Markem Smart Date 3 Printer

• Printing variable data such as best-before dates and batch codes directly onto flexible packaging films.
• Coding products in food manufacturing for traceability and regulatory compliance.
• Applying identification marks to pharmaceutical packaging.
• Labelling consumer goods with essential product information during the packaging process.

Print width

This unit is specified at 53mm; other SmartDate 3 models typically offer print widths up to 53mm.

Print speed

For this class of thermal transfer printer, speeds commonly range from 50mm/s to 300mm/s, depending on resolution and application.

Power supply

Units of this type typically require a single-phase electrical supply, commonly 100-240V AC, 50/60Hz.

Air supply

Many thermal transfer printers utilise a compressed air supply, typically 4-6 bar, for printhead operation and ribbon tensioning.

Print resolution

Commonly, these printers offer resolutions of 300 dpi (12 dots/mm) for clear, high-quality codes.

Connectivity

Units typically feature serial (RS232), Ethernet, or USB ports for integration with production lines and data management.

Ribbon capacity

Ribbon lengths commonly range from 600m to 1200m, reducing the frequency of ribbon changes.

• What types of materials can this printer typically print on?

  Thermal transfer printers like the SmartDate 3 are designed for printing on flexible packaging films, labels, and foils, including polypropylene, polyethylene, and various laminates.

• Is this printer suitable for integration into an existing packaging line?

• What kind of maintenance does a thermal transfer printer typically require?

• Can this unit print different types of codes and graphics?

• What is the typical lifespan of a printhead?

Laboratory labelling and printing systems are valued for precision, consistency and compliance support in regulated environments. Buyers typically prioritise reliability, print quality and compatibility with existing laboratory workflows. When purchasing used equipment, condition of print heads, calibration history and maintenance records warrant careful inspection. Industry sentiment favours systems offering flexibility across label sizes and formats. Common strengths include durability, straightforward operation and good availability of replacement consumables. Integration capability with laboratory information management systems is increasingly important to buyers.

General overview for this equipment type