Zebra launches SME-friendly printer designed for ease of use and reliability to toughen up printing in the supply chain

Zebra Technologies, the global provider of on-demand printing solutions, has launched the S4M printer to help small and medium-sized companies improve their supply chain processes.

Housed within a metal enclosure and die cast frame, the S4M is a thermal, on-demand bar code label printer, designed to handle the rigours of a warehouse or factory floor. It supports labelling applications used across the supply chain in the manufacturing, distribution and healthcare industries.

Many of our customers wanted to integrate their supply chain technology directly with suppliers all over the world, but needed a rugged printer that would work in a harsh environment in order to do that, said Clive Fearn, vertical marketing manager at Zebra Technologies. Our smaller customers work to tight budgets, and the S4M fills their requirements without demanding a large initial outlay.

In response to this feedback, the S4M supports Unicode, which allows it to create, process and display information in any language. This ensures that information isnt lost or misinterpreted because its not recognised by a foreign application vital for installations in areas such as Eastern Europe and Asia.

The printer contains a number of features which help minimise downtime and promote productivity. For example, it holds long, eight inch label rolls, which make for fewer stoppages to reload the printer. The integral LCD display presents operating information clearly while the keypad offers simple controls. The S4M integrates well with other products and can quickly replace an existing printer. In addition, it has serial, parallel and USB connectivity, as well as optional Ethernet or wireless.
 
We anticipate that the S4M will deliver a durable, easy-to-use product which should increase efficiency across the supply chain, particularly for those businesses with less budget who dont want to compromise on quality, continued Fearn. Customers margins are tight and competition fierce the S4M will enable them to stay one step ahead.