Thermal Transfer Printer
Operator's Manual
Edition 5/04
M4
Gesellschaft für
Computer- und AutomationsBausteine mbH & Co KG
cab-Produkttechnik GmbH & Co KG
Postfach 19 04 D-76007 Karlsruhe
Wilhelm-Schickard-Str. 14 D-76131 Karlsruhe
Telefon +49 (0) 721 / 66 26-0
Telefax +49 (0) 721 / 66 26-249
http://www.cabgmbh.com
e-mail : info@cabgmbh.com
copyright by cab / 9008331 / O20 / 1
All specifications about delivery, design, performance and weight are given to the best of our current knowledge and are subject
to change without prior notice.
2 cab Produkttechnik GmbH & Co KG
M4
M4
Thermal Transfer Printer
Thermal Transfer Printer
Operator's Manual
Operator's Manual
All rights reserved, including those of the translations.
No part of this manual nor any translation may be reproduced or transmitted in any form
or by any means, for any purpose other than the purchaser's personal use, without the
express written permission of cab Produkttechnik GmbH & Co KG Karlsruhe.
Edition 5/04
Printed in Germany
3cab Produkttechnik GmbH & Co KG
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Trademarks .................................................................................................................................... 6
A General Guide to the Documentation........................................................................................ 7
1. Product Description ................................................................................................................... 8
General Information .................................................................................................................. 8
Printer Types ............................................................................................................................. 8
Particular Features M4/200P, M4/300P ..................................................................................... 9
Characteristics of the Thermal Printhead .................................................................................. 9
Compliances ........................................................................................................................... 10
Instructions for the Lithium Battery .......................................................................................... 10
Technical Specifications ........................................................................................................... 11
Options ................................................................................................................................... 14
External Media Unwinder/Rewinder .................................................................................. 14
Present Sensor ................................................................................................................. 14
Cutter ............................................................................................................................... 14
Memory Card ................................................................................................................... 14
Print Media .............................................................................................................................. 15
Print Media for Direct Thermal Printing ............................................................................. 16
Print Media for Thermal Transfer Printing ......................................................................... 16
Label / Tag Media Specifications ...................................................................................... 17
Transfer Ribbon................................................................................................................ 18
Software .................................................................................................................................. 19
Direct Programming ......................................................................................................... 19
Windows Printer Driver..................................................................................................... 19
Label Software ................................................................................................................. 19
2. General Safety Instructions .................................................................................................... 20
3. Unpacking ................................................................................................................................ 20
Delivery Contents .................................................................................................................... 20
Removing the Securing Devices ............................................................................................. 21
4. Printer Component Location ...................................................................................................22
5. Installation ................................................................................................................................ 27
Connection to Power Supply ................................................................................................... 27
Connection to a Computer ...................................................................................................... 28
USB Interface ...................................................................................................................28
Serial RS-232 Interface .................................................................................................... 29
Ethernet Interface ............................................................................................................. 29
Switch on the Printer ............................................................................................................... 30
Windows Driver Installation.....................................................................................................31
USB Interface ...................................................................................................................31
Serial RS-232 Interface .................................................................................................... 33
Ethernet Interface ............................................................................................................. 35
6. Navigator Pad ........................................................................................................................... 37
7. Media Loading .......................................................................................................................... 40
General Information ................................................................................................................ 40
Preparation for Tear-Off Mode / Rewind Mode ........................................................................ 41
M4
4 cab Produkttechnik GmbH & Co KG
M4 Table of Contents
Loading Labels ........................................................................................................................ 42
Loading Labels from Roll .................................................................................................. 42
Adjustment of the Printhead Support ................................................................................ 47
Loading Fanfold Labels .................................................................................................... 48
Loading Transfer Ribbon .........................................................................................................50
Adjustment of the Transfer Ribbon .......................................................................................... 52
8. Printer Configuration ............................................................................................................... 54
Overview ................................................................................................................................. 54
Printer Configuration Using the cab Setup Utility ..................................................................... 55
Printer Configuration Using CABLABEL .................................................................................. 58
Printer Configuration Using the Printer Webpage .................................................................... 61
Recognition / Assignment of the IP Address ..................................................................... 61
Access to the Printer Web-Page....................................................................................... 63
PIN Activation ................................................................................................................... 64
Changing the Parameters ................................................................................................. 64
Overview of the Configuration Parameters .............................................................................. 65
Local Settings ......................................................................................................................... 66
Machine Parameters ............................................................................................................... 68
Print Parameters ............................................................................................................... ...... 72
