Zebra launches world’s first mobile RFID printer

Zebra Technologies, a global leader in specialty printing and automatic identification solutions, has launched the P4T/RP4T printer, the first ever mobile RFID printer. The easy-to-wear and carry P4T and RFID-enabled RP4T mobile printers are ideal for indoor and outdoor applications in government, manufacturing, transportation and logistics and mobile field service.

As an enhancement to previous models featuring direct thermal/thermal-transfer and RFID, Zebra has now added mobility to the mix in order to meet customer and partner demand. This allows users to print labels where and when they need them, providing enhanced data and asset tracking accuracy and improved workforce efficiency.

“Our intensive research, development and testing has enabled us to produce an easy-to-use, compact printer with exceptional functionality. It brings new capabilities to our mobile printer products, which have recently topped more than a million units sold globally,” said Matt Parker, product manager, mobile at Zebra Technologies. “The RP4T completes our RFID printer range, its true mobile platform broadening the number of applications that this technology can be used for.”

“The P4T’s flexibility and durability for outdoor labeling requirements supports multiple applications across a wide range of industries. Customers operating in field service, retail and government applications will benefit enormously from the proven returns mobility solutions provide, more so in these times of economic uncertainty,” continued Parker.

Paired with Zebra thermal-transfer supplies, the portable P4T provides tougher bar code labels and receipts on long-lasting and high-endurance thermal-transfer media. Also offering RFID capability, the RP4T is ideally suited to point-of-application UHF EPC Gen 2 smart labeling applications.

“The rugged P4T and RP4T mobile printers are well suited for on-demand label printing in remote locations. Their tough labels are built to survive extreme conditions, such as bright sunlight, hot, wet or cold climates, making them ideal for in-the-field construction or utility tagging applications. The compact, ergonomic design makes them equally effective in manufacturing plants, distribution depots, and other industrial sites,” Parker added.

Key benefits include:
• Enhanced user convenience by bringing the printer to point of application
• Improved track, trace and locate facilities
• Automated field service
• Improved customer service and satisfaction

The P4T and RP4T have 8MB flash/16MB SRAM memory and thermal-transfer or direct-thermal printing modes. The mobile printer has an open access design for easy media and ribbon loading, a 32-bit processor and USB connection, which allows for wireless or cable connectivity, built on the latest industry standard platforms. Its Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA2) security ensures enhanced data protection and user authentication. The P4T and RP4T also support passive EPC Class 1 and 2 protocol.