> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://storekit.com/docs/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# 6. Connect a cloud receipt printer

> Connect a Star Micronics CloudPRNT receipt printer to storekit so kitchen tickets print automatically when new orders arrive at your venue.

Connect a cloud printer to automatically print order tickets when orders come in. This step is optional - you can manage orders directly from the dashboard or via POS integration.

## Do You Need a Printer?

| Use Case                     | Recommendation                                               |
| ---------------------------- | ------------------------------------------------------------ |
| High volume kitchen          | Yes - printed tickets are faster                             |
| Low volume / single operator | Optional - use the dashboard                                 |
| Multiple prep stations       | Yes - with [split printing](/guides/printing/split-printing) |
| POS integration              | Often not needed - orders go directly to POS                 |

## Supported Printers

storekit works with **Star Micronics** cloud-enabled thermal printers using CloudPRNT technology.

Popular models include:

* Star TSP143IV (Ethernet/Wi-Fi)
* Star TSP654II (Ethernet)
* Star mC-Print3 (Ethernet/Wi-Fi/Bluetooth)

<Tip>
  When purchasing a printer, ensure it supports CloudPRNT. Look for "CloudPRNT" in the model specifications. The printer must have network connectivity (Wi-Fi or Ethernet) to communicate with storekit's servers.
</Tip>

## Setting Up a Printer

<Warning>
  Your Star printer must be connected to your router via an ethernet (LAN) cable for reliable cloud printing. WiFi-only setups are not recommended and may fail to connect. Ensure you have a LAN cable available before starting setup. If your router is not near the printer, use a long LAN cable, network switch, or a 4G router with a LAN port.
</Warning>

<Steps>
  <Step title="Connect the Printer">
    Connect your printer to your network via Ethernet and power it on. The printer needs internet access to receive orders from storekit.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Add Printer in Dashboard">
    Go to **Store Settings > Printing** and click **Add Printer**.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Enter Printer Details">
    Enter your printer's MAC address (found on a test print — hold the FEED button while powering on the printer) and give it a descriptive name (e.g., "Kitchen Printer", "Bar Printer").
  </Step>

  <Step title="Configure Settings">
    Set print options:

    * Paper width (80mm is standard for receipts)
    * Number of copies per order
    * Auto-print or manual print
  </Step>

  <Step title="Test Print">
    Click **Test Print** to verify the connection and check the output format.
  </Step>
</Steps>

## What Prints

Order tickets include:

* Order number
* Customer name and contact details
* Fulfillment type (Pickup, Delivery, Dine-in) and requested time
* Table number (for dine-in orders)
* Items with modifiers and special instructions
* Order notes
* Payment status

You can customise print names for products using the [Print Name](/guides/printing/print-name) feature.

## Auto Print vs Manual Print

| Mode             | Description                                        |
| ---------------- | -------------------------------------------------- |
| **Auto print**   | Tickets print automatically when orders are placed |
| **Manual print** | Print tickets on-demand from the dashboard         |

[Learn more about auto vs manual printing →](/guides/printing/auto-vs-manual)

## Split Printing

If you have multiple prep stations (e.g., kitchen and bar), set up split printing:

1. Add multiple printers with descriptive names
2. Assign menu categories to each printer
3. Orders automatically split by category

**Example:**

* Kitchen printer → Food categories
* Bar printer → Drinks categories

[Learn more about split printing →](/guides/printing/split-printing)

## Fallback Printing

Configure a backup printer in case your primary printer goes offline:

1. Add a secondary printer
2. Set it as the fallback for your primary printer
3. If the primary fails, orders automatically route to the fallback

[Learn more about fallback printing →](/guides/printing/fallback-printing)

## Troubleshooting

### Printer Not Connecting

* Check the printer is powered on and connected to the network
* Verify the MAC address is entered correctly
* Ensure the printer has internet access (not just local network)
* Check your router/firewall isn't blocking outbound connections

### Orders Not Printing

* Verify the printer is set as active in settings
* Check the printer has paper and no error lights
* Send a test print from the dashboard
* Check if orders are going to a different printer (if using split printing)

[Full troubleshooting guide →](/guides/printing/troubleshooting)

## Next Step

You're almost ready! [Test your store and go live →](/getting-started/launch/test-and-go-live)