USER MANUAL
Copyright This manual is copyrighted with all rights reserved. No portion of this manual may be copied or reproduced by any means without the prior written consent of BRADY. While every precaution has been taken in the preparation of this document, BRADY assumes no liability to any party for any loss or damage caused by errors or omissions or by statements resulting from negligence, accident, or any other cause.
BRADY Warranty Our products are sold with the understanding that the buyer will test them in actual use and determine for him or herself their adaptability to his/her intended uses. BRADY warrants to the buyer that its products are free from defects in material and workmanship, but limits its obligations under this warranty to replacement of the product shown to BRADY’s satisfaction to have been defective at the time BRADY sold it.
Regulatory Compliance United States Note This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, and may radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications.
RoHS Directive 2011/65/EU (RoHS 2), 2015/863/EU (RoHS 3) This product is CE marked and complies with the European Union's Directive 2011/65/EU OF THE EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT AND OF THE COUNCIL of 8 June 2011 on the restriction of the use of certain hazardous substances in electrical and electronic equipment. EU Directive 2015/863 of 31 March 2015 (RoHS 3) amends Annex II to Directive 2011/65/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council as regards the list of restricted substances.
Technical Support and Registration Contact Information For repair or technical assistance, locate your regional BRADY Technical Support office by going to: • United States: www.bradyid.com/techsupport • Europe: www.bradyeurope.com/services • Australia: www.bradyid.com.au/en-au/supportlanding • Canada: www.bradycanada.ca • Latin America: www.bradylatinamerica.com Registration Information To register your printer, go to: • www.bradycorp.
vii Table of Contents Introduction. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 Unpack Your Printer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Accessories. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Register Your Printer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
viii Set Clock. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Units . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Cut Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Set Zero Style. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Backlight Time . . . . . . . .
ix Fixed Length . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Custom Length (Version 2.0 or higher) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Vial . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . WireMarker Label Type (BMP®21-PLUS and 2.0 or higher) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Terminal Block, Patch Panel (BMP®21-PLUS and 2.0 or higher). .
Introduction Introduction The BMP®21-PLUS/BMP®21-LAB Label Printer is capable of printing on a variety of continuous supplies, up to 3/4- inch (19.1 mm) wide print. It includes the following features: • Targeted applications to simplify the creation of specific label types • Battery operation - at least 1800 2-inch (50.8mm) long labels on six AA alkaline batteries; at least 2000 2-inch (50.8mm) long labels on Lithium battery pack.
Introduction Unpack Your Printer Unpack Your Printer The following items are included in the standard BMP®21-PLUS/BMP®21-LAB Label Printer package: • BMP®21-PLUS Label Printer (BMP®21-LAB Label Printer) • M21-750-499 black on white vinyl cartridge (BMP®21-PLUS and BMP®21-PLUS-RUSSIAN) • M21-750-7425 cartridge (BMP®21-LAB) • Quick Start Guide Accessories The following items are accessories available for the BMP®21-PLUS/BMP®21-LAB Label Printer.
Introduction BMP®21-PLUS/BMP®21-LAB Label Printer System Specifications The BMP®21-PLUS/BMP®21-LAB Label Printer has the following specifications: • Weight 1.66 lbs (0.753 kg) • Thermal Transfer Print Mechanism, 203 DPI print resolution • Softplast ABC-style keypad • Print Width - 0.75-inch (19.1 mm) maximum label width • Maximum length for labels with alphanumeric characters: 15.75 inches (400 mm) • Maximum characters that can be printed: 50 • Prints up to 1800 1/2-inch x 2-inch (12.7mm x 50.
Introduction Physical and Environmental Characteristics Environmental Operation Storage Temperature* (Printer) 4° to 43° C (40° to 110° F) -18° to 43° C (0° to 110° F) Relative Humidity (Printer) 20% to 90% (noncondensing) 10% to 90% (noncondensing) *Exposing the BMP®21-PLUS/BMP®21-LAB Label Printer to direct sunlight is not recommended. WARNING Avoid using the system near water, in direct sunlight, or near a heating device.
External View Physical and Environmental Characteristics External View 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Power key Function keys Symbols and characters Secondary function key Navigation pad with ENTER key Set language and unit defaults Print key 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 Cutter lever Cartridge bay locking lever Cartridge bay with cartridge AC adapter port Cartridge eject button Battery compartment Finger tabs on battery compartment cover Note: There are NO PC connection ports on the BMP®21-PLUS/BMP®21-LAB printer.
