How to Print on Thermal Paper

Thermal paper is most often used to print receipts at the point of sale in retail stores. Grocery stores and other businesses often use thermal paper because it prints without the need of a costly ink ribbon. Thermal papers are infused with a special ink that turns black when subjected to heat, although specially-colored inks are available. Thermal printers provide pin-point heat to certain areas of the paper to print legible characters and designs on thermal paper.

• 1

  Turn the printer off. Connect the power cord and supplied port, serial and USB cables to the rear of the printer. Plug the other end of the power cord into an electrical socket and the other end of the cords into a computer.

• 2

  Turn the printer on. Press the release button on the top or side of the thermal printer to open the cover. Remove the tape or glue holding the thermal paper closed and remove the outer layer of paper. Load the roll into the printer. Adjust any guides to fit the width of the paper and shut the printer's cover. Press the "Feed" button to ensure the labels are seated correctly.

• 3

  Place the CD containing the printer software in the computer's disk tray. Run the installation program. Follow all installation instructions.

• 4

  Open the installed printer software. Use the program to print as desired. Detach the thermal paper by pulling it down tightly against the serrated cutter on the printer.