking labels that will scan easily. One drawback to this type of barcode printer is that they require costly ink cartridges. In addition to the cartridge cost, a second disadvantage to using inkjet printers is the possibility of the water based ink bleeding on some label materials. Bleeding inks can leave a barcode image that is unreadable and useless.
Laser Printers
Laser printers will generate high quality images by bonding toner to either paper or a synthetic label material. These high-quality images result in reliable scanning accuracy, making Houston, TX laser barcode printers favorable in the right environment. However, do remember laser printers can be expensive for smaller business due to toner costs. Additionally, laser printers cannot print a single label on a multi label sheet. Finally, laser printers are more delicate and may not be suited for an rugged industrial environment.
Conclusion
With these options, deciding on the best type of barcode printers requires Houston, TX companies analyze how their barcodes will be used. Companies should also consider expectations and limitations associated with the uses. Thermal barcoding printers may be more affordable to use; however, they may not offer the permanence that some businesses need. Similarly, even dot matrix, inkjet and laser barcode printers have their disadvantages. The right printing method to produce the most durable barcodes is an individual choice for every company.
Barcode Southwest is a premier supplier of barcode printers and labels for a wide range of industry applications. We supply to clients all over the Southwest region of the U.S., including, but not limited to, Houston, Austin, Dallas and San Antonio. Contact Barcode Southwest at 888-764-9965 or fill out this contact form!
Happy Printing 🙂
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Posted 11/05/2018 By Lucy