Power Source Physical and Environmental Characteristics Power Source Power is supplied to the BMP®21-PLUS/BMP®21-LAB Label Printer by six AA alkaline batteries, a BMP21-PLUS-BATT Lithium Ion battery pack, or by an AC power adapter. To maintain maximum printer performance, use basic AA alkaline batteries, NOT rechargeable (Ultimate Lithium) AA batteries. The optional Li-Ion battery pack is rechargeable, but must be removed from the printer and attached to the AC power adapter for charging to take place.
Power Source Physical and Environmental Characteristics WARNING Do not dismantle, open or shred cells or batteries. Do not expose cells or batteries to heat or fire. Avoid storage in direct sunlight. Do not short-circuit a cell or a battery. Do not store cells or batteries haphazardly in a box or drawer where they may short-circuit each other or be short-circuited by other metal objects. Do not remove a cell or battery from its original packaging until required for use.
Power Source Loading AA Alkaline Batteries Loading AA Alkaline Batteries 1. On the back of the printer, 2. Insert 6 AA alkaline squeeze the finger tabs located on both sides of the battery compartment door, then swing the battery compartment door up and out. (The door will come off.) 3. Re-insert the battery door batteries, observing correct polarity. (Do not use rechargeable AA batteries or Ultimate Lithium AA batteries).
Power Source Loading the Lithium Ion Battery Pack Loading the Lithium Ion Battery Pack When using a BMP21-PLUS-BATT Lithium Ion battery pack, please consult the instructions enclosed with the battery pack for the charging procedure. 1. On the back of the printer, 2. With the battery label squeeze the finger tabs located on both sides of the battery compartment door, then swing the battery compartment door up and out. (The door will come off.) 3.
Power Source Loading the Lithium Ion Battery Pack Remove Lithium Battery 1. Squeeze the finger tabs located on both sides of the battery compartment door, then swing the battery compartment door up and out. (The door will come off.) 2. Placing your thumb at the 3. Grasp the raised battery base of the printer, use your forefingers to gently pull up on the raised portion of the battery. This releases the top of the battery from the contacts. and pull it up and out from the bottom contact slots.
Power Source AC Power Adapter AC Power Adapter The printer can be powered by an AC/DC power adapter. The AC/DC power adapter can also be used to recharge the BMP21-BATT battery pack outside of the printer. WARNING Use only the 9V DC, Brady AC/DC adapters, shown below, for supplying power to the BMP®21-PLUS/BMP®21-LAB Label Printer. Attaching the Adapter The printer can be powered through a designated AC power adapter.
Power Source AC Power Adapter Charging the Lithium Ion Battery Pack The lithium ion battery pack accessory cannot be charged in the printer. The battery pack must be removed from the printer and charged using the BMP21-AC AC adapter. To use the printer while charging the battery, insert 6 AA alkaline batteries in the battery compartment. Attaching the Adapter to the Battery Pack 1. Insert the round end of the adapter cable into the plug-in port on the lower left side of the battery pack. 2.
Media Cartridge AC Power Adapter Media Cartridge The media and ribbon supplies for the BMP®21-PLUS/BMP®21-LAB Label Printers are combined in a plastic cartridge for easy one-step loading. With the exception of the 0.25-inch (6.35mm) size, these cartridges are NOT compatible with the BMP21 printer. Media sizes are between 0.25-0.75-inch (6.35mm - 19.1mm) width. Length is variable based on the font size used and information placed on the label.
Media Cartridge Changing the Label Cartridge Changing the Label Cartridge 1. Turn the locking lever to the left to unlock the cartridge. 2. Push the eject button on the back of the printer, then lift the cartridge out of the printer. 3. Place a new cartridge in the cartridge bay and push down until the cartridge snaps into place. 4. Turn the locking lever up (to the right). If the cartridge is empty, recycle according to local regulations. (See page 15 for more information on recycling cartridges.
Media Cartridge Recycling the Label Cartridge Recycling the Label Cartridge Cartridges need to be recycled in accordance with local regulations. Before recycling, the used cartridges must be pulled apart to release the individual components. These various components must then be recycled in the correct recycling bins. Materials • 1/4-inch blade flathead screwdriver • Safety Glasses • Safety Gloves CAUTION ALWAYS wear Personal Protective Equipment when dismantling a cartridge.
