HIT: Brother P-Touch labeler

[Linda Slacum <lslacum@ccps.org>]

Group,
This is really a two part HIT.  My original query was about what model
labeler to buy.  The second target was about where to buy the
replacement tape for the lowest price.

Although Brother seems to have 30+ different models that range from
single line models to the deluxe model that will do the laundry and
dusting for you (tee hee hee).  Most LM_Netters who offered advice were
in agreement that you must decide what you want to use the labeler for
and then select the model that will best do the job. They also agreed
that a labeler that prints 3 lines is invaluable.

For example, if you must have a labeler that prints both horizontal and
vertical text, then you have narrowed down your choices.    The top of
the line model would print 5+ lines along with barcodes.  If you have a
need for creating local barcodes, this may be the best model for you.  I
settled upon the 2200 model.  It will print 3 lines, both vertical and
horizontal.  It can accommodate 4 sizes of the printing tape so that I
can use the most economical size for my labeling project.  I recommend
you visit your local office supply store and check out display models,
ask the sales people for advice, then check mail order catalogs for the
best price.  (My local Staples matched catalog prices and without
shipping it was a few dollars cheaper than mail order.)

Thus far we have relabeled our FIC A section and it looks great.  My
original call numbers were small, yellowing and difficult to read in one
section due (in part) to poor lighting.  Now, even my 45+ old eyes can
see the call number without the bifocals!  We used 1" wide tape and
counted that we could make about 215 labels from one 26 foot tape
cartridge.  So you can estimate how much tape you will need to relabel a
single section of your library or the entire collection.

One LM_Netter suggested that Brother should give away the machine as the
replacement tapes are so expensive.  Hence my second query.....where to
buy replacement tape for the best price.  I was beginning to think she
was right.  I could not find the 1" size tape for less than $21 per
cartridge.  I was directed to

            www.macmall.com            $12.00 per roll.....must be a
size smaller than 1"
            www.staples.com               I could not beat the local
store price for the 1" size
            www.ptouchlabels.com      $15.10 for the 1" size labels
In addition, I asked another local office supply store to quote me a
price if I purchased 12 rolls at a time.  They are willing to offer a
discount, but have not called me back with the price.

Hope this info helps you select the model and supply source that best
suits your needs. Good luck.
--
Linda
*****************************************************
Mrs. Linda Slacum, Library Media Specialist
Cherry Hill Middle School
2535 Singerly Road, Elkton, MD 21921
410.996.5024   or  410.996.5020
lslacum@ccps.org (SCHOOL)  or  lindas@delanet.com (HOME)
http://www.ccps.org/ccps/chms/index.html
http://www.ccps.org/ccps/ccemo/home/home.html
******************************************************

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