MULTIVAC PrintingPoint: A printer network instead of isolated applications

With MULTIVAC PrintingPoint MULTIVAC Marking & Inspection has developed a software solution, which connects the printers of different packaging lines to one network. In this way all the printing units can be operated from one central computer. This has several advantages: the operating personnel are relieved of a burden, input errors are avoided and product changes accelerated.

MULTIVAC PrintingPoint is a browser-based software, with which users can distribute from one central computer their print layouts and data for different products and orders to all the printers on their lines. "Up to now the printers in individual packaging lines have generally been isolated applications. For this reason user companies require an input terminal for each line with the corresponding software. When a product or batch is being changed, the operator must input the relevant change manually at the printer", explains sales manager Robert Vollenkemper.

This can be a challenge for the operating personnel, particularly if different types of printers and input templates are being used. An error can quickly creep in, and an incorrect use-by date or product code can have far reaching consequences for the manufacturer.

MULTIVAC PrintingPoint provides a solution to this challenge. The software is matched to the individual customer's requirements. The printer network itself is linked to a customer database or a productmanagement system, for example SAP. Thermal transfer printers can be networked as well as inkjet printers from Hitachi and Videojet.