Media Cartridge Recycling the Label Cartridge To open the cartridge: 2. Starting at the narrow end of the cartridge, insert the flathead screwdriver into the seam of the cartridge, then twist the screwdriver slightly to loosen the two outside pieces of molding. 3. Repeat at various points on the seam until you can separate the top of the molding from the base. 4. Turn the base of the cartridge upside down and shake gently. Most of the components will fall out of the cartridge.
Media Cartridge Recycling the Label Cartridge Recycling Components These components should be removed from the cartridge and recycled according to the following guidelines.
Power On Printer Version Power On Printer Version To turn the system on or off: 1. Press Power . 2. Watch the screen closely for the version number which displays briefly. BMP21-Plus 2.3 If you missed seeing the version number and need to know what it is: 3. Remove whichever type of batteries are installed. 4. Press and hold the power button for 10 seconds. 5. Reinstall batteries while watching the screen. If using the power adapter instead of batteries: 6.
Power On Editing Screen Editing Screen The editing screen enables you to view formatting features directly on the screen while you are entering and editing data.
Keypad Navigation and Editing Keys Keypad Navigation and Editing Keys Function Key Description Power Turns on the printer Navigation Keys Navigation keys: • In a line of text, move the cursor left or right a character at a time, or up and down a line at a time. • In menus, move the selection up or down in primary menu choices; left or right through secondary menu choices (such as Symbols or International characters), if available. ENTER Key • Adds a new blank line in label data.
Keypad Navigation and Editing Keys Function Backspace Key Key Description • Removes characters one at a time, moving to the left. • Backs out of menu options and functions, one screen at a time. Note: Depending on how deep you are into menus and functions, you may have to press Backspace multiple times. Caps Lock Key Acts as a toggle to lock text into uppercase as data is entered. Clear Key Clears data from the screen. Decimal Point Adds a decimal point or period.
Keypad Function Keys Function Keys Function Key Description Feed Key Feeds the media through the printer. Serial Key Sets the start, end, and increment values for serialization. Menu Key Provides printer defaults (i.e., language, units) and other print options not available on keys. Menu items include symbols, international characters, barcode styles, and file options. Label Type Key Accesses the different applications/ label type templates installed (i.e.
Menus Function Keys Menus Additional functions not displayed on a key are available from the Menu key. Use the up or down navigation keys to access the different menu items displayed. When you have reached the last menu item displayed, the menus cycle back to the first menu item. Figure 1 • Menus To access the menus: 1. Press MENU . The menu choices display in a list. 2. Press the up/down navigation keys to highlight the menu items. 3. Press Enter to select the menu item.
Menus Data Fields Data Fields For some menu items, there may be data fields requesting additional information. To enter the information: 1. Using navigation keys, navigate to the data field. 2. Enter data using the keyboard. OR Use the left/right navigation keys to toggle through a series of predesigned values. 3. Use navigation keys to move off the field after entering data. 4. To accept data entered, press Enter .
Menus Printer Defaults Printer Defaults Printer defaults are set to provide a consistent operating environment for the work you do with your printer. Once the defaults are set, they will remain in effect until you change them. The following printer default settings can be found using the Menu key. • Language • Units • Set Clock • Cut Mode • Set Zero Style • Backlight Time Language The following languages can be found under the Language menu item.
Menus Printer Defaults BMP21-Lab Languages English - Default Dutch French Portuguese Spanish Italian German BMP21-Plus Russian Languages Russian - Default English Note: Greek language characters are found under the International menu function. Initial Language Setup When turning the printer on for the first time, immediately go to the Menu>Language function and choose the language in which you want all printer menus, functions, and data displayed. 1. Press MENU . 2.
Menus Printer Defaults Set Clock The following settings can be found under the Set Clock menu function. Set the Date and Time options upon initial start-up of the printer. Figure 3 • Time/Date settings in Set Clock function Clock Format Before setting the date and time, set the Clock Format. This enables you to use a 12-hour clock or a 24-hour clock. To set the Clock Format: 1. Press MENU . 2. Navigate to Set Clock, then press Enter 3. Navigate to Clock Format, then press Enter 4.
Menus Printer Defaults Date Format You have four choices for the date format. The date can be displayed in the American standard (MM/DD/YY) or the International Standard (DD/MM/YY). You can also have the date display 2 digits or 4 digits for the year (e.g., YY = 13, YYYY = 2013). To set the date: 1. Press MENU . 2. Navigate to Set Clock, then press Enter . 3. Navigate to Date Format, then press Enter . 4. Select the desired format, then press Enter . Time Format Next, choose the Time Format to use.
