Zebra launches internal wireless card socket for networked barcode printers

Vernon Hills, Ill. – To help manufacturers relocate and reconnect networked bar code label printers faster, Zebra Technologies Corp. introduced Jan. 8 its ZebraNet wireless card socket, which aids industrial networking applications with multi-card compatibility. With internal integration, simple configuration and upgrade flexibility, ZebraNet reportedly simplifies set-up, management and monitoring of printer products.

The company reports that ZebraNet is the first RF option for tabletop bar code printers. This new card socket aids configuration of Zebra’s high-performance XiIII series printers and R-140 RFID printer/encoders on 802.11b or Symbol Spectrum 24 wireless Ethernet networks. ZebraNet is compatible with six radio LAN cards, in PCMCIA format, from major manufacturers, including Lucent Technologies, Symbol Technologies and Cisco Systems. As a result, ZebraNet gives system administrators the flexibility to easily move printers to any location in a facility, avoiding typical reconfiguration hassles and additional costs.

‘This wireless card socket revolutionizes the way tabletop bar code printers are configured,’ says Matt Banach, Zebra’s product manager for wireless networking systems. ‘End-users no longer have to deal with the hassles of reconfiguring their networks when moving a manufacturing line or relocating printers. Our customers can move their tabletop bar code printers to any location in their facilities virtually without downtime.’

ZebraNet’s internal integration eliminates the need for a bulky wireless bridge and external power supply, and also supports a wide range of networking protocols. The product is field-upgradeable, allowing users the flexibility to change cards if the company’s wireless network configuration changes. In addition, the wireless card socket includes a comprehensive administration and configuration software package.

In addition, ZebraNet’s Java utility is designed to automate setup from a Microsoft Windows or UNIX-based computer by locating new printers on the wireless network, and then assigning each an IP address, all from a standard web browser. ‘Enhanced connectivity, including internal Ethernet and RF networking, is the next phase in the evolution of bar code label printing,’ says Jeff Kaufman, Zebra’s director of wireless network solutions.

Do you have experience and expertise with the topics mentioned in this content? You should consider contributing to our CFE Media editorial team and getting the recognition you and your company deserve. Click here to start this process.