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What is direct thermal printing and how do I choose a printer?

by Paul Kazlauskas

Direct thermal printing uses a thermal print head that applies heat to the surface being printed. This type of printing uses chemically treated, heat-sensitive labels or paper that blacken when they pass under the thermal print head. Unlike with thermal transfer printing, no ribbon is used in direct thermal printing. Direct thermal printers also don’t use ink or toner. Because of this, direct thermal printers can’t print in color.

Direct thermal images may fade over time, usually after about 6 months. If the label is overexposed to heat or light, the material will darken and make anything printed unreadable. For these reasons, direct thermal printing is not used for lifetime identification applications. The readability of direct thermal labels varies greatly, depending on the usage conditions. However, the technology provides an ample lifespan for many common printing applications including visitor identification, shipping labels, receipts, and ticket printing.

Direct thermal printers are very simple in their design. Most printers consist of a Thermal Head (generates heat and prints on paper), a Platen (a rubber roller that feeds the paper), a Spring (applies pressure to the thermal head), and Controller Boards (for controlling the printer). Direct thermal printers are fairly durable, easy to use, and affordable. Because there is no ribbon, direct thermal printers cost less to operate than inkjet, laser, impact, and thermal transfer printers. Most mobile printers use direct thermal technology. Direct thermal printing is an inexpensive way to print labels or badges that are for temporary use. If you need a label to last longer than 6 months, a thermal transfer printer should be considered.

Now that you know what direct thermal printing is, here are some things to consider before purchasing a direct thermal printer…

• How many labels will be printed per day? If over 500 per day, an industrial printer should be purchased. If less than 500 per day, a small table-top printer should be fine.
• What size label do I need to print? Some printers can’t handle large labels. Have an idea of your output desired before purchasing a printer. 
• What will be printed on the labels? 
• How do you wish to connect the printer? For networks that run several printers, an Ethernet connection is preferred. Otherwise, using a wireless or USB connection should be fine.
• Will the printer have access to a computer? 

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Posted on 2/16/2015