The Brother Software Development Kits (SDK) provide a simple, inexpensive and reliable means of integrating printing into your application. Available in the box as standard, these SDKs enable you to easily integrate your Brother label and portable printer into your existing business applications, whether they be standard or bespoke.
At present, Brother offers at least 5 SDK packages/tools (with some variants):
- b-PAC (Windows component)
- Brother Windows DLL (32/64-bit)
- Brother OPOS Driver
- Mobile SDK for iOS
- Mobile SDK for Android
Each SDK supports various models, and the full suite enables integration across both desktop and mobile platforms.
b-PAC SDK for label printers and portable printers
Brother b-PAC (Brother P-touch Application Control) is a powerful Windows-based Software Development Kit (SDK) designed for developers looking to add label printing capabilities directly into their custom applications.
With Version 3.0, b-PAC offers a broader set of functions, making it easier than ever to develop integrated solutions that work seamlessly with Brother label printers.
Key Features of b-PAC SDK Ver.3.0:
- For Windows based PC's
- Microsoft Windows 10/11 support
- New interface added
- Acquisition of printer status, the loaded tape size, print completion event, etc.
- Html help format documentation
Ideal Use Cases:
- Warehouse or logistics management systems generating barcode labels
- Patient wristband printing in healthcare applications
- Food labelling in aged care facilities
- Custom ERP or POS systems requiring on-demand labelling
- Inventory tracking, file tagging or office asset management
- Portable printing of documents
Supported Devices:
b-PAC SDK supports a wide range of Brother smart label and portable printers, including the PT, QL, TD, TJ, RJ, MW and PJ series.
Get Expert Support for Brother SDKs & Integration
Whether you’re exploring integration options or have questions about our SDKs, our Integration Solutions Experts are here to support you.
Looking to go further? Become a Brother ISV Partner to access ready-to-use SDKs, expert support and development tools to help you accelerate integration and bring your solution to life.
Frequently Asked Questions
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What is a Brother SDK?
A Brother SDK (Software Development Kit) is a set of tools, libraries and documentation that allows developers to integrate Brother printers, label makers and scanners into their own applications. It simplifies the process of building solutions that require printing or scanning from desktop, mobile or cloud-based systems. -
What are the benefits of becoming a Brother ISV partner?
As a partner, you’ll receive:
- Expert-led integration support
- Priority access to SDK updates
- Co-marketing opportunities
- Complimentary test hardware (case-by-case)
- Comprehensive developer documentation
- Smoother development experience
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What does a Brother SDK include?
Each Brother SDK typically includes:
- APIs for label or document printing
- Sample code and project templates
- Developer documentation
- Printer control commands
- Support for printer status monitoring and layout customisation
Depending on your platform (Windows, Android, iOS), you'll find dedicated SDK packages to match.
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Which SDK should I use for Brother label printer software?
For label printing, Brother provides specialised SDKs like the b-PAC SDK for Windows and Brother Print SDK for Android and iOS. These allow you to design and print custom labels directly from your software. -
Is there an API for Brother label printers?
Yes. The Brother Label Printer API is available through our SDKs, such as the b-PAC SDK for Windows or the mobile SDKs for Android and iOS. -
Can I use Brother SDKs with my existing Brother printer application?
Yes, you can use the Brother printer SDK to enhance or extend the functionality of an existing Brother printer application. The SDKs are flexible and can be embedded into both new and legacy software environments. -
Is Brother label maker software included in the SDK?
While the Brother label maker software like P-touch Editor is available for end users, developers should use SDKs such as b-PAC or the Mobile SDK to create label printing workflows in their own applications. These SDKs offer more flexibility and automation capabilities. -
Where can I download the Brother SDK developer kits?
You can download all current Brother SDK developer kits directly from the Brother Developer Centre. Visit Information for Label Printer, Label Writer and Mobile Printer Developers to browse available SDKs for Windows, Android, iOS and more. -
What types of software can I build with the Brother SDK?
Using the Brother software development kit, you can build a wide range of applications:
- Inventory and asset labelling tools
- Delivery and field service mobile apps
- POS label printers for retail
- Healthcare wristband and specimen label systems
- Document scanning and archival solutions
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How do I get support for Brother SDKs?
If you need help during development, Brother offers technical support through its Integrated Solutions team. You can also become a Brother ISV Partner for access to co-marketing, sample devices and priority developer assistance.