Operator’s Manual
Copyright Information CG Triumvirate is a trademark of Agfa Corporation. CG Times based upon Times New Roman under license from the Monotype Corporation. Windows is a registered trademark of the Microsoft Corporation. All other brand and product names are trademarks, service marks, registered trademarks, or registered service marks of their respective companies.
Important Safety Instructions This printer has been carefully designed to provide many years of safe, reliable performance. As with all types of electrical equipment, however, there are a few basic precautions you should take to avoid hurting yourself or damaging the equipment: • • • • • • • • • Carefully read the provided installation and operating instructions. Read and follow all warning instruction labels on the printer. Place the printer on a flat, firm, solid surface.
Contents 1 Getting Started 1.1 1.2 2 Introduction ................................................................... 1 Unpacking ...................................................................... 1 Printer Setup 2.1 2.2 2.3 2.4 3 Printer Connections ......................................................... 3 Loading Media ................................................................ 6 Media Sensor Adjustment ................................................. 8 Loading Ribbon ...................
5 Maintenance and Adjustments 5.1 5.2 5.3 5.4 5.5 5.6 5.7 5.8 5.9 5.10 6 Cleaning Intervals ........................................................... 47 Cleaning the Printhead ..................................................... 48 Media Width Adjustment .................................................. 49 Printhead Burn Line Adjustment ........................................ 50 Printhead Pressure Adjustment ......................................... 51 Printhead Replacement .........................
1 Getting Started 1 1..1 1 IIn nttrro od du uccttiio on n Congratulations on your M-Class Mark II printer purchase. The M-Class Mark II printer family, hereafter referred to as ‘the printer’, blends the rugged durability of die-cast construction with state-of-the-art electronics and user-friendly features to redefine the standard in industrial thermal printers. This manual provides all the information necessary to operate the printer.
Chapter 1 – Getting Started 2
2 Printer Setup 2 2..1 1 P Prriin ntte err C Co on nn ne eccttiio on nss Power Connection Before connecting the AC Power Cord or interface cables to the printer, ensure the Power On/Off Switch is in the ‘Off’ position. 1. Place the printer on a firm, level surface. 2. Ensure that the Power Switch on the Printer is in the ‘Off’ position. 3. Connect the AC Power Cord to the receptacle on the back of the Printer, and then plug the AC Power Cord into a properly grounded outlet.
Interface Connection The printer can be connected to the host via the parallel, USB, serial, or optional network interface. The printer will automatically connect to the first port that delivers valid data. Once established, the printer’s power must be cycled ‘Off’ and ‘On’ to change an interface connection. A couple of Optional Ethernet Print Servers (wired and wireless) are available.
SDIO Connections - When installing an SDIO Card, turn OFF the printer then slide the card into the slot. Module “F” will be recognized by the printer. When removing a card, turn OFF the printer then press inward on the card to release it. USB Host Port Connections - The USB Host Ports support plug and play device installation and removal. Module “H” and Module “I” will be recognized by the printer. • Memory device sizes up to 16 GB are supported.
To print directly from stored files at power-up; see Section 4.5, System Settings, User Label Mode. To print a previous label format that is stored in memory: 1. Press the MENU button then select Printer Options. 2. Select Modules and then Print File. 2 2..2 2 LLo oa ad diin ng gM Me ed diia a Load media into the printer as follows: 1. Open the media cover and lower the Media Hanger Guide (if equipped) and Media Guide. 2. Press in on the Printhead Latch and raise the Printhead Assembly.
5. Close the Printhead Assembly and press down until it locks into place. 6. Close the cover and press the proper tracking. Roll Media Media Hanger Guide Media Sensor Media Guide FEED button several times to position the media and ensure Printhead Assembly If the printer does not correctly sense the top of each label, it may be necessary to calibrate the printer (see Section 3.5 Media Calibration).
2 2..3 3 M Me ed diia aS Se en nsso orr A Ad djju ussttm me en ntt The Media Sensor needs to be positioned so that the printer can detect the presence of media and the top-of-form (except for continuous stock, where the TOF is set through the front panel. To adjust: 1. With media loaded, as described in Section 2.2, grasp the Slide Tab and move the Sensor Eye Mark into position over media according to the table below. 2. If loading media, return to the media loading instructions.
2 2..4 4 LLo oa ad diin ng gR Riib bb bo on n Ribbon is required with thermal transfer media. It is recommended that the width of the ribbon be slightly wider than the media being used. The printer can use either ribbons with the ‘coating side in’ or ribbons with the ‘coating side out’. To load: 1. • Using a ribbon that is slightly wider than your media (and liner, if any) will help protect against printhead wear.
