As high resolution printing technology continues to grow, one issue that often comes up is the differences between the Sauven 500 and your standard TIJ (Thermal Ink Jet) variety. To truly understand how much more sophisticated the Sauven 500, it is imperative that we compare the actual printing features and capabilities of each:

• Ink Per Cartridge: As with many things, size does matter. Or, in this case, capacity. Thermal Ink Jet cartridges range from a standard 35 to 45 mL of ink. Sauven 500 ink cartridges, on the other hand, hold 110 mL. That is two to three times the size of TIJ capacity.

• Ink Usage: The amount of ink that a printer’s cartridge can hold doesn’t make much of a difference if a good amount of it is being wasted. With the Sauven 500 printer, you’ll get 180 dpi with 80 pL per dot. This equals out to 2,592,000 pL for one square inch. A TIJ, on the other hand, delivers 300 dpi with 30 pL per dot. This translates to 2,700,000 pL per square inch.

• Ink Cartridge Price: Despite wanting the best print quality needed for a specific type of application, companies are almost always concerned with price in conjunction with high resolution printing. In addition to the cost of the printer itself, you must consider the price of the ink cartridges. For example, the Sauven 500 cartridge costs less than a Thermal Ink Jet type, especially when you consider the differences in capacity and ink use. In real numbers, you will typically save more than 60% with the Sauven 500 cartridges.

• Print Resolution: With TIJ, you’re looking at three types of dpi: 300 x 300, 600 x 300, and 600 x 600. These ranges allow for everything from desktop printing to ultra high resolution printing and marking. For standard coding and marking, however, the Sauven 500′s 180 x 180 dpi capability is ideal for most needs.

• Print Height: This difference will stand out where visibility of labels is concerned. When printing is done using a Thermal Ink Jet, the height is 12.5mm. With the Sauven 500, the print height is greater, at 18mm.

In Summary
As you can see from the above, when it comes to high resolution printing needs, the Sauven 500 outclasses the standard Thermal Ink Jet printers. Here is how these features can affect your business:

• The lower price of the Sauven 500′s cartridges will improve your bottom line. The higher your printing quantity, the more you will save.

• With the higher-capacity cartridges, coupled with its lower ink usage, the lower-priced Sauven 500 cartridges will actually last longer than TIJ ones.

• In a fast paced world, where it is important to identify products as quickly and efficiently as possible, larger labels win out. The 18mm cartridges will allow your employees, shipping companies, clients, etc. to identify a box’s contents more easily.

• Print resolution is on everyone’s mind, and this is why the Sauven 500 stands out. Whether your printing and marking needs require standard or high resolution, the Sauven 500 is ideal for your needs.

If your company has a specific need for its products that doesn’t fit precisely in the norm, you might be in the market for a more specialized labeling system. One such device is the Re-Pack Three Panel Labeling Applicator. This device, as the name suggests, allows for simultaneous labeling of three sides on a square or rectangular container. To better understand how this system works, let’s take a look at some of its features:

• Semi-Automatic Operation: Similar to other labeling systems, once the machine has been prepped with the labels and containers to fit your labeling needs, the operation becomes semi-automatic in nature.

• Simple Operation: Once the product to be labeled is properly aligned is in position, the unit’s conveyer moves it to the pre-dispensed label. The label is dispensed across the conveyor and held in place by “saloon door” style wipes with air assist. The label is then applied on the front of the container, than secondary wipes apply it to the two sides. This operation is smooth and quick, and doesn’t require any further action.

• Single Panel Option: The Re-Pack Three Panel Labeling Applicator can be designed to quickly converted to allow for a single panel or wrap label application.

• Advanced Controls: A Series 4 microprocessor controls the label applicator, and is coupled with a product speed following package (w/ encoder) and speed ratio adjustments.

• Stainless Steel-Sided Conveyor: This rugged conveyor comes in standard lengths between six and ten feet, and specialized lengths are also available.

