ⓘ This article is for Event Organizers
If you're planning to use your own badge printing equipment, Expo Pass is happy to support you through our BYOE (Bring Your Own Equipment) model.
This means you’ll be using your own:
iPads
Zebra Printers
Router (hotspot or venue-provided connection)
Below are the minimum requirements for each component and best practices to ensure a smooth experience.
We find it best if you are able to coordinate a time to test your equipment with our software before going live with your event to ensure everything works properly.
❗ Important: Expo Pass provides support for software-related issues only.
All hardware or network issues (routers, printers, etc.) must be managed by the Event Organizer and/or venue AV team.
iPads
iOS only (Android is not supported): Expo Pass utilizes the iOS Mobile App
Must be on the latest iOS version: ensures compatibility with the most current Expo Pass version.
iPad screen size between 9.7" and 10.9" for Expo Pass to work optimally when rendering images
❗ Important: The iPads and Printers must be connected to the same network when utilizing the Expo Pass App for BYOE Badge Printing, via a router or hotspot.
Printers
When it comes to direct thermal printers, we understand that there are numerous options on the market.
To ensure the best results and user experience with Expo Pass badge printing, Expo Pass supports direct thermal and thermal transfer printers from Zebra with either 203 or 300 DPI resolution.
❗ Important: For information on how to set up your Zebra Printer to work with Expo Pass, please refer here: Zebra Printer Settings
Identifying the exact Zebra printer version can be challenging due to their extensive product numbering system. Below is a list of printers that we are confident are compatible because Expo Pass currently uses or has used them in the past.
Recommended Zebra Models:
Zebra ZD621 Direct Thermal Printer, with attached Cutter
Model # ZD6A143-321L01EZ
Model # ZD6A142-321L01EZ
Model # ZD6AH43-301F00EZ
Model # ZD6AH42-301L01EZ
Model # ZD6A143-D21L01EZ (this is a smaller version)
Model # ZD6A142-D41L01EZ (this is a smaller version)
Zebra ZD620 Thermal Transfer Printer, with attached Cutter
Model # ZD62043-T01L01EZ
Model # ZD62H43-T01L01EZ
💡 Tip: Cutters are strongly recommended to speed up badge handling and avoid jams or tears — though they are not required.
📌 If you are not sure what model of Zebra printer you own, use Zebra’s Product Warranty Lookup to check your model by serial number.
This search result will indicate the Product Name (Product Model #):
From here, we recommend you search this Product Name HERE to get more information on your printer to determine if it is compatible (203 or 300 DPI).
Discontinued But Supported Models
We acknowledge that Zebra regularly updates their product line, and over time, they have discontinued certain models.
As long as they remain functional, we continue to support the following Zebra printers:
ZD500 – Discontinued 9/30/21, support ends 12/31/24
ZD620 – Discontinued 9/30/21, support ends 12/31/24
ZD621 – Introduced in 2021
Router Requirements
The router plays a vital role in two critical aspects of your badge printing process:
Connecting your iPads and Printers to the same network
Providing internet access to sync with the Expo Pass platform and keep your data up-to-date
Regarding your choice of router, it's entirely up to you. At Expo Pass, we have designed our custom routers to support Ethernet, Wi-Fi, and cellular connections for internet access.
Internet Requirements
The method you choose to establish an internet connection is your decision, as long as it has:
Minimum internet speed:
5 Mbps download/upload (10+ Mbps preferred)
Any stable connection method is acceptable, including:
Ethernet
Wi-Fi
Cellular
❗ Important: Expo Pass cannot troubleshoot routers we did not provide.
If issues arise, contact your router manufacturer or the venue AV team.
Badge Stock
While you may bring your own hardware, we highly recommend using Expo Pass badges for optimal print quality and reliability.
Expo Pass badges:
Are designed for notched (not black-marked) sensing
Are produced in-house using state-of-the-art technology, guaranteeing top-notch print quality.
Are pre-printed with double-sided color graphics
Are fully compatible with Zebra printer calibration settings
Using Expo Pass-provided badges ensures the reflective sensor calibration works properly and prevents jams or misalignment.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Using Android tablets: Expo Pass only supports iPads on the latest iOS.
Printer not compatible with 203 or 300 DPI: These are the only resolutions supported.
No cutter on printer: Leads to jams and a slower attendee experience.
Using Expo Pass support for router or equipment issues: All networking and equipment support must be handled by the organizer or AV team.
Mixing different networks: iPads and printers must be on the same Wi-Fi network.