Barcoding News

Printing and encoding RFID “smart labels” with an RFID-enabled printer has traditionally been difficult; a classic case of “the Devil is in the details.”  One difficulty users have wrestled with has been “inlay placement.”  Inlay placement refers to the location of the RFID inlay under the label’s face stock.  Although inlays are generally oriented horizontally under the face stock, the inlays can be located towards the bottom of the label, towards the top, or anywhere in between.  In the picture to the right, for example, the inlay is relatively close to the bottom of the label, the “leading edge” as it is often called, because this edge comes out of the printer first. 

Almost every printer brand – and even model – has traditionally had detailed, complex specifications regarding inlay placement, with different specifications for each and every inlay on the market.  The location of the inlay has to be a particular distance from the leading edge of the label in order to maximize the printer’s throughput (speed).  Just a millimeter or two either way, and the performance of the printer can suffer dramatically.  What a mess.  Given that printing and encoding RFID labels is already slower than printing traditional barcode labels, any further loss in performance has often been catastrophic for the end-user.  Waiting for your RFID labels to print and encode can hold up an entire production line.  This all meant that for your printer brand and model, you needed to make sure to order labels with an optimal inlay placement. 

Precise inlay placement also causes some additional problems: 

• It makes selecting labels more difficult. Users need to order their labels very carefully to ensure correct inlay placement.  Does your purchasing department understand inlay placement?  
• It can cause delays in sourcing labels.  Often, a convertor (label manufacturer) will have exactly the label size you need – but with incorrect inlay placement for your printer.  To get labels with optimal inlay placement, the convertor needs to configure their entire production line and run a new batch of labels for you.  This can take several days to several weeks. 
• Finally, requiring a specific inlay placement can mean that users may pay more for their labels.  A quick Google search of classic paper thermal transfer 4×6 RFID shipping labels will show some surprising results.  The very same labels from the very same vendor can have dramatically different prices depending solely on inlay placement.  It all boils down to supply and demand, but if you are on the wrong side of the equation, you may have to pay significantly more for your labels. 

With Printronix Auto ID’s current line-up of RFID printers, these headaches associated with inlay placement are now a thing of the past.  Printronix RFID printers have a unique firmware (the software brains in the printer), which does what they call “Encode During Print.”  In clearer language, this means that the printer will first print some of the label, then switch over to encoding, then switch back to printing and finish up the label.  The printer will automatically either print or encode at any given moment depending on where the label is relative to the printer’s printhead and RFID encoder.  The traditional approaches for RFID printers were to either first print the entire label, then encode the RFID portion (“Print then Encode”) – or to first encode the RFID, then print the label (“Encode then Print”).  But with these traditional approaches, if the inlay is not optimally placed, then the printer needs to back- or forward-feed the label to align it for an operation (printing or encoding) at any given moment.  With Printronix’s Encode During Print functionality, back- and forward-feed are eliminated (other than to overstrike bad labels, which is another blog topic for another day), regardless of inlay placement. 

So far, we have been talking about labels like 4×6 shipping labels that allow different inlay placements.  But what about all of the RFID labels, “tags,” on the market that have predetermined inlay placement?  For example, on-metal tags, plant stakes, small pharmaceutical labels for cold-chain applications, “RTI” tags (Returnable Transport Items), etc., etc.  There are many such tags on the market, and more are being developed and released all the time.  These tags generally have a fixed inlay placement based on their physical design and on simple commercial considerations – they are meant to be “Off-the-Shelf” (OTS) products.  This is another area Printronix’s Encode During Print functionality shines even more.  Because the Printronix printers do not care where the inlay is located, you can use any of these tags and still achieve maximum throughput. 

And these unusual tags often pose physical feed challenges for RFID printers.  For example, on-metal and RTI tags are often thicker than normal smart labels, and they can have abrupt edges between labels, large gaps, etc.  Both Printronix’s T6000e and T4000 series printers were designed from the ground up to work with these more difficult constructions.  The printers are spec’ed for labels up to 1.2mm thick and are available in 4” and 6” print-widths, allowing you to print and encode a wide variety of tags from a single printer – all without sacrificing performance.  