• Simple Changeovers: Guide rails use a locking knob for any adjustments, which doesn’t require any type of tool in order for label or product changes to be made.

• Available Options: Depending on your company’s requirements, the Re-Pack Three Panel Labeling Applicator can be equipped with a date/lot coder, in-feed timing screws, variable speed wrap station, clear label sensor and mounting brackets, alarm and inspection packages, and other options to meet your needs.

In Review
Labeling systems can run the gamut when it comes to features and fit for your need. If you have a somewhat unusual need, one that doesn’t fit neatly into a standard type of system, the Re-Pack Three Panel Labeling Applicator might be exactly what you need. With this system, your company will enjoy the following benefits:

• The simple operation of the Re-Pack Three Panel Labeling Applicator provides an easy-to-use labeling experience that keeps problems or delays to a bare minimum.

• If your company needs one, two or three panel applications, the unit can be designed to be switched between these options, as needed.

• By utilizing microprocessor controls, the Three Panel Labeling Applicator can be quickly adjusted in accordance with spacing and speed requirements.

• The stainless steel-sided conveyor comes in standard lengths of 6-10 feet, but can be delivered with specialized lengths, per your company’s needs.

• Guide rails that don’t require a tool for adjustment allow for quick changeovers.
• Additional options that include a date/lot coder, in-feed timing screws, variable speed wrap station, clear label sensor and alarm and inspection packages, provide a wide range of flexibility.

That’s where the Re-Pack Table Top Tamp labeling system can come into play. If you have a unique labeling need, you should check out these features:

• Semi-Automatic Operation:  The Re-Pack Table Top Tamp features a semi-automatic operation. Simply place the product into a holding fixture, move it into place, and touch a button. That’s all there is to it. Plus, you have the choice of a fixture-mounted micro switch product detection to avoid that pesky “push of a button” step.

• Perfect for Unusual Shapes: Not every package can fit into a universal system. While many companies have perfectly square packages that normal labeling systems can easily handle, this doesn’t describe every need.

• Versatility: With standard features such as removable tamp pads and adjustable product fixtures, the Table Top Tamp provides versatility to the end-user.

• Low Cost: When compared to a fully automated labeling systems with similar physical attributes and design features, the Table Top Tamp provides a low-cost choice.

• Simple Installation: This system provides an “out of the box” setup, with an installation that can be done without any experience with similar labeling systems.

• Tamper Evident Version: If your company has the need to apply “tamper evident” labels, you can choose to purchase a Table Top Tamp with this capability. With a head mounted at an angle and a “V” style application pad, a security label can be applied to a pair of panels simultaneously.

• Rugged Support Base: The support base of the Re-Pack Table Top Tamp features a heavy duty construction that ensures stability during its use.

• Going Mobile: A floor height  base with locking casters is available. This provides the option of making the Table Top Tamp mobile.

In Summary
If your company is searching for a solution to label an unusual product or package that won’t break the bank, the Re-Pack Table Top Tamp may be a perfect fit. If you utilize this system, these are the benefits you’ll enjoy:

• Easy installation allows first time buyers and labeling novices the opportunity to utilize a machine without a complex and time-consuming setup.

• The lower cost of the Re-Pack Table Top Tamp makes the machine a very accessible option when sifting through the plethora of labeling systems available on the market.

• If your company produces items that are unusual in shape and in need of labeling, this unit may be a perfect fit. Of course, if you have standard square boxes, those will work perfectly as well.

• In accordance with the semi-automatic nature of the system, the Re-Pack Table Top Tamp provides an operation that always meets the feed rate of the operator and can be adjusted to work with either the single touch of a button or by way of product detection.

• This well-built system is solidly constructed, all the way down to the rugged construction of its support base, which provides the perfect stability.

• A “Tamper Evident” version of the Re-Pack Table Top Tamp allows for the option of applying security labels to the products that require it.

• Between its exchangeable tamp pads and customizable product fixtures, in addition to other standard features; versatility is the key component of the system.

