What is RFID Printer/ Encoder?
Printing and encoding data on RFID inlays or labels simultaneously are done by RFID printers. The only method to print on labels is with one of these machines, and they also save time by automating the labor-intensive process of manually encoding each tag. In addition to printing data that can be read by humans, RFID printers can also print pictures and 1D and 2D barcodes.
For any label printing system to be successful, matching the media with the printer and application is crucial, but it's especially necessary for RFID smart label printing and encoding. RFID systems are made to minimise interference, guarantee data integrity, and offer the greatest read range possible. High-quality smart labels are essential for maintaining data integrity and RFID read range.
Things to keep in mind while buying RFID Printer/ Encoder
The majority of printers have the same fundamental features, including the ability to print graphics and/or text, encode RFID inlays, and carry out verification. At that point, what distinguishes the field in terms of functionality is how the printer handles dead and/or poorly encoded tags.
Print volume and speed
There are a variety of printer encoders available, and they range in terms of how quickly they can print and encode a label as well as the large volumes for which they are acceptable. Industrial printers can produce more labels over time than basic desktop or portable printers since they operate more quickly and last longer.
Print resolution
Print resolution is crucial in situations where more detailed printing on the label necessitates better resolution, like when printing logos or illustrations. There are printers with a resolution between 200 and 600 dpi, but you can also discover printers with lower or higher resolution. For typical printing requirements like text or barcodes, 200 dpi is sufficient.
Flexibility in technology
Choose printer/encoders that can handle the many RF tag protocols currently in use. This gives you the freedom to select the RFID tag that is most effective for each application. Ensure that your existing bar code labelling application can accommodate RFID data. RFID printer/encoder you chose can be quickly integrated into it. RFID tag encoding can be done fast and safely utilising printer/encoders.
Print Method
There are two different sorts of print processes.
Thermal transfer, which transfers ink from a different ribbon to the label using heat. Thermal transfer printers should be utilised for long-term applications where the labels will have a longer life cycle in the supply chain because the labels do not fade with exposure to sunlight or heat.
Direct thermal, which makes use of specialised media in the form of label material that has been treated and turns black when heated. A direct thermal printer's benefits include a simpler design that makes loading media easier, the absence of a ribbon, and easier printer maintenance.
The flexibility of label size
The printer/encoder you choose should be adaptable enough to support a variety of label sizes in addition to different levels of pitch between the chip inlay and label. As you may use Large smart labels today, what about tomorrow?
Avoid using media made of metal and foil.
For smart labels, avoid using foil or label stocks made of metal. Metal is a major cause of RFID interference since it reflects RF signals. A metal or foil label that has an RFID inlay can dramatically reduce range and hinder successful encoding/reading.
- Last updated on Nov 29, 2022