Industrial & Desktop Label Printers | Thermal & Direct Transfer

Plan Your Deployment

Calculate daily print volume to select desktop, mid-range, or industrial class
Specify label width, length, and material (paper, synthetic, RFID inlay)
Select direct thermal (no ribbon) or thermal transfer (ribbon) based on label durability
Evaluate connectivity: USB, Ethernet, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth for integration with WMS

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Showing Results for Label Printers

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Digi International

SKU: 5402-RMG4-GLB

Digi International 5402-RMG4-GLB Connect IT 4 Remote Access

Remote access server for serial and Ethernet devices in industrial sites
- Dual connectivity via Fast Ethernet (10/100) and RS-232 serial ports
- SNMP 3/2, SSH, and HTTP for secure centralized management and monitoring
- Rack-mount form factor rated for industrial operating temperatures
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$591.99 $566.99 Save $25.00

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Digi International

SKU: 560083

Digi International 560083 Temporary Battery Pack 9V

9V temporary UPS battery pack for Digi networking equipment
- 152.4Wh capacity supports emergency power during mains loss
- 9V output compatible with Digi edge computing and serial devices
- Compact 8.0 x 6.0 x 0.3 in design for field deployment scenarios
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$19.99

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Digi International

SKU: 70001805

Digi International 70001805 PortServer TS MEI 1-Port Device

1-port serial-to-Ethernet device server for remote legacy equipment access
- Single RS-232 port bridges serial devices to IP networks for distributed management
- AC power supply with universal plugs (US, EU, UK, AU) supports global installations
- Compact 10.9 x 7.9 x 3.9 in form factor fits standard infrastructure deployments
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$422.99

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Digi International

SKU: 70001806

Digi International 70001806 PortServer TS MEI 2-Port

2-port serial device server for IP-based console access in data centers
- 2 serial ports bridge legacy equipment to Ethernet networks without client software
- Compact rack-mountable design fits standard cabinets in telecom and enterprise NOCs
- Remote out-of-band access to PDUs, UPS, and terminal servers over IP
Special Order · Ships in 2-3 weeks

$431.99 $412.99 Save $19.00

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Digi International

SKU: 70001807

Digi International 70001807 PortServer TS MEI 4-Port

4-port serial device server connects legacy equipment to modern IP networks
- Four serial ports with TCP/IP connectivity for distributed remote management
- Compact form factor (10.5 x 8.0 x 3.8 in) fits control rooms and NOCs
- AC power supply with universal plugs (US, EU, UK, AU) for global deployment
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$561.99 $536.99 Save $25.00

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Digi International

SKU: 70001851

Digi International 70001851 One SP 1-Port RS-232/422/485

Single-port serial device server converts RS-232/422/485 to Ethernet
- Selectable RS-232, RS-422, or RS-485 protocol support on one port
- Bridges legacy serial equipment into modern IP networks without replacement
- Compact form factor for installation in control cabinets and network closets
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$422.99

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Digi International

SKU: 70001862

Digi International 70001862 Digi One IA 1-Port RS-232/422/485

Single-port serial device server bridges RS-232/422/485 to Ethernet
- Converts RS-232, RS-422, and RS-485 serial protocols for network access
- Compact 11" × 8" × 2" form factor fits rack and wall-mount installations
- Integrates legacy serial equipment with SCADA systems and industrial controllers
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$1,104.99

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Digi International

SKU: 70001917

Digi International 70001917 PortServer TS H MEI 1-Port Device

1-port serial device server bridges legacy equipment to Ethernet networks
- Single serial port with Ethernet connectivity for remote access to legacy devices
- Compact form factor (10.5 x 8.0 x 3.5 in) fits tight infrastructure spaces
- Centralized management of distributed serial equipment across multiple locations
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$656.99 $628.99 Save $28.00

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Digi International

SKU: 70001919

Digi International 70001919 PortServer TS H MEI 4-Port Serial

4-port serial device server with hardware encryption for legacy equipment
- 4 DB-9/DB-25 serial ports with encrypted, managed remote access over IP
- Out-of-band console management for firewalls, routers, and critical infrastructure
- UNIX, Linux, and Windows compatible for distributed serial-to-Ethernet bridging
In stock · Ships same business day

