IoP Journal
The radio frequency identification (RFID) market is booming in Brazil, also due to the growth that e-commerce has been experiencing, especially stimulated by the Covid-19 pandemic. The information is part of the exclusive interview that Vanderlei Ferreira, CEO of the Brazilian subsidiary of Zebra Technologies, granted this Wednesday, September 23, 2020, to IoP Journal Brasil.
The Brazilian RFID scenario will be part of the group of discussions “RFID & IoT in Brasil”, to be held next week, at RFID Journal Virtually LIVE! Those interested in participating in the panel on Thursday, October 1st, from 2:00 pm to 3:00 pm (Brasília time), must register for the RFID Journal Virtually LIVE! and click on the link Grupo de Discussão (Portuguese language). The talk will be coordinated by journalist Edson Perin, editor of IoP Journal Brasil. The full RFID Journal Virtually LIVE! it will be between September 30th and October 1st.
Watch the full interview (in Portuguese) with Vanderlei Ferreira, president of Zebra Brasil:
Another highlight of the RFID Journal Virtually LIVE! for Brazil will be the lecture, in English, by the editor of the IoP Journal Brasil. “As in every year, I will have this space to talk about innovations and business opportunities at the event”, says Edson Perin. “This time, I will address the opportunities that exist for the RFID world in the market of the so called Internet of Packaging, which encompasses smart packaging (Smart Packaging) and increasingly intelligent and active supply chains.” To attend the lecture Breakthroughs in Smart Packaging: Revolutionizing the Link Between Manufacturers and Consumers, you must register for the event (click here).
Returning the focus to Zebra, the company outlined seven factors that should be considered when buying a commercial label printer. As a first step, each customer must determine their real needs and evaluate the options available on the market. In addition, it is important to note three questions: why buy such a printer? Where will it be used? And what is the real purpose?
If the company is looking to optimize its operations, making them more productive, or if it is starting an internal scanning process – in order to have greater visibility and traceability in real time -, the purchase of this type of equipment is correct . And then, from now on, it is essential to have specialized suppliers who will guide each step of the process – choice, installation and use. These professionals also assist in the correct identification of the company’s needs – it can be an industrial, desktop printer, or even a printer of personal identification cards.
Once these questions are clarified, other aspects must be analyzed to achieve a successful strategy that meets the objectives initially defined. Zebra Technologies shares some points that can help in this path, check below:
- Rapid implementation
Time is a resource that cannot be recovered, so if the choice is for a computer with easy setup and simple connection to a mobile device, the processes to be corrected will return and improve quickly. In this case, the chosen printer must offer an application that guides the configuration step by step, without the need for specific technical knowledge. - Ease of use
When talking about “easy to use” equipment, it should be understood as’ less frustration and less waste of time. In this case, it is recommended to choose printers that use color-coded touch points and that include internal diagrams; that way, even a beginner can maintain and use it correctly. In addition, it is important to pay attention to components, such as the printhead pressure adjustment buttons and supply sensors, and to verify that they are designed to simplify operation. Of course, it is worth researching videos or good support channels on the internet to resolve any errors quickly. - Effortless device management
A commercial label printer must have a device that can be monitored and updated over the internet, which means time savings. In addition, remote access also offers an immediate view of the printer’s performance status, ensuring longer uptime. This device also allows you to verify that the printer offers an encrypted connection to the cloud so that it can be connected directly and securely to applications running on it. - Accounting and support
In addition to ensuring that the printer is designed to withstand dirt, dust, heat, cold and humidity, understanding maintenance and support options is vital. Consideration of printers supported by trusted global organizations can improve workflow. The ideal is to buy equipment that does not require tools to replace defective parts, or that allows you to easily replace the same parts used. - Flexibility in the face of change
Technology is constantly evolving, as are printing needs, so it is very common nowadays to use bar codes. In the near future, most likely, the use of RFID will be necessary. That is why it is important to invest in a printer that was designed to adapt to changes and that allows you to add new features. The inclusion of slots, for example, is very welcome, since new communication ports may be added. It is also useful to choose a printer that offers supply management options (for example, a label cutter or separator) that can be installed in the field or that has a good accessory ecosystem to enhance the user experience. - Integrated security
The increase in the number of connected devices means that there are more and more access points to the organization’s infrastructure, and the same happens with printers. Therefore, strengthening security is essential. Printers that offer deep layers of integrated security, from encryption to preventive tools and proactive measures, can be used to protect systems. - Supply quality
Whether for an industrial, desktop or ID card printer, it is important to have the right supplies that do not generate high costs and that guarantee print quality, durability and reading performance, reducing the wear of the print heads.
Finally, according to Zebra, the brand should be considered. Choosing a business partner that has a consolidated reputation in the high quality printer segment can make a difference and offer reliability. Some suppliers offer several brands and others work with a single manufacturer. It is recommended to choose a supplier who takes the time to fully understand your needs and who offers the right solutions.
Whether for a large company or a startup, in the current context and with increasing levels of demand, companies must think about investing in technology that will bring greater competitive advantage. Making the right decision helps to save time and costs in managing, repairing or troubleshooting. That is why it is important to buy a business label printer that allows you to achieve business goals and without major setbacks.
