What are Zebra printers?
Zebra Technologies makes label printers used for shipping labels, product tags, shelf labels and wristbands. They range from small desktop units to large industrial machines, and software controls them with a printer language called ZPL.
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What it is
A Zebra desktop printer suits a packing bench or a front counter. An industrial printer is built for constant use, wider labels and bigger rolls. Both print in one of two ways. Direct thermal heats specially coated labels and needs no ribbon, but the print can fade. Thermal transfer melts ink from a ribbon onto the label, which lasts longer.
ZPL stands for Zebra Programming Language. It is a set of plain-text commands that describe a label: where the text sits, which barcode to draw, how big it is. Software sends those commands to the printer, and the printer draws the label itself. Our guide to label printers covers the general ideas.
Why it matters to a business
- Labels that last: thermal transfer suits products that are handled, stored or shipped for a long time.
- Software-controlled printing: ZPL lets an application print a label directly, with no design program open.
- Right size for the job: desktop and industrial models let a small counter and a busy production line each get a suitable machine.
- Repeatable output: the same ZPL prints the same label on any Zebra with the same print resolution. ZPL positions are counted in printer dots, so a label designed for one resolution comes out smaller or larger on another.
How KawaConnect works with Zebra printers
We set up and support Zebra label printers at dispensaries, production sites and retail counters. Our product Tagestry prints Metrc-compliant labels on thermal label printers. See our software page and the Metrc explainer.
Web applications reach the printer through PrintNode or QZ Tray. Printers go on the wired network with a fixed address where possible, and we keep a matching spare ready so a failed one can be swapped.
Related services
Software
Tagestry label printing and print integrations for web applications.
Managed IT
Printers, print computers and the network behind them kept documented and supported.
Cannabis IT
IT for dispensaries, cultivation and processing sites, where package labels are printed every day.
Learn more
- Zebra websiteThe maker's site, where you can find printer families, drivers and support documents.
- Zebra Technologies on WikipediaCompany background for readers who want to know who builds these printers.
- Zebra Programming Language on WikipediaA technical overview of ZPL, useful for a developer who will generate labels.
Labels drifting or not printing?
Describe the printer and the labels you use. We will help you find out whether it is the media, the settings or the connection.
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