Finding the right RFID solution is always a challenge and having the right resources and help are critical. If RFID sounds like a suitable solution for your business or you have additional questions, feel free to contact us at Barcodes, Inc. We’re always happy to help you find the right solution for your needs. 

Offering a vast array of standard features that are unequaled by its competition, SATO’s CL4NX Plus sets a new and groundbreaking industry standard for ease of use, intelligence, on-board emulations, connectivity, speed of processing data streams, user activity interface, and much more.

Built with integrity, designed with the user and productivity in mind, the CL4NX Plus supports up to 10-inch outside diameter of media and 1968-foot (600-meter) ribbon and incorporates Smart Printhead technology to keep track of usage specific to the mounted printhead. The platen roller with the Pure Line indicator provides a visual wear indicator so users can be proactive when it is necessary to change this vital component. The Micro Label Print Mode provides higher print accuracy for small pitch labels and can dispense labels as small as 10 mm. 

Using SATO Application Enabled Printing (AEP), you can build custom standalone applications that can be run directly on the printer and connect peripheral devices directly to the printer for data input, such as a barcode scanner, keyboard, or weigh scale.

The CL4NX Plus Industrial Printer is fast, precise, and intelligent. It will exceed your expectations of the printing technology of today.

Shop the SATO CL4NX Plus Printer online or Contact your Barcodes, Inc. Account Manager for more information.

The Code Reader 950 (CR950) is an easy-to-use, durable barcode reader that thrives in fast-paced, retail environments. Its lightweight, ergonomic design makes it comfortable to use during long shifts, and will seamlessly transition from in-stand to out-of-stand reading. For increased efficiency, users can select motion detection barcode reading mode.

Purpose-built for retail, the CR950 rapidly decodes 1D and 2D barcodes and its unmatched durability makes it an investment that will last. Optionally, the driver license parsing feature speeds up in-store credit applications and loyalty form processes, while accurate scanning of mobile device screens maximizes the scanner’s productivity in retail environments.

Features:

• High speed, omnidirectional reading of all 1D, 2D, Postal barcodes
• Manual or automatic triggering
• User feedback with customizable visual, audible, and haptic indicators
• Compatible with Code’s rapid disconnect USB and RS232 Affinity cables
• Patented glare reduction technology for reading barcodes on shiny surfaces
• Customizable Driver License parsing
• Reads barcodes on mobile device screens

A fast, versatile device, the Code Corp CR950 is an unbeatable addition to your retail operation.

Shop the Code Reader 950 online or Contact your Barcodes, Inc. Account Manager for more information.

Barcode scanning has been widely deployed in manufacturing environments, as well as distribution and fulfillment centers. However, in fast-paced workflows, handheld devices can take a beating, increasing the maintenance costs of devices and decreasing reliability. Damage to barcodes (or poor quality of internally printed labels) can reduce scanning speed and efficiency, or require users to manually enter data, a process that is much slower and more vulnerable to error.

The latest models in the Honeywell Granit XP line were designed to address these challenges, offering best-in class durability, premium scanning performance, and purpose-built scanning range to drive efficiency and reliability in these mission-critical applications.

The Granit XP series of wired and wireless scanners are available in Standard Range (SR) and Extended Range (XR) versions. The SR will eventually replace the Granit 1910i and 1911i, and the XR establishes a new category of scanner that can scan equally as well up close as it can far away. Customers no longer have to compromise up close barcode scanning speeds in order to scan barcodes from a distance.

The Granit XP is compatible with existing Granit accessories, simplifying implementation and mixed deployments.

What Applications are Best for Each Scanner?

