April/May 2003

A bigger version of the QL 320 mobile printer is now available from Zebra Technologies, which launched the original wireless-enabled version last year.

The new QL 420 is said to retain the standard of ruggedness of its predecessor, as well as using the same Quick Link radio modules, but it is wider at 4in instead of 3in, and also faster (printing labels at up to 4in per second). It targets warehousing, manufacturing and mobile sales and delivery operations.

The printer weighs around 907g. Features include centre-loading media, a long-lasting lithium-ion battery and an optional LCD panel. It has a "rubber-infused" housing, and is said to be resistant multiple drops from 1.5 metres. A forklift mount and fanfold bin are also available.

Connectivity options include cable, IrDA (infra-red), 802.11b wireless LAN (using Symbol Compact Flash) and Bluetooth. Also available is an integrated Cisco PCMCIA WLAN card for enhanced capability and security on 802.11b networks.