$1,123.99 $1,074.99 Save $49.00

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Digi International

SKU: 70001992

Digi International 70001992 PortServer TS 2 Port

2-port serial device server bridges legacy equipment to Ethernet networks
- Connects 2 serial ports to Ethernet for remote SCADA and industrial control
- Gateway supports standard serial protocols in distributed infrastructure setups
- Compact 10.6 x 7.4 x 3.8 in form factor fits network closets and field sites
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$829.99 $793.99 Save $36.00

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Digi International

SKU: 70002041

Digi International 70002041 PortServer TS 1-Port RS-232

Single RS-232 serial device server with DIN rail mount for network access
- One RS-232 port bridges legacy serial devices to Ethernet networks remotely
- DIN rail mountable design integrates into industrial control and security panels
- AC power supply with universal plugs (US, EU, UK, AU) to 12 VDC connector
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$285.99 $273.99 Save $12.00

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Digi International

SKU: 70002043

Digi International 70002043 PortServer TS 2-Port RS-232

2-port RS-232 serial server with DIN rail mount for legacy device integration
- Connect 2 RS-232 serial devices to Ethernet networks via TCP/IP bridging
- DIN rail mounting fits standard telecom and industrial control racks
- AC power supply with universal plugs (US, EU, UK, AU) to 12 VDC connector
In stock · Ships same business day

$345.99 $330.99 Save $15.00

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Digi International

SKU: 70002045

Digi International 70002045 PortServer TS 4-Port RS-232

4-port RS-232 device server with DIN rail mount for serial-to-Ethernet conversion
- Four independent RS-232 ports for legacy equipment connectivity over Ethernet
- DIN rail mountable design fits standard 35mm rails in control cabinets
- AC universal power supply (US, EU, UK, AU plugs) with 12 VDC output
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$1,014.99

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Digi International

SKU: 70002411

Digi International 70002411 ConnectPort LTS 32-Port RS232

32-port RS232 serial device server with Ethernet connectivity
- 32 RS232 ports support simultaneous legacy device connections over network
- RJ-45 Ethernet interface integrates serial equipment into modern infrastructure
- Compact 21" x 21" x 5" form factor for distributed I/O and control systems
Special Order · Ships in 2-3 weeks

$3,653.99 $3,494.99 Save $159.00

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Digi International

SKU: A24-HASM-450

Digi International A24-HASM-450 2.4GHz Half-Wave Articulated

2.4GHz half-wave articulated antenna for indoor/outdoor wireless systems
- Articulated design flexes for optimal positioning in tight or angular spaces
- Works with Digi wireless systems and XBee-compatible infrastructure
- Lightweight at 0.5 lbs, mounts indoors or outdoors with minimal setup
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$6.24 $5.99 Save $0.25

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Digi International

SKU: ACC-500170

Digi International ACC-500170 Passive PoE Injector

Passive PoE injector for 10/100 networks without separate power runs
- Injects power and data over standard twisted-pair cabling to remote devices
- Supports security cameras, access points, IP phones, and monitoring equipment
- Compact passive design integrates into existing network infrastructure
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$19.99 $18.99 Save $1.00

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What to Look For When Buying

The decisions that matter most before you spec.

Print Resolution & Barcode Quality

Label printers range from 203 DPI (standard barcodes and text) to 600 DPI (dense QR codes and small compliance labels). Higher DPI ensures scanability over distance and reduces label reprints. Choose resolution based on barcode density requirements and scan-distance DORI standards in your warehouse or distribution environment.

Direct Thermal vs. Thermal Transfer Cost-of-Ownership

Direct thermal eliminates ribbon cost but requires thermal-sensitive label stock (higher per-unit material cost). Thermal transfer uses standard label stock with consumable ribbon, offering flexibility for color and outdoor durability. Calculate monthly label volume and shelf-life requirements to select the right model and reduce total cost of ownership.

