The popularity of CD-R hardware is driving demand for disc labels
By Sharon R. Cole
Until recently, the printer has been the computer hardware responsible for significant changes in label design. The progression from dot matrix to ink jet and laser printers has resulted in the creation of sheeted laser labels, designed to withstand the heat and pressure of laser printers. Now another form of computer-based technology is further changing the shape of labels.
As CD-R (writable) hardware infiltrates the business market, laser and ink jet labels are not only being cranked through printer rollers, but also being spun on CD disc drives.
According to Tom Ainsworth, marketing director, Continental Datalabel, Elgin, Ill., manufacturers are uncovering a new venue for laser labels. "We found that owning a CD-R drive is not out of the norm these days. With CD-R equipment costing about $200, more and more companies and individuals are purchasing them," said Ainsworth.
With this hardware, Ainsworth added, companies can archive information as well as install new product descriptions on a CD; a convenient alternative to filing documents and mailing packets of information. With businesses interested in burning their own CDs, Continental Da-talabel decided to meet the new demand by introducing an innovative CD labeling and storage system.
"We recently introduced a variety of formats for CD labels. One of these formats is called CD-Rappit, a system that enables consumers to easily label and store CDs and DVDs," explained Ains-worth. "If consumers and business people are burning discs, why not make laser label formats available to them?"
As a result, Continental Datalabel now supplies specially designed labels that are part of an all-in-one CD labeling and storage kit.
"Normally when you want to burn a CD, you have to purchase discs, then buy jewel cases, a software label program and J-Cards," said Ainsworth.
"But with the 81&Mac218;2x11&Mac253; CD-Rappit sheets, consumers do not have to shop around for these pieces separately. Our design produces a CD label and filing sleeve all from one sheet," he said.
With the kit, consumers receive software to help them design a label and 15 label sheets that include die-cut donut-shaped labels which can be peeled off. The labels are applied to CDs with the Slapper label applicator, which is also included in the kit. The remainder of the 81&Mac218;2x11&Mac253; sheet can then be folded and used as a CD filing sleeve or as a postal envelope in which the CD can be mailed. Once stored in the envelope or file, the labeled CD can be easily identified through a transparent protective window.
Specifically designed for small to mid-size users, Ainsworth explained that companies are using the labeling kits to archive internal information and to send out CDs designed for training and marketing purposes. "Companies want sales people to be educated on new products, so they burn some CDs with product information on them and then send them out to their salespeople," he noted.
Ainsworth added that companies can also send out CDs with instructions on how to use a product or review technical specifications. This way salespeople and customers will receive sufficient product training before use.
Satisfying the Consumer
As with all of Continental Datalabel's laser label products, the CD labels are suitable for ink jet and laser printers, which, says Ainsworth, satisfies the majority of the market.
"What is continuing to drive the sales of ink jet printers in today's market is that they are not only less expensive, but they also provide the ability to print color," he explained.
With more than 10 years of sheet label manufacturing experience, Continental Datalabel has tested a lot of materials in order to find one that is best for both types of printers.
This involved creating a product with face stock that would properly accept ink from an ink jet printer, and adhesive that would not melt from the the high temperatures of a laser printer.
However, with the invention of CD labels, a new concern arose in the development of durable adhesive.
"As adhesive ages it has a tendency to bubble up, so one of our requirements was to avoid that problem," said Melinda Fulton, Continental's marketing coordinator.
Fulton explained that Continental had to formulate an acryl-ic adhesive that would be compatible with the polycarbonite coating on CDs.
"The adhesive was then tested extensively to meet rigid temperature, humidity and bubble test requirements," she added. "Our product tested superior for each category."
For more information on Continental Data-label's CD-Rappit System, call (800) 947-8000 or visit www.datalabel.com.
If consumers and business people are burning CDs, why not make laser label formats available to them?'
Tom Ainsworth, Continental Datalabel
Continental Datalabel's CD-Rappit system features 81&Mac218;2x11&Mac253; sheet labels that serve as CD labels and files or envelopes all-in-one.The Slapper label applicator insures the laser label is applied to the CD with ease and perfection.