• Granit 1990iSR (wired) and 1991iSR (wireless): Scanning barcodes from contact to arm’s length.
• Granit 1990iXR (wired) and 1991iXR (wireless): Scanning barcodes from contact to 33 feet.
• Granit 1980i (wired) and 1981i (wireless): Scanning barcodes from contact to 52 feet and beyond.

The Granit XP series offers best-in-class durability, premium scanning speed (even on low quality barcodes), and a portfolio of products that provide compelling solutions for the most common applications in warehouse, DC, and manufacturing environments.

Contact us today if you have any questions or would like to receive a custom quote.

When it comes to today’s public sector, citizens are expecting dependable and agile service now more than ever. Concerning the efficiency of modern public services, 53% of citizens believe agencies should reinvest in innovative solutions, especially in those that create unison with the private sector^[1]. Because many critical tasks still operate via legacy technologies, modernization is a risk most agencies can’t afford to take. A data breach in government branch agencies can lead to leaked social security numbers, voting affiliations, citizenship status, and other sensitive data beyond payment/ credit card information. Therefore, modernization must be seamless and safe.

Simplifying modernization, Barcodes, Inc. and Zebra Technologies now work alongside the NY OGS to open new opportunities in the public sector with:

• Facilitated and transparent collaboration
• Predictive analytics to handle sudden changes
• Automation of repetitive tasks
• Reduced errors in reporting, data sharing, and audits
• Increased flexibility and mobility for deployed field services
• Dependable government-grade security

Barcodes, Inc. is one of the few authorized partners registered to work with NY OGS. To see this partnership eliminates the long bidding processes for faster deployment, download our infographic.

Design and deploy your modernization strategy with a wide variety of choices.

Partnering with Zebra Technologies, Barcode, Inc. strives to make modernization simple, seamless, and error-free by integrating customized solutions with:

• Rugged tablets
• Mobile computers
• AT&T FirstNet certified connectivity for your handhelds
• Ultra-rugged scanners
• Mobile printers
• Assisted device procurement
• Software development
• Barcodes, Inc.’s TrueSupport

To see how you can integrate future-forward technology into your agency without disrupting workflows, explore the full list here.   

^[1] Public services that move at the speed of life. Accenture. Sept 27, 2019.

Setting the bar for desktop barcode label printing, SATO’s CT4-LX is a 4-inch thermal printer offering features and functionality typically only found in industrial printer models but in a compact size. Designed with a full-color touchscreen display, the latest wireless connectivity options and patented label waste prevention feature, the CT4LX Label Printer is easy to operate and maintain with user-replaceable printheads and platen rollers to quickly keep your business up and running.

Key Features
– 4.3″ Full Color Touchscreen Display
– 203 or 305 dpi print resolution
– Thermal Transfer and Direct Thermal
– Label Waste Prevention – eliminates first label loss
– Apple iOS Connectivity
– Quick pairing with NFC-enabled devices
– Auto Switching competitive emulation languages (SBPL, SEPL, SZPL, SDPL, SIPL, or STCL)
– Auto RFID positioning with SATO RF Analyze (SRA)
– Remote management with SATO Online Services (SOS)

Connectivity Options: USB, Ethernet, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, RS-232C
Optional Features: UHF RFID encoder (pre-installed), Auto-Cutter, Linerless Cutter, Dispenser, Real-Time Clock

Shop the Sato CT4-LX online or Contact your Barcodes, Inc. Account Manager for more information.

Designed as the industry’s most flexible barcode verifier, the RJS D4000 Laser is easy to use and supports all popular linear symbologies. With a simple four-button interface you can easily access store and print capability, multiple scan averaging and sub-symbology choices.

When in use, the D4000 Laser will immediately present barcode analysis information on the 32-character alphanumeric liquid crystal display. The RJS verifier will provide a distinct audible tone and a series of five colored LEDs to indicate whether a barcode is in or out of specification. In addition to the ISO method parameters, traditional analysis parameters are provided on the LCD without a special mode setting. The RJS D4000 is also available in an Auto-Optic model to provide ANSI Mode operation.