Connectivity & Integration with Data-Capture Systems

Most modern label printers support Ethernet, USB, Bluetooth, and cloud APIs for integration with WMS, ERP, and barcode scanners. Ensure your printer firmware supports industry-standard label formats (ZPL, EPL, CPCL) and test connectivity with existing mobile computers and warehouse management software.

Print Speed & Throughput Requirements

Desktop printers range from 4–8 inches per second; industrial models exceed 12 IPS. Match printer speed to peak labeling demand—shipping departments peak at 8–10 AM and 2–4 PM. Undersizing speed leads to bottlenecks; oversizing wastes capital. Factor in label length, media type, and thermal head technology.

Media Compatibility & Specialty Materials

Standard label stock works on most printers, but heavy-duty thermal transfer models support synthetic, polyester, and fabric labels for outdoor asset tags and compliance marking. Verify maximum label width, minimum gap, and rewind/dispenser compatibility before purchase. Test samples with your intended label stock.

Warranty, Support, & Supply-Chain Resilience

Enterprise label printer deployments require 3–5 year warranty, loaner programs, and local parts availability. Star Micronics and Honeywell offer multi-year support plans. Maintain spare thermal heads and rollers on-site to prevent downtime; consider redundant printers for mission-critical labeling workflows.

Technology Stack

The specs and acronyms that actually affect label printers performance.

DPI (Dots Per Inch)

Resolution standard for label printers: 203 DPI is baseline for shipping labels; 300 DPI handles smaller barcodes; 600 DPI supports dense QR codes and compliance text. Higher DPI reduces label size without sacrificing scanability, critical for asset tracking and regulatory marking.

Print Speed (Inches Per Second / IPS)

Indicates how fast the printer lays down a label. Desktop printers: 4–8 IPS. Industrial: 10–15 IPS. Peak warehouse throughput often requires 6+ IPS to avoid queuing. Verify speed specification includes thermal head settling time and media gap.

Direct Thermal vs. Thermal Transfer Technology

Direct thermal: heat-sensitive label stock, no ribbon, lower initial cost, suitable for short shelf-life labels. Thermal transfer: ribbon + standard stock, higher upfront cost, multi-year label durability, full-color capable. Choose based on label longevity and environmental exposure.

Maximum Label Width & Media Handling

Typical range: 4.09–8.65 inches. Industrial printers support edge-to-edge printing and rewind spools for continuous rolls. Verify roll capacity, gap/black-line detection, and media sensor sensitivity to prevent label jams and alignment errors in high-volume environments.

Connectivity Standards (USB, Ethernet, Bluetooth, Cloud)

Modern printers support multiple ports for flexibility. Ethernet enables centralized management and queue sharing; USB for direct workstation control; Bluetooth for mobile device labeling. Cloud APIs allow remote label design and audit trails for compliance workflows.

Thermal Head & Printhead Lifespan

Thermal heads degrade after 10–50 million print cycles depending on pressure and temperature. Industrial printers rated for higher cycles. Monitor print quality degradation (faded edges, uneven density) as a sign of head wear. Budget for replacement every 2–3 years in high-volume shops; maintain spares to minimize downtime.

Typical Deployment Scenarios

E-Commerce Fulfillment Center (500+ labels/day)

Desktop thermal printer (4–6 IPS, 203 DPI) at each packing station, connected via Ethernet to WMS. Direct thermal media for 30-day label visibility. Pair with barcode scanners for label validation. Budget 2–3 backup thermal heads and monthly ribbon/label stock refresh.

Manufacturing Compliance & Asset Labeling (100–300 labels/day)

Mid-range thermal transfer printer (6–8 IPS, 300 DPI) supporting synthetic labels for durability. Supports QR codes for asset tracking and regulatory barcodes. USB + Ethernet connectivity for plant-wide integration. Maintain spare ribbon and label stock for 2-week uninterrupted production.