• The option of mobility provides additional flexibility by mounting it on a mobile base on locking casters.

The Sauven 6000 series of printers was designed to take care of all your high resolution printing needs and then some. This system, along with other Sauven models, stands as a testament to what the packaging industry can truly do with an advanced piece of hardware. The Sauven 6000 series is a great alternative to CIJ (Continuous Ink Jet) due to its ease of use and simplified maintenance benefits. To further illustrate this point, let’s take a closer look:

• Simplicity vs. Complexity: When utilizing a printer, no one wants one that is complex in nature. In fact, the easier the better. One of the big drawbacks of a Continuous Ink Jet (CIJ) printer is how complex it must be. The best way to see this for yourself is to simply take a look at the wiring and plumbing involved. Whereas the Sauven 6000 is streamlined, the CIJ seems to be a bit of a cluttered mess.

• Components: Hand-in-hand with its overall simplicity, the Sauven 6000 has fewer components. For example, it doesn’t use a pump in its operation. Nor does it have a separate controller, external communication cables, or external ink tubing. Its only components are 1 PCB, 1 cable, and the print head. With few components to worry about, there will be fewer maintenance issues that crop up.

• Maintenance Needs: If both the Sauven 6000 and Continuous Inkjet Printers needed maintenance on the same schedule, then it’s possible that their costs might run about the same. The key element here, though, is that they’re not the same. Continuous Inkjet Printers come with different levels of servicing, depending on which contract you choose. If you have any problems, hundreds of technicians throughout the United States are available to you and you will need to call them for service and help. Yes, that is a great selling point for those types of systems. However, the Sauven 6000 has been proven to simply not need a great deal of maintenance. As previously mentioned, the Sauven 6000 has fewer components. This translates to fewer malfunctions or other issues, which means there is a much lower chance that this system will need any kind of maintenance.

• Routine and Scheduled Maintenance: In order to stay in line with the CIJ’s service contract, you must submit your unit to both routine and scheduled maintenance. Routine maintenance typically includes basic inspection and cleaning, whereas scheduled maintenance is required to be completed by a technician. For the Sauven 6000, on the other hand, the only recommendation is to change your filter once a year, which costs around $150.00.

In Review
While the Sauven 6000 and Continuous Ink Jet printers both offer great benefits, the Sauven system is the better investment. Here’s a quick run-down of its benefits:

• Simpler Design: No one likes to utilize a complex system. CIJ printers seem to almost revel in their complexity, whereas the Sauven 6000 is much simpler and more straightforward.

• Fewer Components: With only three primary components, the Sauven 6000 presents a much smaller chance of a problem developing with the system.

• Lower use of contracts: Service contracts are great, but what’s even better? Never needing to have one in the first place.

• Less Need for Maintenance: While you should definitely take care of your system to the best of your abilities, knowing that routine or scheduled maintenance is absolutely minimized with the Sauven 6000 will help you sleep easier at night.

Photo Credit: Generationbass.com via Flickr

Let’s take a look at some of the powerful features you’ll find with the Sauven 500 and its high resolution printing capabilities:

• Variety of Surfaces: The Sauven 500 can print and code on a variety of surfaces. High resolution printing is possible on porous elements, such as cardboard, wood, and paper. This makes it an ideal choice when printing on boxes, trays, and cartons.

• Multiple Printing Options: Designed to offer multiple options depending on your company’s specific needs, this unit can print text, logos, time/date, linear barcodes and data matrix codes and incrementing codes also.

• Large Print: High resolution printing can be accomplished for up to eight lines, within a total maximum print height of 18mm. This will allow you the choice of providing better readability of your codes.

• Easy-to-use On-Screen Control: Certain controls can be found on the Sauven 500′s screen, such as printer width, direction, and message delay. These controls are simple to understand, which means any required changes during printing can be made without interrupting your workflow.

