User's Manual

Chapter 1 The SLPA7000r Series Label Printer

Thermal Printer Media

Because there are two modes of operation, there are two kinds of thermal

printer paper:

• Direct thermal paper: This paper is coated with chemicals that act as

accelerators, ink, and ink binders. In direct thermal mode, the heat from

the thermal printhead contacts the paper and causes a chemical reaction

on the surface of the paper.

• Thermal transfer paper: This film or synthetic paper substitute is

designed to accept transferred images well and to resist scratching. Most

thermal transfer papers can be die-cut for easy label applications.

Printronix offers a selection of thermal transfer paper sizes and face

stocks, which ensures high print quality and long life when used with

Printronix ribbons.

Ribbons

Use only Printronix Genuine Thermal Ribbons in this printer. Printronix

thermal ribbons are engineered to enhance thermal printing capabilities and

to prevent premature wear of the printhead.

Thermal Printer Technology

Unlike a dot matrix, laser, or LED printhead printer, a thermal printer has a

printhead containing heating elements that are used with paper or a ribbon

specially designed for use with a heated printhead. The SLPA uses an inline

thermal printhead, which produces high resolution output quickly and

efficiently.

The Printing Process

The thermal printhead allows two modes of operation:

• Direct Thermal Mode: The thermal printhead selectively heats tiny

rectangular

dots on its surface.

When the heated dots contact specially

coated thermal paper, the dyes and developers in the coating react to the

heat and develop an image. This mode of printing is often used for short-

term labeling applications.

• Thermal Transfer Mode: The heated dots contact a thermal ribbon; the

thermal ribbon reacts to the heat by bonding the image to the paper. This

method is especially suitable for print applications requiring long-term

storage, abrasion resistance, durability in extreme environmental

conditions, and resistance to tampering. (Models designated -DT do not

print in this mode.)