Ribbon Routing Diagrams (CSI) ‘Coating Side In’ Ribbon Routing (CSO) ‘Coating Side Out’ Ribbon Routing Chapter 2 - Printer Setup 10
3. 4. Route the ribbon under the Ribbon Idler and then out the front of the printer approximately 12 inches. Ribbon Roll Printhead Assembly Ribbon Supply Hub Ribbon Idler Close the Printhead Assembly and press down until it locks into place.
5. Route the ribbon up and then around to the Ribbon Take-Up Hub, winding it several times in a clockwise direction to secure it in place. 6. Ribbon Take-up Hub Close the cover and press the Feed button several times to position the ribbon and ensure proper tracking.
3 Printer Operation 3 3..1 1 F Frro on ntt P Pa an ne ell (((NNNooonnn---DDDiiisssppplllaaayyy PPPrrriiinnnttteeerrrsss))) The Front Panel consists of three indicator lights and three function buttons. The functions of these lights and controls are listed in the following sections. Non-display printers can be configured using the DMXConfig Utility (see Section 3.4). The printer can also be configured using the Paper Menu Setup, (see Appendix C) for users that do not have a host connection available. 3.
3.1.2 Buttons PAUSE , FEED , and CANCEL perform different functions based on the operational mode. Ready Mode Functions These functions can be performed at any time when the printer is at idle.
3 3..2 2 F Frro on ntt P Pa an ne ell (((DDDiiisssppplllaaayyy---EEEqqquuuiiippppppeeeddd PPPrrriiinnnttteeerrrsss))) The Control Panel is an event-driven interface composed of a graphic display and keyboard. In addition to providing current printer information, the mode-dependent panel allows the items in the Main Display Area and the keyboard functions to change as operational events require. Icons & Indicators The icons are graphics that appear in the ‘Printer Status Line’ area of the display.
3 3..3 3 W Wiin nd do ow wss D Drriiv ve err The Windows driver is located on the Accessories CD-Rom included with your printer. For the latest version please visit our web site at www.datamax-oneil.com. Installing the Windows Driver: Place the Accessories CD-Rom included with your printer into your computers CD-Rom drive. Once the CD-Rom starts select "Install Windows Driver" from the main menu and follow the instructions on the screen to install. When prompted, select your printer from the list, (i.e.
Important Notes: The Windows driver functions the same as any other Windows printer. A built in help file is available for complete information on all settings; however, there are some important settings that should be observed for trouble free printing. Page Setup Tab: Stock Options Tab: Print Speed & Printhead Temperature It is important that the Stock setting matches the size of the label you are using. If you cannot find a match for your label click 'New' and enter the dimensions of your label.
3 3..4 DM 4 P MX XC Prriin Co on nffiig ntte err C g)) Co on nffiig gu urra attiio on nU Uttiilliitty y ((D DMXConfig (located on the Accessories CD-ROM) is a Windows based configuration utility that allows you to make changes to the existing printer setup via a direct connection to the host computers serial and parallel connection.
3 3..5 5 M Me ed diia aC Ca alliib brra attiio on n 3.5.1 Quick Calibration Quick Calibration should be performed as part of the media loading routine to fine-tune the sensing parameters. (1) This calibration is not necessary when using continuous stock. (2) Media containing large gaps may require a change in the PAPER EMPTY DISTANCE before proceeding. Calibrate the printer as follows: 1. Ensure that the printer is ON and in an idle state (i.e.
3.5.3 Standard Calibration The Standard Calibration can be performed using the DMXConfig Utility (see Section 3.4) and using the front panel buttons (see Appendix C). On display-equipped printers the Standard Calibration routine can also be initiated via the printer’s menu, see Section 4.5. Once you have installed the DMXConfig utility and the printer is properly loaded with media: 1. Connect the host to the printer with a serial or parallel cable. 2. Turn on the printer. 3. Launch the DMXConfig utility.
7. The Calibration Wizard will now prompt you to ‘Load Backing’. Peel off a few labels and position the backing material in the media sensor. Close the printhead and click “OK”. 8. The Calibration Wizard will now prompt you to ‘Remove Stock’. Remove all media and backing from the printer. Close the printhead and click “OK”. 9. The Calibration Wizard will now respond with ‘Passed Calibration’, click “OK.” Reinstall the media in the printer.
3 3..6 6 U Usse err--D De effiin ne ed d LLa ab be ell The User-Defined Label allows a template to be populated by variable data (via the printer’s control panel or a USB QWERTY keyboard). The template is a stored label format, where fields delimited by an ampersand (&) become variable. The printer will prompt you to enter the variable field data.
4 Menu System 4 4..1 1 M Me en nu uS Sy ysstte em m (((DDDiiisssppplllaaayyy---EEEqqquuuiiippppppeeeddd PPPrrriiinnnttteeerrrsss))) The Menu System contains three primary branches, each with a differing level of access to secondary menus or functions: The User Menu accesses basic printer settings and functions; The Advanced Menu accesses all operational settings, functions, and diagnostics; and, The Test Menu accesses a menu of test, user-defined, and previous label printing functions.
