Depending on how often you change variable data on your messages, choose from different printing methods:
Manually updating variables several times per shift
Use this method when multiple products contain the same data to print.
Your printer operator updates variable data (product name, lot number, product code) in NiceLabel Designer PowerForms. The printer prints messages with the same data until the operator changes variable data. Variable data is usually connected to text objects or barcodes. The print operator can change the date, time, or counter value directly on the printer or in NiceLabel.
Printing speed is high because variable data doesn't change with every print.
Updating variable data with every print
Use this method when every product contains different data to print.
Automation receives trigger events (usually generated by photocell signals) from your printer. The trigger event starts a set of actions in Automation, then Automation retrieves data from a database or other external data sources. Automation processes data and sends the Recall command with new variable values to the printer.
Automation processes every trigger event, so this scenario is suitable for medium-speed printing.
Providing lists of variable values
This scenario is similar to Updating variable data with every print but faster.
Some printers can accept lists of variable values. Automation sends these lists to your printer. Your printer gets variable values from the list and prints messages. When printing approaches the end of the list, your printer sends a trigger signal to Automation. Automation then sends a new list to the printer.
With this scenario, you can print 10-20 messages per second.