I'm currently implementing Microsoft Business Central (BC) cloud for our warehouse operations, and we need to print shipping labels efficiently. We're transitioning from JD Edwards, which has been too complicated for our needs. Our warehouse ships around 10 million units annually, so BC seems like a good fit.
The implementation team is pushing us to use a "proxy server" solution called LS Hardware Station to connect BC cloud with network printers in our warehouse. However, I've read that I might only need one instance of this software for the entire site, even though the integrator insists that each printing workstation needs its own.
I have two Zebra ZT411 printers, both connected to the network and accessible from the desktop running LS Hardware Station. Do I really need to install multiple instances? My current setup seems to recognize both printers with just one instance. I'm struggling to find solid information about LS Hardware Station, so any advice or suggestions would be greatly appreciated!
3 Answers
Definitely check out Microsoft's Universal Print as a cloud printing option. It can get pricey, but if you're looking for straightforward integration with Business Central, it could be worth it. Alternatively, you might want to explore Printix for some user-friendly options, though I’m not super familiar with it myself.
It sounds like you're dealing with some conflicting advice from your integrator. Generally, for cloud solutions, you would need a centralized approach. Since LS Hardware Station can connect to both printers from one instance, you likely don't need to install it on every workstation. Double-check the official documentation, as it often states you need just one instance for the whole site.
That makes sense! I'd also look into cloud printing solutions if you're planning for scalability; they might ease any potential issues down the line.
From my experience transitioning clients to Business Central, direct printing can be tricky without premise servers. Consider using a solution like NiceLabel or Loftware, which another client of mine found effective. They set up a shared server for processing print jobs that connect to their printers remotely. It can streamline printing significantly once configured correctly!
I've heard Ezeep Blue works really well with Zebra printers if you want to consider that route too.