4 4..2 2 T Th he eU Usse err M Me en nu u The User Menu contains basic selections in these menus: Media Settings Print Control Printer Options System Settings (1) Some setting changes will only become effective (and saved) after selecting YES at the Save Changes prompt. (2) Labeling software may, in some cases, override the printer menu settings; see Advanced Menu for details. 4 4..
4 4..4 4 T Th he eT Te esstt M Me en nu u The Test Menu contains test and informational label selections: Print Quality Label Ribbon Test Label Test Label Validation Label Print Configuration Print Last Label User Defined Label Internally generated, these labels are printed at pre-selected media type, speed, and heat settings. Changes to these print settings can be made via the Menu System or through host commands.
DISPLAYED ITEM ITEM DESCRIPTION MEDIA TYPE Selects the method used to print labels and should be set according to the type of media being used, where: Sets use for media that is heat reactive to produce an image. DIRECT THERMAL THERMAL TRANSFER SENSOR TYPE GAP CONTINUOUS REFLECTIVE LABEL LENGTH 04.00 MAXIMUM LABEL LENGTH 16.00 Selects the top-of-form (TOF) sensing method used to determine the leading edge of the label, where: TOF will be recognized by sensing the gaps or notches in the media.
SENSOR CALIBRATION PERFORM CALIBRATION ADVANCED ENTRY PAPER SENSOR LEVEL REFL PAPER LEVEL GAP SENSOR LEVEL MARK SENSOR LEVEL EMPTY SENSOR LEVEL TRAN SENSOR GAIN REFL SENSOR GAIN PRINTHEAD CLEANING CLEAN HEAD SCHEDULE CLEAN HEAD COUNTER RESET COUNTER CLEAN HEAD NOW Selects the media sensor calibration method, where: Sets the values via internal printer calculations, as described in the STANDARD CALIBRATION procedure.
Print Control The Print Control menu contains printing throughput, offset and custom setup functions: Heat Print Speed Feed Speed Reverse Speed * Slew Speed * Row Offset Column Offset Present Distance TOF Precedence Custom Adjustments * Items denoted with an asterisk (*) are only accessible through the Advanced Menu.
PRESENT DISTANCE AUTO 0.00 in. Sets the label stop position (0 - 4.00 inches) past the start of print position upon output. When subsequent label formats are received, the printer will automatically back up the label to position it at the start of print position, where: Is the default setting (Auto Mode). In Auto Mode, the printer automatically configures this distance according to the positioning requirements of the attached device (i.e., tear bar, cutter, peel & present mechanism, or present sensor).
Printer Options The Printer Options menu contains file-handling, module, and optional equipment settings: Modules Present Sensor Cutter RFID GPIO Port Items denoted with an asterisk (*) are only accessible through the Advanced Menu; also, certain selections will appear only when equipped with that option.
FORMAT MODULE * DELETE FILE * COPY FILE * UNPROTECT MODULE * PRESENT SENSOR MODE AUTO ENABLED DISABLED RETRACT DELAY * (1 - 255 x 10 mS) 070 CUTTER MODE AUTO ENABLED DISABLED CUT BEHIND Selects from a list of modules available for formatting by the printer; see Section 5.10, File Handling Messages. Choosing FORMAT MODULE will erase existing data in the selected module Selects from the list of available files for deleting; see Section 5.10, File Handling Messages.
HF SETTINGS * TAG TYPE AFI VALUE AFI LOCK DSFID VALUE DSFID LOCK EAS VALUE AUDIO INDICATOR ERASE ON FAULT UHF SETTINGS * TAG TYPE TAG DATA SIZE POWER ADJUST KILL CODE ACCESS CODE GEN 2 LOCK ACTION LOCK AFTER WRITE * ENABLED DISABLED RETRY ATTEMPTS * (0 - 9) 3 PERFORM CALIBRATION * YES NO Sets HF tag parameters, as follows: Sets the tag type: ISO 15693 (Is the default setting.) TI PHILIPS ST LRI512 ST LRI64 Application Family Identifier value (00 - FF), where 00 is the default value.
SET DEFAULTS * Depending upon the RFID MODULE, selecting YES will return these settings: If MODE = HF, then: RFID POSITION = 1.10 HF SETTINGS:TAG TYPE = ISO 15693 RETRY ATTEMPTS = 3 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------If MODE = UHF, then: RFID POSITION = 1.