Menus Printer Defaults Set Date Once you have set the date and time format, you can now set the actual date and time. To set the date: 1. Press MENU . 2. Navigate to Set Clock, then press Enter 3. Navigate to Date, then press Enter . . 4. Navigate to various fields to set the desired month, day, and year for the time you want displayed on your labels. 5. Enter the date from the keyboard OR use the left/right navigation key to decrease or increase the date, one month, day, or year at a time.
Menus Printer Defaults Set Time To set the time: 1. Press MENU . 2. Navigate to Set Clock, then press Enter 3. Navigate to Time, then press Enter . . 4. Navigate to various fields to set the hour and/or minutes of the desired time. Note: When using the time format HH:MM:SS, no field for seconds displays. The internal clock in the printer starts the seconds based on the minutes you have chosen. 5.
Menus Units Units The Units setting is used to configure label parameters for the printer. The units are: • Inches • Millimeters Once configured, you do not have to indicate “inches” or “millimeters” (or their globally accepted abbreviations or marks) when entering numbers in data fields. Likewise, in any scale or range of measurement field (as found under Label Type), the range of measurements will automatically configure to the units selected in the Menu function. To set the default units: 1.
Menus Cut Mode Cut Mode Set the Cut Mode default to determine when the printer should pause for cutting. There are two modes to choose from: • Cut Between Labels • Cut at End of Job In a multiprint job (serialized label, terminal block, breaker box, etc.) cut mode determines if the printer should pause between each label for cutting the individual labels.
Menus Set Zero Style Set Zero Style The Set Zero Style default determines if the number zero will print as an open zero (0), or intersected by a line ( ), as on a computer. To set the Zero Style default: 1. Press MENU . 2. Navigate to Set Zero Style, then press Enter 3. Navigate to the desired zero style, then press Enter . .
Menus Backlight Time Backlight Time The Backlight Time sets the backlight auto-off time-out. This refers to the number of seconds of inactivity detected, after which the backlight automatically shuts off. If you prefer to keep the backlight on at all times while using the AC adapter, choose Always On. To turn it off completely, select Always Off. Otherwise set the number of seconds of inactivity the printer should detect before shutting off the backlight.
Getting Started Entering Text Getting Started This section describes the process of creating a text label with minimal formatting, using basic editing techniques, and printing the label. Entering Text Before entering label text, be sure the media cartridge is loaded and the power is ON. The vertical bar on the display screen is the cursor and is the starting point for every label you create using the BMP®21-PLUS/BMP®21-Lab Label Printer. Begin entering text at the position of the cursor.
Getting Started Editing Text Deleting Text To remove characters, one at a time, from the position of the cursor TO THE LEFT (backwards): 1. Press Backspace . If you want to delete characters in the middle of the line of text, use the navigation keys to position the cursor to the right of the characters you want to delete, then press [BACKSPACE]. Clear Data The Clear key is used to clear all data from the screen. To clear data: 1. Press CLEAR .
Getting Started Editing Text Font Size Note: This printer provides a single typeface – the Arial® Alternative Monospaced typeface – that has different sizes and weights. Version 2.0 included an update to this font which can make it look different than what has been seen in previous versions. Font size can be applied before or after data is entered, regardless of where the cursor is positioned. The font setting applies to all text on the label. You cannot change font size on individual lines of text.
Getting Started Editing Text Autosize Autosize starts with the largest font size that fits on the label. When a line of text reaches the fixed margin (distance between the edge of the print head and the cutter blade), it scales downward until you press [ENTER] or the minimum font size is reached. By default, a 9 point font is enabled for all labels. To turn autosize on: 1. Press FONT SIZE . 2. Navigate to Auto, then press Enter . When autosize is turned on, it displays as an ‘A’ in the Status Bar.
Getting Started Printing a Label Printing a Label To print a label: 1. Press PRINT . A printing icon displays on the screen indicating that the label is printing. When the icon disappears, you can cut the label. 2. Squeeze the cutter levers to cut the label. The label exit chute contains plastic grips that hold the label in place after cutting so it will not fall off. 3. Gently pull the label away from the label exit chute. Multi-Print Multi-Print allows you to print multiple copies of a label file.
