ZBI is an "on-the-printer" programing language that offers
many of the functions found in ANSI BASIC. The ZBI language allows
the user to create applications that are run on the printer to manipulate
data streams. By using ZBI, it is possible to have the printer perform
the same functions that a computer or programmable terminal might otherwise
be used for.
With the connectivity options available on Zebra printers,
you may not need a separate computer. Simply load a ZBI program
on your printers, add them to your network, and let the printers
serve as the gateway for moving data.
Here are some of the applications that can be written using ZBI:
Connect a barcode scanner to the printer. Based on scanned
data, reprint tags, verify printed output, and manage a list of
items.
Connect a scale to the printer and print labels, tags, or receipts
based on the weight of an item.
Connect the printer to a PC-based database and send queries
from the printer to retrieve or upload data.
Convert incoming data into the commands that can be used to
print a label. This is useful for replacing other brands of printers
with new Zebra units.
Provide fail-over to another printer when the target printer
is in an error state.
