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Zebra ZT231 Industrial Printer
Zebra ZT231 is the latest printer in Zebra’s famous ZT200 industrial printer series. The model was launched in July 2022.
ZT231 replaces the older ZT230 model and comes with some new features. ZT231 label printer is intelligently engineered to offer a wide range of features at a competitive price.
Zebra ZT231 mid-range label printer comes with a durable metal frame, making it ideal for light industrial environments. It features a bi-fold media door contributing to its space-saving footprint and sleek design.
The printer comes with an intuitive large color touchscreen. It has a new architecture and media handling features that are cable of processing more print jobs at once.
ZT231 industrial printer runs on LinkOS, which is Zebra’s proprietary operating system. LinkOS gives ZT231 access to Zebra’s robust Print DNA, a suite of applications that makes it easier to deploy, manage, and maintain your Zebra printers.
ZT231 is a great choice for industrial applications like manufacturing and retail that requires label and barcode printing. It comes with high-resolution print quality and fast print speeds. Zebra ZT231 supports both thermal transfer and direct thermal printing methods.
ZT231 Printers
Variants
Zebra ZT231 comes in two variants.
- ZT231
- ZT231R
Zebra ZT231 is the standard model, and Zebra ZT231R is the RFID-ready variant.
RFID stands for Radio-Frequency Identification. RFID is a wireless communication technology that uses electromagnetic fields to identify and track tags attached to objects.
Zebra ZT231R comes with an integrated Zebra RE40 RFID reader/encoder. RE40 RFID reader/encoder supports UHF EPC Gen 2 V2, ISO/IEC 18000 -63, and RAIN RFID protocols.
Moreover, the Zebra ZT231R label printer also includes Adaptive Encoding Technology. This technology automatically selects optimum encode settings based on your applications. The printer can print and encode tags with a minimum pitch of 0.6 inches (16mm).
Features
Durable Construction
Zebra ZT231 barcode label printers are designed for light industrial applications. They feature a metallic frame and metal enclosures. This gives the printers a rugged construction that can withstand occasional bumps and drops.
Overall Design and Physical Overview
Zebra ZT231 label printers have a small footprint and future-forward design. It has a bi-fold door that reduces the height needed to open the printer. The printer’s side-loading path makes loading media and ribbon easier.
On the front of the printer has five color-coded LED status indicators, three operational buttons, and a paper exit chute.
The status indicators are located above the display. These indicators help you keep an eye on the printer’s operational status and take necessary actions. The five color-coded LED indicators are:
- Status light – Shows if the printer is ready to take up print jobs
- Pause light – Indicates that the printer is paused
- Data light – Shows that the data is being transferred
- Supplies light – Indicates the status of consumables like ribbon and media
- Network light – Indicates active network connection
Operational buttons are located below the display. These buttons are.
- Pause button – Used to start or stop printer operations
- Feed button – Used to feed blank label
- Cancel button – Used to cancel print jobs
The glass window on the left side of the body provides a clear view of the printing process and makes it easy to monitor if the labels are being fed correctly.
Connectivity ports and power sockets are located at the back of the printer.
Intuitive Colored Display
The touch-enabled 4.3-inch full-colored display is the primary interface to configure printer settings, preview label designs, and monitor printer status.
The display can also be used to access setup wizards and helpful how-to videos. These videos include step-by-step instructions for common tasks like installing the ribbon and media.
Videos reduce training time and make it easy for first-time users to get started with the printer.
The display on the device supports input from a finger, gloved hand, or a stylus.
Performance
Zebra ZT231 barcode label printers feature a 256 MB SDRAM coupled with 256 MB flash memory. This combination provides enough memory to handle even the most strenuous printing tasks.
You can also use internal flash memory to store fonts, graphics, and label templates. This reduces the time needed to recall these files from a computer every time you print.