• Easy-to-use Software: The Sauven Pro software was created with the end-user in mind, making tasks such as importing graphics and laying out barcodes quick and easy. This Windows-based software provides a variety of custom options, including multi language support, and you don’t have to be a computer whiz to make it do exactly what you need.

• Sizable Ink Capacity: With ink cartridges that hold 110 mL of ink, coupled with an ink saver mode and the option of “outline” fonts, the operation of the Sauven 500 has multiple ways to help your company save money.

• Flexible Font Options: The Sauven 500 provides True Type fonts with Unicode support. This means that printing can be accomplished with any font and/or language you desire.

• Standalone Capability: If you have no need to connect your system to a network, it can function as a standalone unit. This is accomplished by the transfer of messages from the Sauven Pro software via a USB stick.

• Network Connectivity: Although the unit can be used as a standalone high resolution printing system, PC connectivity can be utilized by the use of either a USB or Ethernet cable. This gives you the option of easily integrating it into your existing network.

In Summary

The Sauven 500 is designed as a low-cost unit that delivers high quality work and a number of high resolution printing options. Here’s a quick run-down of the performance you can expect:

• Designed to provide low-cost printing and coding in high quality.

• The use of a large capacity ink cartridge, along with additional efficiency options, lower the amount of ink being used which, in turn, saves money on high resolution printing needs.

• Perfect for high resolution printing on porous surfaces, whether you need printing and coding on boxes, trays, or cartons.

• With the use of True Type fonts and a print height maxing out at 18mm, you can be sure that the Sauven 500 is ready for any printing needs that your company requires.

• Ease-of use is the name of the game. The unit’s screen can easily change printing options (printing speed, direction, and message delay), and the Sauven Pro software utilizes a user-friendly interface, allowing you to customize every aspect of your printing needs.

Here are some key benefits related to this type of mobile technology that has increased operational efficiencies by allowing users to print and attach bar code labels directly at the point of application:

• Reduce human error by further automating more of the process of barcode printing on cartons;
• Streamline operations through using mobile printers to effectively offer more barcode printing applications throughout a company, reducing the need for extra equipment or even operators;
• Enhance flexibility in the printing environment because mobile barcode printing can adapt to numerous applications and production line layouts thanks to wireless technology and wireless networking capability;
• Eliminate costs that are the direct result of having to maintain stationery positions for barcode printing that may lead to greater labor costs or other overhead expenses that can be eliminated in a mobile and even wireless environment;
• Add productivity by decreasing the travel time necessary to pick up labels between stations or areas of a warehouse or operation by bringing the labels to the stations thanks to the mobile printing capability; and
• Realize a return on investment, which is often achieved within a year.

When warehouse workers can wear these mobile printers on a belt or strap or even add them to a cart or forklift, they can proficiently barcode cartons on the fly. Of course, the design of the mobile printer is important. For example, the position of the display and controls as well as the weight and size of the printer device must be something that is convenient, portable, and easy to work with to ensure proper and accurate barcode printing on cartons.

Of course, even with such benefits, a company must still select a mobile barcode printer model that is conducive to their operations in terms of the moisture and temperature environment as well as the type of carton material that the barcode is being printed on to ensure high-quality, long-lasting output. Typically, these mobile printers use direct-thermal media and accept a wide range of ticket, tag, and label stock, making them very efficient.

In Summary
In summarizing how to make barcode printing on cartons more efficient, here are some key points to remember:

• The use of mobile printers has added efficiency for distribution centers, industrial environments, and warehouses by reducing human error, streamlining operations, enhancing flexibility, eliminating costs, adding productivity and realizing a fairly quick return on investment.
• The ability to wear the mobile printer or attach it to a cart or forklift speeds the ability to get barcodes on cartons quickly.
• It is important to select a mobile printer that is conducive to the moisture and temperature environment as well as to the carton material and media used, such as tags, tickets, or labels.

