Disclaimer : Odoo Skillz provides add-ons for direct printing, using QZ Tray technology.
Odoo users have multiple options for handling direct printing needs. While the IoT box is the official Odoo solution, QZ Tray offers an alternative approach. This article compares both solutions to help users make an informed decision based on their specific requirements.
What is the Odoo IoT Box?
The Odoo IoT Box serves as a bridge, connecting various external devices directly to your Odoo system. Its primary role is to enable seamless communication between your Odoo database and physical devices, like printers, scales, and handheld devices.
You can easily set up the IoT Box to connect printers, allowing you to print receipts, labels, and reports without hassle. It uses plug-and-play technology, meaning devices come pre-loaded with necessary drivers, minimizing setup time (Odoo, Features).
While this box enhances functionality, it's important to note that you can also connect printers directly to Odoo without it. This flexibility allows you to choose a solution that best fits your business needs (Odoo, Do I need an IoT box?).
QZ Tray: The Direct Printing Alternative for Odoo
QZ Tray is a desktop software that allows you to connect your local printers directly to your Odoo application. This means you can silently print customer receipts, preparation order tickets, and reports directly from your browser without using the browser's printing dialog. You save time and cut out unnecessary steps, enhancing efficiency.
Additionally, QZ Tray supports all printers supported by your desktop POS or in your local network, ensuring compatibility across various printing needs. This flexibility allows you to easily adapt your printing setup as your business grows.
By eliminating the dependence on the IoT Box, you not only streamline your operations but also reduce costs drastically, saving you a lot of bucks.
Direct, but also Mobile Printing with QZ Tray for Odoo
QZ Tray enhances direct printing management for Odoo users significantly. It simplifies the process, allowing you to print directly from the Odoo interface without needing an IoT Box. This integration is seamless and user-friendly, eliminating additional setup complexities.
At Odoo Skillz, we've done the heavy lifting for you so you won't have to re invent the wheel. You don't have to integrate QZ Tray with Odoo, we've done this for you in these add-ons.
See how our add-ons compare to each other and to IoT Box :
| ||
Direct Printing | YES | YES |
Preparation Ticket | YES | YES |
Customer Receipt | YES | YES |
Print from Mobile / Tablet | YES(**) | YES |
Pricing model | One time purchase+ Monthly Subscription / Odoo Database | Hardware Purchase + Monthly Subscription / IoT Box |
(*) The Kitchen Preparation template is customized (not the Odoo standard), all order lines are printed (not only the changed ones)
(**) Requires a desktop PC (windows, mac or linux) with Odoo POS + QZ tray agent
See POS Flex Print add-on in action :
Frequently asked questions about our QZ Tray add-ons
Now you've got an idea about our QZ Tray add-ons, maybe you have questions, here are the most asked ones with our answers :
- I host my Odoo on the cloud, will direct printing work? Yes, it will work, as long as one computer is connected to your printers via QZ Tray
- Do you support seamless printing from Odoo Enterprise without the need for additional configurations? Yes, provided you already install QZ Tray (all steps are in the Setup Tab in the add-on page)
- Is it compatible with specific printer brands or models, or does it work universally? It works universally with all printers supported by QZ Tray on your computer (Windows, Mac or Linux)
- Could you provide a demonstration or documentation for better understanding? Yes, please contact us and we'll definitely give you access
- Do you use the cloud for printing? Thanks to QZ Tray, we don't have to send you data through a third-party cloud, all is done either in your local network through your Odoo server.
- How fast is printing? A few seconds, just like printing from your computer. A round-trip to your Odoo server is added for Mobile / Tablets.
- Is QZ Tray free? QZ Tray is Open Source and free for use, you can benefit from community support for free. You can also buy Support Packages from its company : QZ Industries, LLC, check this link https://buy.qz.io/
When not to use QZ Tray for direct printing in Odoo?
There are situations when QZ Tray is not recommended :
- If you use Odoo POS exclusively on Mobile or Tablets
- If your desktop doesn't support QZ Tray
- You want to trigger unattended automatic printing following business or calendar events
Possible solutions in this case are :
- ePOS network printers : uses Epson printers that have Wi-Fi/Ethernet connections and follow the EPOS SDK Javascript protocol
- Odoo Direct Print PRO : cloud-based service that connects your applications to local or network printers
Conclusions
QZ Tray proves as a viable option for direct printing, which is essential for businesses operating in fast-paced environments, allowing immediate access to printed materials. By understanding when it makes sense to use it, its features and benefits, you can decide which direct printing options is most suitable for you.
Looking for more?
Ready to simplify your printing processes with QZ Tray? Chat with us today! Our expert team is here to help you streamline your Odoo operations.
Resources :
- QZ Tray homepage : qz.io
- Odoo IoT Box: www.odoo.com/app/iot