Attribute | Total | Available to User |
|---|---|---|
SDRAM | 256 MB
| 32 MB
|
Flash Memory
| 256 MB
| 64 MB
|
Unfortunately, the Zebra ZT231 does not come with a built-in processor.
Print DNA Software Suite
ZT231 ships with Zebra’s Print DNA software suite. This software suite provides a set of utilities, drivers, and applications to improve the printer’s performance.
The Print DNA software suite feature has five main categories.
Integrate
Security
Deploy
Manage
Optimize
Integrate
Print DNA software suite allows you to integrate the printer into your existing system quickly. It provides multiple apps such as.
- Multiplatform SDK
- Browser Print
- Network Connect
- Cloud Connect
- PrintConnect
- PDF Direct
- ZebraDesigner
- Printer Emulations
Security
Print DNA software suite includes PrintSecure and Security Assessment Wizard (PSU). The combination provides unmatched security for your Zebra printer.
PrintSecure software aids in protecting your data and preventing unauthorized access to the printer. It also encrypts data saved on the printer.
PrintSecure also automatically upgrades your printer’s Wi-Fi and security certificates, ensuring they are always up to date.
Security Assessment Wizard (PSU) software compares your security settings with security best practices and provides a report of potential vulnerabilities & recommendations for fixing them.
Deploy
Print DNA software suite offers simple setup guides that assist you in swiftly deploying the printer. It provides apps such as.
- Printer Setup Utilities
- Printer Profile Manager Enterprise
- Pairing Solution
Manage
Print DNA software suite features various tools that help you manage a fleet of Zebra printers. With the software, you can remotely monitor, control, or assess the real-time metrics of your printers. Print DNA lets you connect the printer to EMM (Enterprise Mobility Management) solutions.
Optimize
Print DNA software suite includes several applications that help you enhance your printer’s print quality and performance.
Printing Modes
Zebra ZT231 industrial printer supports direct thermal and thermal transfer printing methods.
Direct thermal printing uses a heat-sensitive label that blackens when exposed to heat. This method is ideal for short-lived labels that do not need to withstand harsh conditions.
Thermal transfer printing uses wax or resin-based ribbon. The ribbon is heated and then transferred to the label. Thermal transfer printing is ideal for long-term labeling applications as it produces labels that are more durable and resistant to fading.
Printing Capabilities
ZT231 can print labels and barcodes at a resolution of 203 dpi (8 dots/mm) and 300 dpi (12 dots/mm). With 300 dpi resolution capability, you can print crisp text and detailed graphics.
The printing speed of the device varies based on the print resolution you choose. At 203 dpi, the printer can print at a speed of 12ips. Whereas at 300 dpi, it can print at a speed of 8ips.
The printer has a maximum print width of 104 mm (4.09 inches). The maximum print length varies based on the chosen print resolution. At 203 dpi, the maximum print length is 3988 mm (157 inches), Whereas, at 300 dpi, it is 1854 mm (73 inches).
Zebra ZT231 features a thin film printhead with E3 (Element Energy Equalizer). E3 is a Zebra-exclusive technology that balances the heat across the printhead.
E3 technology ensures that every dot receives the same amount of heat, resulting in consistent and superior print quality.
Zebra ZT231 also comes with auto-calibration. Auto-calibration refers to the ability of the printer to adjust itself automatically to ensure that labels are printed at the correct length and width.
This feature saves you time as you do not need to calibrate the printer manually.
The printer auto-calibrates when it is turned on or when the printhead is closed. The auto-calibration process takes approximately two to three labels.
Media Sensors
Zebra ZT231 comes with two media sensors.
- Moveable Transmissive Sensor
- Reflective Sensor
The moveable transmissive sensor is located behind the ribbon. It is used to detect the presence of a label or tag. On the other hand, the reflective sensor is located below the platen roller. It is used to detect black marks on labels.
Both sensors work together to provide accurate label registration.
Supported Print Media
Zebra ZT231 can print on the following print media.
