Barcode Labels
Blank Barcode Labels
Zebra Barcode Labels
Thermal Barcode Labels
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Barcode
Labels Facts |
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Barcode Labels 101: 5 Little Known Facts About Blank Labels
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Let’s face
it. Barcode labels are everywhere. Barcode labels, shipping labels,
thermal transfer labels and direct thermal labels are what get our
packages from point A to point B, track inventory and save time at the
checkout. But how much do you really know about blank labels? Let’s dig
into the science behind what makes blank barcode labels a ‘must have’
for modern tracking and inventory systems.
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Thermal Transfer
Barcode Labels vs. Direct Thermal
Barcode Labels
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 We
all know there are two major types of blank labels, but what is the
difference between these dominant players that we use to produce our
barcode labels? Direct thermal barcode labels work by using heat
sensitive paper. A thermal printer applies heat to the blank label. In
response to the heat, the blank label paper turns black. Because the
label paper is heat sensitive, direct thermal labels react to sunlight,
heat and other chemicals. For this reason, direct thermal labels tend to
be used for short term barcode labeling needs, like shipping labels.
Thermal transfer barcode labels require the use of a thermal transfer
printer. A thermal transfer printer melts ribbon ink onto blank thermal
transfer labels. Thermal transfer barcode labels are considered more
durable and can withstand a greater variety of environmental conditions.
2. What is PSA?
PSA is label industry lingo for “pressure sensitive adhesive,” which
means if you apply pressure, it will stick. There are varying degrees
of stickiness based on environmental factors like temperature and
whether you want the label to be ‘peelable.’ Most blank labels have
permanent pressure sensitive adhesion. Once they are pressed on, they
can’t be easily removed.
3. What makes Labels Stick?
Most barcode labels are treated with an acrylic-based solution with
solvent-based adhesives. Be careful with labels at really low
temperatures. Most labels will lose their ‘stickiness’ at –10 degrees
Celsius.
 4. What
is Auto ID Data Capture (AIDC)? AIDC is another blank label industry
buzzword. Put simply, AIDC is what happens when a barcode label is
scanned and information is retrieved from it. It means Automatic
Identification and Data Capture. Without AIDC technology systems
(barcode labels, barcode printers, and barcode scanners), we’d still be
entering this information into ledgers, painstakingly, by hand. Not only
does manual data entry cost time and money, it is easily subject to
mistakes or ‘human error.’
5. What is the back of a barcode label called?
This is a common question. The smooth backside of a blank barcode label
that is peeled off and discarded is called a release liner. Release
liners have to be ‘sticky enough’ to protect the adhesive surface, but
not hold too firmly to the back of the barcode label.
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