Thermal labels and tags are amongst the most reliable and easiest to use of consumables.
Still it is possible to misuse consumables in ways that will yield disappointing results - both in terms of print quality and print head life. Most of this information is in our printer manuals, but it is important enough to bear repetition.
So at the risk of boring some of our more experienced customers, here are a number of tips for top printer and consumable performance.
Don't use direct thermal media where it may be subjected to high heat or direct sunlight. When using labels outdoors or in harsh environments, consider using more durable synthetic labels.
Direct thermal printers cannot use thermal transfer consumables. Direct thermal consumables will print poorly when used with a thermal transfer ribbon. Less obvious considerations are minimum label length and indexing requirements.
Most adhesives will not stick to dirty or damp surfaces. If the surface is cleaned, use a cleaner that leaves no residue and that will not damage the surface. Avoid applying labels in very dusty areas or where there are airborne contaminants.
Dirt or label residue can seriously degrade print quality, and it only takes a few seconds to clean the print head and drive roller. Keep cleaning supplies with the printer whenever possible.
If using direct thermal media and an infrared scanner, confirm that the media is infrared scannable. Do not print bar codes in colour, many scanners cannot see colour. If printing on a coloured background, make sure that the background provides good contract with the bar code.
As a general rule, slower print speeds provide better results in some applications and with some media. Check the printer user guide for details.
Increasing the printer's darkness setting can improve contrast but may also make bar codes widen and bleed together. Excessive print darkness will also reduce the life of the print head. If possible use a bar code verifier (at least occasionally) to confirm that you are using a good darkness setting.
Different print media or printer ageing may occasionally necessitate some printer adjustment. Get out that verifier every now and then, and confirm that you are still printing good bar codes.
Thermal printers (especially battery operated printers) may not work well in very cold environments. High temperatures can affect the optimum print darkness setting and may darken direct thermal media. Sometimes you can adjust the printer for better performance. Check the printer manual for details.
