Datamax 4604, 4208, 4406, 4212, 4308 User Manual

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Operator’s Manual

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Datamax International

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Phone: +44 127 9 772200

Fax: +44 1279 424448

CG Triumvirate is a trademark of Agfa Corporation. CG Times based upon Times New Roman under license from the Monotype Corporation. Windows and Windows NT are trademarks and Microsoft is a registered trademark of

Microsoft Corporation. NetWare and Novell are registered trademarks of Novell, Inc. Ethernet is a registered trademark of Xerox Corporation. All other brand and product names are trademarks, service marks, registered trademarks,

or registered service marks of their respective companies.

Firmware (Software) Agreement

The enclosed Firmware (Software) resident in the Printer is owned by Licensor or its suppliers and is licensed for used only on a single printer in the user’s Trade or Business.

The User agrees not to, and not to authorize o r permit any other person or party to duplicate, or copy the Firmware or the information contained in the non-volatile or programmable memory. The firmware (Software) is protected by applicable copyright

laws and Licensor retains all rights not expressly granted. In no event will Licensor or its suppliers be liable for any damages or loss, including direct, incidental, economic, special, or consequential damages arising out of the use or inability to use the Firmware (Software).

Information in this document is subject to change without notice and does not represent a commitment on the part of Datamax Barcode Products Corporation. No part of this manual may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, for any purpose other than the purchaser's personal use, without the expressed written permission of Datamax Corporation.

Part Number: 88-2241-01

Revision: H

Agency Compliance and Approvals:

UL1950 Information Technology Equipment

C US

Listed

C22.2 No. 950-M93

EN60950

For 230 Volt Operation (Europe): Use a cord set, marked “HAR,” consisting of a min H05VV-F cord which has a minimum 0.75 square mm diameter conductors, provided with an IEC 320 receptacle and a male plug for the country of installation rated 6A, 250V

Für 230 Volt (Europa): Benützen Sie ein Kabel, das mit “HAR” markiert ist, bestehend mindestens aus einem H05VV-F Kabel, das mindestens 0,75 Quadratmillimeter Drahtdurchmesser hat; sowie eine IEC320 Steckdose und einen für das Land geeigneten Stecker, 6A, 250 Volt.

As an Energy Star Partner, the manufacturer has determined that this product meets the Energy Star guidelines for energy efficiency.

The manufacturer declares under sole responsibility that this product conforms to the following standards or other normative documents:

EMC: EN 55022 (1993) Class B

EN 50024 (1998)

Safety: This product complies with the requirements of

EN 60950/All:1997

Gost-R

Resolution S.I.C. & M., No. 799/99

FCC : This device complies with FCC CFR 47 Part 15 Class A.

;

Note: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a

Class A digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference when the equipment is operated in a commercial environment. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy, and if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions in this manual, it may cause harmful interference to radio communications. Operation of this equipment in a residential area is likely to cause harmful interference in which case the user will be required to correct the interference at his own expense.

Important Safety Instructions:

The exclamation point within an equilateral triangle is intended to alert the user to the presence of important operating and maintenance instructions in the literature accompanying this unit.

This unit has been carefully designed to provide years of safe, reliable performance. However, as with all electrical equipment, there are some basic precautions that you should follow to avoid personal injury or damage to the printer:

¾ Before using the printer, carefully read all the installation and operating

instructions.

¾ Observe all warning instruction labels on the printer.

¾ Install the printer on a flat, firm surface.

¾ Do not place the printer on or near a heat source.

¾ To protect your printer from overheati ng, make sure no openings on the

printer are blocked.

¾ Never insert anything into the ventilation slots and openings of the printer.

¾ Do not use the printer near water or spill liquid into it.

¾ Ensure that the AC power source matches the ratings listed for the printer.

(If unsure, check with your dealer or local utility provider.)

¾ Do not place the AC power cord where it can be stepped on. If the AC

power cord becomes damaged or frayed, replace it immediately.