System Settings The System Settings menu contains label formatting, operation, and control functions: Menu Mode Configuration File Internal Module * Default Module * Scaleable Font Cache * Single Byte Symbols * Double Byte Symbols * Time And Date Media Counters * Print Configuration * Configuration Level * Set Factory Defaults * Format Attributes * Label Rotation Imaging Mode * Pause Mode * Peel Mode * Security * Units Of Measure * Input Mo
INTERNAL MODULE D 1024 DEFAULT MODULE D G The available modules may vary depending upon printer model and options. SCALEABLE FONT CACHE 0511 KBytes Sets the number of 1KB blocks (100 - 5120) allocated for the internal DRAM ‘D’ module, where: Is the Default Setting. Designates the memory module to be used for file storage when none are specified, where: Is the Default Setting (DRAM module). Flash module.
DOUBLE BYTE SYMBOLS JIS SHIFT JIS EUC UNICODE GB BIG 5 Selects the optional ILPC code page used to print double byte fonts, where: Japanese Industry Standard Shift Japanese Industry Standard Extended UNIX Code Unicode (including Korean). Default setting. Government Bureau Industry Standard; Chinese (PRC) Taiwan encoded Reference the Class Series 2 Programmer’s Manual for the code page symbol set details.
SET FACTORY DEFAULTS FORMAT ATTRIBUTES TRANSPARENT Returns the printer settings to the factory-programmed values (except CUSTOM ADJUSTMENTS and calibrations); or, if selected, to the Factory Setting File, where selecting YES at the prompt causes the configuration to be restored.
UNITS OF MEASURE IMPERIAL METRIC INPUT MODE DPL LINE PL-Z DPL Emulation; SOP Emulation; and, Label Store. Identifies then activates the appropriate emulation parser for the data. AUTO Sets the measurement standard used, where: Uses inches. (Default Setting) Uses millimeters and centimeters. Defines the type of processing that will occur when data is received, where: Datamax-O’Neil programming language processing will be used.
COLUMN EMULATION Allows the column dots per inch to be adjusted (153 - 203 dots), so that numbers smaller than the printhead resolution reduce the printed output from right to left, where: XXX Dots ROW EMULATION XXX Dots SOP EMULATION DISABLED 110 (PRODPLUS) 220 (ALLEGRO) 250 (PRODIGY) Allows the row dots per inch to be adjusted (103 - 303), so that numbers smaller than the printhead resolution enlarge the height of the printed output and numbers larger reduce it, where: Allows label positioning comm
FAULT HANDLING LEVEL NO REPRINT STANDARD VOID AND RETRY Determines the intervention required and the disposition of the label in process when a fault occurs, where: Selects the user action and the reprint status upon declaration of a fault, where: Printing stops and a fault message is displayed. Following correction of the problem, the FEED Key must be pressed to clear the fault, but the label in process is not reprinted. Printing stops and a fault message is displayed.
Communications The Communications menu contains interface and host control functions: Serial Port A Parallel Port A NIC Adapter (Ethernet) Host Settings The menu selections are defined as follows: DISPLAYED ITEM SERIAL PORT A BAUD RATE (1200 – 115000 BPS) 9600 BPS PROTOCOL BOTH SOFTWARE HARDWARE NONE PARITY NONE ODD EVEN DATA BITS (7 - 8) 8 STOP BITS (1 - 2) 1 PARALLEL PORT A PORT DIRECTION UNIDIRECTIONAL BIDIRECTIONAL ITEM DESCRIPTION Controls the RS-232 communications settings for Serial Port A
WLAN MODE ENABLED DISABLED BSS ADDRESS SIGNAL READINGS IP ADDRESS SUBNET MASK GATEWAY SNMP TRAP DESTINATION IP DISCOVERY ENABLED Controls the communications settings for the network interface, where: Selects between wired and wireless operation, where: Enables the wireless interface. (This is the Default Setting.) Enables the wired interface. Specifies the radio module’s static IP address; up to four octets separated by a period. If Enable DHCP is checked, this parameter is ignored. Default is 0.0.0.0.
HOST SETTINGS Controls the communications with a host device, where: HOST TIMEOUT Sets the number of seconds (1 - 60) that an established communications port must be idle before data can be received through an alternate port, where: 10 CONTROL CODES STANDARD CODES ALTERNATE CODES ALTERNATE CODES 2 CUSTOM CODES FEEDBACK CHARACTERS ENABLED DISABLED ESC SEQUENCES ENABLED DISABLED HEAT COMMAND ENABLED DISABLED SPEED COMMANDS ENABLED DISABLED TOF SENSING COMMANDS ENABLED DISABLED SYMBOL SET COMMAND ENAB
STX-V SW SETTINGS ENABLED DISABLED MAX LENGTH COMMAND ENABLED DISABLED OPTION FEEDBACK Determines the way in which the DPL V command is handled, where: Processes commands normally. (Default Setting) Ignores the option-enable command; instead, the option selections are controlled via menu settings. Determines the way in which the DPL M command is handled, where: Processes commands normally.
