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Thermal Labels
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Thermal labels come in two
basic varieties
Thermal
Direct
or
Thermal Transfer
As their names imply, the difference is
how a printer creates the image (data) on the label.
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Thermal
Direct |
Image is directly created on the
label as it is contacted by the printers printhead. |
| The printhead produces heat
which causes an imaging reaction on the label material |
| Special label material must be
used in order to have the imaging reaction. |
| Labels are subject to
degradation due to exposure to other heat and light sources. |
| Friction caused between the
printhead and label material causes reduced printhead life. |
| Thermal
Transfer |
Image is transferred onto the
label via ribbon media. |
| The ribbon is contacted by the
printers printhead, causing it to melt onto the label. |
| Care should be given when
selecting the ribbon media. Ribbons are designed to work for various uses
and materials. An improper match could lead to printhead damage and poor
quality. |
Most thermal printers may use either
label type. Therefore, selection between varieties should be based on the
following criteria.
| Thermal Direct |
Label longevity is not an issue.
This is important as degradation can often occur rapidly causing poor
readability. |
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Ribbon replacement causes time
bottlenecks. |
| Thermal Transfer |
High quality and long life
expectations are necessary. |
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Extending printhead life as
friction is reduced by the ribbon media, which is actually much smoother
than the face of a label. |
Although the cost for thermal direct labels is
much higher, costing models suggest that the overall costs are actually quite
close once ribbons and printhead replacement are factored in.
Custom Labels
Stock Thermal
Transfer Labels
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