This article outlines the three supported label printer connection options in TrackTile, along with the advantages and trade-offs of each. The goal is to help you choose the setup that best fits your facility, workflow, and future plans.

Option 1: Wired Label Printer

A wired label printer connects directly to your local network and communicates with TrackTile through an Edge Node.

Advantages

• High reliability and consistency – Wired connections are the most stable option.
• Fast printing speeds – Minimal latency and very low risk of dropped jobs.
• Rare errors – Ideal for high-volume or mission-critical labelling.
• Remote printing supported – You can print to the wired printer from anywhere you can access TrackTile (e.g., from home or another site).

Disadvantages

• Fixed location – The printer must remain where it can reach a network cable. 
• Requires an Edge Node – Needed to allow communication between TrackTile and the printer.

Best suited for

Facilities with a permanent labelling station, high print volumes, or environments where reliability is the top priority.

Option 2: Wi‑Fi Label Printer

A Wi‑Fi label printer connects to your wireless network and communicates with TrackTile via an Edge Node.

Advantages

• Flexible placement – The printer can be moved anywhere with a reliable Wi‑Fi signal, and available power.
• Remote printing supported – You can select and print to a specific Wi‑Fi printer from anywhere you can access TrackTile, including off‑site.
• No physical network cabling required – Easier installation in many facilities.

Disadvantages

• Dependent on Wi‑Fi quality – Dead zones or inconsistent wireless coverage can cause delays or failed prints.
• Requires an Edge Node – As with any network‑connected hardware, an Edge Node is required.

Best suited for

Facilities that want flexibility in printer placement and already have strong, consistent Wi‑Fi coverage.

Option 3: Bluetooth Label Printer

A Bluetooth printer connects directly to a tablet or laptop rather than the network.

Advantages

• Highly portable – Can be used anywhere there is power.
• No Edge Node required – The printer connects device‑to‑device, not through the network.
• Ideal for mobile workflows – Great for on‑the‑floor or ad‑hoc labelling.

Disadvantages

• Device‑dependent printing – You must be on the specific tablet or laptop that is paired with the printer.
• No printer selection inside TrackTile – You cannot simply point TrackTile to the printer; printing occurs through the connected device.  
• Connection does not persist – Bluetooth often disconnects when idle, so re‑pairing may be required.

Note: If you are printing many labels in a short period of time, Bluetooth disconnections are usually not an issue. If you print often, but with noticeable time in between, the disconnections may be a frustration.  

Best suited for

Mobile users, temporary setups, or environments where maximum flexibility is more important than automation or centralized control.  

About the Edge Node

The Edge Node is required whenever TrackTile connects to network‑based smart hardware, including:

• Wired or Wi‑Fi label printers
• Temperature sensors
• Scales
• Other smart devices in your environment

If you plan to integrate additional smart hardware in the future, the need for an Edge Node should not be a deciding factor against wired or Wi‑Fi label printers. In those cases, the Edge Node will be required for your desired setup.  

Summary

• Wired printers offer maximum reliability and speed, with minimal errors, but are fixed in location.
• Wi‑Fi printers provide flexibility and remote printing, with performance dependent on wireless quality.
• Bluetooth printers are the most portable and do not require an Edge Node, but require manual device connections.

Choosing the right option depends on your workflow, facility layout, and long‑term plans for hardware integration within TrackTile.