RJS D4000 Features:

• Dual Mode Portability: Traditional Operation or ISO/ANSI Mode Operation (optional auto-optic required)
• Non-Contact Point-and-Shoot Barcode Capture
• Print Gain Measurement
• Auto-Discriminates between all popular symbologies
• Multiple Scan Averaging
• Follows the ISO15416 and ANSI X3. 182 Barcode Inspection Methods (Auto-Optic scan head only)
• Conforms to ISO15416-1 Barcode Verifier Specification (Auto-Optic scan head only)
• Option for Full ISO/ANSI inspection and reporting

Contact Barcodes if you have any questions regarding barcode verification and we can start a verification procedure in your operations today.

In the manufacturing and distribution process, Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) solutions improve production times, increase inventory accuracy, reduce errors, better route information, and provide round-the-clock asset management.

Uncover how RFID can benefit your organization and review a proven approach for implementation.  Whether you are new to the technology or looking to advance your RFID strategy, the presentation will give you a simplified view of what other companies in the industry are doing and how to get there.

In this webinar, you will learn the following:

• Why you should be considering RFID solutions
• See how other companies are implementing RFID to improve accuracy, visibility, and accountability within Manufacturing and Distribution
• Review a proven “Start Simple” approach for implementing RFID
• Introduction to RAPID RFID, a mobile and web-based fixed reader software product that takes the complexity out of implementing RFID solutions
• How Barcodes, Inc. and Vertical Systems can assist you in this process.

If you have any questions, please contact us here.

The first printer specifically designed as a color upgrade to black-and-white thermal transfer printers, the Epson ColorWorks Series of inkjet printers deliver on-demand, 4″ and 8″ color labels with fast-drying, durable color inks, while offering cost and inventory reduction compared to using pre-printed labels. Compatible with ZPL II, SAP, and more, and built to accommodate remote printer management, these versatile printers offer seamless integration with your existing workflow.

GHS‑Compliant Labels – Fast, efficient, durable GHS solution printing for your production floor
Fresh Food Labels – Fast, full‑color, high‑volume, heavy production labels for busy, fresh food production
Healthcare Label Printing – Fast, reliable printing for custom color‑enhanced labels for healthcare solutions

Contact us today for a free assessment and see if you have the right label printing solution in place. Ask us about TrueSupport and our other Design, Deploy and Support services.

Every clinical environment is unique, but they all share one important characteristic: the pressure. Healthcare workers today have to move quickly and efficiently, treating more patients in less time than ever before, with no room for mistakes. Smart tools allow workers to meet the challenges of continually developing situations.

The Code CR1100 is a compact, efficient, and powerful barcode reader. At just 2.4 oz, it quickly and reliably decodes all barcodes from any surface type. Curved, damaged, or reflective barcodes are no problem for this little powerhouse. Users can operate the CR1100 as a handheld or in the in-stand presentation mode. For increased efficiency, users can also select continuous scan or motion detection barcode reading.

Always PVC-free, Code readers stand up to the harshest chemical cleaning agents and never miss a scan.

Features:
• High-speed, omnidirectional reading of 1D, 2D, and postal barcode symbologies
• Manual or automatic triggering
• User feedback with LED and audible tone
• Compatible with Code’s CortexTools2® software configuration utility
• Reads barcodes on mobile device screens
• Data editing and parsing with JavaScript
• Efficient power consumption (lowest in its class)
• CodeShield® PVC-Free, disinfectant-ready IP54 housing

Applications:
• Track, Trace, and Verify Lab Samples
• Point-of-Care
• Medical Supply Tracking
• Supply Chain Management
• Pharmacy
• Administration Applications
• Mobile Barcode Scanning
• Integrated Software Based Barcode Scanning

Intuitive and lightning fast, this reader is perfect for any healthcare application.

Shop the Code Reader 1100 online or Contact your Barcodes, Inc. Account Manager for more information.