SubscribeAre you suffering from the Bar Code Blues?
There is no doubting the necessity of having bar codes that scan reliably: it's producing them that can be the headache.
Bar Code Printing for Reliable Scanning
Here's our step by step guide to ensuring that rejects become a thing of the past.
- Get everything working in your favour.
For a start, clean the printhead. There are various methods, but probably the most satisfactory is a wipe sealed in its own pouch as it's a known quantity, can be placed on the end of the finger to access every part of the head and will show how much dirt has been removed. Just be sure not to touch the part that is going to do the cleaning.
Secondly, change the reel of ribbon - it's the only way to guarantee what grade is being used and also that it is as fresh as it can be (ribbon will degrade quite quickly if subjected to heat while on the printer). If there is any doubt about the quality of the label reel, change that as well. - Take a closer look
This may sound obvious, but it's hard to really judge the quality of a printed code with the naked eye. Viewing the image through even the simplest of magnifying glasses can reveal much about what's going on.
Ask yourself the following questions:
1. Are the edges of the code razor sharp?
2. Are there any thin white lines consistent with pixel failure?
3. Is the quality of print the same from top to bottom and from left to right
4. Are the bars 100% black or do they look grainy? - Making adjustments
These are the adjustments that it's likely can be made to improve print quality:
1. Contrast, Darkness, Density. Call it what you will, but it's the amount of heat used to make the print. The greater the heat, the darker the print - up to a point! If the bars start to take on a "milky" appearance there's probably too much. In addition, too much heat will cause the edges of the bars to "bleed" leading to a poorer scan rating.
2. Speed. There may be little choice of speed if the printer is having to keep pace with the production line, but altering the speed can improve print quality. A lower speed would be the usual choice, but some ribbons perform better if run faster.
3. Printhead pressure and position. To achieve a good print the head needs to be pressed firmly onto the label and needs to be at the correct position relative to the platen plate or roller. Before making any adjustments always be sure to mark the parts so that the original position can be returned to. - Ribbon
As integral a part of the system as any of the hardware, the ribbon needs to be of the correct grade both for the type of printhead employed and also for the material being printed onto. Changing the grade can make a big difference to the print quality and independent suppliers, such as Rotech, can offer a range of grades from different manufacturers to ensure the best, most cost effective, one is being used.
Alternatively, give Rotech a call on 01707 393700 and we'll talk you through it