Desktop Barcode Printers

Desktop label printers are low cost compared to the robust industrial printers. These printers are available in either DT or TT models, the thermal transfer printers are also able to be used as direct thermal printers. Desktop printers have been designed specifically to offer affordable label printing up to a few thousand labels per day. These printers offer a broad range of connectivity like USB, Serial, Parallel or Ethernet. In addition, some of the models can be expanded with WiFi and Bluetooth options. 

Industrial Barcode Printers

Industrial label printers are high performance printers that stand up to high volume and demanding applications. These printers, as a result have metal covers protecting the units from harsh environments. Industrial printers are available in 4″ together with 6″ models. High print quality at 203dpi or 300dpi to suite all high demand application.

Direct Thermal printers use the heat from the printhead to cause a chemical reaction on the thermal labels and the area that is heated turns black producing the print. Therefore no ribbon is used for this method of printing. The abbreviation for Direct Thermal used on this site is “DT”.

Thermal Transfer printers also use the heat from the printhead. But to rather transfer the ink from the ribbon onto the label. The thermal transfer method produces a much longer lasting printed label that is not easily affected by heat, liquid or direct sunlight. The abbreviation for Thermal Transfer Printers is “TT”.

Thermal Transfer Ribbons are available in Wax, Wax/Resin or Resin. The type of ribbon used will be determined by the type of label you will be printing on.

Using a ribbon on the barcode label printer will extend the life of the Thermal Print Head. The ribbon is smooth and not as abrasive as the labels that will eventually cause the Print Head to wear.