Technology
Coding Solution
Includes Line Control
by David Vaczek
Senior Editor
Markem-Imaje (Keane, NH)
is offering a turnkey solution
for package coding and tracing with the launch of a second-gen-eration version of its CoLOS software
products.
The Centralized Code and Data
Management (CCDM) and Packaging
Line Traceability (PLT) system support code marking across all packaging
levels, data aggregation for traceability,
and compliant reporting. It also shares
information with ERP and warehouse
management systems and manages
production-line components.
“The Markem-Imaje combination
of printers with the CoLOS CCDM
and PLT application capabilities offers
packaging operations managers the
ability to standardize their operational
best practices with a single solution
across their sites. Customers can save
time, costs, and enhance decision-making capabilities at all levels in the
enterprise,” says David Habib, product
manager for software and solutions,
Markem-Imaje.
CoLOS software includes CoLOS
Enterprise. The Enterprise CoLOS
Control module centrally controls and
monitors networked printers and production-line scanners. Data are viewed
in real time at any client PC on the
network.
Coding data and label templates
can be controlled and distributed from
the enterprise, plant, or packaging line
levels. Printers and laser coders on a
line can be selected through a CoLOS
Control operator panel to tailor batch
and dynamic code printing with the
right type of print technology (laser,
The Centralized Code and Data Management (CCDM) and Packaging Line Traceability (PLT) systems
support code marking across all packaging levels, share information with ERP and warehouse management systems, and manage production-line components.
thermal transfer, high-resolution hot-melt ink, liquid continuous ink-jet, and
labels) based on a distribution channel’s requirements, Habib says. Similarly, the host PC mode of control
avoids the need for reprogramming all
the printers for a new run, he adds.
“After the GTIN or batch number is
sent to the first printer at the start of a
batch, it is automatically conveyed via
a CoLOS server to the other printers
on the line. This ensures that all the
printers are setup with the right code
data,” Habib says.
An integrated CreatePro function
in CoLOS Enterprise manages label
image design with a simple intuitive
Windows studio tool.
CoLOS has been upgraded to a
Microsoft-certified software platform.
The new CoLOS software supports
device networking using industry-stan-dard open communication protocols.
With open protocol connectivity (OPC),
CoLOS more seamlessly integrates with
enterprise-level databases, production-line material handling, and line-code
verification equipment, says Habib.
“OPC provides a single, robust protocol that is supported by many manufacturers. We can easily connect to
PLCs and other line automation controls,” Habib says.
“We have OPC connections for
monitoring the scanners and vision
systems on the line. We can talk to the
