Why Do ZT111 / ZT211 / ZT231 Printheads Have Two Part Numbers?

P1123335-012 vs P1123335-056, P1123335-013 vs P1123335-057 Explained

Introduction: A common confusion in ZT200 series maintenance

When sourcing replacement printheads for Zebra ZT111, ZT211, and ZT231 printers, many buyers notice something confusing:

• 203 dpi printheads appear under two part numbers:

      P1123335-012 and P1123335-056

• 300 dpi printheads (often mistakenly written as 200 dpi) also appear under two part numbers:

      P1123335-013 and P1123335-057

This often raises questions such as:

• Are these different products?
• Are they compatible with each other?
• Which one should I buy?

This article explains the reason behind these dual part numbers and what they really mean for users, resellers, and service providers.

ZT111, ZT211, ZT231 printhead-front

ZT111, ZT211, ZT231 printhead-back

Core conclusion: old part numbers vs upgraded replacement part numbers

In the Zebra spare parts system, these printheads follow a supersession model (old part numbers replaced by new ones):

👉 P1123335-056 and P1123335-057 are newer part numbers released to replace the earlier -012 and -013 versions.

From a functional and installation perspective, they are considered equivalent replacements, as long as the DPI is the same.

Why does Zebra change part numbers?

Having multiple part numbers for the "same" printhead is very common in the barcode printing industry. The main reasons include:

1. Product life-cycle management (EOL and replacement)

Manufacturers regularly retire older part numbers and introduce new ones to:

Simplify global inventory

Consolidate spare-part systems

Manage long-term availability

Older part numbers may be marked as end-of-sale or limited supply, while the newer part numbers become the official long-term replacement.

2. Internal design or reliability improvements

A new part number often indicates non-visible internal updates, such as:

Optimized heating element layout

Improved grounding or insulation

More consistent ceramic substrate

Enhanced durability or stability

These changes typically do not affect form, fit, or function, but justify a new part number for engineering control and quality tracking.

3. BOM, kit structure, or compatibility expansion

Sometimes the new part number reflects:

Updated packaging or kit configuration

Broader model compatibility coverage

Standardization across multiple ZT200-series printers

Even if the printhead itself looks identical, any official change in materials, packaging, or supply structure results in a new PN.

What is the real difference for users?

✅ 1. Installation and compatibility

203 dpi ↔ 203 dpi are interchangeable

300 dpi ↔ 300 dpi are interchangeable

Compatible with ZT111, ZT211, and ZT231

👉 No mechanical or electrical modification is required.

✅ 2. Performance and usage

Same printing width and interface

Same mounting method

Newer part numbers may offer improved consistency or service life

👉 For users, the newer PN should be considered an upgraded equivalent.

✅ 3. Purchasing and inventory recommendations

For new purchases and long-term stocking → choose P1123335-056 / P1123335-057

For maintenance of existing machines → both versions can be used (match DPI)

For compatible printhead development → use the newer PN as the technical reference