We have a web application that mainly works on iOS Safari and Windows Chrome. Our client requires us to retrieve labels in PDF and ZPL and then print them to a label printer.
Our current logic is:
1. Webapp retrieves the PDF/ZPL file and then sends it to web browser printer in Safari iOS or Windows Chrome.
2. Label preview is shown and user clicks to print.
3. Label is printed.
We are aware of the solution using SendFileToPrinter API and Zebra Savanna, in which we should connect the printer through a wired or wireless network connection.
We are also aware of the solution using BrowserPrint App and javascript library to print labels from a Mac, Windows, or Android environment, however, there is no support for iOS devices.
Is there any other way to connect the printer through Bluetooth connection (using an iPad - iOS, for example) and print labels in PDF or ZPL from our browser-based web application like using any other normal printer?
3 Replies
There are a few options for iOS besides the Browser Print and SendFileToPrinter. The simplest and easiest option is to use Zebra ZSB printers. The ZSB printers are designed for small and medium businesses and come with Apple AirPrint and Android PrintService. It would be very straight for iOS users to print a PDF label from any app (native app or web app) on iOS. Unfortunately, the ZSB printers do not support ZPL print.
To do a ZPL print, you would need to implement your own version of a mobile app for iOS as an agent, similar to what the Browser Print app does, and then redirect the printing function from the webapp to the mobile app. This approach requires some development effort.
Hi Steven,
Thank you for the quick response. Can you please also confirm if Zebra ZSB printers support SendFileToPrinter API?
What would be the prince range of Zebra ZSB printers?
Thanks,
/Shamal
No, Zebra ZSB printers do not support the SendFileToPrinter API. For pricing of ZSB printers, you can look up on Amazon. Zebra ZSB printers are sold through Amazon.