Standalone Printing

Standalone Printing is the ability to generate barcode or RFID labels without the need of a PC or host system. This method of label printing can be effective in a variety of industries like manufacturing, healthcare, support services and retail. In this blog post we will discuss what a standalone printing systems looks like and their capabilities and advantages.

The components of this type of label printing system consists of a thermal/direct thermal barcode or RFID printer, label media and at least one type of input devices. Choosing the right printer can be determined by a variety of factors like operating environment, label throughput and the desired label type. If your business has a need to print low volume and short life labels, then a direct thermal desktop printer would be sufficient. An example would be a warehouse that needs to print license plate labels for inbound goods that will be utilized for a put-away process. However, if you are needing a long lasting label and will be printing these labels in a rugged environment, then an industrial table top printer would be the right choice. The next factor in determining the right printer would be the size label that will be produced. Typically a smaller sized label ( less than 4 inches) can be printed with a smaller printer saving space and dollars. A good example would be manufacturer or retailer needing to print small RFID labels to meet compliance mandates.

After choosing the right printer to produce the desired labels, the system will need an input device to generate the data printed or encoded onto the label. Examples of these types of devices include a keyboard, barcode scanner, scale, PLC or even an existing button on the printer. A keyboard can be used to enter information that would be printed on the label. An example would be entering a patent’s name and their information to print a specimen label. A barcode scanner can be connected directly to a printer to drive a print job. Take a Work in Process application utilizing RFID technology. To track items through the process each item would need an RFID label. To generate the label an operator could scan a work order barcode and have the printer automatically print and encode an RFID label.

While a standalone printing system is not feasible for all label printing applications, there are use cases where the advantages are numerous. Eliminating a PC can save workspace and strain on your IT resources. Further, if you are needing simple on demand labels, there is no need for label printing software and drivers that need to be maintained. Lastly, standalone printing systems can greatly simplify processes where barcode or RFID labels are needed. This simplicity can save time training your seasonal or temporary workforce.

Please contact 1 Count Solutions to discuss how standalone printing systems can enhance your business.