Printer Setup Overview
Printer Setup Overview

Printer Setup Overview

This section provides a high-level outline of how to set up your Zebra printer. It includes (1) the hardware setup and (2) the host system or software/driver setup.
After finding an appropriate location for the printer—but BEFORE plugging in the printer power cord to a power source—, download the printer drivers on the laptop or PC that you will use to set up and manage the printer.
You will need a roll of media (labels, receipt paper, tags, etc.) to set up your first test print. Go to zebra.com/supplies or contact your reseller to help select the right media for your use.
  1. Place the printer in a safe location with access to a power source, in a place from where you can connect it to your PC, laptop or mobile device using either interface cables or a wireless connection. (See location considerations in Attaching Power.)
  2. Access zebra.com/setup to download and install the Zebra Setup Utilities (ZSU) for your Windows Operating System (OS). The utility includes the latest drivers, installation wizards, and various tools to assist you in managing your printer.
    Optionally download Android, iPhone, or iPad apps that will help you manage your Zebra printer.
  3. Attach the printer and power supply to a grounded AC power source. (See Attaching Power.)
  4. Select and prepare media for your printer.
  6. Turn printer power ON (see Power Switch).
  7. Calibrate the printer to the media (see Manual Calibration).
  8. Print a Configuration Report to verify basic printer operation (see Printing a Test (Printer Configuration) Label).
  9. Turn printer power OFF (see Power Switch).
  10. Choose a method to communicate with your printer using either a wired connection—USB port, optional serial port, or optional Ethernet—or a wireless connection such as Bluetooth or Wi-Fi, and establish the connection.
  11. If using a physical connection, be sure to turn OFF power to the printer BEFORE you connect the printer cable to the network or host system.
  12. Wait to turn printer power ON until the second phase of the printer setup.
    During printer driver installation, the Zebra Setup Utilities will prompt you to switch printer power ON at the appropriate stage of the process.
    If you switched printer power on and connected your laptop or other device to the printer BEFORE installing the drivers, see What to Do If You Forget to Install Printer Drivers First.