Field Service & Mobile Labeling (50–100 labels/day on-site)

Portable thermal printer (4 IPS, 203 DPI) with Bluetooth connectivity to mobile computers and smartphones. Direct thermal for simplicity. Lightweight (under 5 lbs), battery-powered. Sync label templates via cloud API; ideal for utility, telecom, and delivery fleets.

High-Volume Logistics Hub (2000+ labels/day)

Industrial thermal transfer system (12+ IPS, 300–600 DPI), ribbon auto-dispense, dual rewind capability. Ethernet + ZPL protocol for centralized label queue from multiple carriers. Automated media-feed detection and color-mark sensing. On-site spare thermal head, roller, and 1-month ribbon/label buffer for continuous operations.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between 203 DPI and 300 DPI label printers?

203 DPI is standard for most shipping and asset labels; it produces clear barcodes at typical warehouse scan distances (12–36 inches). 300 DPI is needed for denser QR codes, smaller text, or compliance markings that require higher pixel density. 600 DPI supports ultra-high-density codes but adds cost and slows print speed. Match DPI to your barcode density and scan-distance requirements.

How often do I need to replace the thermal head in a label printer?

Thermal heads typically last 10–50 million print cycles, translating to 1–3 years in high-volume environments. Signs of wear include faded or uneven print across the label width. Desktop printers see longer head life (3+ years at 500 labels/day); industrial systems need replacement every 18–24 months. Keep spares on hand to minimize downtime during swaps.

Can I use a direct thermal printer with any label stock?

No. Direct thermal printers require thermally sensitive label material designed to darken when heated. Standard label stock will not print. Thermal transfer printers are more flexible—they work with standard white label stock, colored labels, synthetics, and specialty materials using ribbon. Confirm label stock compatibility before purchasing printer or labels.

What connectivity options should my label printer have?

Ethernet is ideal for networked warehouses and shared print queues. USB is standard for direct workstation control. Bluetooth enables mobile device printing for field operations. Cloud APIs and ZPL/EPL protocol support allow integration with WMS and ERP systems. For enterprise deployments, prioritize Ethernet + USB + optional Bluetooth to maximize flexibility and avoid single points of failure.

How do I calculate the right printer speed for my operation?

Peak throughput = (number of labels per hour at peak time) / 60. If you label 500 items/hour at peak, you need at least 8–9 IPS to avoid bottlenecks. Add 20% headroom for label reprints and media gaps. Desktop printers (4–8 IPS) suit light-to-medium duty; industrial (12+ IPS) handle continuous high-volume. Underestimating speed is a common cause of shipping delays.

What supplies do I need to keep on hand to prevent printer downtime?

Stock at least 1–2 spare thermal heads, 1–2 platen rollers, cleaning swabs, and a 2-week buffer of label stock and (if thermal transfer) ribbon. For mission-critical operations, consider a second printer as backup. Subscribe to consumable auto-ship programs to eliminate supply-chain surprises. Monitor spare parts inventory monthly.

Label Printers

Plan Your Deployment

Sub categories

Showing Results for Label Printers

Digi International 5402-RMG4-GLB Connect IT 4 Remote Access

Digi International 560083 Temporary Battery Pack 9V

Digi International 70001805 PortServer TS MEI 1-Port Device

Digi International 70001806 PortServer TS MEI 2-Port

Digi International 70001807 PortServer TS MEI 4-Port

Digi International 70001851 One SP 1-Port RS-232/422/485

Digi International 70001862 Digi One IA 1-Port RS-232/422/485

Digi International 70001917 PortServer TS H MEI 1-Port Device

Digi International 70001919 PortServer TS H MEI 4-Port Serial

Digi International 70001992 PortServer TS 2 Port

Digi International 70002041 PortServer TS 1-Port RS-232

Digi International 70002043 PortServer TS 2-Port RS-232

Digi International 70002045 PortServer TS 4-Port RS-232

Digi International 70002411 ConnectPort LTS 32-Port RS232

Digi International A24-HASM-450 2.4GHz Half-Wave Articulated

Digi International ACC-500170 Passive PoE Injector

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