Interfaces ..................................................................................................................... ........... 76
Security ................................................................................................................................... 80
9. Test Options ............................................................................................................................. 81
Overview ................................................................................................................................. 81
Seft Test Printout ..................................................................................................................... 81
Status Print ....................................................................................................................... 82
Font list ............................................................................................................................ 83
Device list ......................................................................................................................... 84
ASCII Dump (Monitor) Mode ................................................................................................... 85
10. Network Printer Functions .................................................................................................... 87
Connecting the Printer / Printer Configuration ......................................................................... 87
Printer Web-Page ................................................................................................................... 88
"Status" Tab ...................................................................................................................... 88
"Info" Tab ......................................................................................................................... 90
"EAlert" Tab ...................................................................................................................... 91
"SNMP" Tab ......................................................................................................................92
"Fonts" Tab ....................................................................................................................... 94
"Devices" Tab ...................................................................................................................95
"Help" Tab ........................................................................................................................ 95
Printing on a Network .............................................................................................................. 96
Availability and Installation of the Printing Protocols under Windows ................................ 96
Adjustment of the Windows Printer Settings ..................................................................... 96
FTP Printer Administration ..................................................................................................... .97
FTP Log-on ......................................................................................................................97
Structure of the FTP Server .............................................................................................. 98
Administration of the Memory Card .................................................................................. 98
FTP Fimware Update ....................................................................................................... 99
Copyright SNMP Agent .......................................................................................................... 100
11. Memory Cards .......................................................................................................................101
Installation and Removing the Memory Card ..........................................................................102
Preparing the Memory Card ................................................................................................... 103
Writing to the Memory Card ................................................................................................... 103
5cab Produkttechnik GmbH & Co KG
Appendices
Appendix A - Operation in Peel-off Mode .................................................................................. A-1
Components for the Peel-off Mode......................................................................................... A-1
Prelimininary Tests ................................................................................................................. A-2
Printer Configuration .......................................................................................................... .... A-3
Loading Labels ....................................................................................................................... A-3
Operation ............................................................................................................................... A-3
Appendix B - Pin Assignment of the Interface Connectors ..................................................... B-1
Pin Assignment of the RS-232 Interface ................................................................................. B-1
Interface Cable for RS-232 .................................................................................................... B-2
Appendix C - Error Messages / Problem Solution .................................................................... C-1
Error Messages ......................................................................................................................C-1
Recoverable Errors ......................................................................................................... C-1
Non-Recoverable Errors .................................................................................................. C-2
Extended Error Indication ................................................................................................ C-3
Problem Solution ....................................................................................................................C-5
Appendix D - Maintenance / Cleaning ....................................................................................... D-1
General Cleaning ................................................................................................................... D-1
Cleaning the Print Roller ...................................................................................................... .. D-1
Cleaning the Printhead ...........................................................................................................D-2
Cleaning the Label Edge Sensor ............................................................................................ D-3
Appendix E - Replacing Assembly Units ................................................................................... E-1
Replacing the Printhead ......................................................................................................... E-1
Replacing the Print Roller and the Rewind Assist Roller......................................................... E-4
Appendix F - Firmware Updates ................................................................................................ F-1
General Information ............................................................................................................... F-1
Firmware Update Using the RS-232 Interface ........................................................................ F-1
Firmware Update Using the Ethernet Interface ....................................................................... F-2
Index
EU - Conformity Declaration
M4Table of Contents / Trademarks
Trademarks
Centronics ® is a registered trademark owned by Centronics Data Computer
Corporation.
Macintosh-Computer is a product of Apple Computer, Inc.
Microsoft ® is a registered trademark owned by Microsoft Corporation.
Bitstream ® is a registered trademark owned by Bitstream Inc.
Speedo is a registered trademark owned by Bitstream Inc.
TrueType is a registered trademark owned by Apple Computer Inc.
cablabel ® is a registered trademark owned by cab Produkttechnik GmbH &
Co KG.
6 cab Produkttechnik GmbH & Co KG
M4 A General Guide to the Documentation
A General Guide to the Documentation
This manual contains the description and usage instructions for the M4 printer.
For detailed technical information on programming of the M4, a separate
Programming Guide is available on request. For specific information on
maintenance and repair of the printers, a separate Service/Maintenance
Manuals is available.
The first few chapters cover general information which is necessary for
unpacking and setup of the printer, including ribbon and media loading.
Chapter 5 covers the connection and usage of optional equipment that may be
attached to the printer.
In the appendices, additional information such as cabling specifications, error
messages and problem resolution, and maintenance/cleaning instructions are
included.
Please take special note of the specifications for suggested print media and
the references to cleaning the printer, to prevent damage, poor quality printing
and avoidable failures of your printer.
