Label Maker User Manual
SECTION 2: INSTALLATION
Page 2-8       LM Basic 408e/412e Operator’s Manual
2.2 LOADING THE CARBON RIBBON
1. Lift up the main cover. Make sure that the cover is 
pushed upwards until it rests firmly on top of the 
printer, in case it falls downwards and injures you.
2. Pull the purple Head Lock lever upwards in a 
counterclockwise direction. The print head 
assembly will be lifted up to allow ribbon loading.
The rightmost white plastic shaft is the Ribbon 
Feeder Shaft. The left-most shaft is the Ribbon 
Take-Up Shaft.
3. Insert the carbon ribbon in the Ribbon Feeder 
shaft. Push the ribbon roll inwards all the way, with 
the ribbon winding in a counterclockwise direction, 
as shown. Pull the ribbon around the print head 
assembly so it reaches the Ribbon Take-up Shaft.
 The dull side of the ribbon should be facing down.
4. Insert an empty ribbon core into the Ribbon Take-
Up Shaft. If necessary, use secure the ribbon with 
adhesive tape, and wind the ribbon around the 
core a few times. 
 Note:
If in doubt about the ribbon path, refer to the useful 
diagram pasted inside the Main Cover. 
5. Press the purple Head Lock lever clockwise and 
downwards to lock the print head assembly into 
place. The ribbon is now loaded.
 Note:
To remove the ribbon, reverse the steps described 
here. For maximum print quality and printer 
durability use genuine SATO carbon ribbons.
Caution
• When replacing the carbon ribbon, bear in mind that the print head and its surrounding area remain hot. Keep your fingers 
 away from these areas to prevent injury. 
• Avoid touching even the edge of the print head with your bare hands.
Main Cover
Head Lock
lever (purple)
Print head 
assembly
Ribbon Feeder 
Shaft
Ribbon   
Take-Up Shaft
Ribbon Feeder 
Shaft
Carbon 
ribbon
Ribbon Take-
Up Shaft
Head Lock 
Lever 
(purple)










