Why Factory Training Matters for Thermal Barcode Printer Support
Editor’s Note: This article was originally published in 2008 after PaladinID attended factory training on Zebra industrial thermal printers. While printer models have evolved over the years, one thing has remained constant: ongoing technical training is essential for providing reliable service, troubleshooting, and support. We’ve updated this article to reflect today’s best practices while preserving…
Barcode Verification vs. Barcode Scanning: Why Manufacturers Need Both
Editor’s Note: This article was originally published in 2008 after PaladinID helped a manufacturing customer implement an automated barcode verification solution. While verification technology has advanced considerably over the years, the need to ensure barcode quality before products leave the production line remains just as important today. We’ve updated this article with current best practices…
Choosing an Industrial Barcode Printer: Features That Matter Long After the Purchase
Editor’s Note: This article was originally published in 2008 following a product training session with a Datamax representative. While printer models and manufacturers have evolved over the years, the factors that determine long-term printer value remain remarkably consistent. We’ve updated this article with current guidance to help businesses evaluate industrial barcode printers based on performance,…
Expanded Content Labels (ECL): When One Label Isn’t Enough
Editor’s Note: This article was originally published in 2008 when Expanded Content Labels (ECLs) were becoming more widely adopted across regulated industries. As labeling requirements have grown more complex, ECL solutions have become an increasingly valuable way to communicate large amounts of information while preserving package space. We’ve updated this article with current guidance and…
Pressure Sensitive Green Labels Is The Word
Editor’s Note: This article was originally published in 2008 when sustainability was just beginning to influence the labeling industry. Since then, materials, adhesives, manufacturing processes, and environmental initiatives have evolved considerably. We’ve updated this article to reflect today’s sustainable labeling practices while preserving the original discussion about environmentally responsible label solutions. Sustainability has become an…
The MassPlastics 2008 Trade Show Booth 821 March 26th and 27th
We are excited to be exhibiting at The 2008 MassPlastics trade show in beautiful Fitchburg, MA on March 26th and 27th. Our booth number is 821. We have several new products to show and demonstrate. If you are in the area, please stop by and say hello. We will be showing a new Zebra printer,…
Lunch with DNP in Laconia, NH
High-Capacity Thermal Transfer Ribbons: How Longer Ribbon Rolls Improve Productivity Editor’s Note: This article was originally published in 2008 following a meeting with DNP, a leading manufacturer of thermal transfer ribbons. While the specific product discussed reflects the technology available at that time, the operational benefits of maximizing ribbon life, reducing printer downtime, and selecting…
Thoughts on the drive from SC to Boston
My youngest son transferred from UMASS Amherst to the University of South Carolina last week – a smart move on his part at this time of year. While helping him move in, I took the opportunity to visit with our friends at Scansource. Their headquarters is in Greenville SC which about 100 miles from the campus…
Fourth Quarter 2007 Review
Editor’s Note: This article was originally published in January 2008 as a quarterly business update. While some of the products, technologies, and market conditions mentioned reflect that period, many of the fundamentals of barcode labeling, thermal printing, and identification remain the same. We’ve updated this page with links to current resources for readers looking for…
Replacing a Zebra 105S Printhead: Extending the Life of Your Thermal Printer
Many businesses continue to rely on legacy thermal printers because they remain dependable, cost-effective, and capable of producing high-quality barcode labels. Even when a printer model has been discontinued, that doesn’t necessarily mean it’s time to replace the entire unit. The Zebra 105S is a good example. Although Zebra discontinued this printer years ago, many…