TEKLYNX has the most comprehensive set of AIDC software tools in the marketplace to help you extend the capabilities of your software and create more value for your end customer through the utilization of bar code technology. Many software companies would benefit from either adding label printing capabilities to their application or taking part of their application mobile – TEKLYNX can meet both of these needs quickly and easily.
Integrating TEKLYNX Label Printing Capability
Adding TEKLYNX label printing capabilities to an existing application can be done using one of three methods, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. The method of choice is dependent on the application.
1. The SENTINEL Method
SENTINEL is a server based print management software package that, once set up, runs 24/7 on a server waiting for data to arrive. It is a multi-threaded application that can easily support hundreds of data streams and printers. Connecting to SENTINEL can be as easy as saving a file to a directory on the network that SENTINEL is watching. Other methods of getting the data to SENTINEL include TCP/IP, Web Services and others. SENTINEL has unmatched mapping capabilities that allow virtually any logical data stream to be configured as input. Once the data arrives, SENTINEL extracts the needed data from the file and processes according to your preferences (Ex. adds it to a label template).
Advantages
- Self-contained and independent of the program(s) creating the data/business process
- Easy setup, easily scalable (adding printers and connections ) – no programmer needed!
- Can connect to multiple systems using multiple connection methods (can be the print server for SAP, a custom application, a smaller ERP system, and a web form for example)
Disadvantages
- Requires a server box to run
2. The ActiveX Integration Method
ActiveX integration directly into the label design and printing software, CODESOFT, allows for complete control of the entire process. With over 1,000 ActiveX calls available, your application can easily open labels, fill variable fields on a label, and print labels. Or if needed, your application could even design a new label remotely.
Advantages
- Powerful – with over 1,000 ActiveX methods, CODESOFT is the most powerful software available for integrating bar code printing to your existing application
- Direct connection to the printer for feedback
Disadvantages
- Requires a programmer to create and test the connection
3. The POF Method
POF stands for Printer Object File. In this method of integration, TEKLYNX software creates a file containing all of the printer code and necessary information to print the label within an external program. In this case, the integrator would need to handle data insertion into the file, modification of printer settings (if required), and pushing the file to the printer. TEKLYNX software is used simply to manage the label design and create the output files.
Advantages
- Full control
- Allows printing from non-Windows systems
Disadvantages
- Largest integration effort required
- No feedback from the printer
Adding Mobility
TEKLYNX has the most advanced and cost effective solution for adding mobility to existing applications. IDEAM is the next generation of mobile application development tools available today. Taking advantage of the latest technology and techniques for performance, IDEAM can be used to:
- Allow collection of data in the field for real-time visibility
- Eliminate forms and non value-add time of field service workers
