Glossary
I
IBM
A global IT manufacturer known for servers, printing systems, and enterprise solutions. IBM printers and software are used in industry, logistics, and production lines for high-volume label and document production.
IDOL
Microplex IDOL (Intelligent Device Operating Language) is a proprietary, high-performance printer language developed by Microplex Printware AG. It enables the direct control of industrial printers. IDOL acts as the core of the Microplex controller and is used in Microplex laser and thermal printers.
IEEE 802.1X
Network access control standard – authenticates devices before they are allowed to connect to the network.
Standard for port-based network access control.
It ensures that only authorized devices (e.g., a printer) can access a network – often in conjunction with RADIUS servers. Essential for secure corporate networks.
IGP (Intelligent Graphics Protocol)
IGP is a printer language for forms, commonly used in mainframe and industrial environments. It is supported by Microplex printers.
Inch /”
Unit of measurement commonly used for print widths, labels, rolls, and interfaces. 1 inch equals 2.54 cm. The use of inch measurements is particularly important for international printing systems, thermal transfer ribbons, and industrial printing configurations.
Industrial Printers
High-performance printers with robust housings and high reliability — designed for continuous operation (e.g., 24/7) in industry, logistics, production, or large enterprises
Printing systems designed for high-volume production, rugged applications, and continuous operation in industry, logistics, and manufacturing. Industrial printers support thermal transfer and direct thermal printing, barcode and RFID printing, direct PDF printing, as well as just-in-time and inline production. They ensure precise labeling, process reliability, and durability in demanding production environments.
Inline-Production
A production concept where label printing, marking, and processing take place directly on the production line. Inline production enables just-in-time printing, the integration of barcode and RFID printing, and variable data output without interruptions to the production process.
Interface
A connection point for communication between devices or software.
Examples: USB, Ethernet, GPIO, RS-232, WLAN.
IP-Address
A unique address that allows a device to be identified and addressed on the network.
IPDS (Intelligent Printer Data Stream)
IBM print protocol for transaction-oriented, high-speed printing processes. Microplex printing systems fully support IPDS — ideal for production environments, document generation, and variable data streams.