The mobile label printer: the basis for optimal labeling of warehouse objects?
Essential components of warehouse management are based on the fact that goods and commodities are handled in a transparent and targeted manner. Labeling is necessary to neatly separate each individual part from others and make it identifiable in the first place. The label functions here as an information carrier on which those details are optionally available that are necessary, for example, for proper picking.
To be able to perform this task in the warehouse directly or in the administration, a mobile label printer is needed.
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Structure and function of a mobile label printer
In order to make goods and merchandise clearly manageable, a uniform format is needed on which relevant information can be stored in readable form. In warehouses as well as in incoming and outgoing goods inspection, barcodes are mainly used here, which are applied to the product itself or to the storage basket as the transported goods. The mobile label printer is characterized by the fact that labeling is possible directly on the warehouse shelf or while handling the goods themselves.
The special feature: Mobile label printers are connected to MDEs or tablets via Bluetooth or WLAN so that the central database is automatically synchronized. This gives the back office the ability to track labeling in real time.
The operation of a mobile label printer differs depending on the application. Typically, a distinction can be made between direct thermal printers and thermal transfer printers. We have shown below how these differ from each other:
Mobile label printer as direct thermal printer
The direct thermal printing process is considered a "classic" in thermal printing, as it is characterized by low costs and sufficient quality for many areas. Here, printing is done on thermally sensitive paper, so-called thermo-sensitive paper. The most common areas of application for those thermal labels, printed via a mobile label printer, include shipping packages, cash register receipts, parking tickets or tickets. The service life of the imprint is limited due to low UV resistance.
However, high printing speeds, ease of operation and the special paper as the only consumable make this cost-effective process suitable for a wide range of tasks.
Mobile label printer as thermal transfer printer
Labels created by means of partial heat generation are due to the so-called thermal transfer printing process. Special dots that form the print head enable clean color reproduction on the respective label material. A mobile label printer based on the thermal transfer process is ideal for barcodes, serial numbers and the like.
A very high scan rate is provided by a particularly high contrast, so that processes are accelerated and optimized. The printing process also results in a long service life, so that foodstuffs, individual and spare parts, products or shipping labels can be reliably produced with it. High edge sharpness ensures that barcodes, for example, can be deciphered cleanly at all times.
These are the advantages of a mobile label printer
Since the throughput rate for mobile label printers is regularly high, the most important factor here is a robust design. The range of proScan, the specialist department for everything to do with labels at proLogistik, also includes label printers that can be used in a variety of ways.
However, we would like to basically show the advantages of a mobile label printer to give you a better understanding:
- Can be used in a variety of applications, including manufacturing or freezer areas (down to -30°C, designed as a stainless steel printer housing)
- Robust construction that protects against vibration and liquid exposure, among other things
- Label rolls of various formats and materials can be processed
- Sufficiently dimensioned main memory and processors ensure trouble-free use of mobile label printers
- Intuitive touchscreen displays ensure operability even in difficult space conditions
Whether for retail, warehouse management in e-commerce or industry - a mobile label printer enables labeling completely independent of location. In the logistics lexicon of proLogistik you will find more information about this, you are also welcome to take a look at our offer in the area of proScan!