Diagnostics The Diagnostics menu contains testing functions and printhead reporting selections: Hex Dump Mode Options Testing Print Test Rate (min) Sensor Readings Ribbon Sensor Limits iPH Report Icon Descriptions The menu selections are defined as follows: DISPLAYED ITEM HEX DUMP MODE ENABLE DISABLE FILE CAPTURE OPTIONS TESTING TEST PRESENT SENSOR TEST CUTTER PERFORM TEST 001 TIMES TEST GPIO MONITOR GPIO INPUT TEST GPIO OUTPUT ITEM DESCRIPTION Determines how the printer handles the data
SENSOR READINGS Displays the values (0 – 255) from the printer sensors, where: THR 103 TRAN 091 RIBM 009 PS 003 HD 255 RANK 050 24V 171 THR = Printhead thermistor sensor; TRAN = Gap media sensor (REFL when set to reflective); RIBM = Ribbon sensor; 24V = 24 volt power supply sensor; PS = Present sensor; HD = Printhead position sensor; and, RANK = Printhead ranking resistor.
5 Maintenance and Adjustments 5 5..1 1 C Clle ea an niin ng g IIn ntte errv va allss This section details the cleaning, adjusting, and troubleshooting tips for the printer. The following table outlines the recommended maintenance schedule for the various printer parts. Area Method Interval Printhead Turn off the printer before cleaning the printhead. Use solvent* on a cotton swab to clean the printhead from end to end. After every roll of media. Platen Roller Turn the power off.
5 5..2 2 C Clle ea an niin ng g tth he eP Prriin ntth he ea ad d If print quality declines (symptoms include non-compliant bar codes, print dropouts, and streaks; see sample label below), the typical cause is debris build-up on the printhead. Furthermore, when the build-up is not removed it may lead to element failure, greatly reducing the service life of the printhead. Faulty Print Quality Label: Streaks indicate a dirty or faulty printhead. To clean the printhead: 1. Turn ‘Off’ and unplug the printer.
Automated Printhead Cleaning (Display-equipped printers, only) 1. Remove media and ribbon. 2. Place a Datamax-O’Neil Cleaning Card, part number 70-2013-01 under the printhead. Lower and lock the printhead. Ensure that the Media Width Adjustment is not engaged. 3. Press and hold the TEST Key for approximately four seconds. The printer will begin the cleaning routine. 4. In cases of heavy build-up, or if high heat values are typically used for printing, flip the card over and repeat Step 3. 5.
Example 1 – Over adjustment: Example 2 – Correct adjustment: Too much adjustment produces an image that fades across the label. To correct this, move the Thumbscrew to the right. The proper adjustment produces a complete image with even print contrast across the label (see note below). Under-adjustment can also cause problems including ribbon wrinkling, label tracking, and platen roller and printhead wear. When changing to a different width of label, always perform this adjustment. 5 ntt 5..
Locking Screws Adjustment Screws 5 5..5 5 P Prriin ntth he ea ad dP Prre essssu urre eA Ad djju ussttm me en ntt To accommodate a variety of media types, printhead pressure is adjustable. This pressure is factory set to work with most media types, so this adjustment should only be performed after attempting to improve print quality through the use of the (1) heat and/or (2) print speed. When adjusting, use only the minimum pressure necessary for better imaging. To adjust: 1.
5 5..6 6 P Prriin ntth he ea ad dR Re ep plla acce em me en ntt To replace a damaged printhead, follow the procedure below. Printheads are fragile; use extreme care when handling and never use a sharp object on the surface. If you have questions, contact a qualified technician or Datamax-O’Neil Technical Support before proceeding. 1. Touch a bare metal part of the printer’s frame to discharge any static electricity that may be present on your body. 2. Turn ‘Off’ and unplug the printer.
5 5..7 7 D Da arrk kn ne essss A Ad djju ussttm me en ntt Non-display printers: The Darkness Adjustment allows the operator to match the print contrast following a printhead replacement. Turning the Darkness Adjustment clockwise will darken the print, while turning it counterclockwise will lighten the print. Compare a label printed with the old printhead and make this adjustment so that the new printhead matches the darkest portion of that label.
5 5..8 8 R Re esse ettttiin ng g tth he eP Prriin ntte err Depending upon the method used, there are three reset levels possible: Soft Reset - To reset the printer and clear any temporary host settings: 1. With the printer ‘On’, press and hold the PAUSE and CANCEL buttons for approximately four seconds. Level One Reset - To return the printer to the factory default settings or, if saved, to restore the Factory Setting File: 1. Turn ‘Off’ the printer. 2.
5 5..9 9 D Do ow wn nllo oa ad diin ng gF Fiirrm mw wa arre ea an nd dF Fo on nttss The operating programs and fonts for the printer are stored in Flash memory on the Main PCB. When program updates and/or new features are added, they can be downloaded to the printer as follows: 1. Identify the new version for your model of printer from the Datamax-O’Neil Web site at www.datamax-oneil.com and download it onto your computer’s hard drive or a floppy disk. 2.
