Zebra ZD421 Direct Thermal Label Printer - USB, Ethernet

The Zebra ZD421 distinguishes itself with a host of advanced features. Its revamped user interface is more intuitive, while its robust architecture supports seamless performance.  Notably, the ZD421’s redesigned media guide and handling mechanisms enhance daily usability.

• Print methods: Direct Thermal
• Programming languages: ZPL and EPL
• User interface: 5 status icons, 3 buttons
• Connectivity: USB 2.0, USB Host, Ethernet
• Mobile app setup: Android & iOS via BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy 5) for use with Zebra printer setup app
• Real Time Clock (RTC)
• Easy media loading with OpenACCESS
• Sturdy dual-wall frame construction
• ENERGY STAR® certified
• ZebraDesigner Essentials: Free label design tool available at www.zebra.com/zebradesigner
• PDF Direct support
• Two-year standard warranty

Backwards Compatible with Virtually Any Existing Printer

Deploy your ZD421 confidently within your existing printer fleet. You can continue using the same label formats and applications you’re accustomed to. The ZD421 supports both EPL and ZPL printer languages and can even emulate languages typically associated with other printer brands using Zebra’s Print DNA tool, Virtual Devices.

Movable Sensor for Comprehensive Media Compatibility

The ZD421 features a movable media sensor, allowing you to use virtually any type of media. This flexibility enhances its suitability across a variety of use cases.

Technical Specifications

Physical Characteristics

Dimension:

• Direct Thermal: 8.69 in. L x 6.98 in. W x 5.93 in. H (220.8 mm L x 177.5 mm W x 150.7 mm H)

Weight:

• Direct Thermal: 2.98 lbs./1.35 kg

Printer Specifications

Operating System: Link-OS

Resolution:

• 203 dpi/8 dots per mm
• 300 dpi/12 dots per mm (optional)

Memory:

• 512 MB Flash; 256MB SDRAM
• 64 MB user available non-volatile memory
• 8 MB user available SDRAM

Maximum Print Width:

• 4.09 in./104 mm for 203 dpi
• 4.27 in./108 mm for 300 dpi
• Cartridge: 4.09 in./104 mm for 203 and 300 dpi

Maximum Print Speed:

• 6 in./152 mm per second (203 dpi)
• 4 in./102 mm per second (300 dpi)

Media Sensors:

• Full width, moveable reflective/black mark sensor
• Multi-position transmissive/gap sensor

Firmware: ZPL II; EPL 2; XML; ZBI; PDF Direct

Media, Ribbon, and Cartridge Characteristics

Label Length:

• Minimum: 0.25 in./6.4 mm
• Maximum: 39.0 in./991 mm

Media Width:

• Direct Thermal: 0.585 in./15 mm to 4.25 in./108 mm

Media Roll Size:

• Maximum outer diameter: 5.00 in./127 mm
• Core inner diameter: 0.5 in. (12.7 mm) and 1.0 in. (25.4 mm) standard, with optional adapters for 1.5 in. (38.1 mm), 2.0 in. (50.8 mm), and 3.0 in. (76.2 mm)

Media Thickness:

• 0.003 in. (0.08 mm) min.; 0.0075 in. (0.19 mm) max.

Media Types:

• Roll-fed or fan-fold, die-cut or continuous (with or without black mark), tag stock, continuous receipt paper, and wristbands

Ribbon Outside Diameter:

• 2.6 in./66 mm (300 m); 1.34 in./34 mm (74 m)

Ribbon Standard Length:

• Roll: 984 ft. (300 m); 243 ft. (74 m)
• Cartridge: 243 ft. (74 m)

Ribbon Ratio:

• 1:4 ribbon to media (300 m)
• 1:1 ribbon to media (74 m)

Ribbon Width:

• Roll: 1.33 in./33.8 mm — 4.3 in./109.2 mm
• Cartridge: 4.3 in./109.2 mm

Included In The Box

Printer

AC power supply

Power cord(s)

USB cable

Quick Start Guide

Regulatory Guide