- Continuous label paper
- Die-cut label paper
- Black mark label paper
- Notch paper
Supported Barcode Symbologies, Fonts & Graphics
Zebra ZT231 label printer is capable of printing both 1D and 2D barcodes. The printer supports 2:1, 7:3, 5:2, and 3:1 barcode ratios.
The following is a list of the supported 1D barcode symbologies.
- Code 11
- Code 39
- Code 93
- Code 128 with subsets A / B / C and UCC Case Codes
- ISBT-128
- UPC-A
- UPC-E
- EAN-8
- EAN-13
- UPC and EAN 2-digit or 5-digit extensions
- Plessey
- Postnet
- Standard 2-of-5
- Industrial 2-of-5
- Interleaved 2-of-5
- Logmars
- MSI
- Codabar
- Planet Code
The following is a list of the supported 2D barcode symbologies.
- Codablock
- PDF417
- Code 49
- Data Matrix
- MaxiCode
- QR Code
- TLC 39
- MicroPDF
- RSS-14 (and composite)
- Aztec
Zebra ZT231 supports Z7 bitmapped and CG Triumvirate Bold Condensed smooth, scalable fonts. The printer also comes pre-loaded with Unicode-compliant scalable fonts for EMEA characters.
ZT231 also supports international character sets according to the IBM Code Page 850.
Supported Print Command Language
Zebra ZT231 label printer supports the following print command languages.
- ZBI 2.0 – It stands for Zebra BASIC Interpreter. ZBI2.0 programming language lets printers run stand-alone applications and connect to peripherals
- ZPL and ZPL II – It stands for Zebra Programming Language. It provides advanced label formatting and printer control capabilities.
- EPL and EPL2 (with Line Mode)* – It stands for Eltron Programming Language. It makes label formatting easier and allows for interoperability with legacy programs. (EPL is available on 203 dpi models only)
*EPL with Line Mode is available on direct thermal models only.
Apart from the print command languages, Zebra ZT231 also supports emulations applications out of the box. This allows the printer to emulate programming languages from other vendors such as TSC, Sato, and Datamax.
Printer Connectivity Options
Zebra ZT231 printer offers the following connectivity options.
- USB host port (2.0)
- Serial port (RS-232 & DB-9)
- Ethernet port (transmission rate: 10/100 Mbps)
- 802.11ac certified Wi-Fi (optional)
- Applicator port (optional)
NFC Support
ZT231 comes with an NFC print touch tag.
NFC stands for Near Field Communication. It is a short-range wireless connectivity technology. NFC allows two devices to communicate with each other when they are placed within proximity, typically no more than four inches apart.
ZT231 supports tap-to-pair NFC connectivity. With this feature, you can pair the printer with NFC-compatible mobile devices by simply tapping them together.
Bluetooth Low Energy (BLTE) Support
Zebra ZT231 label printer comes with a Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) module.
Bluetooth Low Energy (BLTE) is a wireless communication standard designed for low power consumption. BLTE allows devices to transfer data wirelessly over short distances. It also improves the location accuracy of the printer.
Energy Star Certified
Zebra ZT231 label printer is Energy Star certified. This means that the printer meets the energy efficiency standards set by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) or the US Department of Energy.
The EPA’s Energy Star certification program is a voluntary labeling initiative that helps businesses and consumers save money on electricity bills. It also protects the environment by reducing carbon footprints.
Compatibility
Zebra ZT231 industrial printer is compatible with the following operating systems.
- Windows
- macOS
- Linux
- Android
- IOS
Options and Accessories
Zebra ZT231 supports various options and accessories. These products provide additional functionality to the printer and make it easier to use. Options and accessories are available as add-ons and can be purchased separately.
The options and accessories for Zebra ZT231 can be divided into four categories.
- Communication
- Media Handling
- Radio-Frequency Identification (RFID)
- Keyboard Display Unit
Communication
The communication options for Zebra ZT231 include the following.