Every effort has been made in the creation of this manual to provide as much
information as possible in a form that is both understandable and useful.
We welcome your comments and suggestions regarding additions or
corrections to improve future editions of this manual.
7cab Produkttechnik GmbH & Co KG
1. Product Description
1. Product Description
General Information
M4 is an innovative printer which may be used in either direct thermal or
thermal transfer mode. It offers a high resolution with virtually an unlimited
variety of printout designs.
The center mounting plate is made of die-cast aluminum which makes it very
robust and resistant to bending.
By using 32 bit-processors from Motorola and the internal memory of 8 MB,
very long large labels (up to a length of 39 in / 1000 mm) can be printed
quickly.
As standard equipment, the printer has a serial RS-232-interface, an USBinterface and an Ethernet-interface. Therefore the M4 can be used both as
local printer and in a network. The printer auto-senses which interface is
actually used.
The ranging power supply (100-240VAC) allows the printers to be used around
the world without re-configuration.
The modular design of the printers guarantees efficient service.
Additional accessories are external un- and rewinders as well as a label/tag
cutter.
Printer Types
M4
M4/200 : with 203dpi printhead
M4/200R : with 203dpi printhead and internal rewinder
M4/200P : with 203dpi printhead, internal rewinder and present sensor
M4/300 : with 300dpi printhead
M4/300R : with 300dpi printhead and internal rewinder
M4/300P : with 300dpi printhead, internal rewinder and present sensor
All printer types shown above are available as thermal transfer printers or as
direct thermal printers.
8 cab Produkttechnik GmbH & Co KG
M4
Particular Features M4/200P, M4/300P
The P-versions of the printers are specificly developed for operation in the
peel-off mode and they are equipped with dispense edge and present sensor
as standard. In the peel-off mode the labels are removed from the silicon liner
immediately after printing, and then available in a dispense position ready for
further processing. The sensor, which is attached to the printer by the
peripheral connector, indicates the presence of a label, and pauses the printing
process until the label is removed. After taking the label from the dispense
position the next label will be printed. To guarantee a maximum of reliability in
the peel-off mode the printers are additionally equipped with a pair of rollers to
cause the dispense tension.
NOTICE !
In the delivery state, M4/200P is configured in such a way, that the print
speed in the peel-off mode is limited to maximum 100mm/s. When using
smaller labels or supply rolls with a small outside diameter it is possible
to increase the print speed for the peel-off mode.
We recommend to carry out preliminary tests with speed limitation
switched off (see printer configuration) !
Characteristics of the Thermal Printhead
CAUTION !
The thermal printhead is the most sensitive part of your printer. Please
pay special attention to the following guidelines:
1. Product Description
1) The glass cover on the printhead must not be touched with the hand. Also,
do not use sharp objects (knives, screwdrivers, etc) to clean the printhead.
2) Ensure that the printhead is properly adjusted at all times.
3) Make sure that there are no high spots or debris on your media to lodge on
or damage the printhead. The label surface must be smooth. Lower grade
direct thermal paper is very rough and will act like sandpaper on the head,
reducing the head's lifetime. Do not use low grade stock.
4) Clean the head at each change of ribbon, or with each new roll of direct
thermal media, with a special cleaning pen, or a cotton swab with isopropyl
alcohol.
5) Print with the lowest possible head temperature to increase the life of the
printhead.
6) When changing the printhead, first turn the power off and disconnect the
power cord. Then, place a clean paper towel or tissue under the head to
provide a clean surface for it to rest on. When removing the head, hold it
on the sides only.
Failure to observe the instructions above can lead to a reduced printhead life.
9cab Produkttechnik GmbH & Co KG
Compliances
The device complies with the following safety regulations :
CE : The printer complies with the following safety requirements
- EC Low Voltage Directive (73/23/EEC)
- EC Machinery Directive (98/37/EEC)
- EC Electromagnetic Compatibility Directive
(89/336/EEC)
FCC : The device complies with the requirements of the FCC
regulations part 15 for class A computers. Under
disadvantageous circumstances, the operation of these
devices may cause interference with radio or TV reception,
which has to be eliminated by the operator.
WARNING !
This is a Class A product. In a domestic environment this product may cause
radio interference in which case the user may be required to take adequate
measures.
Instructions for the Lithium Battery
M41. Product Description
The PCB of the printer is equipped with a Lithium battery.
Take necessary precautions against a possible short circuit if the battery is not
fully discharged. Properly remove the battery should the printer be scrapped.
