1. What is the difference between direct thermal (DT) and thermal transfer (TT)?

Direct thermal is a printing process that uses a label coated with a heat-sensitive layer and does not use a ribbon or ink to print. An image is burned into the paper where with the thermal transfer you use a ribbon to print onto the label. Because direct thermal will fade in approximately 1 year and is not a good choice for environments with higher temperatures or exposure to sunlight. Also, thermal transfer print is a more permanent solution and will not fade.