SimpleConsign POS Hardware Guide
Build or Upgrade a SimpleConsign POS Workstation With the Right Hardware
ShopPOSPortal helps U.S. SimpleConsign users select receipt printers, thermal label printers, barcode scanners, cash drawers, cables, receipt paper and replacement hardware without guessing about critical connection and compatibility requirements.
What Hardware Does a Typical SimpleConsign Workstation Need?
A typical checkout workstation may use a supported Citizen CT-S310II receipt printer, a 203 dpi USB thermal label printer such as the TSC DH240 or an appropriate supported Zebra model, a USB barcode scanner, and a compatible cash drawer connected through the receipt printer.
Important: SimpleConsign does not support USB-connected cash drawers, and its current documentation states that thermal label printers must be 203 dpi and use USB.
Citizen CT-S310II
SimpleConsign currently lists the Citizen CT-S310II as its supported current receipt-printer model.
Shop Citizen CT-S310II →TSC DH240
SimpleConsign recommends the TSC DH240 as the designated successor to the discontinued TSC TDP-247 family. Use the supported 203 dpi USB connection.
Shop TSC DH240 →USB Barcode Scanner
Most barcode scanners can work, but SimpleConsign prefers USB scanners. Keep the scanner at factory defaults and make sure it performs a carriage return after a scan.
Shop USB Barcode Scanner →Printer-Driven Cash Drawer
The cash drawer must connect to the compatible receipt printer with the proper drawer cable. USB cash drawers are not supported by SimpleConsign.
Shop APG Cash Drawer →SimpleConsign Hardware Requirements at a Glance
The exact product configuration matters. A printer may include Ethernet, Bluetooth or Wi-Fi capabilities, but that does not mean SimpleConsign uses those interfaces for its supported workflow.
| Hardware | Current Guidance | ShopPOSPortal Starting Point | Important Detail |
|---|---|---|---|
| Receipt Printer | Use a SimpleConsign-supported receipt printer | Citizen CT-S310II | Citizen CT-S310II is the current model listed by SimpleConsign |
| Thermal Label Printer | 203 dpi + USB | TSC DH240 | SimpleConsign recommends DH240 as TDP-247 successor |
| Zebra Label Printer | Supported model + 203 dpi + USB | Zebra ZD421 or Zebra ZD411 | Use the supported USB printing workflow even if the printer has additional interfaces |
| Barcode Scanner | USB preferred | Datalogic QuickScan USB | Factory-default configuration and carriage return capability are important |
| Cash Drawer | Connect through receipt printer | APG Vasario | Do not use a USB cash drawer |
| Cash Drawer Cable | Must match printer and drawer | APG Cash Drawer Cable | Verify pinout/interface before ordering |
| Receipt Paper | Match receipt printer media specifications | 3.125" x 230' Thermal Paper | 50-roll case available from ShopPOSPortal |
| Computer | Supported Windows or Mac computer | Customer-supplied workstation | Avoid ARM/Snapdragon Windows PCs, Chromebooks, tablets and Linux computers for the in-store hardware workflow |
Which Receipt Printer Works With SimpleConsign?
Citizen CT-S310II
SimpleConsign's current supported receipt-printer documentation lists the Citizen CT-S310II.
If you are building a new workstation or replacing an aging receipt printer, this is the current model to evaluate first.
View Citizen CT-S310II →Star TSP100 / TSP650 Series
SimpleConsign lists older Star TSP100, TSP650 and TSP650II models as manufacturer-discontinued legacy receipt printers.
If an older Star printer develops recurring problems, consider moving to a current supported printer rather than investing heavily in aging hardware.
Epson TM-T20
The Epson TM-T20 is also listed in SimpleConsign's legacy/discontinued section.
For a new purchase, start by evaluating the current Citizen CT-S310II rather than sourcing a used TM-T20.
SimpleConsign Thermal Label Printer Requirements
SimpleConsign's current requirement is unusually specific: supported thermal label printers must be 203 dpi and use a USB connection.
TSC DH240
SimpleConsign identifies the DH240 as the designated successor to the TSC TDP-247 and recommends it for customers considering a new TSC label printer.
View TSC DH240 →Zebra ZD421
The Zebra ZD421 appears on SimpleConsign's current supported label-printer list and is suitable for larger label/tag sizes. Verify 203 dpi and use the supported USB workflow.
View Zebra ZD421 →Zebra ZD411
SimpleConsign also lists the Zebra ZD411. This compact 2-inch-class model may be appropriate when your label format fits the narrower printer.
View Zebra ZD411 →Currently Listed SimpleConsign Label Printer Families
| Model | Status / Guidance | Best Reason to Consider |
|---|---|---|
| TSC DH240 | Current Recommendation | Recommended successor to TDP-247; suitable for larger tags |
| TSC TDP-244 | TDP Family EOL | Existing installations; larger tag support |
| TSC TDP-247 | TDP Family EOL | Existing installations; replace with DH240 when appropriate |
| TSC TDP-247 Plus | TDP Family EOL | Existing installations; consider DH240 for new purchase |
| Zebra ZD220 | Listed | Supported Zebra option; suitable for larger tags |
| Zebra ZD411 | Listed | Compact 2-inch-class label printing |
| Zebra ZD421 | Listed | Current Zebra family; suitable for larger tags |
| Zebra ZD410 / ZD420 / GK420D / GX420D | Limited / Legacy | Existing systems only; consider a current replacement for new purchases |
How Does a Cash Drawer Connect to SimpleConsign?
