PRODUCT REVIEW
6 connectivity, near field communication, Bluetooth, and those that can carry out high quality RFID reading via a sled. For mobile printers, that should look like the capability to print 1D and 2D barcode labels alongside RFID tags, optimal security, and even Wi-Fi 6. Allaying cybersecurity concerns Wi-Fi 5 devices can be used on a Wi-Fi 6 network – and vice versa – but businesses will not get the full benefit of a Wi-Fi 6 network without Wi-Fi 6 devices. This includes cybersecurity, which is an increasing priority for businesses as the number of malicious attacks continues to rise in 2024. “A European business recently moved to Wi-Fi 6 quite quickly after experiencing a devastating cybersecurity incident on an older network,” said Richard Barfield, printing specialist, EMEA, Zebra Technologies. “After speaking with several experts, the business leaders realised without Wi-Fi 6 devices connected to their new Wi-Fi 6 network, there were more vulnerabilities than they could tolerate in their upgraded wireless environment. The leaders called Zebra to see if they could get Wi-Fi 6 mobile printers that offered WPA3 security protection. Fortunately, Zebra could, and they’re using them today.” Security isn’t the only reason for businesses to have appropriate printers connected to their wireless network, but it’s one of the most important, given the escalating data security threat. Organisations need to see security as an ecosystem where all devices, including printers, are a priority.
What's in the box? l Printer l Battery (Li-Ion 3250 mAh) l Belt clip l USB cable (Type C to Type A) l Quick start guide l Registration card l Safety guide l Regulatory guide.
drops (within reason), water spillages and dust. It also has a long-life battery, which means it can run all shift long. It can also be mounted to a forklift, which means it can be easily accessible while moving throughout a warehouse. The ZQ630 Plus and ZQ630 Plus RFID are ideal for applications in the This is where mobile printers such as the ZQ630 Plus come into their own and can provide businesses with effective printing solutions for years to come. What is Wi-Fi 6? Wi-Fi 6 is the next generation of Wi-Fi and delivers faster internet speeds to users and less bandwidth congestion. It is faster than the previous generation, Wi-Fi 5. Many businesses are starting to upgrade their networks to Wi-Fi 6 as the prices have come down and, with the increasing use of devices and the cloud, the faster speeds and less congestion helps them to run more efficiently. The total number of devices that must connect to a workplace network is growing, coupled with the need to maintain mobility with coverage wherever workers are – kerbside, warehouse, or front of store. That requires sufficient access points. If a business has a high density of connected devices (not just printers) relying on the same access point but uses older technology from either a network or device perspective, that business could face performance issues. In these scenarios, Wi-Fi 6 devices connected to Wi-Fi 6 is better than using Wi-Fi 5 devices and networks.
Rich Barfield printing specialist, EMEA
zebra.com
With Wi-Fi 6 becoming increasingly important to businesses, Zebra’s ZQ630 Plus range are well placed to provide solutions for a range of printing applications. The ZQ630 Plus offers businesses the convenience of mobile printing, but with the speed afforded by Wi-Fi 6 that means employees can be as efficient as possible and aren’t held up by their technology. ` Security is crucial too – printers have been often exposed as a weak point in network security in recent years and this should give users peace of mind. The unit is small, so ideal for on-the-go printing, and durable – it is built to withstand
EDITOR’S VIEW
warehousing, logistics, retail and manufacturing sectors – among others – where high volume mobile printing of labels and receipts is commonly required.
printinthechannel.co.uk
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