10 cab Produkttechnik GmbH & Co KG
M4
1. Product Description
Technical Specifications
Printhead
Printhead Type : Direct thermal or thermal transfer
Printhead Model : Thick film transfer printhead
Printhead Resolution : M4/200 : 203 dpi = 8 dots / mm
Number of dots/line : M4/200 : 832
Print Speed : M4/200 : 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 ips (50, 75, 100, 125, 150 mm/s)
for peel-off mode : The print speed is limited to maximum 4 ips (100mm/s) as
Print Width : M4/200 : up to 4.1 in (104 mm)
Media
Material : Standard Labels and Cardboard / Tags
Media Type : die cut labels, continuous paper
Media Winding : face-in or face-out on the roll
Supply roll Diameter : up to 8.2 in (210 mm)
Core Diameter : 1.5 to 3 in (38.1-76 mm)
Material Thickness : 0.003-0.012 in (0,07-0,3 mm)
Weight : 60-300 g/sqm
Material Width : 4.7 in (120 mm)
Media Width : .5 to 4.6 in (12-116 mm)
for peel-off mode : 1 to 4.6 in (25-116 mm)
Media Height : .2 to 39 in (5-1000 mm)
for peel-off mode : .5 to 7.9 in (12-200 mm)
Internal Rewinder : to rewind media or the liner in peel-off mode
Core Diameter : 1.5 (38.1mm)
Rewind Diameter : up to 5.7 in (145 mm)
Label side : out
Transfer Ribbon
Inkside : in or out
Outer Diameter : up to 3.1 in (80 mm)
Core Diameter : 1 in (25 mm)
Length : up to 1650 in (500 m)
Width : up to 4.5 in (114 mm)
M4/300 : 300 dpi = 11.8 dots / mm
M4/300 : 1280
M4/300 : 2, 3, 4 ips (50, 75, 100 mm/s)
standard
M4/300 : up to 4.25 in (108.4 mm)
Direct Thermal, Thermal Transfer and various Synthetics
including: thermal transfer plaincoated papers, vinyl, Mylar,
metalized paper, non-woven fabric, fine woven fabric, thermal
visible light scannable paper, infrared scannable paper, thermal
ticket/tag stock, thermally sensitive plastic stock.
11cab Produkttechnik GmbH & Co KG
1. Product Description
Media Edge Sensor
Distance to paper edge : .16-2.3 in (4-57,5 mm)
Material recognition : Gap sensor ("see-through"), Bottom-reflective sensor
Electronics
Processor : 32 Bit Motorola Coldfire / 64 MHz
Internal Memory (RAM) : 8 MB
Slot for memory card : CompactFlash Type 1 16 up to 512 MB
Real time clock : Printout of time and date
Control panel :
Interfaces
Standard:
serial : RS-232 8 Bit; 1.200-230.400 Baud
Ethernet : 10/100 Base T
USB Slave : for PC connection
peripheral connection : for cutter / present sensor
Contents of the Print Image
Text Fields : max. 250
Graphic Elements : max. 200
Bitmap Graphics : max. 128 (100 several graphics in memory)
Barcode Fields : max.100
Fonts
Available Fonts : 5 Bitmap fonts incl. OCR-A and OCR-B
Character Sets : Windows : 1250 up to 1257
Font Size :
Bitmap fonts : Width and height .04 to .1 in (1 - 3 mm)
Scaleable fonts : Width and height .035 to 5 in (.9 - 128 mm)
Font style : reverse, bold, italic, underlined, outlined, grey, vertical
Font rotation :
Bitmap fonts : 0°, 90°, 180°, 270°
Scaleable fonts : 360° in 1° increments
Graphics
Graphic elements : line, box, circle, ellipse, fill-in segment, arrow
Graphic file types : .PCX, .IMG, .BMP, .TIF, .GIF and .MAC Graphic files
Navigator Pad with the active key illuminated indicating operating
mode
3 scaleable fonts (Speedo) internal
Additional Speedo and TrueType fonts may be downloaded
DOS 437, 737, 775, 850, 852, 857, 862, 864, 866, 869
EBCDIC 500, ISO 8859-1 up to -10, -13 up to -16, Macintosh
Roman, DEC MSC, KOI8-R, Win OEM 720, UTF-8
Width and height are selectable up to 10.
Width and height are individually changeable.
