What does Z-Perform mean?

What is IQ Color?

How does 1000T relate to a label?

What different adhesives does Zebra offer?

How does one go about ordering a custom Zebra label?

Where can one find all the information necessary to create the perfect custom label?

In the past we asked ourselves these same questions, and we came to a solid conclusion: It is extremely difficult to find any answers online.

That’s why we’ve put together this easy to follow Guide to Zebra Labels. It’s full of useful information that will help you to better understand the different materials, adhesives, and features that Zebra offers in their labels.

The Beginner’s Guide to Zebra Labels

Label Materials Family

Zebra offers labels and tags in a variety of different materials. Paper is the most budget-friendly material to use, while synthetics offer more durable, long-lasting results with resistance to abrasion, moisture, and chemicals.

No guide to Zebra labels would be complete without an explanation of the Zebra materials family.

The label materials family is the first part of a label’s title. For example, a Z-Perform 1000D label is a paper label.

Here are the current paper and synthetic label materials that Zebra offers:

Paper 

• Z-Perform

• Z-Select

• IQ Color

• Specialty

Synthetic

• PolyO

• PolyPro

• Z-Xtreme

• Z-Ultimate

• Z-Supreme

• Z-Endure

Some of these materials may seem strange to you.

In this guide to Zebra labels, we will explain what these materials are really made of.

Z-Perform label material is a bright white, smooth paper facestock that provides the optimal balance between performance and price for industrial applications. Z-Perform is essentially a budget-friendly paper that you can use for your labels.

Z-Select label material is a bright white, ultra-smooth paper facestock specially coated to provide optimal quality. Z-Select is a step above Z-Perform, and is recommended for high-speed printing applications where print quality is important.

IQ Color is especially fascinating. IQ Color label material is a bright white, smooth paper facestock that has the ability to print vibrant color on demand in pre-defined zones to be used as a visual cue. IQ Color is a Zebra exclusive; no other manufacturer offers this type of solution.

Specialty label material is a family of white paper labels and tags designed for unique or challenging applications. Some examples include 8000T High-Tack, 8000T Multi-Removable, and 8000T Piggyback.

PolyO is short for Polyolefin. PolyO label material is a white, corona-treated facestock that provides flexibility for labeling curved or rough surfaces.

PolyPro is short for Polypropylene. Polypropylene is a thermoplastic polymer material. PolyPro label material is a white, matte polyproylene facestock that provides high print quality and resistance to scratching and smearing.

Z-Xtreme label material is a white, matte polyester facestock that provides outstanding print quality and good smear and scratch resistance. This material also offers excellent resistance to chemicals, and can withstand temperatures of up to 300 degrees F.

Z-Ultimate label material is a white, gloss polyester facestock that provides outstanding print quality and unparalleled smear and scratch resistance. The difference between Z-Extreme and Z-Ultimate is the gloss of the label; one is matte, the other is glossy. Z-Ultimate material also offers exceptional resistance to chemicals, and can withstand temperatures up to 300 degrees F.

Z-Supreme label material is a white, polyimide facestock designed for high-temperature environments up to 500 degrees F. This material is recommended for printed circuit board labeling.

Z-Endure label material is a long-life acrylic facestock that provides excellent print quality and resistance to scratching and smearing. This material is recommended for applications requiring long-term outdoor use.

Classifications

The classification of Zebra label materials reflects the level of performance and cost. This classification is highlighted by the number in the label material’s title.

Classification is an important part of the guide to Zebra labels.

There are six different classifications of Zebra Labels:

• 1000
• 2000
• 3000
• 4000
• 5000
• 8000

The higher the number, the higher the performance. This is a simple rule to help you navigate the world of Zebra media.

A Zebra Z-Select 4000D label will more expensive and of better quality than a Z-Perform 1000D label.

Print Technology

Each Zebra label will feature a letter that designates it’s respective print technology. There are only two types of labels: Direct Thermal and Thermal Transfer.

Direct Thermal labels do NOT require a ribbon. Instead, a chemically coated heat-sensitive material produces the images as heat is applied to the surface of the label, via a print head.