Formatting Symbols Formatting Formatting refers to the layout, structure, and appearance of a label. Different formatting features can be found under the Menu and function keys. Symbols Figure 4 • Symbol categories Symbols (graphics) that can be used for a variety of applications are available on the printer.
Formatting Symbols You can also choose symbols through the Menu function. 1. Press MENU . 2. Navigate to Symbols, then press Enter . 3. Navigate to the desired symbol category, then press Enter . 4. Using navigation keys, select the desired symbol, then press Enter . The symbol displays with the same font size that is currently in use. Figure 5 • Selecting a symbol Remove a Symbol The symbol is the same as any other character. To remove a symbol: 1. Position the cursor to the right of the symbol.
Formatting International Character Set International Character Set The International Character Set supplies characters specific to some international alphabets with diacritical and accent marks incorporated into the characters. To add a character from the International Character Set: 1. Position the cursor where you want the international character to display. 2. Press International key . OR Press MENU . Navigate to International, then press Enter 3.
Formatting Date and Time Date and Time To have the current date and/or time inserted on a label: 1. Position the cursor on the label where you want the date and/or time to be inserted. 2. Press ADD DATE to display the date. OR 3. Press ADD TIME to display the time. The BMP®21-PLUS/BMP®21-LAB printer inserts the Date or Time using the current system clock value at the time of printing and the date/time format defined in the Menu function. (For more information, see “Set Clock” settings on page 27.
Formatting Barcode Barcode The BMP®21-PLUS/BMP®21-Lab Label Printer supports Code 39 and Code 128 barcode symbology. You can use either Banner Landscape or Flag label type to insert a barcode. (See page 55 for information on changing the Label Type.) Barcode data can be displayed in the same line as other data (text or symbols). Barcode data on the same line as text will not overwrite the text already on the line but will be placed next to it.
Formatting Datamatrix and QR Codes (Version 2.0 or higher) If you want to enter more data on the same line of text as the barcode: 1. Press the right navigation key to move off the barcode. 2. Enter the data. (Be sure to press Space before entering more data if you want to separate the data from the barcode.) Barcode in line of data Printed label of barcode in line of data Edit Barcode Data To edit barcode data: 1. Using the left or right navigation keys, position the cursor in the barcode text. 2.
Formatting Datamatrix and QR Codes (Version 2.0 or higher) Add a Datamatrix or QR Code Note: Label type must be set to Banner Landscape. The size of the codes are preset and not affected by changing font size. 1. Position the cursor where you want to add the code. 2. Press . 3. Use the arrows to scroll to the desired code (Datamatrix or QR) and size (small or large) and press Enter . Datamatrix line of data Small Datamatrix Large Datamatrix QR line of data Small QR Large QR 4.
Serialization How Serialization Works Serialization Serialization (or sequencing) automatically adds a series of sequential numbers or letters to the printed labels. The Serial function consecutively places the next number or letter in the defined sequence on individual labels. The number of labels created is defined by the sequence values you enter. Serialization can be combined with other data on a label.
Serialization Examples of Serialization Examples of Serialization In a simple serialization, a sequence runs through its full range of numbers and/or letters (i.e., 0 to 9, or A to Z), one number/letter for each label. Starting with the Start Value, the Increment value is added to the previous number to produce the next sequence number, until it reaches the End Value.
Serialization Examples of Serialization Using Letters in Serialization Sequencing letters occurs according to the letter’s position in the alphabet. Below is a chart referencing alpha character positions in the English alphabet.
Serialization Add Serialization Add Serialization To add serialization to labels: 1. Position the cursor on the label where you want the serialization to display. 2. Press SERIAL . A dialog box displays where you can enter the start value of the serialization, the increment value, and the end value. For simple serialization: 3. With the cursor immediately displayed in the Start: field, enter the start value of the sequence. 4. In the Increment field, enter the increment value. 5.
File Management File Naming Standards File Management A label can be saved as a file, to be opened and reused at a later date. You can save up to 12 files on the BMP®21-PLUS/BMP®21-LAB Label Printer. The files are retained and are not lost when removing the rechargeable battery. Note: The BMP®21-PLUS/BMP®21-LAB printer CANNOT be connected to a PC. You cannot print PC label files on the BMP21-PLUS/BMP®21-LAB printer.
