LabArchives Inventory provides several options for creating and using QR codes to work with a printer of your choice, or with the Dymo LabelWriter 450. Each item in the inventory will have a label automatically created. These labels have a QR code that can be printed and later scanned using the camera built into LabArchives Inventory on a mobile device.
If you want to create labels in bulk, using custom label sizes, or using using your own printer, you will first need to export the label information in LabArchives.
Export Label Information for one item
To view a label for a specific inventory item, search or browse from the Inventory page and click on the name of the inventory item. Select the “Labels” tab while viewing the item.
To export Label information for one item, click “Copy Label Information” on the labels tab. By default, this will include the item name, inventory type, vendor, expiration date, and catalog number. This will copy the label information to your clipboard. You can also use the “Copy” option at the top of the page to copy all information about an item including custom fields on the Details tab.
On the right-hand side of the labels tab, you will see the QR code that was automatically created for that item. To download this image, click “Download QR Code Image.” The image will download as a .jpg file to your computer. The name of the file will be the item name.
Export label information for multiple items
If you want to bulk create labels in your label printing software, you can click “Export Items” on the inventory page. You can perform a search and export just a few items or you can export the entire inventory.
This will download a file named “InventoryExport.xlsx” containing the current search results or all items within the lab.
The exported spreadsheet will include all details about the item including the full URL for each item in a column called “Item URL.” This URL can be used to create your own QR Codes in your label printing software.
Creating Labels in your own printer and print software
If you choose to create your own labels you can fully customize the size, material, text and details included. Once you have exported the Label information from LabArchives, you’ll need to import the label information to your local printing software, formats the labels, and print.
Within your printing software, you can select font size, color, style, formatting, create QR Codes, add images, and more. Your printing software may have the option to save the current format as a template. This makes it easier to import new data in the future and the template file could be saved in a LabArchives notebook. Many groups will include details like institution name, company name or contact details in case the item is lost.
Note: The exact steps will change for each printing application. Screenshots show commonly used printing applications but the exact interface may be different. Review manufacturer guidelines for specific steps.
Bulk Import Label Information from LabArchives
If your software supports CSV Import you can upload the Export file from LabArchives.
Note: Some applications, may require changes to the export file or changing the format of the file (.txt, .csv, etc.).
Once the data has been imported, you can decide which columns or fields that you want to include. Most applications will allow you to select values for one label and all subsequent labels are created automatically.
Copy and Paste Label Information from LabArchives
If your application does not support CSV Import, or if you are only creating a small number of labels, you can copy and paste details about the items.
Creating QR Codes in your Local Printing Software
Barcodes come in many shapes and sizes for different amounts of data. As an example, 1D barcodes are used for many household items with a UPC barcode representing 10–20 characters. The QR codes made in LabArchives Inventory are 2D barcodes because they are faster, easier to scan from many angles, and they can contain more information.
For Label Printing software that can Generate QR Codes
In your label printing software, input the Item URL as the value for the QR code. If your label printing software allows bulk import, you can import the Inventory Export file and set the URL for multiple items to use the “Item URL” value.
Note: If the QR Codes are created using the local printing software, you can use any QR Scanner app on a phone or tablet to find the item.
For label printing software that can embed images
For any item created in LabArchives Inventory a QR Code is created and you can click “Download QR Code” on the “Labels” tab to download this as an image file (.jpg) and it will be saved to your downloads folder.
For Preprinted Cryovials, Unique IDs and Externally Created Barcodes
In some cases, items may already have an identifying number or ID associated with them. This may be prelabeled vials or vendor supplied materials. These IDs can be included in LabArchives inventory as a description, item name, or custom field. To learn more about inventory types, click here.
You can search for these unique Identifiers to find the sample and these IDs can be used for your own labels. If you have a USB or Bluetooth barcode scanner, it may allow you to quickly type in these IDs or barcodes by scanning the barcode.
Install the DYMO LabelWriter 450 printer
If you have a DymoLabelWriter 450 and the frameworks below installed, you can print directly to the printer from the labels tab. The label will include the QR code, Item Name, Inventory Type, Vendor, and Catalog #.
The label format is designed for a cryolabel, specifically DTCR 9138-6000 (Combo Label) (1.50 x 0.50, 0.375 dia spot). An address label can be used but it is not possible to change the format or fields displayed.
- Install DYMO printer drivers and supporting applications
Dymo Drivers: http://www.dymo.com/en-US/online-support - Install DYMO Framework
Dymo framework link
Windows: https://evetpractice.blob.core.windows.net/installs/DLS8Setup.8.7.3.exe
Mac: https://evetpractice.blob.core.windows.net/installs/DLS8Setup.8.7.3.dmg - Start DYMO Connect, DYMO Label Web Service, and ensure the printer shows as Connected in DYMO Connect
- Press the Connect to Printer button to complete the action.
- Once you have successfully installed the printer, you will see the Printer information on the Label tab and the Print Label button.