¾ If the printer ever needs repair, consult only qualified, trained service

personnel. No user-serviceable parts are inside; do not remove the cover.

Contents

Printer Overview

1.0 About the Printer..................................................................... 1

1.0.1 Standard Features................................................... 2

1.0.2 Optional Features ...................................................2

1.1 Option Installation................................................................... 6

1.2 Hardware Components .......................................................... 7

Getting Started

2.0 Unpacking the Printer............................................................. 9

2.0.1 Inspection ..............................................................10

2.0.2 Additional Requirements .......................................10

2.1 Media and Ribbon Selection ................................................ 11

2.1.1 Print Quality Controls ............................................11

Setting Up the Printer

3.0 Installation............................................................................. 13

3.0.1 Communications.................................................... 14

3.1 Loading Media ......................................................................17

3.1.1 Roll Media.............................................................. 18

3.1.2 Fan-Fold Media ..................................................... 19

3.2 Media Sensor Adjustment ....................................................20

3.3 Loading Ribbon .................................................................... 21

3.4 Quick Media Calibration....................................................... 23

3.5 Outputting Labels .................................................................24

3.5.1 Rewinding.............................................................. 24

3.5.2 On-Demand Dispensing........................................ 26

3.5.3 Cutting ...................................................................28

Using the Front Panel

4.0 Operation.............................................................................. 29

4.0.1 Ready Mode: Normal Operatio n ........................... 29

4.0.2 Menu Mode: Configuration.................................... 30

4.0.3 Quick Test Mode: Print Test Labels...................... 31

4.0.4 Indicator Lights ......................................................32

4.0.5 LCD........................................................................ 32

4.0.6 Resetting the Printer.............................................. 33

4.0.6.1 Soft Reset............................................... 33

4.0.6.2 Level One Reset..................................... 33

4.0.6.3 Level Two Reset..................................... 33

4.1 The Menu System ................................................................ 34

4.1.1 Entrance and Exit Prompts ...................................35

4.1.2 Media Settings....................................................... 36

4.1.3 Print Control........................................................... 37

4.1.4 Printer Options.......................................................39

4.1.5 System Settings.....................................................43

4.1.6 Communications.................................................... 53

4.1.7 Diagnostics ............................................................ 58

4.2 Display Messages ................................................................60

4.2.1 User Prompts and Condition Messages ............... 60

4.3 Quick Test Mode .................................................................. 62

4.3.1 Print Quality Label ................................................. 62

4.3.2 Configuration Label ............................................... 63

4.3.3 Quick Ribbon Test Label....................................... 64

4.3.4 Dot Test Pattern Label ..........................................65

4.3.5 Validation Label..................................................... 66

4.3.6 User Defined Label................................................ 66

Adjusting and Maintaining the Printer

5.0 Media Sensor Calibration..................................................... 67

5.0.1 Standard Calibratio n.............................................. 67

5.0.2 Advanced Entry Calibratio n................................... 71

5.1 Printhead Adjustments ......................................................... 77

5.1.1 Leveling Cam Adjustment ..................................... 77

5.1.2 Burn Line Adjustment............................................ 78

5.2 Printhead Replacement........................................................ 79

5.3 Maintenance Schedule......................................................... 80

5.3.1 Cleaning the Printhead.......................................... 81

5.3.2 Cleaning the Platen Roller .................................... 82

5.3.3 Cleaning Interior and Exterior Surfaces................ 83

5.4 Application Program Updates ..............................................83

5.4.1 Updating from the Ready Mode............................ 84

5.4.2 Updating from the Download Mode ...................... 85

5.4.3 Possible Problems during an Update....................86

5.5 Boot Loader Program Updates ............................................87

Troubleshooting

6.0 Problem Resolution.............................................................. 89

6.1 Fault and Warning Messages .............................................. 93

6.2 Hex Dump Mode ................................................................101

Printer Specifications

7.0 General Specifications .......................................................103

7.1 Media and Ribbon Requirements ...................................... 105

Appendix A

ASCII Control Code Chart........................................................... 107

