We have an Onsrud Panel Pro with a OSAI touch screen controller. I was wondering if any of you guys are using ALIS with this setup.  I am wondering if it is possible to mount the label printer to the controller and use the controller computer to run ALIS and print the labels.  Is anyone using this kind of a setup? 

 If not or if you are using a different CNC machine, what kind of setup are you using to print labels on demand at your CNC?

We are using a KOMO with ALIS.  Our KOMO has a touch screen however we very rarely use it.  Our label printer is mounted on a small cart beneath our unloading table.  The system works great.  Our operator prints out the full set of labels for each sheet of material that he will cut.  Our computer is connected to our network via wireless technology and we are not completely satisfied with that-too slow and the connection is not always the best.  I would highly recommend hard wiring your network connection if you will be using one. 

Ken,

     We are running the same machine and controller and have ALLIS installed on the console and the printer sitting on the base of the control pedestal. You will need to remove the back panel on the controller and find the power supply strip mounted inside. If you follow the power cord that comes out of the back of the computer, you will find the power supply. One strange thing with this setup is that there is only 60V AC from any of the three hot wires to ground. You will need to hook the black leg of your printer cord to one lug and the white leg of the printer power cord to another lug. This will give you the 120V AC needed to run the printer. There are spare USB hubs on the back of the computer console also for your printer connection.

Kent

Thanks so much for the input guys!  Any recommendation on label printers?

Ken,

     We bought a new Zebra printer that is made specifically for UPS shipping systems off of EBAY for approx $400. It has worked flawlessly and the integration was a snap. I think the Zebra's are usually around the $1000-$1200 range. We are using 1.5" x 4" removeable labels that come on an 8" diameter roll.

Kent

Hey Kent,  If you don't mind me asking, what model printer did you purchase?  I am looking at the Zebra TLP 2844-Z

Ken,

     Our model number is a 2348+ CTP.