Domino, global leader in product identification and traceability solutions, has expanded its class-leading V-Series printer range with the new V120i printer, an entry level solution designed for manufacturers seeking an affordable upgrade path to the benefits of digital thermal transfer overprinting (TTO) technology.
Compared to traditional contact coding technology such as hot-stamp or roller coding, digital thermal transfer coding offers superior print quality, profitability and reduced running costs. The V120i goes further: through the deployment of its
intelligent Technology principles, Domino has delivered a printer that offers the lowest running costs in its class. This is achieved largely via the i-Tech ribbon drive which uses up to 60% less ribbon compared to competitor coders – without sacrificing print quality. It doesn’t use compressed air, offers the longest times between ribbon changeovers and virtually eliminates downtime associated with ribbon break.
Versatile performance to match most applications
Featuring a 300 dpi resolution print head capable of printing logos and barcodes as well as text over a wide print area, the V120i is a versatile performer across diverse applications in the food and healthcare sectors. A wide speed range and capability to print in intermittent or continuous mode makes this a particularly appealing choice for OEM as well as retrofit installations.
The V120i does not need a dedicated controller – users can access the operator-friendly graphical user interface from a desktop PC, laptop, host machine control panel or optional handheld Domino TouchPad. Multiple printers are controllable from a single networked PC interface or hot-swappable TouchPad. Capital cost is further reduced by onboard label creation software included as standard.
Jon Cossins, Domino TTO product manager says, “The V120i is the only true low cost entry level TTO solution for printing high quality variable information and images onto flexible packaging and labels. As well as being affordable to buy, the i-Tech ribbon drive ensures that Domino’s aim of making production lines lower maintenance, lower cost and more efficient is achieved by the V120i. The V120i is in tune with Domino’s commitment to reducing environmental impact: its design has been streamlined, reducing material weight by 50% compared to that of its predecessors.”
i-Tech ribbon drive reduces running costs and downtime
The new i-Tech ribbon system offers four ribbon saving settings, including an economy mode that uses up to 60% less ribbon per print. Its dancing arm ribbon control minimises downtime by constantly adjusting tension to prevent ribbon breaks, and changeovers are minimised thanks to 650-metre ribbon rolls, which provide an effective length of up to 1625 metres in economy mode. The retractable print head and dancing arms provide clear access for ribbon loading, and rapid calibration means printing resumes quickly after a ribbon change.
Designed for low-cost, trouble-free installation
A compact printer design, small power supply and remarkably low number of cable connections make for straightforward installation, while a range of low-cost bracket adapters allows replacement of older TTO units without the need for new bracketry. The need for fine mechanical adjustment with tools or shims has been eliminated thanks to the V120i’s patented print head positioning technology which can automatically move the print head to the optimum position at the touch of a button.
Easy to use
Ease of operation is a key feature of the V120i, which is one of the first printers to incorporate QuickStep, the new, simplified graphical user interface rolling out across Domino’s entire coding range. QuickStepprovides effortless control and status reporting, doing away with complex menus and parameters in favour of simplified set-up routines that require minimal operator involvement. Using the built-in label creation software, code formats can be created ‘live’, or transferred via USB or Ethernet. The optional handheld TouchPad features a 5.7” touchscreen that is supplied with a docking station for storage and wall mounting.