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Deploy Zebra label format or template for printers
The process of deploying a Zebra label format or template involves remotely transferring a pre-designed layout file to a network-connected Zebra printer using Hexnode Unified Endpoint Management (UEM).
What is a Zebra Printer label format or template?
A label format, often called a template, is a pre-designed layout file that contains instructions for a Zebra printer on how to structure a label, including the placement of text, barcodes, graphics, and spacing.
- Function: It acts as the primary design file for producing consistent, repeatable labels.
- Key Components: Defines the location and characteristics of:
- Text fields
- Barcodes (e.g., QR, Code 128)
- Graphics or logos
- Spacing and margins
Why are label templates essential for Zebra Printers?
Templates are essential because they ensure consistency, reduce errors, and accelerate printing workflows by eliminating the need to recreate the label design for every print job.
- Consistency: Maintains an identical label appearance across multiple printers and print jobs.
- Efficiency: Saves time and prevents misprints, which is crucial for high-volume operations in warehouses, retail, and shipping environments.
- Centralized Control: Allows IT to manage the standard label design from a central console, ensuring compliance.
How Does Hexnode UEM facilitate template deployment?
Hexnode UEM simplifies the deployment process by enabling IT administrators to remotely transmit the label template file directly to the network-connected printer without requiring physical access.
- Traditional Method (Without Hexnode): An IT administrator would need to manually connect a computer to each physical printer to load the templates.
- Hexnode Method (Deploy Templates Remote Action): The template file is sent over the network to printers, enabling administrators to deliver the required format to devices across different locations instantly and with no on-site setup.
Prerequisites and supported formats
| Prerequisite/Constraint | Description |
|---|---|
| Supported Printer OS | Zebra printers must be running LinkOS 5.0 and above. |
| Hexnode Action | Deploy Templates remote action is required. |
| Supported File Formats | .zpl, .nrd, .txt, .lbl, and .zbi. |
Step-by-Step Guide: Deploying custom label formats to Zebra Printers with Hexnode UEM
To deploy a custom label format or template to a targeted Zebra printer:
- Navigate to your Hexnode UEM portal.
- Go to Manage > Devices.
- Select the specific Zebra printer device(s) that will receive the template.
- Click Actions > Deployments > Deploy Templates.
- On the Deploy Templates prompt, select the script file source:
- Upload file: Choose a template file directly from the local device by clicking Choose file.
- Hexnode repository: Select a template file that was previously uploaded to the Content tab within the Hexnode UEM portal.
- File Name: The field will automatically populate based on the selected template file’s name. This name is how the file will be stored on the printer.
- Configuration Option: Review the Delete existing files from device checkbox.
- Enabled: Any file currently on the printer with the exact same name and format as the new file will be automatically removed before the new file is deployed.
- Click Done to initiate the deployment.
- Verification: Navigate to the Action History sub-tab of the device to view the execution status (Success/Failure) of the action.
Once the action is successful, the new label format/template will be available in the printer’s template list and ready for use in subsequent printing jobs.
