Generating Barcode Labels in Bulk Using Scispot with BarTender and ZebraDesigner
Generating barcode labels in bulk is a common requirement in laboratories for efficient sample tracking. Scispot facilitates this by exporting barcode data in CSV format, which can then be imported into label design software like BarTender and ZebraDesigner for printing.
Step-by-Step Guide For BarTender
1. Install BarTender
Note: BarTender’s free trial lasts for 30 days. Check their website for updates.
2. Prepare the CSV in Scispot
Log into Scispot and navigate to the sample or manifest section.
Select the samples for which you want to generate barcode labels.
Click on the option to generate barcode labels.
Choose the barcode type (e.g., Code 128) and export the data in CSV format.
3. Import the CSV into BarTender
Open BarTender and create a new label template.
Click "File" > "Import Data" and select the CSV from Scispot.
BarTender will parse and display the data.
4. Design the Label
Drag the barcode object onto the label design area.
Right-click it, choose "Properties", and link it to the barcode ID from the CSV.
Set the barcode type (e.g., Code 128).
Add text elements (e.g., sample name) and link them to the CSV fields.
5. Preview and Print
Click "Preview" to check the labels.
If everything looks good, click "Print" to generate your labels.
Step-by-Step Guide for ZebraDesigner
How to Download Zebra Software
Zebra Technologies provides a range of software for managing your Zebra devices. Follow the steps below to download and install the Zebra software on your computer.
Step 1: Visit the Zebra Website
Open your preferred web browser.
Go to the official Zebra Technologies website:
www.zebra.com
Step 2: Navigate to the Software Section
On the homepage, hover over or click on the Support tab.
Select Software & Downloads from the dropdown menu.
Step 3: Choose Your Product
On the software page, you will see a search bar or a list of categories.
Enter the model number of your Zebra device (e.g., Zebra ZT410, Zebra DS3608) or select your product category from the list.
Step 4: Select the Correct Software Version
Once you've found your device, you will be presented with available software and firmware updates.
Choose the latest version of the software, or a specific version if required.
Step 5: Download the Software
Click on the Download button next to the software you want.
If required, review the System Requirements and ensure that your device meets them.
Click Download again to start the process.
Step 6: Install the Software
After the software is downloaded, locate the installer file on your computer (usually in your Downloads folder).
Double-click the installer to begin the installation process.
Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation.
Step 7: Activate the Software (If Required)
Some Zebra software might require activation.
If prompted, enter your license key or account information as instructed.
Step 8: Launch the Software
Once installation is complete, launch the software from your desktop or start menu.
Follow any additional setup instructions within the software interface.
Step 9: Update the Software
After installation, it’s important to regularly check for updates to ensure you are running the latest version with all the latest features and bug fixes.
You can usually find the Check for Updates option within the software’s Help or Settings menu.
Print labels with ZebraDesigner
1. Prepare the CSV File in Scispot
Follow the same steps as in BarTender to export the barcode data from Scispot in CSV format.
2. Import CSV into ZebraDesigner
Open ZebraDesigner and create a new label template.
Go to the "Data" tab and click on "Text File".
Browse and select the CSV file exported from Scispot.
Ensure the data structure is set to "Delimited" and the delimiter is set to a comma.
Confirm that the first row contains field names.
3. Design the Label Template
Drag and drop the barcode object onto the label design area.
Right-click on the barcode object and select "Properties".
In the "Data Source" tab, select "Databases" and choose the imported CSV file.
Select the appropriate field from the CSV (e.g., Barcode ID) to link to the barcode object.
Change the barcode type to match the one used in Scispot (e.g., Code 128).
Add other elements like text fields for metadata by dragging text objects onto the label and linking them to corresponding CSV fields.
4. Preview and Print
Click on the "Preview" button to see how the labels will appear.
If everything looks correct, click on "Print" to print the labels.