SimpleConsign Workstation
The supported receipt printer communicates with the workstation through the configured printer interface.
Receipt Printer
The cash drawer connects to the receipt printer's drawer-kick port using the correct compatible cable.
Cash Drawer Opens
When the receipt prints, the printer sends the signal that releases the cash drawer.
Always verify drawer-to-printer cable compatibility and pinout before ordering.
What Barcode Scanner Should I Use With SimpleConsign?
SimpleConsign says most barcode scanners are compatible, but recommends USB scanners for easier setup and typically lower cost.
Use USB at the Checkout Counter
For a fixed checkout workstation, a corded USB scanner is usually the simplest starting point.
Keep Factory Defaults
SimpleConsign recommends keeping the barcode scanner in its factory-default configuration.
Carriage Return
The scanner must perform a carriage return after the barcode is scanned. If necessary, this can usually be enabled through the scanner's programming manual.
What Is SimpleConsign EDNA?
EDNA stands for Electronic Device Native Adapter. It is SimpleConsign software that communicates with supported receipt printers and thermal label printers.
EDNA must be installed for SimpleConsign to interface with those printers. This is one reason that choosing the correct printer model, resolution and connection method matters even when a printer has several other connectivity options.
Before You Buy a Computer for SimpleConsign
SimpleConsign is cloud-based, but the computer used at the store still needs to work properly with EDNA and the connected POS hardware.
Current Windows or Mac
Use a computer running an operating-system version that is currently supported by Microsoft or Apple.
Consider 16 GB RAM
SimpleConsign recommends 16 GB of memory for improved performance. Very low-end systems can negatively affect checkout and inventory workflows.
Plan for Enough USB Ports
SimpleConsign notes that a workstation can often need around five USB ports for the keyboard, mouse, receipt printer, label printer and barcode scanner.
Replacing Older SimpleConsign Hardware
If an older supported device is approaching end of life, replacing it before failure can reduce checkout disruption and compatibility problems.
| Older Hardware | Status | Current Direction to Evaluate |
|---|---|---|
| TSC TDP-247 | TDP Series End-of-Life | TSC DH240 |
| TSC TDP-247 Plus | TDP Series End-of-Life | TSC DH240 |
| Zebra ZD410 | Legacy / Limited | Evaluate Zebra ZD411 where size/application fit |
| Zebra ZD420 / GK420D / GX420D | Legacy / Limited | Evaluate a current Zebra ZD421 or the TSC DH240 depending on label requirements |
| Star TSP100 / TSP650 / TSP650II | Legacy Receipt Printers | Evaluate the Citizen CT-S310II |
| Epson TM-T20 | Legacy Receipt Printer | Evaluate the Citizen CT-S310II |
Receipt Paper, Cash Drawer Cables & Other Accessories
3.125" x 230' Thermal Paper
ShopPOSPortal stocks 80mm-class 3.125-inch x 230-foot phenol-free thermal receipt paper in a 50-roll case for compatible receipt printers.
Shop 50-Roll Case →10-Roll Receipt Paper Pack
Need fewer rolls? Use the smaller 10-roll package of the same listed 3.125-inch x 230-foot phenol-free thermal receipt paper.
Shop 10-Roll Pack →Cash Drawer Cable
A drawer cable is not generic. Confirm that the cable matches both the cash drawer and the supported receipt printer.
View APG Drawer Cable →Common SimpleConsign Hardware Buying Mistakes
Buying a 300 dpi Label Printer
SimpleConsign's current thermal label-printer requirement is 203 dpi. Do not assume that a higher-resolution version of the same printer is automatically suitable.
Planning to Print Labels Over Ethernet or Wi-Fi
SimpleConsign currently requires supported thermal label printers to use USB. Additional interfaces on a printer do not change that requirement.
Buying a USB Cash Drawer
SimpleConsign explicitly says USB cash drawers are not supported. The drawer should connect through the compatible receipt printer.
Buying by Model Family Only
Similar-looking printers may be sold in different resolutions and interface configurations. Check the complete manufacturer part number whenever possible.
Buying Used Programmed Hardware
A used printer or scanner may contain custom programming that prevents it from working as expected even if the underlying model normally works with SimpleConsign.
Not Counting USB Ports
A workstation can quickly use ports for the scanner, receipt printer, label printer, keyboard and mouse. Plan the complete system before buying the computer.
How to Build a SimpleConsign Checkout Station
Choose a Compatible Computer
Start with a supported Windows or Mac system and confirm that you have enough USB connectivity for the devices you plan to use.
Select the Receipt Printer
For a new purchase, evaluate the currently listed Citizen CT-S310II before sourcing an older, discontinued Star or Epson model.