M4
12 cab Produkttechnik GmbH & Co KG
M4
Barcodes
Linear Codes : Code 39, Code 93, Code 128 A,B,C, Codabar, EAN 8, EAN 13,
2-D Codes : Data Matrix, PDF417, Micro PDF, UPS Maxicode, QR-Code
Control / Test
Stop of print : Ribbon out, Paper / fanfold paper out
Test options : System test when powering on including a printhead test
Status messages : Counter of the printed length, counter of the operating hours
Others
Dimensions : H: 10.8 in (274mm) W: 9.5 in (242mm) D: 17.6 in (446mm)
Weight : 20 lb. (9 kg)
Operating Voltage : 100-240 V~ / 50-60 Hz
Maximum Power Input : max. 200 W
Environment :
Operation : at 50° to 95° F (10 to 35°C) at a humidity of 30 to 85%
Transport : at -13° to 158° F (-25 to +70°C) at a max. humidity of 95%
Storage : at 41° to 104° F (5 to 40 °C) at a humidity of 5 to 85%
EAN 128, EAN/UCC 128, EAN/UPC Anhang 2, EAN/UPC
Anhang 5, FIM, HIBC, Interleaved 2/5, Ident-/Leitcode der
Deutschen Post AG, Jan 8, Jan 13, MSI, Plessey, Postnet,
RSS14, UPC A, UPC E
Bar code height, module width and ratio are variabe, with/without
check digit, human readable character, start/stop character
short status, status print, font list, device list, ASCII dump mode
non-condensing
1. Product Description
13cab Produkttechnik GmbH & Co KG
1. Product Description
Options
External Media Unwinder/Rewinder
For operating large print jobs, external unwinders and rewinders are available
to handle big label rolls. The External Rewinder ER1 can be used for label rolls
with a diameter up to 8.3 in (200mm). The External Rewinder ER4 and the
External Unwinder EU4 are provided for roll diameters up to 11.8 in (300mm).
Present Sensor
The Present Sensor PS8 is needed to complete the M4 P-version printers for
the peel-off mode. The Present Sensor indicates the presence of a label in the
dispense position, and pauses the printing process until the label is removed.
Cutter
With the cutter unit installed, labels or continuous media may be cut when
desired. Cutter options include a choice of: after each label, after a specific
quantity of labels, or at the end of a print job. For cutter operation, the printer
firmware will extend the label for cutting based on specified displacements,
then automatically backfeed the label, so that after making a cut, the label roll
will be repositioned and ready for printing the next label.
The cutter is powered directly by the printers peripheral connector.
M4
Memory Card
The printer includes an option for using memory cards in order to permanently
store graphics, fonts or whole label formats. The data can be downloaded via
any of the printers data interfaces. CompactFlash Type 1 cards with a capacity
of 16 up to 512 MB are accepted.
14 cab Produkttechnik GmbH & Co KG
M4 1. Product Description
Print Media
The M4 printers can be run in a direct thermal or thermal transfer mode.
For direct thermal mode, the label material must be specifically designed for
this use. The printout is created directly on the paper, as the paper reacts with
the heat of the printhead and results in the darkening of the material.
Driving the printer in thermal transfer mode requires standard paper labels and
the addition of thermal transfer ribbons. The printout is created by heating the
ribbon with the printhead, resulting in a transfer of color from the ribbon onto
the labels.
The printers allow for regulating the required heat setting through the software,
which offers a wide range of printing possibilities.
M4 is able to print on labels and continuous media, with a maximum supply roll
diameter of 8.2" (210 mm). The minimum core diameter is 1.5" (38.1mm).
Top of form (label edge) detection is accomplished with a moveable photocell,
which is driven by the internal processor of the printer. The photocell does an
automatic measurement of the used material. No additional adjustments are
required.
The following pages contain more detailed information and specifications which
apply depending on the print method to be used.
For information of specific materials you may wish to use, check with your local
distributor. Not every material is suitable for quality direct thermal or thermal
transfer printing. The surface of the material is very often the main factor, but
not the only factor determining suitability. There are many materials available
for labeling and your local distributor can offer suggestions to meet your
particular needs.
15cab Produkttechnik GmbH & Co KG
Print Media for Direct Thermal Printing
The material to be printed must comply with certain important specifications to
ensure a quality print image and to avoid damage or extra wear to the
printhead.
Using the label stock which we have tested and recommended ensures the
best treatment of the printhead. In the event that your label stock will be
supplied by another manufacturer, the following points should be noted with
regard to the use of thermal paper:
1. The surface coating/quality must sufficiently cover the thermo-reactive
coating to ensure that the printhead does not become damaged. If the
surface coating is too thin, the printhead can become pitted due to
microscopically small "explosions" resulting when the chemical reaction of
the thermal coating takes place. The result is that the printhead can rapidly
become damaged.
2. The surface of the label should be very smooth to avoid a "sandpaper" type
effect on the printhead.
3. Choose label stock which can be printed with the lowest possible thermal
value. The greater the thermal value required, the greater wear on the
printhead. Additionally, when the thermal value is high, the time required
for the printhead to heat up and cool down can have an adverse effect on
the quality of print, especially when a fast print speed is desired.
