How to Set Up a Zebra Label Printer

If you’ve recently started researching label printers, there is a high likelihood you’ve come across the name Zebra.

Zebra is a world-leading manufacturer of barcode, receipts and label printers. There is a wide range of Zebra printers to suit almost every application, from smaller desktop printers to industrial printers. For all of their differences, Zebra label printers help businesses stay agile by responding to the demands of the modern marketplace. 

If you’ve recently purchased a Zebra printer or are considering investing in one, there are a few simple things you need to keep in mind while using your new printer to ensure that it remains reliable and durable. To help you do just that, here is our guide to Zebra label printer configuration and troubleshooting.

Things to consider before you buy a Zebra label printer

In order to keep your Zebra label printer in a good condition, you’ll need to conduct proper maintenance on an ongoing basis. This maintenance can be as simple as regularly cleaning the print heads every time that you replace the label ribbon or stock.

You’ll also want to invest in high-quality labels that adequately support the printing process and reduce the likelihood of residue build up. 

Steps for Zebra label printer configuration

When you purchase a new printer or reach the end of your label ribbon/ stock, you may need to configure your Zebra printer. The exact method you use to configure your printer will depend on its model. 

ZD series configuration

If you own a ZD620, ZD420 or ZD220D direct thermal printer, follow these simple steps to configure your printer.

1. Turn off the printer

Press the ‘off’ button on your printer. 

2. Hold down the pause and feed buttons

Once your printer has turned off, press and hold down the pause and feed buttons. Keep holding until the only indicator lit on your printer is the status indicator. 

3. Press the reset button

The reset button will be on the bottom of your printer. 

For a printer reset, press and hold the reset button for 1 to 5 seconds.

For a network reset, press and hold the reset button for 6 to 10 seconds.

If you hold the reset button for longer than 10 seconds, your printer will exit the factory defaults without making any changes.

GK series, GX series, GC series & GT series printer configuration

If your printer belongs to either the GK, GX, GC or GT series, follow the below instructions to reset your printer to the factory settings.

1. Turn off the power

Switch off your printer’s power and then wait several seconds before turning it back on again.

2. Hold down the forward feed button

Press and hold the forward feed button on your printer’s front panel. The indicator light on the panel will begin blinking in a pattern: 1 then 1-2 then 1-2-3. When it flashes 1-2-3-4, release the button. Wait until the light turns a solid green.

3. Hold the forward feed button again

Press and hold the forward feed button until the indicator light flashes twice. Then release before pressing the button again. Wait for the indicator light to flash five times before releasing.

Guide to Zebra label printer troubleshooting

Experiencing problems with your Zebra label printer? The first step to take when resolving your issue is to clean the entire printer as the majority of printing problems can be solved with a full clean. Cleaning can remove any built-up adhesive on the printer roller and remove particles that are obstructing the printer’s sensor.

If you’ve cleaned your Zebra label printer and are still experiencing problems, you may need to troubleshoot the issue. The best way to troubleshoot a Zebra label printer is to run a pause test print. Here’s how to do exactly that:

1. Press and hold down the pause button until all of the lights on the panel flash once
2. 9999 test print labels will be loaded into the printer
3. Release the pause button

By judging the printing quality of the pause print test, you can narrow down the problem your Zebra label printer is experiencing. This will help you identify the issue and the adjustments that need to be made, whether that is:

• Increasing the darkness by slowing down the print
• Tweaking the ribbon strip plate in the case that there is a diagonal white line appearing on the label
• Adjusting the toggle above the printhead to ensure even pressure is applied across the label while printing

Have any other questions about your Zebra label printer? Get in touch with our team who will be happy to answer any of your queries and provide you with expert advice on how to maintain your Zebra label printer.