Copying TrueType Fonts (Display-equipped printers with SDIO/USB Host) To copy TrueType fonts (.TTF) to an external module for use by the printer: 1. Use Windows Explorer to download the font to the module. 2. Add a 2 digit DPL font ID to the file name (50-99, 9A-9Z, 9a-9z) then change the file extension to .dtf (for example, arial50.dtf); see Scalable Font Downloading in the Class Series 2 Programmer’s Manual. 3. Install the module in the printer. 4.
File Handling Messages (Continued) Displayed Message Description Possible Solution(s) Ensure the file is present: • Following a Print File request, this is normal when no files are available for printing (also note that some files will print only the file name); NO FILES AVAILABLE No associated files can be found to perform the requested action.
Chapter 5 – Maintenance and Adjustments 58
6 Troubleshooting 6 6..1 1 P Prro ob blle em mR Re esso ollu uttiio on n Should a problem arise, the information in this section will help you resolve it. The following table lists problems that may not necessarily generate an error condition. Items denoted with an asterisk (*) are only for display-equipped printers. Try this solution… If experiencing this problem… Can not communicate through the parallel port: Observe the Ready Indicator as the format is sent to the printer.
Try this solution… If experiencing this problem… • Check the label format for character placement outside the dimensions of the label; all row/column values must allow enough space for the height/length of the characters and bar codes to be printed within the format size. Missing information in the printed label: • The available memory may have been exceeded by the memory requirement of the label format.
Try this solution… If experiencing this problem… Examine the used ribbon for an image: If there is an image on the used ribbon: Verify that the ribbon was properly loaded per Section 2.4. If properly loaded, the wrong coating configuration was used. (To verify the inked side, press the adhesive backing of a label against the ribbon surface. Ink will only lift from the coated side of the ribbon.) Clean the printhead (see Section 5.
Try this solution… If experiencing this problem… • The printhead may need cleaning; see Section 5.2. • Adjust the Heat and Print Speed settings through the Front Panel or by host commands (non-display printers, see Section 3.4; display-equipped printers, see Section 4.5.) • The media/ribbon combination may not be compatible; contact a Media Representative. Poor print quality: • The Media Width Adjustment may be incorrectly adjusted; see Section 5.3.
6 6..2 2 F Fa au ulltt a an nd dW Wa arrn niin ng gM Me essssa ag ge ess (((DDDiiisssppplllaaayyy---eeeqqquuuiiippppppeeeddd ppprrriiinnnttteeerrrsss))) All printer functions are internally monitored. If a problem (Fault) or a potential problem (Warning) is detected, the Error Indicator will be illuminated. A corresponding message will be displayed. These messages, along with possible solutions, are described below. Fault Messages: Fault Messages receive the highest display priority.
Printer Fault Messages (continued) Displayed Message Description Possible Solution(s) Consistently high sensor readings were detected. Press any key to continue. Ensure that media was removed from the media sensor during the appropriate calibration steps; also ensure that no labels are stuck in the media sensor. Retry the calibration. If the problem persists, call for service. The printer can not detect media. Try the following: 1) Load media.
Printer Fault Messages (continued) Displayed Message Description Possible Solution(s) Consistently low sensor readings were detected. Press any key to continue. Ensure that the reflective mark was inserted facedown in the media sensor during the appropriate calibration step; also, ensure that the reflective mark is made of carbon based ink, and that the sensor is free of debris. Retry calibration. Consistently high sensor readings were detected.
Printer Fault Messages (continued) Displayed Message Description Possible Solution(s) The printer could not find the TOF mark within the maximum label length setting or it found a TOF in an unexpected place. When the printer is set for reflective media, this fault is given for an out of stock condition. If media is moving: 1) Press the FEED Key. It may be necessary to re-calibrate the printer; see Section 3.5. 2) The Media Sensor may be out of position.
Warning Messages: Warning Messages are displayed for a period of five seconds. If multiple warnings are detected, the display will reflect the highest priority message. Printer Warning Messages Displayed Message Description Action(s) The printer has detected defective printhead elements. Replace the printhead if the print quality becomes unacceptable. The printer measured only a small difference between the ‘empty’ and ‘gap’ sensor readings.
6 6..3 3 H He ex xD Du um mp pM Mo od de e The Hex Dump Mode is a useful tool for diagnosing problems, including communication and DPL syntax errors, allowing a comparison of input strings (sent by host) to output data (received by printer). To decode this information, the Class Series 2 Programmer’s Manual is an essential reference. This output can be used for debugging the label format. In addition, by repeatedly sending a format, this mode can uncover handshaking problems (if they exist).