1.     Shape: One way to stand out is to use a different label shape than the competition, which may mean moving beyond the typical round, square or rectangular format. You could consider something unique like a diamond or heart, if appropriate to your product type and your brand image. You can also find specific printing equipment that offers custom shapes to assure your item is different than all the rest. You can also create an interesting label by using a traditional shape but printing a secondary color on it in a different shape, such as a rectangular label with a diamond shape within it.

2.     Color: Since consumers are drawn to all things visual, color is critical to a unique display label. However, it doesn’t just mean using something bright like a neon green or hot pink just to get attention. Colors like red and yellow are known to psychologically stimulate buyers, but those still may not be appropriate for what you are trying to convey. The coloring on your label is important in terms of being product appropriate as well as blending with your brand’s image. The label color must also coordinate with the package color whether it is a bottle, tube, or cardboard box. To further hone your color decision, do some competitive analysis by checking out what the competition is doing so your label design is decidedly different in the best possible way.

3.     Logos: In creating a memorable brand, which also helps consumers pick your product over another one, the brand image often is made up of a logo. As previously noted, consumers are visual so if they have a picture to remember you by, they will reach for your product when they see it. The label is the best place to promote your logo and create a consistent representation of what you stand for across product lines and promotional materials. Logos can evoke emotion so make the most of this opportunity. And, ensure the logo mark is prominent so consumers can recognize it as they pass by or scan the shelves.

In Summary

In summarizing the key creative ideas for a unique display label, remember these points:

• Step outside of traditional shapes for something different by creating a label that shape or incorporating a shape imprint on a traditionally shaped label.
• Go with a color that outdoes the competition and catches the consumer eye without veering too far away from your brand image, color of the package or container, or aesthetic look that is considered pleasing.
• Generate a memorable logo that is big enough to catch the eye of consumers who scan the shelves for something they may remember as being connected to high quality and value.

Photo Credit: Tsahi Levent-Levi via Flickr

With so many types of automatic label applicators now available, it may seem difficult to know which one would work best for your particular industry and specific product line. Here’s a bit of insight on three applicators that you may want to consider.

• The AccuWrap Wrap Labeling System is a line of equipment that is designed to wrap pressure sensitive labels around round-shaped products. By adding a modified wrap station and pressure plate, the machine can also label square and oval containers. The system can be customized with a many options to suit your particular needs, including in-feed handling devices, high speed drive packages, and bottle inspection systems. Benefits for this particular system involve making adjustments to labels and label placement without interrupting the machine’s operation as well as tool-less label changeover and minor adjustments.
• The Pharma Wrap Labeling System has been designed with the pharmaceutical and health care industries in mind. To meet stringent requirements, this automatic label applicators system has been built to the most rigid standards. It includes an extended applicator arm for mounting coders and inspection devices. The in-feed section of the conveyor is flat-sided so that rotary tables and tray feeders can be easily integrated. Additionally, the out-feed of the conveyor has been extended to accept an eject station and product verification systems. The standard mounting arm can hold such additional items as an optional hot stamp or thermal transfer coder, bar code reader, inspection camera and strobe light.
• The Automatic Top and Bottom Labeling System comes in a wide range of formats, Including complete systems that include conveyors and transport belts or semi-automatic top or bottom labelers.. To assist some applications within the food industry, top and bottom conveyor systems can help by using a labeling head that is mounted over top for the top label and then another label that is fed up through a small gap in the conveyors to apply the label up and onto the bottom of the product. Generally the conveyor system is used for more pliable containers. Another option is a dual hugger belt system, which works effectively for those small rigid container products that are too unstable to be transported and labeled on a conveyor by using dual hugger belts to keep the product in place for proper top and bottom label application. The semi-automatic top or bottom labelers use a base and platform that have labeling heads mounted on a stand so that labels can be affixed to the top or bottom of a product.

