In recent years, thermal printers have become increasingly popular among both retailers and individuals. Compared to traditional printers, thermal printers are easy to use, carry, and cost-effectively. However, many first-time users may encounter some problems due to unfamiliarity with them. In this blog, I will give you, first-time users, a step-by-step guide and help you to go through the initial stage.
Table of Contents
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How to Use a Thermal Printer
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Troubleshooting
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Maintenance and Cleaning
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Where to Find Good Thermal Printer and Label Paper
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Conclusion
How to Use a Thermal Printer
*The following is a video using Y813 as an example
1. Unpack the Printer and Inspect It
When you receive your package, the first thing is to unpack and inspect it. You need to check:
- Whether all accessories are included: you can know what accessories should be included by using the manual or online sales information.
- Whether there is any sign of damage on the printer or accessories: if there is, you need to contact the supplier for assistance immediately.
2. Find Out Your User Manual
There may be many guidance blogs or videos on the Internet to teach you how to use a thermal printer on the Internet. But printers of different models have their way. It is better to operate according to the user manual.
3. Find Out Information like Warning or Safety Notices
Some businesses will include precautions about this printer in the manual, including examples of incorrect use of the printer, safety precautions, the current and voltage supported by the printer, and more. For your life safety and not to damage the printer, you’d better have a good understanding of these printer notices.
4. Know of Printer Component, Buttons, and Different Lights
Printer Component: from the user manual, you could know which part is the upper cover, which part is the lower cover, and which part is the printer head. Similarly, you can know where other features are, like the paper size switch, USB connector, and DC power connector.
Buttons: Then you need to know what each button is used for. The following are the common buttons: the power key and the open key. You not only need to know the function of each button, but you also need to know how to use each one.
Different lights: if there is a status light on the printer, you need to know the meaning of the different colored lights.
5. Set Up the Printer
You need to connect the power cord to the adapter and the printer. Then plug the other end into a wall outlet. After that, turn on the power.
6. Load Paper
For different printers, there are different ways to load paper. You can do it according to the user manual. Besides, there are several other points to note here.
- You need to find out where the printer entrance is. You need to know whether the paper should be placed from front to back or from back to front. Or whether you should open the cover and put it in.
- If you need to load paper from front to back, or from back to front, you'd better insert the paper parallel to the printer entrance.
- For thermal label paper, there are some tips to note. If there is any protective paper or bottom paper, you need to remove it. You also need to make sure which side of the thermal paper is facing up. Generally speaking, the tracing paper is white and needs to be face down. The transfer paper is blue and needs to be face up. If you are still not clear, you can scrape the paper with your fingernail on both sides. The side of the transfer paper will leave marks.
- Don't forget to adjust the slot width.
7. Connect the Printer to Your Devices
There are many ways to connect the printer to your devices. I will introduce three of the most common ways.
Connect via smartphone App
Nowadays, most thermal printers come with an app. You can find the QR code in the user manual and scan it to download the app. Then you may need to turn on Bluetooth and connect the printer via Bluetooth in the app.
Connect to the Computer via USB.
You can find the download link in the user manual. Download the printer driver from the link or install it via the included USB flash drive. After that, you can download and install the driver according to the link prompt. After the driver is installed, you can choose the USB connection as the link method.
Connect via Bluetooth
The method is similar to connecting via USB. Just after installing the driver, select Bluetooth connection. However, some printers can be connected via USB and are compatible with both Windows and macOS, but for Bluetooth connection, they are only compatible with Windows. You need to make sure to check this carefully.
8. Print a Test Page
Now, you can print a test page and see whether there are any problems.
Troubleshooting
1. The printer head is overheated
The printer will automatically resume once the printer head has cooled down
2. Bluetooth is initializing or initialization failed
Close the App first. Restart the printer and wait for a few minutes. Then reconnect the App.
3. Paper Jams
To resolve this issue, carefully remove the jammed paper, ensuring that no torn remnants are left behind. Confirm that the paper is loaded correctly, following the instructions in the user manual.
Maintenance and Cleaning
1. Use only approved accessories to ensure proper operation
2. Do not disassemble or attempt to repair the unit yourself.
3. Keep the printer away from water, fire, or other sources that may damage the internal components
4. When the printer is left idle for a long time, charge it once every three months to prevent the battery from entering a dormant state.
5. Regularly clean the print head. After shutting down the printer every day, use an alcohol cotton swab to gently wipe the print head from the center to the edge in a single direction. Do not use metal tools to scrape it, as this will permanently damage the heating element. If you want to know more, you can read this blog: How to Clean the Thermal Printer Head
6. Use high-quality printing paper. Poor-quality printing paper is likely to scratch the print head.
Where to Find Good Thermal Printer and Label Paper
It is not easy to find reasonably priced and reliable thermal printers and label paper on many online platforms. I want to introduce you to the True Image thermal printer and label paper. Our products have excellent performance and a competitive price. Here are the reasons why True Image is your ideal ink supply partner:
- ✅ No Ink, No Toner Needed – Thermal printing technology reduces operating costs.
- ⚡ Fast Printing Speed – Print up to 150 mm/s, perfect for high-volume shipping.
- 🖨️ Crystal-Clear Output – Delivers sharp, smudge-free labels at 203 DPI resolution.
- 📦 Compatible with Major Platforms – Works seamlessly with Amazon, eBay, FedEx & more.
- 🔌 Easy to Set Up – Plug-and-play via USB & Bluetooth, compatible with Android & IOS.
- 🔧 Supports Various Label Sizes – From 1.57" to 4.1" wide, including standard 4x6 shipping labels.
- 🛠️ 30-day money-back guarantee and 2-year product warranty
Conclusion
Thermal printers have become increasingly important tools in modern life due to their advantages. In this blog, I have introduced how beginners can use the printer, common problems, and how to maintain and clean the printer. If you have more questions, you can leave a message in the comment section, and we will answer them for you.