A Specifications Mechanical Width 9.8” (24.9 cm) Depth 18.06” (45.9 cm) Height 10.3” (26.2 cm) Weight 27.0 lbs. (12.2 kg) Operating Temperature 40° F to 95° F (4° C to 35° C) Humidity 10% − 95% non-condensing AC Input Voltage 90 – 132 or 180 – 264 VAC @ 47–63 Hz, auto-ranging. Printing Print Method Direct Thermal; Thermal Transfer (optional) Print Speed 2 - 6 IPS (50 - 152 mm/s) M-4206 & M-4306 2 - 10 IPS (50 - 254 mm/s) M-4210 Resolution 203 dpi (8 dots/mm) M-4206 & M-4210 300 dpi (11.
Media/Ribbon Media Types Roll-Fed, Die-Cut, Continuous, Fan-Fold Max. Media Width 4.65" (118 mm) Min. Media Width 1.0" (25 mm) Max. Print Width 4.25” (108 mm) M-4206 & M-4210 4.16” (105.7mm) M-4306 Print Length Range .25 - 99" (6 - 2475 mm) Media Thickness Range .0025 - .01" (.064 mm - .254 mm) Media Supply Roll Capacity 8" (203 mm) O.D. on a 3.0" (76.2 mm) core 7" (178mm) O.D. on a 1.5” (38mm) core Ribbon Width Range 1.0 - 4.5" (25 - 114 mm) Ribbon Roll Capacity Matched to media: approx.
Approved Media To achieve optimum print quality and maximum printhead life, Datamax-O’Neil specifies the use of Datamax-O’Neil brand media and ribbons. These supplies are specially formulated for use in our printers; use of non-Datamax-O’Neil supplies may affect the print quality, performance, and life of the printer or its components. For a current list of approved media and ribbons for use in direct thermal and thermal transfer applications, please contact a Media Representative at (407) 523-5650.
Appendix A – Specifications 72
B GPIO Port The printer can easily be programmed to interface with most applicator devices. The GPIO functions can be enabled and configured via the menu system of the printer via the DMXConfig program or on through the front panel on display equipped printers. Configured parameters are stored in non-volatile memory and saved for subsequent power-ups. Printing with GPIO: When the GPIO functions are enabled, the printer will not print a label until the “Start of Print” signal goes active.
Each GPIO pin function is detailed in the table below: GPIO Port Connections and Functions Pin # Signal Name Signal State Signal Direction[1] 1 Vcc +5 VDC Output Printer: Max +5 VDC, 100mA 2 Printer Fault Low Output Goes low upon printer detection of a fault condition. Max +5 VDC, 100mA 3 Spare Reserved Input Must be pulled high with 1k Ohm resistor (see sample SOP circuit, below). Input When active, will begin print. Recommend only setting this signal to ACTIVE LOW.
C Paper Menu Setup C C..1 nccttiio 1 P Prriin on nss ntte err S Se ettu up pM Mo od de e -- B Bu utttto on nF Fu un In ‘Printer Setup’ mode, the buttons control the setting of the printer’s operational items such as media settings, communications, and options as detailed below. Before entering Setup Mode, exit Peel Mode (or, if equipped, disable the optional Present Sensor) as unpredictable results can otherwise occur.
Printer Setup Menu List The Printer Setup Menu List label, shown below, contains the printer’s current values for each menu item that can be modified via the front panel. The Menu Item Numbers correspond to the item’s position in the Menu List for selection when FEED button during the Printer Setup Procedure.
Menu Items and Values The table below details the Printer Setup Menu List items with a brief description of the item’s function, and the possible values. A “*” denotes the default setting. 1) MEDIA TYPE 2) SENSOR TYPE 3) PRESENT SENSOR Sets printing for direct thermal (no ribbon) or thermal transfer (ribbon) media. Selects the sensor type used to detect the media’s Top Of Form (TOF) mark. Enables/Disables the optional Present Sensor feature.
13) LABEL WIDTH 14) SCALABLE FONT 15) INTERNAL MODULE Sets the label width. Sets the number of memory blocks to allocate for scalable fonts. Sets the number of memory blocks to allocate for the internal RAM module. Range: 75 – 426; default = *426 (Units = .
21) HEAT 22) IMAGING MODE Controls the ‘burn-time’ of the printhead. This is the equivalent of Heat Setting on most label software programs. This command instructs the printer whether to preimage the label format: Possible Values: Possible Values: Range: 0 – 30; default = *10 * Multiple label (The printer images multiple labels as memory permits, achieving the fastest throughput; however, if time stamping, the time will reflect the moment the label is imaged rather than when actually printed.
Step by Step Modification of the Printer Setup The following is an example of Printer Setup modification. Although this example will detail how to modify the serial Baud Rate, the same method can be used to change any of the printer’s menu item settings. It is recommended that the Printer Setup Mode not be entered while in Peel Mode or with the optional Present Sensor enabled. Depending on label size this can cause unpredictable results. 1.
