Setting up a Zebra printer

This article explains how to install and configure a Zebra ZD421 printer with dispenser so it can print badges correctly.

1

Install the Zebra printer driver

• Open your computer’s Settings.

• Go to Printers & Scanners

If the Zebra printer does not appear in your list of available printers, you will first need to install the printer driver.

Your printer is not listed

If the Zebra printer is not listed, download the Zebra Windows Printer Driver (v10).

1. Run the installer and follow the setup instructions.

2. When prompted to select a printer model, select ZDesigner ZD421-203dpi ZPL

Zebra Windows Printer Driver showing any installed printers

Once installed, the printer should appear in your Printers & Scanners list.

2

Open the Zebra printer configuration panel

Once the printer drivers are installed and the device is detected, the printer must be configured to accept the badge labels and behave appropriately.

1. Go to Settings > Printers & Scanners. Open up Select your Printing Preferences.

2. Select your Zebra printer.

3. Open Printing Preferences.

Printer settings hub showing the printer preferences higlighted in red

3

Set the label size

Ensure sure the selected size matches the label roll loaded in the printer.

In the Options tab, configure the label size depending on the badge format used for your event.

Badge type	Width (mm)	Height (mm)
Large	90	65
Small	90	40

Zebra printing preferences for Let's Get Digital badges

4

Configure advanced settings

Open the Advanced Setup section and apply the required configuration for badge printing.

These settings ensure the printer works correctly with the dispenser (peel-off function) and aligns the labels properly.

Advanced printing preferences of Zebra printer

Setting	Value
Operation Mode	Peel Off
Mode Type	Thermal Direct
Tracking Mode	Web Sensing
Adjustment Top	0.00 mm
Tear Off	10.00 mm
Left Position	0.00 mm

Troubleshooting

Printer not applying new settings

Sometimes after changing the printer's settings, the printer doesn't apply them. To force it to accept the new settings, press the Pause and Cross buttons simultaneously for 2 seconds. A few test prints will come out, after which the printer should recognise the settings.