Nov/Dec 2005

Workplace printing specialist Printronix has introduced an XML interface for its range of 5r thermal printers, and says it eliminates the need for additional middleware or proprietary software.

The company's new XML Forms Printing and PXML capabilities deliver the first known XML-based print-and-control language for thermal barcode and RFID printers, says chief technology officer Andy Chapman. "PXML allows third parties to configure, manage and control 5r printers, and also allows their hosts to communicate with and understand each other directly from an application without additional software or layers."

The interface includes embedded forms templates for Oracle's WMS, MSCA and RFID Edge Server. In addition, Printronix says it has tested its XML Forms Printing in SAP's facilities, and it includes SAP's AII embedded templates.

At the same time, Printronix is warning companies who use printers in industrial environments such as warehouses not to be seduced by the apparent cheapness and better printing quality of laser printers. It says line-matrix printers still offer the best value for money, adding that the technology is more robust, offering an average working life of eight years. The latest model in the Printronix line-printer range is the Zero-Tear, an addition to the P7000 range. Zero-tear creates a larger printing area. Options include an acoustic shroud.