RFID printers are devices with the function of printing and encoding radio frequency tags . Depending on the model, they support monochrome, color labels or RFID stickers . The image can be applied on one or both sides.
RFID printers are used to automate work processes in warehouses, in manufacturing, in trade, in logistics and distribution centers, in medicine .
Classification of RFID printers
RFID tags are miniature devices that consist of an antenna (receiving and transmitting information) and a microchip (recording and storing information). This technology speeds up the process of receiving and sending goods, makes it easier to track products when moving them, reduces the likelihood of operators making mistakes when marking or reading, and also protects goods from counterfeiting and theft.
An RFID printer is used to encode and plot information on an RFID tag . Depending on the type of construction, the speed and volume of printing, these devices are divided into classes:
- Mobile;
- Tabletop;
- Industrial.
- Mobile RFID printers have a large battery capacity, which allows RFID tags to be encoded and printed directly where the product or inventory is located, outdoors and in car showrooms. Designed for use by small and medium enterprises, they can print from 2000 to 5000 labels per shift. In general, their memory capacity is limited - 128-256 MB RAM and up to 512 MG Flash.
- Desktop RFID printers run on electricity. Thanks to their compact size and lightness, they are convenient to use in confined spaces - you can mount them on the desk in the office, on a shelf. They have a monochrome or color display (some of them have a touch screen).
- Industrial RFID printers are designed for intensive use in adverse conditions. They generally have a hermetically sealed housing, well protected from dust and mechanical damage. The printing speed of industrial RFID printers is from 125 to 356 mm / sec. (depending on the model). Their memory (up to 1 GB operational and up to 2 GB energy-intensive) allows a large amount of data to be stored. Often, industrial RFID printers support automatic mode settings - an operator-free encryption method can be selected.
RFID label printers can apply text and graphics to RFID tags using the thermal direct and thermal transfer printing method .
- In the thermal transfer method of printing it is necessary to use thermal transfer tape (ribbon) and labels of polymeric, synthetic and other materials. The image can be both black and color.
- Labels obtained by thermal direct printing fade quickly, text and graphics are erased after 2-3 months, and those made by thermal transfer printing are more durable, can withstand constant abrasion and moisture, in some cases and of repeated freezing and thawing.
According to the volume of printing (circulation per day) RFID printers , they are also divided into classes:
- Initial - up to 2000 pieces;
- Corporate - up to 10,000 units;
- Industrial - up to 20,000 units.
How to choose the right RFID printer and what does its price depend on?
The price of the RFID label printer depends on its functionality (creation of labels and tags or even programming smart cards), the class of equipment, the printing parameters, the power supply, the interfaces it supports, the availability or lack of additional options.
An RFID printer is chosen based on the specifics and needs of the specific business.
Functional capabilities
RFID printers are divided into two groups according to this criteria:
- For recording data on a chip and for encoding magnetic tapes built into a smart card;
- To record information on RFID tags and to print them later.
Printing capabilities
The speed of transmission of text and graphics on media in RFID printers of the lowest class is relatively low - from 102 to 203 mm / s, and in industrial - up to 356 mm / s.
The width of the labels on compact mobile or desktop RFID printers can be 54-56 mm, but are most common with indicators from 104 to 108 mm. Some printers support wide format printing - up to 168 mm. Labels of this size are used to mark bulky goods.
The quality of the text and graphics of the RFID tags depends on the print resolution :
- 203 dpi : allows you to get medium and large IDs with clear, legible information;
- 300 dpi : quality is enough to create tags with smaller text on small labels;
- 600 dpi : used to apply information in very small print, such as RFID tags designed to mark cosmetics, medicines, electrical equipment parts.
Connecting
Depending on the RFID printer model and kit, RFID printers can be connected to a control PC and other external devices via wired (USB, RS-232, Centronics) and wireless (Bluetooth, Wi-Fi) interfaces .
In principle, the interaction with the wired LAN is provided via an Ethernet adapter. Some models have NFC technology, which is used to connect to tablets and smartphones.
Power supply
Mobile RFID printers are battery-powered, and desktop and industrial class printers are mains-powered. The parameters depend on the specific model and are usually specified in the user manual.
Convenient use
- To speed up and simplify the process of printing / encoding RFID tags and labels , some manufacturers offer additional modules for RFID printers :
- For stretching plastic cards;
- For lamination;
- For labeling goods immediately after printing;
- To separate RFID tags from pads;
- For faster information entry and faster printer setup (external displays with or without keyboard).
The set may also include printhead cleaning kits and other accessories.
Why choose an RFID printer from Alpha Partner?
- We guarantee you good offers according to your needs and budget;
- Equipment from proven world leaders in the production of RFID printers for labels and tags ;
- Full range of services for the implementation and adjustment of equipment;
- Convenient delivery method;
- Consultation on choosing the right RFID printer for your business and your needs;
- Technical support;
- Warranty and post-warranty service.
-250x250w.png "SOTI"){kind=logo}
