What is a Barcode Printer?

A Barcode is a machine readable representation of data. In an industrial or manufacturing setting, a product barcode may contain logistical or physical characteristics, such as size, weight, style and type. Or geographic information, like location, destination and point-of-origin. In smaller-scale settings, like retail and restaurants, barcode may accompany text, graphics or other simple imagery found on customer receipts. In healthcare, barcode printer labels help ensure patient safety and are widely used in charts, bracelets, reports and prescriptions.

Barcode printers

The primary function of a barcode printer (also called a label printer), is to produce crisp, easily legible output that can be accurately read and recorded by an optical scanner. Two similar technologies currently predominate in barcode label printing: direct thermal (DT) and thermal transfer (TT). Both use a heated print head. Each offers distinct advantages.

Thermal Transfer

In this method, the print head warms up a section of wax- or resin-based ribbon substrate, which melts and transfers information onto the desired surface. Though TT consumables can be expensive, barcode print quality and durability are excellent, with a greater lifespan than direct thermal printing, which can fade over time.

Direct Thermal

DT works in a similar fashion but doesn’t use a ribbon. The print head conveys information directly onto some thermally reactive media. Though this method of barcode printing increases print-head wear, advantages include excellent portability, quieter operation and lower consumables costs.

Different industries require different solutions. You may need barcode label printers or something altogether different. Either way Citizen’s got you covered. Click here to learn more.