Thermal Transfer labels DO require some type of thermal ribbon. Thermal transfer technology uses a ribbon to transfer an image onto the label material.

Here is a PLS blog post on understanding the various thermal ribbons that are available.

The Print Technology is highlighted in the last part of a Zebra label’s title.

For example, Z-Select 4000D would mean that the label features Direct Thermal Print Technology.

Adhesives

The world of labeling adhesives can be hard to understand, since there are so many options available.

Our guide to Zebra labels will show you what adhesives Zebra can offer you for your labeling application.

Please note that the word “tack” refers to the stickiness of a label.

For example, a “high-tack” label is a label with a very sticky adhesive.

Acrylic – General purpose adhesive; provides long-term adhesion; resistance to chemicals and UV exposure, works across a wide temperature range.

Rubber – General-purpose; provides good initial tack; offers adhesion to rough surfaces; not recommended for auto applications.

High-Performance – Offers higher resistance to chemicals and UV exposure; often has agency approval such as indirect food contat, UL/CUL, and CSA approval.

High-Temp – Maintains strong adhesion at high temperatures, over 300 degrees F.

Cold-Temp – Maintains strong adhesion to low temperatues, down to -112 degrees F.

All-Temp – May be applied to temperatures below freezing, which is 32 degrees F.

Removable – Clean removal from most surfaces without damaging the label or surface. This is an excellent adhesive for retail applications, especially bookstores.

Ultra-Removable – Clean removal from nearly all surfaces, including metal and glass, without damaging the label or the surface.

Multi-Removable – Offers dual functionality; provides permanent long-term adhesion but also allows for clean removal; repositionable to allow for removal, and reapplication.

High-Tack Acrylic – Works well on hard to label surfaces and provides good resistance to chemicals and UV exposure.

High-Tack Rubber – Works very well on hard to label surfaces; provides good initial tack.

Trust the Experts. At PLS, we know Zebra Media.

Think of this guide to Zebra Labels as a cheat sheet for your own reference. This guide has everything you will need to put together your own custom label, as well as to understand the titles of Zebra Media.

At PLS, Custom Media is our specialty.

When the time comes for your business or organization to order custom labels, tags, or wristbands, trust the experts. PLS knows Zebra media, and we can help you to select the best materials, adhesives, and technology for your application.

Feel free to contact us anytime by phone at 1-844-458-1078, or email us at info@professionallabelsolutions.com. We can provide samples, consultations, and the best prices around.

Your #1 Source for Printers, Printer Media, Software, & Accessories.

What is a “stock label”?

A stock label is a label that is immediately available for purchase from the manufacturer. This means that the label is a popular size or dimension, and that it has no special features or qualities. There is an enormous selection of quality stock labels available from various manufacturers.

Those of us in the AIDC/ERP industry call labels “printer media”.

What is a “custom label”?

A custom label is a label that has special features or qualities. These features can range from different adhesives, materials, core sizes, colors/borders, RFID capabilities, etc.

Those of us in the AIDC/ERP industry call these labels “custom media”.

Custom Printer Media is MORE than just a label with a custom image.

Many customers have the idea that custom labels are simply labels with a “custom” image printed on them.

This is NOT true.

Custom labels have a variety of features that can be customized; the image is NOT the only option.

When will I need Custom Printer Media?

There are many applications that will work well with stock labels. There are MORE applications that will require custom labels, especially with the introduction of RFID technology.

Do you need a label with an odd dimension and a removable adhesive for your application?

Then you’ll need to get a custom label.

Perhaps you need an RFID shipping label to pair with a mobile RFID printer and scanner?

You’ll definitely need a custom label.

Do you have a special event coming up at your company? Maybe you need a special design on a wristband to label your volunteers?

You will need to order custom wristbands to print on.

Do you need a large label that can withstand extreme temperatures that will need to be printed on a direct thermal printer?

A custom label is your solution.

There are endless examples of applications where custom printer media is the best option.

Custom printer media is a solution that PLS specializes in.

Properly ordering custom media is a very difficult process.

Custom printer media CANNOT be ordered from a website. You WILL need to speak with a sales representative to make sure that all your media has all the necessary features.