File Management Replace (Overwrite) a File 5. In the File Name? field, enter a name for the file, then press Enter . When the file is saved, you are returned to the Editing screen with the saved file still displayed. To remove the saved file from the screen: 6. Press CLEAR . Replace (Overwrite) a File You can only save 12 files on the BMP®21-Plus/BMP®21-LAB Label Printer. To save another file, you need to replace (overwrite) one of the previously saved files. To replace, or overwrite, a file: 1.
File Management Open a File To overwrite the previous file: 5. Navigate to Yes, then press Enter . 6. In the File Name? field, enter a name for the file, then press Enter . Open a File To open (recall) a saved file: 1. Press MENU . 2. Navigate to File, then press Enter 3. Navigate to Open, then press Enter . . A list of previously saved files displays. 4. Navigate to the file to open, then press Enter . Only one file can be displayed on the screen at a time.
File Management Delete a File Delete a File The display screen does not have to be cleared before deleting a file. A file can be deleted with other data still on the screen. To delete a previously saved file: 1. Press MENU . 2. Navigate to File, then press Enter . 3. Navigate to Delete, then press Enter . A list of previously saved files displays. 4. Navigate to the file to delete, then press Enter . A delete confirmation message displays. 5. Navigate to Yes, then press Enter .
Label Types Selecting a Label Type Label Types Label types provide templates that guide and control the layout for label formats and may require specific media. The label types available are: BMP®21-PLUS and BMP®21-PLUS-Russian Label Printer • Banner Portrait The BMP®21-LAB Label Printer The BMP®21-LAB Label Printer is intended for laboratory environments and therefore contains only the following label types.
Banner Portrait Label Type Selecting a Label Type Banner Portrait Label Type Banner Portrait label type is used for creating basic labels, with no specific formatting. Banner portrait supports all media except SelfLam and Permasleeve. When you are using a specific label type, clearing the data removes the data you entered but the specific label type parameters remain.
Banner Landscape Label Type Selecting a Label Type Banner Landscape Label Type Banner Landscape label type allows you to enter a long text string. Any media can be installed for Banner Landscape. If a label type is not supported for newly installed media, the label type automatically switches to Banner Landscape. To print a long text string (i.e., producing a “banner”): 1. Press LABEL TYPE . 2. Using navigation keys, choose Banner Landscape, then press Enter . 3.
Fixed Length Selecting a Label Type Fixed Length If the label type is set to Banner landscape the label length will be as long as necessary to accommodate the font size and text entered. However, you can set the length of the media to a fixed length, which may restrict how much data you can enter on the label. Note: On all labels, there exists a fixed margin that measures the distance between the edge of the print head and the cutter blade. This distance cannot be changed. To set a fixed label length: 1.
Custom Length (Version 2.0 or higher) Selecting a Label Type Custom Length (Version 2.0 or higher) Setting a custom length gives you the option to set smaller label lengths than what is available with the fixed length setting. The maximum length is 99.9 inches (2537.46mm) with the maximum number of characters at 50. Text will be centered on the label, regardless of length. Note: This feature available only on Version 2.0 or higher. To set a custom label length: 1. Press LABEL TYPE . 2.
Vial Selecting a Label Type Vial The Vial label type can be used with any media except SelfLam or Permasleeve. (If SelfLam or Permasleeve media is installed, the Vial label type does not display.) The Vial label type fixes the length of the label based on the vial size selected and formats the data horizontally or vertically. To get the most data in a small area it is recommended to use a 2D barcode. To create a label using the Vial label type: 1. Press LABEL TYPE . 2.
WireMarker Label Type (BMP®21-PLUS and 2.0 or higher) Selecting a Label Type WireMarker Label Type (BMP®21-PLUS and 2.0 or higher) The WireMarker label type is designed to repeat entered data down the length of the label. The data repeats as many times as possible, considering the font size and the wire size selected. WireMarker label type - text on screen WireMarker label type - printed text Figure 6 • Repeated data on a WireMarker label All media, except Permasleeve, support WireMarker label types.
WireMarker Label Type (BMP®21-PLUS and 2.0 or higher) Selecting a Label Type You can press [ENTER] to start a new line of text. When the label is printed, both lines of text are repeated down the label, depending on the size of the label and the font size.
