SINGAPORE - SATO, a leader in barcode printing since introducing the first thermal transfer barcode printer in 1979, announced today a new traceability system that uses their HT200e printer to enable contact tracing in the fight against Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS).

SATO’s HT200e is a direct thermal stand-alone printer, which is designed for ease of use and maximum versatility for both retail and office applications. It has a print resolution of 203 dpi, printing speeds of up to 3 ips, and it fills the gap between basic hand labelers and large desktop labeling systems with its compact footprint (5.2” W x 9.06” D x 5.94” H).

Mr. T. Waki, Managing Director for Bar Code SATO Electronics (S) Pte Ltd said, “SARS is a phenomenon which has affected both people and businesses in one way or another, and it poses a real threat to our way of living if not properly managed and contained. At SATO, our vision is to contribute to the society’s welfare and it is with this vision that we are committed to the global efforts in preventing the spread of SARS so that everyone can go about their daily routine without worry”.

“Understanding that contact tracing is one of the key elements in preventing the spread of SARS, we have developed a new traceability system for our HT200e printers. The printer was designed to be modular for versatility so customers can use the HT200e as a standalone barcode printer first, and later as a contact tracing device should the need arise” added Mr. Waki.

Setting up the traceability system on the HT200e printer is a simple process. All the customer has to do is to connect a SATO barcode scanner to their HT200e printer. At the point of contact, the customer scans the visitor’s identity card with the barcode scanner and keys in the visitor’s temperature and other personal details. The printer will then print two hardcopy labels – one for the visitor and another for customers’ record.

An additional feature of SATO’s traceability system is that it can be connected to a host computer for data transfer and management if required.