Zebra ZT421

USB+Network Barcode Label Printer

The Zebra ZT421 USB+Network Barcode Label Printer offers both thermal transfer and direct thermal printing options. It features a thin film printhead with an E3" element and an Energy Equalizer for excellent print quality. The printer has a print resolution of 203 dpi (8 dots/mm) and can achieve print speeds of up to 12 inches per second (305 mm/second).

In terms of communication, the Zebra printer supports USB 2.0 for high-speed connectivity, RS-232 Serial with configurable baud rate, parity, and data bits, and 10/100 Ethernet for network connectivity. It also has Bluetooth 4.1 and dual USB host ports, including support for Apple devices. The printer comes with a 4.3-inch color touch display for easy operation and settings management, as well as bi-colored status LEDs for quick printer status indication. It is powered by an ARM Cortex A7 processor and has 256 MB RAM memory (8 MB user available) and 512 MB Flash memory (64 MB user available). The printer supports the Print Touch application.

In terms of media support, the printer is Link-OS-enabled and comes with an auto-switching 100-240V power supply. It is ENERGY STAR qualified and features printhead element out detection. It has dual media sensors (transmissive and reflective) and a 3-inch media supply hanger. The printer also offers auto calibration, which occurs when the printer is turned on or when the printhead is closed.

The firmware of the printer supports Resident ZPL, ZPL, and EPL programming languages, which can be selected through software or the front panel. It also enables XML-enabled printing, allowing for barcode label printing using XML communications without the need for license fees or printer server hardware. This feature helps lower customization and programming costs.

In terms of design, the Zebra printer has an easy side-loading metal print mechanism and features door and print mechanism activated lights to illuminate the supplies path. It has a tool-less printhead and platen replacement for easy maintenance. The printer also comes with a metal media cover with an enlarged clear viewing window and robust-gold user touch points indicating key adjustments. Additionally, it has a bi-fold media door that reduces the overall operating space by 35%.