How Thermal Inkjet Printers Can Implement GS1 Digital Link for Advanced 2D Barcode Printing

Convenient, intelligible, thorough product information has driven barcode technology to develop. One of the primary developments in this field is the substitution of conventional 1D barcodes with 2D codes, particularly the GS1 Digital Link.

It represents a future where one dynamic 2D barcode will replace traditional linear barcodes. One crucial question is how this transition may be carried out effectively, given the widespread use of thermal inkjet printers in many industries. Find the answer here!

What is the GS1 Digital Link?

The GS1 (Global Standards 1) Digital Link is a new standard immediately including product identifying data right into a 2D barcode, much like a QR code.

Thanks to this new standard, point-of-sale (POS) systems, warehouse tools, and consumer devices like smartphones may all access data.

This Digital Link maintains the same data structure as traditional barcodes, including the Global Trade Item Number (GTIN), even while adding a wide range of additional data including batch numbers, expiry dates, and unique URLs, all accessible with a fast scan.

Overall, this innovation allows businesses to replace many barcodes on one package. From stock management and POS scanning to interactive product content interaction of consumers, a single 2D code can handle everything.

Thus, the Global Standards 1 Digital integration may therefore connect digital and physical product information, hence improving the data experience for both consumers and businesses.

• Why Transition to the GS1 Digital Link?

There are many convincing reasons for businesses to move towards the Digital Link. A key change is the growing need for comprehensive product information.

Customers now want more information beyond just product price. For example, customers in the food industry are now interested in the ingredients, their sources, and if any allergies are involved.

Conversely, supply chains managers and retailers have to keep more data to handle recalls, regulate inventory, and ensure regulatory compliance. One scan using 2D barcodes such as the Digital Link will compile all the information.

Moreover, the new Digital Link concept lessens the need for multiple barcodes, thereby allowing marketers to clearly communicate important information without sacrificing the look of the product.

Thus, the shift aims to increase supply chain visibility, product safety, and customer trust by means of a clearer and more effective data sharing method.

Can Thermal Inkjet Printers Implement GS1 Digital Link?

Absolutely, yes. Thermal inkjet printers, or TIJ, can effectively utilize the GS1 new Digital Link technology as long as suitable preparations and modifications are done to allow it.

From food and drink to pharmaceuticals to manufacturing, industries varying in scope rely on thermal inkjet printers for quick, on-demand printing.

Thermal inkjet printers are capable of printing high-resolution codes, which makes them ideal for producing the intricate 2D barcodes needed for the Digital Link. But, ensuring that these printers can handle the complexities of printing data in real-time is challenging.

Given that the GS1 new Digital Link technology can hold a lot of dynamic data like batch numbers, expiration dates, and serial numbers, the printer has to be able to accurately and efficiently control this information.

Moreover, it’s essential for the positioning and quality of the printed code to be precise, as poor-quality barcodes can lead to scanning errors, which may disrupt operations down the line.

• Preparing for the Transition

So, while TIJ can print GS1 Digital Link-enabled barcodes, businesses need to follow several steps to prepare for a smoother transition, including:

• Evaluate the Printing Equipment

This means figuring out that the current instruments can generate high-quality 2D codes. So, businesses might have to consider changing their printers to models better suited for 2D barcode printing.

• Optimize Product Handling

One challenge of creating 2D barcodes is making sure the products are positioned suitably for printing. Product handling errors might provide distorted or unclear codes, therefore compromising the scan accuracy.

• Upgrade Software

Tij needs tools capable of producing and managing the dynamic data included in the GS1 Digital Link. Thus, businesses have to make sure their systems can integrate this data into the printed 2D barcodes.

• Test the Codes

Before fully implementing the printed barcodes, check their quality and readability. Different devices must be able to scan the codes, hence this testing should be conducted in different stages of production.

• Train the Team

Finally, businesses must provide their staff training on the new Digital Link technology. This means teaching staff members to identify any possible issues and direction on managing the new printing processes.

All things considered, the new Digital Link marks a significant technical revolution. Apart from enhancing the information available to consumers and businesses, this new standard streamlines the packaging process by eliminating the requirement of many barcodes.

So, as 2027 approaches and the GS1 Digital Link is set to become the new standard for barcodes, it’s essential for businesses to prepare their printing systems for this transition. Upgrading your printers with Markcom Global’s TIJ models is one solution to consider.

Read About: Unlocking the Potential: Advanced Features of Coding Inkjet Printers

 

Referensi:

https://www.domino-printing.com/en/blog/2023/2d-code-sunrise

https://www.gs1us.org/industries-and-insights/standards/gs1-digital-link/for-brands

https://www.packagingdigest.com/labeling/why-to-start-using-gs1-digital-link-2d-codes-today