Abstract: An online data validator is a digital imaging system integrated onto the front side of a printing unit wherein an exit of the printing unit is set on the same side close to the online data validator for a media exiting therefrom. The online data validator comprises a controller facilitating communication with a printing unit controller and controlling overall operation of the online data validator functions; a camera module including a sensor PCB and an optical lens, wherein the sensor PCB contains a camera sensor for capturing 2D digital images of moving labels; and a light source module including a lightbar, a lightbar PCB, a Fresnel lens and a window for providing uniform and flattened illumination on the media.

Abstract: An online data validator is a digital imaging system integrated onto the front side of a printing unit wherein an exit of the printing unit is set on the same side close to the online data validator for a media exiting therefrom. The online data validator comprises a controller facilitating communication with a printing unit controller and controlling overall operation of the online data validator functions; a camera module including a sensor PCB and an optical lens, wherein the sensor PCB contains a camera sensor for capturing 2D digital images of moving labels; and a light source module including a lightbar, a lightbar PCB, a Fresnel lens and a window for providing uniform and flattened illumination on the media.

Abstract: An RFID print system includes an RFID printer and reader, a host computer that transmits a data stream containing instructions or commands to the RFID printer for encoding an RFID tag, and a data manager that receives EPC data or other data from the encoded tag. The data manager transmits the data to the host computer, which can then compare what was encoded to what was intended to be encoded. The host computer can then transmit signals to other devices in the system for appropriate action, such as when the encoded tag is defective.

Abstract: A clean print ribbon feed system and method for a printer having a ribbon with two non-inked clean hands portions wound around a pair of spools is disclosed. Detection of the spool having greater angular velocity and lesser angular velocity determines the direction of feed. The spool having greater angular velocity winds and takes up the print ribbon. The non-inked portion can be formed as a conductive plastic and is initially wound on each spool. Detection of the non-inked portion of the ribbon takes place by two electrical contactors. The determination of the angular velocity of the spools determines the amount of print ribbon on one of the spools so that the spool having the lesser ribbon can be driven as a take-up spool to provide proper directional drive for winding the clean hands portion and the inked portion which follows.