Zebra ZT231 Industrial RFID Barcode Label Printer
The Zebra ZT231 Industrial RFID Barcode Label Printer delivers advanced UHF RFID encoding and high-performance label printing in a compact, affordable design, making it the ideal solution for businesses seeking greater visibility, accuracy, and efficiency in asset tracking, inventory management, and regulatory compliance. Built for evolving industrial environments, the ZT231 RFID combines direct thermal or thermal transfer printing with field upgradable wireless and media handling options, allowing you to adapt as your operational needs grow. Its intuitive 4.3 inch color touchscreen simplifies setup and reduces user errors while robust connectivity options including Ethernet, USB, and Bluetooth Low Energy for configuration ensure seamless integration into existing systems. Backed by Zebra’s Print DNA software suite, the ZT231 RFID supports remote management, security, and consistent performance to minimize downtime and maximize productivity across manufacturing, logistics, healthcare, and retail applications
Key Highlights
- Compact industrial RFID design
- Integrated UHF RFID encoding
- User-friendly touchscreen interface
- Flexible connectivity options
- Reliable print performance
Product Overview
The Zebra ZT231 Industrial RFID Barcode Label Printer is a versatile and efficient solution built for mid-volume industrial printing and RFID labeling applications. It supports UHF EPC Gen 2 V2.1 / ISO 18000-63 standards, enabling accurate RFID encoding and high-quality label printing in a single streamlined process. With a print width of 4.09 inches, speeds up to 12 ips, and options for 203 or 300 dpi resolution, the ZT231 delivers consistent performance for tasks such as inventory labeling, asset tracking, and logistics operations.
Designed with durability and ease of use in mind, the ZT231 features a rugged metal frame, intuitive interface, and flexible connectivity options for seamless integration into enterprise environments. It includes USB, Serial, Ethernet, and optional Wi-Fi support, along with Zebra’s Link-OS® and Print DNA tools for enhanced management, security, and scalability. This makes it a dependable choice for warehouses, manufacturing units, and supply chain operations.
Key Features & Capabilities
Enterprise-grade technology designed for mission-critical operations
Intuitive RFID Encoding
RE40 RFID module simplifies RFID label printing and encoding for fast deployment
Dual Print Capability
Supports both direct thermal and thermal transfer printing methods
4.3 Color Touchscreen
Easy-to-use interface with intuitive menus for quick operation and settings adjustments
Real Time Clock (RTC)
Enables accurate time-stamping for traceability and compliance
Durable Construction
Built with a metal frame and metal enclosures for long-lasting performance
Versatile Connectivity
Includes USB 2.0, RS-232 serial, 10/100 Ethernet, and USB Host ports for flexible integration
Technical Specifications
Key technical details and performance specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Product Type | Printer |
| Air Interface Protocol | EPC global UHF Class 1 Gen 2 V2.1 (ISO 18000-63) |
| Operating Frequency | FCC (902-928 MHz) |
| Data Interface | USB 2.0, RS-232 Serial, 10/100 Ethernet, USB Host, Bluetooth Low Energy (For Configuration Only) |
| Power Source | Universal Auto-Ranging (PFC-Compliant) Power Supply 100-240 VAC; 50-60 Hz ENERGY STAR Certified |
| Resolution | 203 dpi or 300 dpi - Depending on Selection Above |
| Print Width | 104 mm (4.09 in) |
| Max Outer Diameter | 203 mm (8 in) |
| ID Core Options | 76 mm (3 in) |
| Dimensions | 432 x 241 x 279 mm (17 x 9.5 x 11 in) |
| Weight | 9.1 kg (20 lbs) |
| Operating Temperature | 5° to 40°C (40° to 105°F) |
| Host API | ZBI 2.0, ZPL, ZPL II, EZPL |
