ZPL II - the world's most popular scripting language.

Differences between ZPL and ZPL II.

The latest version of the language is ZPL II, which, compared to the first version, has a reduced time for the printer to receive data, making it even faster to format and print a barcode label. Another difference is that the current version allows the printing of more complex labels, which can contain various combinations of text, barcodes and graphics anywhere on the label. However, it should be noted that the current version is not fully compatible with the original version of the language. The plus side of the second version is that, when programming further elements, the label is continuously updated, which was not experienced in the previous version.

In addition to Zebra printers, ZPL II is also used in printing devices from other brands such as:

• Honeywell,
• TSC,
• Sato,
• Citizen,
• Brady.

How does the Zebra Programming Language actually work?

As we already know, the coding language, developed by Zebra, is used to simply create labels by typing a set of commands in an editing window. This makes it possible to print the label.

But from the beginning. Let's start with what you need to know before you start programming. First, establish the most necessary information, such as:

• product name,
• font,
• the type of barcode,
• the position of the code on the label,
• SKU (stock keeping unit) number,
• shipper and receiver address,
• dimensions of the shipping carton,
• the location of the barcode label printer.

If you have already collected the above data, you need to know the initial principles of ZPL II.

Firstly, the language consists of commands and their parameters.

After 2. Commands usually start with a caret (^) or tilde (~).

After 3. Commands consist of 1 or 2 letters.

After 4. Commands can consist of multiple parameters, or variable information, which are separated by a comma (,).

After 5. Tab keys, spaces, or typing from a new line is usually ignored by the program.

How do I program my own logistics label?

• To begin coding, you need to start by typing the ^XA command.
• Then type the codes of the elements you want to include on your label. For example, the command 40^FD starts writing the text. You can find a full list of codes on Zebra's official website.
• Finally, place the ^XZ command to indicate the end of programming.

Example of coding in ZPL2 of a company name:

^XA
^CF0,60
^FO20.50^FDHDF Software sp. z o.o.^FS
^CF0.30
^XZ

And there you have it! Your first label designed with Zebra Programming Language II is ready to print.

ZPL prints from a variety of operating systems, software and drivers.

You can easily generate logistics labels from operating systems such as Linux. MESi WMS systems are also helpful. It is also possible to use databases, computer programms (e.g. Excel) and controllers (e.g. PLC) to design the label, then convert it to ZPL II and finally print it.

So let's summarize everything you already know about Zebra Programming Language.

Let's look at its advantages, but also... its disadvantages.

Advantages:

• it is simple and accessible to everyone,
• quick to learn,
• has an online version,
• it is possible to transfer a very large number of labels over the web, due to the small size of the format,
• you do not need to be a programmer to create your label,
• many brands such as Zebra, Honeywell, Sata, Citizen and Brady have emulation of this language in their devices,
• known worldwide as the standard for label design,
• ensures efficient creation and printing.

Disadvantages:

• illegibility of the source code,
• possibility of errors that are difficult to find,
• it is a scripting language that is not as free as advanced programming languages,
• due to emulations, printouts may differ in appearance on equipment from different manufacturers.

As you can see, ZPL II has disadvantages that some may find daunting to use. Nonetheless, we note a large preponderance of advantages that may be decisive - above all, simplicity and accessibility for everyone.