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Learn how we may |
Thermal Labels
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Thermal labels come in two
basic varieties
Thermal
Direct 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. |
| Ribbon replacement causes time bottlenecks. | |
| Thermal Transfer | High quality and long life expectations are necessary. |
| 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.