| Dimensions (Variants) | ZT231 RFID Closed: 17 in. L x 9.5 in. W x 11 in. H (432 mm L x 241 mm W x 279 mm H)ZT231 RFID with Liner Take up Unit: 17 in. L x 9.5 in. W x 12.75 in. H (432 mm L x 241 mm W x 324 mm H) |
| Weight (Variants) | ZT231 RFID: 20 lbs./9.1 kgZT231 RFID with Liner Take up Unit: 24 lbs./10.9 kg |
| Resolution (Print) | 203 dpi (8 dots per mm)300 dpi (12 dots per mm) optional |
| Memory | 256 MB SDRAM memory256 MB on-board linear Flash memory |
| Maximum Print Width | 4.09 in. / 104 mm |
| Maximum Print Speed | 12 ips (203 dpi)8 ips (300 dpi) |
| Media Sensors | Moveable transmissive and reflective sensors |
| Maximum Print Length | 203 dpi: 157 in. / 3988 mm300 dpi: 73 in. / 1854 mm |
| Minimum Label and Liner Length | Tear mode: 0.7 in / 18 mm Cutter mode: 1 in / 25 mm Peel mode: 0.5 in / 13 mm |
| Media Width | 0.75 in. / 19.4 mm to 4.50 in. / 114 mm |
| Media Roll Size | 8.0 in. / 203 mm O.D. on a 3.0 in. / 76 mm I.D. core6.0 in. / 152 mm O.D. on a 1.0 in. / 25 mm I.D. core |
| Media Thickness | 0.003 in. / 0.076 mm to 0.010 in. / 0.25 mm |
| Media Types | Continuous, die-cut, notch, black mark |
| Ribbon Standard Length | 1,476 ft. / 450 m |
| Ribbon Width | 1.57 in. / 40 mm to 4.33 in. / 110 mm |
| Ribbon Core | 1.0 in. / 25.4 mm |
| Operating Temperature (Modes) | Thermal transfer: 40°F to 105°F / 5°C to 40°CDirect thermal: 32°F to 105°F / 0°C to 40°C |
| Storage / Transportation Temperature | -40°F to 140°F / -40°C to 60°C |
| Operating Humidity | 20% to 85% non-condensing |
| Storage Humidity | 5% to 85% non-condensing |
| Electrical | Universal auto-ranging (PFC-compliant) power supply 100–240 VAC; 50–60 Hz ENERGY STAR certified |
| Agency Approvals | IEC 62368-1, EN55022 Class B, EN55024, EN55035, EN61000-3-2, EN61000-3-3, FCC Class B, ICES-003, FCC 15.209; 15.247(d), IC RSS 247, EN 300 328, EN 301 893, EN 62311, cTUV us, CE Marking, UKCA, VCCI, RCM, S-Mark, CCC, CU EAC, BSMI, KCC, BIS |
| Print DNA Software | This printer is supported by Zebra's Print DNA suite of software capabilities to get your printer up and running quickly and securely, and enable your printer to evolve with your business needs. Print DNA features may vary by model, and some features may require a license. |
| ZBI 2.0™ | Optional powerful programming language that lets printers run stand-alone applications, connect to peripherals, and much more |
| ZPL and ZPL II™ | Zebra Programming Language provides sophisticated label formatting and printer control and is compatible with all Zebra printers |
| Linear Barcodes | Code 11, Code 39, Code 93, Code 128 (A/B/C subsets), UCC Case Codes, ISBT-128, UPC-A, UPC-E, EAN-8, EAN-13, UPC/EAN with 2 or 5 digit extensions, Plessey, Post net, Standard 2-of-5, Industrial 2-of-5, Interleaved 2-of-5, Log mars, MSI, Coda bar, Planet Code |
| 2D Barcodes | Aztec, Coda block, PDF417, Code 49, Data Matrix, Maxi Code, QR Code, MicroPDF417, TLC39, RSS-14 (and composite) |
| Fonts and Graphics | 7 bitmapped, 1 smooth-scalable (CG Triumvirate™ Bold Condensed) pre-loaded Unicode™-compliant scalable fonts for EMEA character sets Supports international character sets including IBM® Code Page 850User-defined fonts and graphics supported Custom logos (ZPL II drawing commands including boxes and lines)64 MB user-available Flash memory for downloadable objects32 MB user-available SDRAM |
| Communication Options | 802.11ac Wi-Fi option card10/100 Ethernet option cardApplicator Interface |
| Media Handling | • Peel – front-mount, passive-peel with no take-up spindle• Peel – front-mount, passive-peel with liner take-up spindle (factory-fit only)• Cutter – front-mount guillotine cutter |
| RFID | UHF field-installable RFID kit |
| Keyboard Display Unit | ZKDU™ keyboard display units for stand-alone printing application |
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Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about RFID and AIDC solutions