Select a 203 dpi USB Label Printer
Choose an appropriate supported model such as the TSC DH240, Zebra ZD421 or Zebra ZD411 based on label width and workflow.
Add a USB Barcode Scanner
A factory-default corded USB scanner is generally the simplest checkout configuration.
Connect the Cash Drawer Through the Receipt Printer
Select the correct cash-drawer cable for the printer and drawer. Do not substitute a USB cash drawer.
Order Receipt Paper and Labels
Avoid opening-day interruptions by ordering consumables along with the hardware.
Install and Configure EDNA
Follow SimpleConsign's current EDNA instructions so the application can communicate with supported receipt and label printers.
SimpleConsign Hardware & Supplies
All SimpleConsign Hardware
Browse the complete ShopPOSPortal SimpleConsign hardware collection.
Shop Collection →Receipt Printers
Browse POS receipt printers and compare models, interfaces and paper requirements.
Shop Receipt Printers →Cash Drawers
Browse cash drawers and verify the proper printer-driven connection before ordering.
Shop Cash Drawers →SimpleConsign Hardware FAQs
What receipt printer currently works with SimpleConsign?
SimpleConsign's current supported receipt-printer documentation lists the Citizen CT-S310II. Older Star TSP100/TSP650 models and the Epson TM-T20 are listed as manufacturer-discontinued legacy devices.
What label printer should I buy for SimpleConsign?
SimpleConsign currently lists several TSC and Zebra models and recommends the TSC DH240 as the successor to the discontinued TSC TDP-247. The label printer must be 203 dpi and use USB.
Does SimpleConsign support the TSC DH240?
Yes. SimpleConsign lists the TSC DH240 and specifically recommends it as the current successor to the TSC TDP-247. Verify that the exact unit is 203 dpi and use the supported USB workflow.
Does SimpleConsign support the Zebra ZD421?
Yes. The Zebra ZD421 is on SimpleConsign's currently listed thermal label-printer models. SimpleConsign requires thermal label printing at 203 dpi over USB, so verify the exact configuration before ordering.
Does SimpleConsign support the Zebra ZD411?
Yes. SimpleConsign's thermal label-printer list includes the Zebra ZD411. Confirm the label width is appropriate for your tags and that the exact printer is 203 dpi with USB.
Can I use a 300 dpi label printer with SimpleConsign?
SimpleConsign's current documentation states that thermal label printers must be 203 dpi. Do not substitute a 300 dpi version without receiving updated compatibility guidance directly from SimpleConsign.
Can a SimpleConsign label printer connect over Ethernet, Bluetooth or Wi-Fi?
A printer may physically include those interfaces, but SimpleConsign's current thermal label-printer requirement specifies a USB connection. Use the required USB workflow unless SimpleConsign publishes different guidance for your configuration.
Does SimpleConsign support USB cash drawers?
No. SimpleConsign explicitly states that USB cash drawers are not supported. A compatible cash drawer must connect to the supported receipt printer through the proper cash-drawer cable.
How does the cash drawer open in SimpleConsign?
The cash drawer connects to the receipt printer. When the receipt is printed, the receipt printer sends the signal that releases the cash drawer.
What barcode scanner works with SimpleConsign?
SimpleConsign says most barcode scanners are compatible. USB scanners are preferred. The scanner should remain in factory-default configuration and must be able to perform a carriage return after scanning.
What replaced the TSC TDP-247 for SimpleConsign?
SimpleConsign identifies the TSC DH240 as the designated successor to the TDP-247 and recommends the DH240 for customers purchasing a new TSC thermal label printer.
What is EDNA in SimpleConsign?
EDNA stands for Electronic Device Native Adapter. It is SimpleConsign software used to communicate with receipt printers and label printers and must be installed for those printer integrations.
Can I use a Chromebook or ARM Windows PC with SimpleConsign hardware?
SimpleConsign currently advises against Snapdragon X or ARM-based Windows PCs, Chromebooks, tablets and Linux computers for its supported in-store computer and peripheral environment.
How many USB ports should a SimpleConsign computer have?
SimpleConsign notes that around five USB ports can be needed for a typical setup with a mouse, keyboard, receipt printer, label printer and barcode scanner.
Where can I buy hardware for SimpleConsign?
SimpleConsign's current documentation identifies ShopPOSPortal as a hardware resource for U.S. customers purchasing receipt printers and thermal label printers. ShopPOSPortal can also help with scanners, cash drawers, cables, supplies and replacement hardware.
Not Sure Which SimpleConsign Hardware to Order?
Send ShopPOSPortal the model numbers of your existing equipment, the number of checkout stations you are equipping, your computer type, and photos of the printer connections if available. We can help you narrow down the proper printer, scanner, cash drawer, cable and supplies before you place the order.
Verify Current SimpleConsign Requirements
Hardware support can change over time. ShopPOSPortal recommends checking SimpleConsign's current documentation before ordering or changing an established workstation configuration.
SimpleConsign is a third-party software platform. Product names and trademarks belong to their respective owners. ShopPOSPortal hardware guidance is intended to assist with product selection; current software compatibility should be verified before purchase.