M41. Product Description
Print Media for Thermal Transfer Printing
The thermal transfer process makes possible the use of many different
materials for printing, such as normal paper, cardboard, polyester film, etc.
NOTICE !
The print results depend to a great degree on a suitable combination of
label material and transfer ribbon. The label surface dictates which
transfer ribbon will provide the best print results, and which ribbon
cannot. An unsuitable match of label material to ribbon type can be
responsible for an extremely poor print quality.
Your Dealer can give you expert advice as to which combination of materials
will best meet your requirements. Your Dealer can also assist you by testing
the different materials you may be considering for your labeling needs.
16 cab Produkttechnik GmbH & Co KG
M4
Label / Tag Media Specifications
Label and tag media to be used by the printer must conform to the following
specifications:
E
F
Fig. 1 Media Specifications
Item MIN. MAX.
A Label width .5 (12) 4.6 (116)
Peel-off mode 1 (25) 4.6 (116)
B Backing width 1 (25) 4.7 (120)
C Label length .2 (5) 39 (1000)
Peel-off mode .5 (12) 7.9 (200)
D Gap between labels .08 (2) 39 (1000)
E Label thickness .003 (0.07) .12 (0.3)
F Thickness of backing material .003 (0.07) .12 (0.3)
G Distance of the first printing position
from the edge of the backing paper .08 (2)
H Distance of the label edge sensor
from the edge of the backing paper .16 (4) 2.3 (57.5)
I Width of the perforation mark .2 (5) K Height of the perforation mark .08 (2) .4 (10)
L Width of the reflective mark .2 (5) M Height of the reflective mark .08 (2) .4 (10)
1. Product Description
G
H
I
K
D
A
B
C
L
M
Table 1 Media values are displayed in inches (values in brackets are mm)
17cab Produkttechnik GmbH & Co KG
Transfer Ribbon
The choice of transfer ribbon plays an important role in the quality of print
image that can be produced, and it also directly affects the longevity of the
printhead.
CAUTION !
Poor quality transfer ribbon can lead to premature deterioration of the
printhead !
The ribbon material must be as anti-static as possible. This is because the
extremely thin surface coating on the printhead can be damaged by a build up
of electrostatic charges. The temperature tolerance of the material must be
extremely high in order to avoid the transfer ribbon melting directly onto the
printhead. The temperature increase which results from the printing cycle must
be dissipated over the label and the transfer ribbon. Poor quality transfer
ribbon often has only a limited ability to dissipate the heat. This can contribute
to overheating of the printhead, despite electronic protection against
overheating
Poor quality transfer ribbon also tends to partially shed its ink coating, causing
the printhead and sensors to accumulate dirt. In addition, with some transfer
ribbons, the back coating can flake or smudge, leaving traces on the
printhead. All of these effects contribute to lowering the print quality to below
desired standards.
Numerous tests have been conducted with a very large number of different
transfer ribbons and we recommend only ribbons supplied by reputable
manufacturers. A variety of different transfer ribbons can sometimes be used
for a particular type of label stock. The quality of print is determined by the
correct combination of these materials.
M41. Product Description
NOTICE !
When choosing material, make sure the transfer ribbon is slightly wider
than the width of the label backing.
The presence of transfer ribbon is sensed by the rotational movement control
of the transfer ribbon unwinder, rather than with photocell sensors. As a result,
ribbons that have a thinner coating or those with a colored coating can be used
without problems.
The possiblity of printing labels up to the absolute end of the ribbon is restricted
by the length of the uncoated "trailer", which attaches the end of the ribbon to
the core.
NOTICE !
Make certain before purchasing transfer ribbon that the "trailer" (see
above) is not more than 2.3in (60mm) long.
18 cab Produkttechnik GmbH & Co KG
M4 1. Product Description
Software
There are several methods to create formats and to send them to the printer.
Below, a short explanation of the most common methods is given.
Direct Programming
The printer is equipped with an internal command set. The command set is
designed to program all functions of the printer. To create a label format, use
any ASCII editor to combine the necessary commands. Save the commands
to a file, then copy the file to the printer using the connected interface and
HyperTerminal or the DOS COPY command.
Direct programming requires a minimum knowledge of programming logic.
The printer commands are designed logically and structured clearly. However
it is necessary to carry out several test prints when creating a label using the
command set since no image of the label is displayed on the monitor.
The complete description of the command set and sample programs is
available in the "Programming Manual cab Thermal / Thermal Transfer
Printers".