Terminal Block, Patch Panel (BMP®21-PLUS and 2.0 or higher) Selecting a Label Type Terminal Block, Patch Panel (BMP®21-PLUS and 2.0 or higher) Terminal Block and Patch Panel label types are designed to be used with any media, except SelfLam or Permasleeve. If SelfLam or Permasleeve is installed, these label types are not available. To use Terminal Block or Patch Panel: 1. Press LABEL TYPE . 2. Navigate to the desired label type and press Enter . Data fields display requesting additional information.
Terminal Block, Patch Panel (BMP®21-PLUS and 2.0 or higher) Selecting a Label Type If serialization is turned OFF, continue with the following: 3. Navigate to the # of Terminations: (or # of Ports:) field and enter the number of terminals or ports needed. 4. Navigate to the Rotation: field (not visible on the initial data fields screen), and determine if you want the label data to print out at 0° rotation (landscape) or print vertically at 90° rotation (portrait).
Terminal Block, Patch Panel (BMP®21-PLUS and 2.0 or higher) Selecting a Label Type To delete the serialization sequence: 10. Press Backspace . A confirmation message displays. To delete the entire sequence: 11. Press Enter . To cancel the deletion: 12. Press Backspace again. If serialization was turned OFF, the number of terminals (or ports) indicated in Step 3 above, display in individual areas. The terminal areas display in the upper right corner of the editing screen.
Panel Residential (Version 2.0 or higher) Selecting a Label Type Panel Residential (Version 2.0 or higher) Allows you to create labels for residential breaker box panel/door using pre-defined or userdefined terms. Labels print portrait if more than one line is used. For the best fit on a standard residential breaker box use font size 9 on 0.25 inch (6.35mm) width media. All labels are printed left justified with the same fixed width and accept up to 15 characters maximum.
Panel Residential (Version 2.0 or higher) Selecting a Label Type 5. (Optional) Navigate to Cut Between, use the right or left navigation key to toggle between YES or NO, then press Enter . Choosing “YES” on Cut Between will prompt you to “Cut” or “Press Print” after each label during printing. Note: Even if the printer is already set to cut between mode, it still needs to be selected here. Note: It is not possible to return to the set-up menu after leaving it.
Flags (BMP®21-PLUS and 2.0 or higher) Selecting a Label Type Flags (BMP®21-PLUS and 2.0 or higher) A Flag label wraps around a wire or cable, with the ends joined together to form a flag. The Flag label type is designed to work with any media except SelfLam or Permasleeve. To use a Flag label type: 1. Press LABEL TYPE 2. Navigate to Flag and press Enter . . Data fields display requesting additional information. Flag data fields Flag label on print out 3.
Flags (BMP®21-PLUS and 2.0 or higher) Selecting a Label Type 5. In the Style: field, use the left or right navigation key to display the eight different flag rotations. Figure 7 • Eight flag layouts 6. When finished, press Enter . Rotation is embedded in the template design, based on the flag design you pick. Justification defaults to center, middle. The font size remains whatever size is set when the flag label type is chosen.
Breaker Box (BMP®21-PLUS and 2.0 or higher) Selecting a Label Type Breaker Box (BMP®21-PLUS and 2.0 or higher) Breakers are usually arranged in two columns or along one row, depending on geographic regions. The breaker positions are numbered left-to-right or top-to-bottom, depending on label orientation. This numbering system is universal across various competing manufacturers of breaker panels. To create Breaker Box labels: 1. Press LABEL TYPE . 2. Navigate to Breaker Box, then press Enter . 3.
Breaker Box (BMP®21-PLUS and 2.0 or higher) Selecting a Label Type On the Breaker Box editing screen, enter the number of poles for each breaker and the corresponding identifying data. The number of the breaker displays in the upper right corner of the editing screen. 8. Using the up and down navigation keys, navigate to the breaker number. 9. When on the breaker number, use the left or right navigation keys to toggle to another breaker number. Breaker field accessed Pole field accessed 10.
Technical Support Numbers/On-line Help Technical Support Numbers/On-line Help For repair or technical assistance, find your regional Brady Technical Support office in the following list. • United States: 1-800-643-8766 or via the web at www.bradyid.com/techsupport • Australia: 1-800-644-834 or via the web at www.bradyid.com.au/en-au/supportlanding • Canada: 1-800-263-6179 or via the web at www.bradycanada.ca • Mexico & Latin America: 01-800-212-8181 or via the web at www.bradylatinamerica.
