The Modern Lineup: Star Micronics' Most Popular Models

Today’s POS environment demands more than just "plug and play." Modern Star printers feature CloudPRNT™ for online ordering and SteadyLAN™ for stable tablet connectivity.

TSP100IV Series (TSP143IV)
The successor to the legendary TSP100III, the TSP143IV is currently the most popular choice for retail and hospitality.

Best For: All-around retail e.g. Shopify users.

Key Upgrade: It features a 20% smaller footprint and dual-interface (USB and LAN) out of the box. It also supports Android Open Accessory (AOA), allowing Android tablets to charge and communicate data through a single cable.

mC-Print3 (mCollection)
A sleek, front-loading thermal printer designed for modern aesthetics and harsh environments.

Best For: Coffee shops, bars, and kitchen environments.

Standout Feature: Its IPX2-rated splash-proof design makes it ideal for counters where spills are a risk. It also acts as a "hub," allowing you to connect scanners and customer displays directly to the printer.

SP700 Series (The Kitchen King)
Unlike the thermal models above, the SP742 is an impact (dot matrix) printer.

Best For: Hot kitchens.

Why: Thermal paper turns black in high heat. The SP700 uses an ink ribbon and standard paper, ensuring orders remain legible even next to a pizza oven.

mPOP: The All-in-One Solution
The Star Micronics mPOP (Mobile Point of Purchase) is a unique hybrid that combines a 58mm thermal receipt printer and a compact mPOP cash drawer in one sleek unit.

Compatibility: It is often sold as a POS starter kit with a Star scanner (barcode reader).

Connection: Available as the mPOP Bluetooth printer or via USB-C for modern tablets.

End-of-Life (EOL) & Discontinued Models
If you are using one of these models, it may be time to plan an upgrade. EOL status means the manufacturer no longer produces the unit, and replacement parts or driver updates will eventually become scarce.

Expert Insights: Thermal vs. Impact
Understanding the technology behind your Star printer is the first step in troubleshooting and SEO optimization.

Thermal Printing (TSP Series, mC-Print)
How it works: Uses heat to "burn" images onto chemically treated paper.

• Pros: Quiet, fast, no ink required.
• Cons: Paper is sensitive to heat and light; cannot print in multi-part (carbon copy).

Impact Printing (SP Series)
How it works: A print head strikes an ink ribbon against the paper.

• Pros: Heat resistant, supports multi-part (2-ply/3-ply) paper for "merchant" and "kitchen" copies.
• Cons: Louder and slower than thermal.

FAQ:

How do I pair my Star Micronics Bluetooth printer?
For models like the Star Micronics TSP143IIIBI or mPOP Bluetooth printer: Enable Bluetooth on your tablet.

Press and hold the PAIR button on the back of the printer until the green light flashes.

Select "Star Micronics" in your Bluetooth settings.

Note: Some models like the SM-L200 do not require a PIN (Auto-Pairing).

Why is my Star printer not printing?
Check the Feed: Ensure you are using thermal paper for the TSP series.

Check Connectivity: For the Star TSP143LAN, ensure the ethernet cable is connected to the same network as your tablet.

Error Lights: A solid red light on an mPOP or TSP143 usually indicates the paper has run out or the cover is not fully latched.

Why is my Star Micronics printer printing blank paper?

This is almost always a paper issue. Thermal printers require thermal paper. If you load standard "bond" paper into a TSP100, it will not print. Additionally, ensure the roll is inserted so the paper feeds from the bottom of the roll.

How do I find the IP address of my Star printer?
For LAN/Ethernet models, perform a "Self-Test":

• Turn the printer OFF.
• Hold the FEED button down.
• Turn the printer ON while still holding FEED.
• Release FEED once it starts printing. The second slip will contain the IP Address.

Is Star Micronics compatible with Shopify?
Yes. Most modern Star printers (TSP143III/IV, mC-Print3) are officially supported by Shopify. However, always check if your specific connection type (Bluetooth vs. Ethernet) is supported by your tablet or terminal.

What does a flashing red "Error" light mean?

• Solid/Flashing Red: Usually indicates the paper is out or the lever is not fully closed.
• Rapid Blinking: Could indicate a print head overheat or a paper jam.

Key Part Codes:

1. Star mPOP™ Series (All-in-One)

The mPOP combines a printer and cash drawer. Part codes vary based on color and whether a Star scanner is included.

2. Star TSP143 (TSP100III & IV) Series

These are the most common Star desktop receipt printers. Codes vary primarily by connection interface.

mC-Print3 (mCollection)

The mC-Print3 (often searched as mcp31l or mcp31ci) is the premium choice for sleek retail environments.

• MCP31L (Standard Hub): Includes USB, Ethernet, and Lightning interfaces.

  • Part Code: 39651190 (Black) / 39651090 (White)

• MCP31CI (USB-C & Cloud): Includes USB-C Power Delivery and LAN.

  • Part Code: 39659190 (Black) / 39659090 (White)

• MCS10 (mC-Sound): The kitchen buzzer accessory for mC-Print.

  • Part Code: 39594011

5. Impact Kitchen Printers (SP700)

The Star sp742 is the industry standard for impact printing in hot environments.

• SP742 (Ethernet/LAN): The most common kitchen configuration with an auto-cutter.

  • Part Code: 39336510

• SP742 (Serial): For legacy hardwired systems.

  • Part Code: 39332310

• RC700B (Ribbon): Black ink ribbon for the SP700 series.

  • Part Code: 30980720

Legacy & EOL References

While these are often discontinued, finding the original part code helps in sourcing refurbished units or exact replacements.

• TSP654IIBI (Bluetooth): 39443710 (Replaced by TSP143IV or mC-Print3)

• TSP143IIU (Older USB): 39464031 (Replaced by TSP143IIIU)