Windows Printer Driver
For M4 a Windows Printer drivers is available. You can get this driver from the
Printer Accessories CD A-Series/M-Series or from the web.
Visit the appropriate website listed on page 2 to download the drivers.
The printer can be operated from any Windows Application that supports
Windows Printer drivers using the driver. The graphical user interface allows
for easier creation of label formats. However, the functionality depends on the
choosen application and how each product supports Windows Printer drivers.
There could be restrictions depending on the application you are using. A help
file is included with the drivers to explain the usage and limitations when using
certain Windows applications.
Label Software
There are several Windows Applications that are designed to create labels.
These programs are more suited to the requirements of label printing than
standard Windows Applications. In some cases these programs use the
Windows Printer Driver.
Some applications, for example CABLABEL, have integrated internal drivers to
operate the cab printers. These applications offer the best solution for creating
and printing labels.
19cab Produkttechnik GmbH & Co KG
2. General Safety Instructions / 3. Unpacking
2. General Safety Instructions
CAUTION !
- The printer is built exclusively to print die-cut labels, continuous media, and
similar materials as listed in Technical Specifications in Chapter 1.
- Connect the printer to an outlet with the correct voltage!
The printer is configured for voltages of 100 to 240 V.
Connect only to a power outlet with a grounded contact.
- The printer must only be connected to devices which have extra low voltage.
- Power must be OFF before plugging in any accessory, connecting to a
computer and before performing any maintenance on the printer. Also turn
the power off on all appliances before disconnecting from the printer.
- Do not expose the printer to any moisture, or use in damp or wet areas.
- The printer will operate with the cover open if necessary. This is not
recommended, as it might allow debris to collect on the printhead surface. If
the printer must be operated with the cover open, extra care must be taken
to avoid allowing hair, jewelry, clothing, etc. near the moving parts.
- During the print process the printhead will become hot. Use extra caution
when touching the printhead. Do not touch the printing surface of the
printhead with you hand!
- Any adjustments or repairs which are not described in this manual, should
only be carried out by an authorized service technician.
WARNING !
To avoid possible electric shock, do not open the backside cover!
M4
3. Unpacking
Delivery Contents
Please inspect the printers packaging and contents immediately after receipt for
possible damage during shipment.
NOTICE !
Be sure to preserve the original packaging for possible later shipment!
The shipping container will contain the following standard components:
- Thermal Transfer Printer
- Cardboard Core for the transfer ribbon rewinder
- Tear-off Plate (M4/200 and M4/300 only)
- Rewind Guide Plate (M4/200R and M4/300R only)
- Dispense Plate and optional Present Sensor PS8
(M4/200P and M4/300P only)
- Power Cord
- CD with documentation und printer driver
- CD with label software CABLABEL LITE
20 cab Produkttechnik GmbH & Co KG
M4 3. Unpacking
Removing the Securing Devices
1
2
Fig. 3 Removing the securing devices
1. Place the printer on a solid flat surface.
2. Open the cover.
3. Remove the securing devices (1, 2).
21cab Produkttechnik GmbH & Co KG
4. Printer Component Location
4. Printer Component Location
M4
11
10
1
2
3
4 5 6 7
Fig. 4a General view
1 - Warning label ''End of Ribbon''
2 - Navigator pad
3 - Present sensor PS8 (Option for M4/200P and M4/300P)
4 - Print mechanism
5 - Internal Rewinder (not at M4/200 and M4/300)
6 - Ribbon take up hub
7 - Ribbon supply hub
8 - Media hub
9 - Media Retainer
10 - Warning label ''End of Paper''
11 - Cover
9
8
22 cab Produkttechnik GmbH & Co KG
M4 4. Printer Component Location
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
Fig. 4b Print mechanism M4/200, M4/300 with printhead open
1 - Printhead locking screw
2 - Ribbon shield
3 - Label edge sensor
4 - Media feed roller
5 - Tear-off plate
6 - Printhead support
7 - Screw to adjust the printhead support
8 - Printhead lever
9 - Screw to adjust the ribbon shield
10 - Thermal printhead
11 - Media guide
12 - Guide axle
13 - Allen Key
8
9
10
11
12
13
23cab Produkttechnik GmbH & Co KG
M44. Printer Component Location
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
Fig. 4c Print mechanism M4/200R, M4/300R with printhead open
1 - Printhead locking screw
2 - Ribbon shield
3 - Label edge sensor
4 - Media feed roller
5 - Rewind guide plate
6 - Printhead support
7 - Screw to adjust the printhead support
8 - Printhead lever
9 - Screw to adjust the ribbon shield
10 - Thermal printhead
11 - Media guide
12 - Guide axle
13 - Allen Key
8
9
10
11
12
13
24 cab Produkttechnik GmbH & Co KG
M4 4. Printer Component Location
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9 10
Fig. 4d Print mechanism M4/200P, M4/300P with printhead open
1 - Printhead locking screw
2 - Ribbon shield
3 - Label edge sensor
4 - Media feed roller
5 - Dispense plate
6 - Rewind assist roller
7 - Locking system
8 - Printhead support
9 - Screw for adjusting locking system
10 - Screw for adjusting printhead support
11 - Allen key
12 - Guide axle
13 - Media guide
14 - Thermal printhead
15 - Screw to adjust the ribbon shield
16 - Printhead lever
16
15
14
13
12
11
25cab Produkttechnik GmbH & Co KG
4. Printer Component Location
M4
1
2
3
4
5
6
Fig. 4e Back view
1 - Memory card slot
2 - Ethernet interface
3 - RS-232 interface
4 - USB slave interface
5 - Power switch
6 - Power supply connector
26 cab Produkttechnik GmbH & Co KG
M4
5. Installation
CAUTION !
