^MT · Media Type
Material type: transfer or direct.
Syntax and practical example
^MTD / ^MTT^MTT (transfer), ^MTD (direct)
^XA
^PW600
^LL400
^MTD
^FO40,40^A0N,30,30^FDDIRECT THERMAL^FS
^XZEducational example; not a certified label or a physical print test. Sample text and codes stay the same in every language for comparison.
Expected result with ^MT
^MTD selects direct thermal: the example needs heat-sensitive media and no ribbon. ^MTT selects thermal transfer, requiring compatible hardware and a suitable ribbon/label combination. The graphic content does not change between methods.
What should I check if ^MT does not give the expected result?
Do not switch to ^MTD merely to hide Ribbon Out when the media requires transfer. Also distinguish print method from gap or black-mark sensing: these are separate settings that must match your supplies.
Test on a real printer
The viewer helps check the layout, but does not simulate the mechanism, media or persistent printer settings. Record the original settings and restore them after testing.
Related commands
About the author
Eduard Diaz
Eduard Diaz is an IT technician (development) at S-IE, an official Zebra partner with more than 20 years providing identification and labelling services. He builds and maintains EditorZPL to make working with ZPL and Zebra label printers easier.
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