Several recent thermal transfer ribbons now come in a wide range of colors and work well for printing high-resolution bar codes, text, and graphics. Ultra-V, for example, is a resin-enhanced wax ribbon from Automated Packaging Systems, Streetsboro, Ohio, (autobag.com). It resists scratching, smearing, flaking, and U.V. rays, says the company. The ribbon's high density and contrast, and good edge definition work well when printing identification and bar-code labels. The company guarantees Ultra-V performance with the company'sAutobag Print-n-Pack systems.

Other ribbons include UltraPrint, a resin-enhanced wax thermal version for specialty applications. It has multilayer construction with quick release and advanced binding properties well suited for extreme environments and overprinting on AutoGrafix inks. And Ultra Wax, a full wax, general-purpose ribbon, handles high-volume applications, and printing black images at up to 12 ips. The ribbon works on coated and uncoated paper, has good print quality for high scan rates, and it resists abrasion and smearing.

“All AutoLabel ribbons remove static and repel contaminants that damage print heads,” says director of marketing Tim Groff. “The patent-pending formula is inside the ink. It's not a back coating. This protects equipment and operators from electrostatic discharge, and lengthens life for print heads.”