What are these features? What makes custom printer media so difficult to order?

There are many bases to cover when you’re ordering custom printer media.

You will need to make sure that you have the right materials for your label.

You will need to make sure that your media will be compatible with your printers.

You will need to make sure that your media has the correct sensors; this can range from black bar sensing to gap sensing.

Now can you see why it’s impossible to order custom printer media without speaking to a sales representative?

Other resellers have a long ,drawn out process for ordering custom media. This is made worse by the lack of attention that you receive from your customer service representative.

Nothing is worse than getting bad service, except for getting a bad product!

At PLS, we understand custom media like no one else. Our representatives are trained to ask the right questions, and to help you make the most cost effective decisions. We’ll make sure all your bases are covered, from getting you the right materials and adhesives, to ensuring that you receive your custom media on time.

You won’t have to play tag with our sales staff. We are available when you are available, and our job is to serve you.

The next time you’re in the market for custom printer media, contact PLS for a FREE quote. Our toll-free number is 1-844-458-1078, and our email is info@professionallabelsolutions.com.

We’re happy to address any questions or concerns that you might have. We’ll help you to meet your deadlines, and to provide you with the best customer service available.

Your #1 Source for Printers, Printer Media, Software, & Accessories.

There are many reasons for this problem. After all, printers are a complex piece of equipment.

In order to select the right printer, you need to understand a variety of different factors.

Will you need thermal transfer or direct thermal printing capabilities? What is the maximum print width of your label? Will you need to print high-resolution barcodes? What core size will work best for you? What type of interface will expedite your application?

Questions of this nature can intimidate many customers; after all, there is nothing worse than selecting the wrong printer for your application.

Luckily, Zebra Technologies has created a hybrid printer that is good for nearly ALL printer applications.

This printer is the Zebra ZT230.

The Zebra ZT230 is a workhorse of a printer. Here are some reasons why it’s one of the best printers that you can purchase:

• The Zebra ZT230 offers BOTH direct thermal and thermal transfer printing capabilities. This can save you time and money. Switching the printing capabilities is fast and easy. Only a few Zebra printers offer this option.
• The Zebra ZT230 can fit media for desktop and industrial printers. This means that it can fit media with either a 5 inch or an 8 inch outer diameter. Also, the roll holder can accommodate media with a core size of 1 inch or 3 inches. This means that you can easily switch between different sizes of media. You will not have to worry about ordering the wrong core size or outer diameter. 
• The Zebra ZT230 offers a maximum print quality of 300 dpi. This is higher than some Zebra desktop printers.
• There are a variety of useful interfaces available. The Zebra ZT230 offers interfaces in USB, Serial, Ethernet, Parallel, and Wi-Fi. 
• The Zebra ZT230 has a compact build for an industrial printer. It’s dimensions are 9.5″ x 10.9″ x 17″, with a weight of 20 lbs. 

In addition, the Zebra ZT230 features a very user friendly interior.

The interior features color coded cues that show the end user where to load the media and ribbon.

The interior also features illuminated multi-position transmissive and reflective sensors. These sensors are visible through the media for trouble-free sensor-position adjustment.

Here are some photos which highlight the inside of the ZT230:

Pictured are the print head, the ribbon roll holder, and the media roll holder.

Here’s the Zebra ZT230 with an open print head.

You can think of the ZT230 as a hybrid printer: it has the best qualities of a desktop and an industrial printer all in one.

The Zebra ZT230 is ideal for a variety of different applications, including the following:

• Manufacturing
• Asset Management
• Receiving/Shipping
• Reverse Logistics
• Lab Sample Tracking 
• Compliance Labeling
• Order Labeling
• Quality Control
• Prescription Labeling

The Zebra ZT230 offers a streamlined design and smaller footprint that takes up less physical space than previous models like the S4M.

Also, the ZT230 printer requires minimal operator training, and benefits from tool-less standard component maintenance and a durable design to minimize service

If you’ve ever been in a position where you’re not sure of the printer you’ll need, then take our advice. At PLS we highly recommend the ZT230 as an entry level label/barcode printer.

Feel free to browse our current stock of Zebra ZT230s here.

