Thermal label printers have been used for a long time in areas of business handling logistics, inventory, and shipping. But, the issue with the older barcode printers is that they rely on Serial (RS-232) connections, and these have started to become outdated. With businesses growing at such a fast pace, it becomes necessary to switch to the faster working modern systems, and so upgrading from Serial to Ethernet can help one’s workflow by improving the speed, flexibility, and reliability.
In this blog, we will help you understand the necessity of upgrading the connectivity of your thermal label printer from Serial to Ethernet, even if your printer doesn’t have a built-in Ethernet port.
Why Upgrade to Ethernet?
RS-232 serial ports are increasingly disappearing from modern computers and networks. Alternatively, ethernet has emerged as the more preferred standard for connectivity because of the following reasons:
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Faster data transfer speeds
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Remote access over local networks
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Compatibility with modern business systems
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Ease of network integration and scalability
In case you have been using a barcode label printer for warehouse operations, eCommerce fulfillment, or point-of-sale systems, switching to Ethernet will provide you with a more streamlined printing process and help to avoid any hardware limitations in the future.
Option 1: Use a Serial-to-Ethernet Print Server
Cost-effective and Versatile
A Serial-to-Ethernet print server is considered one of the most practical and affordable solutions if you are considering to upgrade from an older printer. The adapters can help and act as a bridge between the serial port of your printer and the local Ethernet network.
Recommended Devices:
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Silex SD-300 – Known for reliability in industrial settings.
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Moxa NPort 5110A – Excellent for harsh environments and continuous usage.
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PUSR USR-TCP232-302 – Budget-friendly and compact for smaller businesses.
Considered to be compatible with mostly all the thermal label printers it is very easy to use your current hardware without incurring expensive replacements.
Option 2: Upgrade the Printer’s Interface Card
Ideal for Modular or Industrial Printers
There are certain other, more advanced barcode label printers available from manufacturers like Zebra, SATO, or Honeywell that feature modular interface cards. If you’re using a model such as the Zebra ZT230 barcode printer, you can check whether or not your printer allows swapping the Serial interface for an Ethernet-compatible module.
By upgrading the interface card, you have native Ethernet connectivity without having to use any third-party adapters. This method is clean and durable, and it integrates into your IT network seamlessly.
Option 3: Use a Networked Computer as a Print Server
Good for Budget-Conscious Setups
Another way you can connect your barcode printer to a dedicated PC is by using its existing Serial port and then sharing the printer across your Ethernet network.
You can follow these steps:
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Connect the printer to the PC using a serial cable.
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Set up print sharing via Windows or a print server utility like CUPS on Linux.
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Allow networked devices to print through the connected PC.
Although it is not a very elegant solution, it is quite effective if you need a solution for smaller operations and also a practical option if buying new hardware doesn’t seem feasible to you.
Considerations When Upgrading
Before you move ahead with any of the above methods, make sure to duly consider the following:
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Driver Compatibility: Check that the operating system supports your new Ethernet connection or print server.
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Network Configuration: Certain serial-to-ethernet devices can require port configuration or IP assignments.
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Power Supply: Some print servers are powered by USB, while others require an external adapter.
To make the right choice, you need to understand your current infrastructure, budget, and long-term goals beforehand.
When to Upgrade Your Printer Instead
It would be better to invest in a new printer with native support for Ethernet, in case you have decided to buy electronics in bulk or replace aging equipment. Quite a lot of wholesale label printers are also available with both USB and Ethernet interfaces, which makes them suitable for modern networks.
Several brands like Zebra also offer Ethernet-ready models like the ZD411 and ZT series that support faster, higher-quality printing for all kinds of industrial and eCommerce applications. These are a smart option for upgrading businesses that have growing demand and are easily available with electronic wholesale suppliers.
Final Thoughts
Although you may find upgrading your thermal label printer from Serial to Ethernet to be technical at first, however, it is a very straightforward process that also comes with long-term benefits. Be it that you make use of a Serial-to-Ethernet adapter, upgrade your printer’s internal interface card, or use a connected PC as a print server, eventually, the improved connectivity will only enhance and future-proof your workflow.
In case you want to purchase your equipment from wholesale electronics dealers like Epic Rise Electronics, it's a great opportunity to consider Ethernet-compatible hardware that allows a smoother integration with your current systems.
This shift is not just about printing faster but also about aligning your work with the available modern technology and being able to stay competitive in the digital-first environment of the current times.