Troubleshooting Troubleshooting Use the following table to troubleshoot and diagnose possible performance problems with your BMP®21-PLUS/BMP®21-LAB Label Printer. If the corrective action suggested does not work, contact Brady’s Technical Support Group (see page 72). Problem Cause Corrective Action Hardware Keyboard works intermittently or not at all. One or more keys is stuck in depressed state. Identify any keys stuck in down position. Repress key to un-stick.
Troubleshooting Problem Cause Corrective Action Power ON/OFF - Printer not working Printer does not power up when turned on. Battery pack is not charged. Screen freezes User interface error. If using batteries, replace with 6 new AA batteries. OR, if using the lithium ion battery, remove the battery from the printer and recharge using the AC adapter. To use the printer while charging the lithium ion battery, insert 6 AA alkaline batteries in the battery compartment. 1.
Troubleshooting Problem Cause Corrective Action Printer frequently powers OFF. Battery is low. Note: The printer is programmed to shut off automatically after 10 minutes of inactivity. Install 6 fresh AA batteries. OR Attach the AC Adapter to the printer and plug into an electrical outlet. This will supply immediate power. If using the lithium ion battery, remove the battery from the printer and recharge using the AC adapter.
Troubleshooting Problem Cause Corrective Action Print Quality Poor print quality Battery pack, or 6 AA batteries, may be worn out and not properly holding a charge. Battery life is approximately one to three years, depending on its use and care. Order a replacement battery pack or insert 6 new AA batteries. Poor print quality. Dust or adhesives accumulated on the print head. Clean the print head. (Refer to page 80 for instructions on cleaning the printer.) Poor print quality Media not usable.
Troubleshooting Problem Black line displays on first label printed Cause Corrective Action When the cartridge is left in the locked position (when not in use), the print head is pressed against the platen roller, causing a vertical pressure point line (or residual burn line) to appear on the tape. Unlock the cartridge as soon as you are done printing more labels. This will prevent the warm print head from burning the ink from the ribbon onto the next label under the print head.
Troubleshooting Problem Cause Corrective Action Program Invalid terminal repeat value entered. The value entered is out of the range. The acceptable range is between the minimum of 0.2 inch (50.8mm) to the maximum of 40 inches (1016mm). Error - “Cannot Fit” Font size and settings too large for label. • Change the font size to a smaller font. (Refer to page 37.) • Delete some text. (See page 35 for more information.) Error - “Cannot Fit” There are too many lines of text.
Problem Cause ® Corrective Action ® Menu does not display all label types. The BMP 21-PLUS/BMP 21LAB only displays the label types that will work with the installed label material (cartridge). Insert the proper label material (cartridge) for the labels you want to produce. Examples: • If using Nylon, Vinyl or Polyester continuous labels, all labels types will be shown. • If using Self-Lam labels the only label types displayed are Banner Landscape, Fixed Length and Wire.
Troubleshooting Cleaning the Printer Cleaning the Printer Cleaning the printer will improve print quality and legibility. It also increases output, machine life, printer reliability and performance. Display Screen To clean the display screen: 1. Lightly moisten a soft (non-scratching) cloth with isopropyl alcohol. OR Use pre-moistened static-free cloths available with the Brady PCK-6 Cleaning Kit. 2. Gently wipe the display screen until clean.
Appendix A - Symbols Appendix A - Symbols Symbols for all enabled applications are available for use on any label, regardless of the application/label type in use. See page 40 for information on how to apply symbols to your labels.
Appendix A - Symbols Miscellaneous ? ¿ ¡ ; < > [ ] ^ { } | ~ 2 £ € Miscellaneous (Russian only) ® ® BMP 21-PLUS/BMP 21-LAB User Manual 82
Appendix A - Symbols Greek Note: Available Greek symbols will depend on version of printer.
Appendix A - Symbols Lab Note: This feature available only on Version 2.0 or higher. If a symbol cannot print in 6 pt font the “Cannot Fit” error message will display. Change font size to 9 pt. Some symbols will display as in the editor.
Appendix B - Supported ASCII Characters for Barcodes Appendix B - Supported ASCII Characters for Barcodes When creating barcodes reference the tables below for supported characters. Code 39 A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 (space) - .
Appendix B - Supported ASCII Characters for Barcodes Datamatrix and QR Codes A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o p q r s t u v w x y z 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 (space) ! " # $ % & ' ( ) * + , - . / : ; < = > ? @ [ \ ] ^ _ { | } ® ® BMP 21-PLUS/BMP 21-LAB User Manual 86