6. CANCEL buttons FEED + To confirm that your changes have been made press the simultaneously, this will print the Database Configuration Label. The label should show the new Baud Rate value of 19200. Label 1 WED NOVEMBER 10, 2003 21:41:31 323 VER: M4206 - 05.
C C..2 2 LLa ab be ell A Alliig gn nm me en ntt The Label Alignment function is intended for use when the label length is less than the distance between the printhead and the media sensor or where label waste at power-up is a concern. Label Alignment (see table below) is not recommended for label lengths greater than 6.5 inches or for media containing 2 or more form lengths. Label Stock Label Alignment Setting Continuous NO 6.5 inches or less YES or AUTO 6.
Label Alignment = AUTO In this mode, the printer automatically calculates the ‘ALIGN LENGTH’ thus eliminating the need to physically measure the label. This mode is usually preferred in applications that require frequent media changes to labels of different lengths. FEED button (about 4 To perform an Auto Alignment, in Normal Mode press and hold the seconds). The printer will feed labels to calculate the label length.
Label Alignment Troubleshooting If you experience label alignment problems, the following table offers possible causes and solutions. Problem Attempting to perform Label Alignment results in no paper movement. Possible Cause With the Present Sensor enabled, Label Alignment cannot be performed without a Label Length. Solution Set Label Alignment to AUTO, press and hold FEED until media moves for the automatic length measurement. ~OR~ Re-measure the Label Alignment Length.
Problem Label Alignment is incorrect. Pressing FEED successively results in a label length longer than actual, one-inch. Tear Mode is selected but the label stop position (present position) is not far enough forward. Possible Cause Label Alignment Length is not correct. The default Label Alignment Length is 1.00”, and will result in this behavior when any larger label length is used without setting the appropriate length Another present position has been determined.
C C..3 3 C on nss Ca alliib brra attiio on nM Mo od de e– –B Bu utttto on nF Fu un nccttiio In ‘Calibration’ mode, the buttons allow the printer to adjust to the media being used. Calibration can be performed either automatically or manually, as detailed below. Before calibrating, ensure that the Printhead Carrier Assembly is latched down, that the cover is closed, and that the media sensor has been set for the appropriate media type.
Auto Media Sensor Calibration Auto Media Sensor Calibration automatically establishes the optimum sensing values for the media you are using. Before calibrating, be sure the media sensor is set for the appropriate media type, also ensure that the Printhead Carrier Assembly is latched down and the cover is closed. To automatically calibrate the media sensor: 1. CANCEL button while powering up the printer. Continue With the desired media loaded, hold the STOP light turns off then release it.
Manual Media Sensor Calibration The Manual Media Sensor Calibration procedure should be used in cases where the printer continues to suffer from media sensing problems after performing or attempting to perform the Auto Media Sensor Calibration. Before calibrating, be sure the media sensor is set for the appropriate media type, also, ensure that the Printhead Carrier Assembly is latched down and the cover is closed. To manually calibrate the media sensor: 1. CANCEL button and power-up the printer.
D Changing the Language D D..1 1 C Ch ha an ng giin ng g tth he eM Me en nu u LLa an ng gu ua ag ge e Different languages and / or Datamax-O’Neil-provided translations can be downloaded to replace the standard (English) menu of the printer by changing the spreadsheet that defines the system dictionary. To change the language you will add a new language column (or modify the existing column) in the spreadsheet, click on the “Generate DPL file(s)” radio button, and then send that file(s) to the printer.
B. Click the “Enable Macro” box. The following screen appears: C. Click on Column J and enter the new language, or modify an existing one. Some tips on this process: • Message Size – When entering new messages, reference the “MAX” column: this is the maximum number of characters allowed for this field. (Warnings are displayed when the number of characters is exceeded, or when trying to modify the MAX value; however, if “cutting and pasting” fields, this warning system may be defeated.
F. Download the generated files to the printer – one method is the DOS copy command: copy small.ls lpt1: /b G. Reset the printer by pressing and holding the CANCEL Key for approximately four seconds. H. After resetting, verify operation by printing a Configuration Label (see Section 4.4). New language information will be printed under SYSTEM INFORMATION / OPTIONAL LANGUAGES. (Also, the new language will appear on the display as a menu item in SYSTEM SETTINGS / MENU LANGUAGE.
D D..2 2 A on n Ad dv va an ncce ed dF Fiille eH Ha an nd dlliin ng g IIn nffo orrm ma attiio • The standard printer leaves the factory with EFIGS loaded into Module Y. At this point, Module Y is LOCKED and will only accept additional language downloads. • After downloading a language update, Module Y is left UNLOCKED until the printer is reset or power is cycled. In this state, Module Y will accept font, image and label format downloads. The module will also honor the Clear Module request.
• The screen shot below is an example of Unicode defined languages, Chinese & Russian. Note the only additional information required is the “double” in row 1.