In Review
In reviewing three potential automatic label applicators for you to consider for your products:

• The AccuWrap Wrap Labeling System is effective for pressure sensitive labels for round, square, and oval containers.
• The Pharma Wrap Labeling System is designed for the pharmaceutical and health care industries.
• The Automatic Top and Bottom Labeling Systems comes in any formats to handle all types of products that require top and bottom labels, especially those within the food and consumer  goods industries.

Here are some tell-tale signs your coder machine equipment is due for maintenance:

• Poor print quality: When you are used to seeing a certain level of print quality from your machine and then suddenly the output looks too large, faded, or is not appearing in alignment. There are a number of maintenance issues that could be to blame. This includes checking the print unit or supplies that are used to the printing. The service personnel in charge of the machine can consult the coder’s operation manual for troubleshooting and instructions on how to execute maintenance the coder in this situation so the print quality can be restored.
• Nothing prints: An even worse sign that maintenance is a priority is when there is no print that shows up on the material that you are trying to code on. There may be an issue with specific parts within the coder, including a distance between the printing head and the material that needs coding. Print heads and their temperature will also need to be checked by a service professional that can then make the adjustments that will get the coder back to printing properly. Note: the matching of the printing material (hot stamp and thermal transfer ribbons etc.) to the substrate to be printed is very important – not all printing materials work with all substrates or coatings.
• Parts not moving: The coder machine equipment may simply not be operating because internal parts are not receiving the power necessary to put the components in motion. This means checking the power source or air flow to see if there are interruptions or blockages. There may be some cleaning as part of the maintenance as well. Again, it is important to consult the coder manual for recommendations on how to troubleshoot parts that may not be moving or see assistance from the manufacturer.

In Summary
In reviewing how you can tell if your coder machine may need maintenance, remember these key points:

• There is poor print quality because the print unit or supplies used to do the printing need replacement or maintenance.
• Nothing prints because the components are not aligned and need to be readjusted so that the printing head and material to be coded can come in contact to make the printing process work.
• Parts are not moving because of a lack of power or air flow as well as the possibility of some type of blockage.
• In all cases, it is best to consult the coder manual, seek the assistance of a service professional, or consult with the manufacturer.

Date Coding Defined
Coding is defined as the process of using a combination of numbers, letters, and/or images as a way to identify product information about a specific product that is then marked onto the container or packaging. Part of this product information would be a date, which could be an expiration date if it is a perishable item like food or a beverage, for example. Or, it could be a date that helps track production and delivery as part of supply chain management.

It’s Required
If your business needs to work with dates, especially in relation to mandated requirements that state you must print them on a package, then you need a date coder. Requirements with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) are increasing in terms of what type of date and other information should be included for each product type, as well as how this data should be placed so that it’s in a prominent location. This may mean changing the way you had previously included this information on product packaging.

For many companies, new regulations are requiring equipment upgrades to ensure compliance. Today’s breed of date coder machines can add dates and other codes to all types of target materials, including glass, plastic, metal, film or fiber-based boxes or cases.

A Competitive Advantage
Not only will this type of equipment help you meet new requirements, but it could also provide a way to gain a marketplace edge by putting your item above the rest of the market in terms of presentation/shelving, delivery, reliability and other merchandising concerns. That’s because these machines employ innovative technological advancements that provide a higher level of accuracy, also producing more consistency no matter what the batch size or run length.

Market and Strategy Changes
Modern date coders are highly sophisticated machines that may do more than your business requires right now, but needs change in line with fluctuating coding requirements, volume expectations, and packaging materials and sizes. Therefore, installing a scalable machine like this now will help you address future needs without making further large capital investments.

In Review
In reviewing the main reasons why you need a date coder for your business, here is a summary of the main ideas:

• It’s a requirement that you need to put dates on your products.
• It allows you to be more flexible with where you put dates or what type of packaging you can use.
• It offers a competitive advantage in terms of presentation, delivery, and reliability.
• It addresses future market and strategy changes now so you can respond quickly.

Photo Credit: StuartBannocks via Flickr