Make sure the printer is located where the unit or the operator cannot
come in contact with water. Otherwise it could cause damage to the
printer.
Connection to Power Supply
The printer is equipped with a wide range power unit (100-240V~), so it is
possible to use the printer both with a voltage of 230V~/50 Hz and with a
voltage of 115V~/60 Hz without making changes to the printer.
CAUTION !
Make sure the power switch (1) is in position "O" (OFF) before
connecting the printer to a power supply !
5. Installation
1
2
Fig. 5a Power supply
Insert the power cable supplied in the accessories carton into the power supply
connector (2) and contact the cable to a grounded outlet.
27cab Produkttechnik GmbH & Co KG
5. Installation
Connection to a Computer
As standard, the printer is equipped with a serial RS-232-interface with a 9 pin
connector (5) and an USB interface (6) for local operation. Moreover the printer
has an ethernet interface (4) for operation in a network.
1
2
3
M4
4
5
6
Fig. 5b Computer connection
CAUTION !
Make sure that all connected computers and their connecting cables are
correctly grounded.
USB Interface
Connect the computer with a A-B-cable (3) to the USB interface (6) of the
printer.
After switching on the printer, the computer detects the new hardware
component and ask you to install the printer driver. If you want to work with
CABLABEL, the installation of the Windows Printer Driver is not necessary
because CABLABEL has own internal drivers. Otherwise install the Windows
Printer Driver.
28 cab Produkttechnik GmbH & Co KG
M4 5. Installation
Serial RS-232 Interface
Connect the computer and the printer with a suitable cable and secure the
cable connections with screws provided on the connectors.
Cables for the serial connection (2) are described in appendix B. There you can
also find the pin assignment of the serial interface connector (5).
NOTICE !
When the printer is delivered, the RS-232 is configured for automatic
baud rate detection. For this method, after switching on the printer, the
first sign of the serial transmission must be odd. That means, that the
lowest bit of the first signs code must have the value "1".
Since it is not possible to guarantee that under all circumstances, it is
recommended to choose a fixed baud rate before starting the normal
operation (see chapter "Printer Configuration").
Ethernet Interface
Connect the ethernet interface (4) of the printer using an RJ-45 cable for
10 Base T / 100 Base T (1) to the network.
For connecting the printer to a network socket use a patch cable.
For a direct connection to an ethernet interface of a local computer a crossover
cable must be used.
CAUTION !
For connecting the printer to the network you must use a shielded cabel !
To operate the printer in a network, an IP Address must be assigned to the
printer.
NOTICE !
When the printer is delivered, the ethernet interface is configured for
"DHCP" (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol).
In order to use DHCP, you must have DHCP Servers on the network. If
DHCP Servers are available, the assignment of the IP Address can be
automatic.
If no DHCP server is available, you must manually enter the IP Address
using the serial or USB interface (see chapter "Printer Configuration").
29cab Produkttechnik GmbH & Co KG
Switch on the Printer
Fig. 5c Switch on the printer
After making all connections, power on the printer using the power switch (1).
M45. Installation
1
The printer will perform a short system test, then key lights up on the
navigator pad.
If a hardware failure occurs during the system test, the lettering lights
up. In this case the printer should be powered off and on again. If the failure reoccurs, call for service.
If you connected the printer by the USB interface, after the first switching on,
the computer ask you to install the printer driver. If you want to work with
CABLABEL, the installation of the Windows Printer Driver is not necessary
because CABLABEL has own internal drivers. Otherwise install the Windows
Printer Driver.
30 cab Produkttechnik GmbH & Co KG
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