- 802.11ac certified Wi-Fi option card
- Ethernet option card (transmission rate: 10/100 Mbps)
- Applicator Interface
Media Handling
The media handling options for Zebra ZT231 include the following.
- Peel – front mount, passive peel without take-up spindle
- Peel – front mount, passive peel with liner take-up spindle (factory-fit only)
- Cutter – front-mount guillotine cutter
Radio-Frequency Identification (RFID)
The RFID option for Zebra ZT231 includes a UHF field-installable RFID kit.
Keyboard Display Unit
The printer supports ZKDU keyboard display units.
Media and Ribbon Specifications
Media Specifications
Maximum non-continuous label length | 991 mm (39 inches) |
Minimum label length | Tear mode – 18 mm (0.7-inch) Cutter mode – 25 mm (1-inch) Peel mode – 13 mm (0.5-inch) |
Media width | 19.4 mm – 114 mm (0.75 inches – 4.5 inches) |
Media thickness (label and liner) | 0.076 mm to 0.25 mm (0.003-inch – 0.010-inch) |
Maximum media roll dimensions | 203 mm (8 inches) O.D. on a 76 mm (3 inches) I.D. core 152 mm (6 inches) O.D. on a 25 mm (1-inch) I.D. core |
Ribbon Specification
Ribbon type | Wax, Resin, Wax-Resin |
Ribbon core | 25 mm (1-inch) |
Maximum ribbon width | 110 mm (4.33 inches) |
Minimum ribbon width | 40 mm (1.57 in) |
Ribbon length | 450 m (1467 inches) |
Maximum ribbon roll size | 81.3 mm (3.2 inches) O.D. on a 25.4 mm (1-inch) I.D. core |
Ribbon wound type | Ink coated outside wound |
Power Requirements
Zebra ZT231 operated on a PFC-compliant universal auto-ranging power supply. The printer requires 100-240 V AC, 50/60 Hz power input.
Operating Conditions
Zebra ZT231 is designed to operate under the following conditions.
- Operating temperature –
- Thermal transfer printer model – 5˚C – 40˚C (41˚F – 104˚F)
- Direct thermal printer model – 0º – 40ºC (32ºF – 104˚F)
- Storage temperature – -40˚C – 60 ˚C (-40˚F – 140˚F)
- Operating humidity – 20% to 85% non-condensing
- Storage humidity – 5% to 85% non-condensing
Physical Dimensions and Weight
The dimension and weights of both Zebra ZT231 models (ZT231 & ZT231R) are the same. However, the dimension and weight change if you choose a Liner Take-up Unit with the printer.
Here are the dimensions and weight of the printer.
Zebra ZT231
Dimensions (L x W x H) – 17 in. x 9.5 in. x 11 in. (432 mm x 241 mm x 279 mm)
Weight – 9.1 kg (20 lbs.)
Zebra ZT231 With Liner Takeup Unit
Dimensions (L x W x H) – 17 in. x 9.5 in. x 12.75 in. (432 mm x 241 mm x 324 mm)
Weight – 10.9 kg (24 lbs.)
Zebra ZT231 RFID
Dimensions (L x W x H) – 17 in. x 9.5 in. x 11 in. (432 mm x 241 mm x 279 mm)
Weight – 9.1 kg (20 lbs.)
Zebra ZT231 RFID With Liner Takeup Unit
Dimensions (L x W x H) – 17 in. x 9.5 in. x 12.75 in. (432 mm x 241 mm x 324 mm)
Weight – 10.9 kg (24 lbs.)
Items in the Box
When you purchase Zebra ZT231, the following items are included in the box.
- Printer unit
- Power cord
- USB cable
Note – Additional items may be included if you’ve ordered options and accessories with the printer.
Warranty
Zebra ZT231 label printers come with a standard one-year warranty from the date of shipment. The warranty only covers manufacturing defects. It does not cover damages caused by normal wear and tear, accidents, abuse, or unauthorised repairs.