As always, please contact us at 1-844-458-1078 or email us at info@professionallabelsolutions.com if you have any questions or concerns regarding the ZT230.

Your #1 Source for Printers, Printer Media, Software, & Accessories.

Thermal transfer labels are perfect for a variety of jobs, including outdoor, laboratory, warehouse, and compliance applications. Essentially, thermal transfer printing is best suited for applications involving excessive wear and tear.

Direct thermal labels are sensitive to heat and light; therefore they cannot be used in outdoor or rugged applications.

Here is a more detailed explanation of how thermal transfer and direct thermal printing works.

The drawback to thermal transfer printing is the fact that it requires a ribbon. This adds time and expenses to your application. Here is a quick explanation of how thermal transfer printing works.

Another drawback to thermal transfer printing is the limited availability of mobile printers. Currently, the only mobile printer to offer thermal transfer printing is the Zebra P4T. The P4T is in the process of being phased out; there will be no replacement printer offered by Zebra.

The Zebra P4T Mobile Printer.

Mobile printers are a much needed resource for asset tracking, shipping, retail, and warehouse applications. Thermal transfer labels are often used in these applications as well. Customers NEED an alternative to the Zebra P4T.

What if there was a cost-effective alternative to thermal transfer printing?

What if there was no need for a mobile printer with thermal transfer printing capabilities?

What if the solution was easy to integrate into your current day to day operations?

The wait is over. The solution is here, today. Introducing…

Zebra ThermaLock 4000D Labels

Zebra ThermaLock 4000D Labels are the perfect alternative to thermal transfer labels.

Zebra ThermaLock 4000D Labels feature the following specifications:

• Direct thermal, premium, silver polypropylene label with a permanent acrylic adhesive.
• Resistant to most chemicals.
• Up to 18 months outdoor exposure.
• Prints well at speeds up to 6 in/sec.
• Meets FDA 175.105 for indirect food contact requirements.
• Currently available in silver (10022704RM).

Here are some suggested applications for Zebra ThermaLock labels:

• Labeling of packaging material including corrugate, plastic, glass, and metal.
• Use in lawn and garden centers.
• Short term outdoor labeling.
• Compliance labeling
• Work in process labeling
• Laboratory labeling
• Replacement of thermal transfer labeling applications

In short, these labels can be used in place of thermal transfer labels.

They do NOT require a ribbon. The label material is synthetic (polypropylene), which means that it is more durable than a paper label. These labels are resistant to chemicals and outdoor exposure, which means that you can use them in rugged outdoor applications.

Currently, the Zebra ThermaLock 4000D label is available in custom sizes.

This means that there are no stock options available; your labels will be custom-made for your application.

An end user will have the option of picking the dimensions of the label, as well as the core size.

The Zebra ThermaLock 4000D Label is Zebra’s solution for end users who need a mobile printer with thermal transfer printing capabilities.

You will save time AND money by using Zebra ThermaLock Labels.

Zebra ThermaLock Labels do not require printer ribbons. This means that you will not need to order or install ribbons into your printers. You will save time.

Zebra ThermaLock Labels can be used in lieu of thermal transfer labels for a variety of applications. You will NOT need to spend money on printer ribbons. You will save money.

Save money by eliminating thermal transfer labels!

How to Get a Free Quote

At PLS, custom media is our specialty.

This means that we have the knowledge and resources to produce your custom media job in the quickest manner possible.

In addition, we have a close working relationship with Zebra Technologies. We can provide samples of media for you, as well as address any questions or concerns that you might have.

If you’re interested in receiving a free quote for Zebra ThermaLock labels, simply call us at 1-888-458-1078, or send us a detailed email at info@professionallabelsolutions.com.

One of our reps will be happy to help you with the ordering process.

What Are You Waiting For?

Are you interested in saving money for your business?

Are you sick and tired of the time consuming process of thermal transfer printing?

Why subject yourself to the outdated process of thermal transfer printing when there is a cost-effective alternative?

It’s time to embrace the future.

It’s time to switch to Zebra ThermaLock 4000D Labels.

Your #1 Source for Printers, Printer Media, Software, and Accessories.