Sept 4, 2024 | 5 min read
Overview
Eventact is compatible with most label printers as well as standard inkjet and laser printers.
General Requirements:
- Windows Driver: Eventact requires a printer with a compatible Windows driver to connect with the printer.
- Media: Ensure you have the appropriate media (paper, cardstock, or adhesive labels), depending on your printer type.
Individual Badge Printing:
A key requirement for efficient check-in is the ability to print badges one at a time. This eliminates the delay associated with waiting for an entire page to print.
There are three primary types of printers used for badge printing: thermal transfer, inkjet, and laser. Each has advantages and drawbacks, so the best option depends on your specific event needs.
Thermal Transfer Printers
Advantages:
- Badge-by-Badge Printing: Ideal for badge-by-badge printing.
- Speed: Prints instantly without requiring a warm-up, speeding up the process.
- Low Maintenance: Lower ink costs and less prone to jamming compared to other printers.
- Cost-Effective Ribbons: A variety of ribbons from different vendors are available, often at a lower cost.
- Durability: More resistant to damage due to fewer moving parts.
- Portable: Compact and lightweight, making them easy to transport.
Disadvantages:
- Monochrome: Typically prints in black, depending on the ribbon used. Requires using pre-printed media for badges with color logos and other elements. Color thermal transfer printers exist but are less cost-effective for large-volume badge printing.
- Low resolution: The standard 203 DPI to 300 DPI resolution is sufficient for text, barcodes, and simple logos but might produce poor results with detailed images and photos.
- Low Photo Quality: Photos and image quality are low due to the solid-colored printing and limited resolution.
Popular Choice: Zebra GK420T
The Zebra GK420T is one of the most popular event badge printers due to its small footprint, reliability, ease of use, and speed. It can print a variety of badge types.
- Weight: 4.6 lbs / 2.1 kg
- Size: 7.5" x 7.6" x 10.0” / 191 mm x 193 mm x 254 mm
- Ribbon Capacity: A standard ribbon length of 75m (243 ft) can print about 1,500 badges (2"/5 cm).
- Ribbon Cost: $1.5 to $5 per ribbon
Note: There are two versions of this printer – the 420D and 420T. The D model uses direct printing, meaning no ink ribbon or cartridge is needed. Instead, it prints on heat-sensitive paper. We don’t recommend the 420D for events, as it only works with special paper-based badges or labels.
Description: https://www.zebra.com/us/en/support-downloads/printers/desktop/gk420t.html
Inkjet Printers
Advantages:
- Full-Color Printing: Creates visually appealing badges with logos and photos.
- Budget-Friendly: Affordable options exist that print on heavyweight paper.
- Mobile Printing: Some models offer mobile versions with rechargeable batteries.
- Compact and Lightweight: Mobile versions are easy to store and transport.
Disadvantages:
- High Ink Costs: Ink cartridges can be expensive, especially for high-volume printing.
- Slower Printing Speed: This can reduce the badge throughput per registration desk.
- Paper Feeder Issues: Heavyweight paper might require manual feeding.
- Lower Print Volume: Designed for smaller print jobs compared to other options.
Examples: Epson WorkForce 110, Canon Pixma-tr150
Color Laser Printers
Advantages:
- Low Operating Cost: More cost-effective in the long run compared to inkjets.
- High Quality and Reliability: Produces consistent, high-quality prints.
Disadvantages:
- High Initial Cost: The upfront cost is higher compared to inkjet and thermal printers.
- Limited Portability: Less portable than other printer types due to size and weight.
- Heavy Paper Compatibility: Finding laser printers that support heavyweight cardstock can be difficult and expensive.
- Transport Sensitivity: More sensitive to damage during travel compared to other portable printers.
Choosing the Right Printer
Consider your printing volume, budget, and need for color.
- Attendees can access the poll using the provided link or scanning the QR code.
- Upon logging into the event app (required once per event), attendees can submit their responses.
- High-Volume, Quick Printing Needs: Thermal transfer printers are ideal.
- Color Badges on a Moderate Budget: Inkjet printers offer a good balance.
- High-Volume, Consistent Quality: If you have a larger budget and can transport heavier equipment, then color laser printers offer consistent quality and lower long-term costs.
Remember: Eventact works with a variety of printers – choose the one that best suits your event needs!