Sprinter machine model selection is based upon choosing the smallest marking head that will deliver the required message.  Illustrated below are the eight standard machine model marking head formats based upon print size area.

NOTE: Rubber type in this area is not for sizing purposes. Refer to the chart below.

For messages that are assembled using rubber type kits (letter / number kits), consideration has to be given to the number of lines and the number of characters per line to properly select minimum size marking head / machine. Greatly oversizing the machine for a small message size can increase cost per marking impression without corresponding benefit. Rubber type is secured by ribs (see drawing above) which lock into a ribbed rubber mat. All rubber type has a minimum of two ribs. The seven sizes of type described below contain two ribs. Type 5/16" and larger (not illustrated below) contains a minimum of three ribs thus reducing the lines of type that can be secured in a fixed area. If 5/16" or larger type is being considered consult factory for guidance on machine selection based upon message size content.

A couple of the most common sizes of type used are 1/8" and 9/64" which typically provide a very clear, easily read ink code-mark on a wide variety of surfaces.

The number of characters per line varies depending upon the size of the type selected (larger height type has wider width) and the specific type character (e.g. "W" is wider than "I"). The chart below shows approximate character height and the letter "S" for seven common type sizes. The chart also provides a guide to both typical ("8" was selected) and maximum ("W" is widest) characters that can be accommodated by a specific Sprinter Model. It is recommended to select the next larger machine model on tight fits.

Number of characters per line of type by machine model number