Appendix B

Available Fonts and Bar Codes ..................................................109

Appendix C

Module Assignments................................................................... 117

Print Resolutions and Maximum Label Widths........................... 117

Available Speeds and Default Settings....................................... 118

Appendix D

GPIO Port Description................................................................. 119

iii

Appendix E

Menu System Multi-Language S upport ...................................... 121

Advance File Handling Information............................................. 124

Appendix F

Saving a Configuration File .........................................................127

Warranty Information...................................................... 129

Glossary ................................................................................. 133

Printer Overview

1.0 About the Printer

Congratulations on your purchase of an I-Class printer. The I-Class 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 for everyday printer operation. To begin printing labels, refer to the instructions provided with the label-creation software you have chosen. If you wish to write custom label programs, a copy of the I & W Class Programmer’s Manual is included on the enclosed Datamax Accessories CD; otherwise, a copy may be downloaded from our web site at http//www.datamaxcorp.com.

The printer’s model number is located on the Serial Tag on the back of the unit. Each model offers many standard and optional features, as detailed in the following subsections.

I-Class 1

1.0.1 Standard Features

This printer offers the following standard features:

I-Class Standard Features Listing

Feature

Printhead Density (Dots Per Inch) Direct Thermal Printing XXXXXX On-Demand and Batch Printing Rotating Media Hub XXXXXX Media Tear Bar XXXXXX Fan-fold media capability XXXXXX Flash memory 1MB 1MB 2MB 2MB 2MB 2MB SDRAM 8MB 8MB 16MB 16MB 16MB 16MB RS-232 interface port XXXXXX IEEE 1284 Compliant parallel interface port Liquid Crystal Display XXXXXX EFIGS (multi-language display and co nfiguration label support) AGFA Scalable font engineXXXXXX

4206 4208 4212 4308 4406 4604

203 203 203 300 406 600

XXXXXX

Model

1.0.2 Optional Features (available except as noted)

The printer offers the following optional features:

Cutter, Light-Duty (Backing-Only)

A rotary-type mechanism to automatically cut material with a maximum thickness of .005” (.127 mm) into minimum lengths of 1.25 inches (31.8 mm). An adjustable tray to collect up to 200 cut labels and tags is also available.

Cutter, Standard Duty

A rotary-type mechanism to automatically cut material with a maximum thickness of .010” (.254 mm) into minimum lengths of 1.25 inches (31.8 mm). An adjustable tray to collect up to 200 cut labels and tags is also available.

2I-Class

DMXNet

The DMXNet Print Server Card is an internal Network Interface Controller (NIC) that enables the printer to provide Ethernet connectivity. Features

include: ¾ Automatic selection of 10Base2 (Thinnet) or 100BaseT Fast Ethernet

connection.

¾ Integral HTTP Server to allow monitoring and management from a standard

Web browser program.

¾ Peer-to-Peer (serverless) discovery and printing from Windows

95/98/ME/XP or Windows NT/2000 workstations without a Novell file server present.

¾ FTP printing to allow printing directly from a Web browser or other FTP

client.

¾ Dynamic Domain Name Service (DDNS). ¾ Lightweight Directory Access Protocol (LDAP). ¾ Novell “YES” certified. ¾ Novell NetWare PSERVER on both bindery based and Novell Directory

Services (NDS).

¾ LPR/LPD over TCP/IP for UNIX platforms and Microsoft’s Windows. ¾ Raw sockets support over selectable TCP/IP port with filters for selected

UNIX environment.

¾ IP and IPX SNMP support of MIB-2, proprietary NIC MIB and public and

proprietary (private) Printer MIB.

¾ SNMP traps to alert administrators of printer errors (paper/ribbon out, head

up, etc).

¾ E-mail notification of printer errors to specified addresses. ¾ Universal Plug and Play (UPnP). ¾ FTP download allows users to upgrade the interface’s Flash memory.

External Keyboard (specify voltage / country requirement when ordering)

A portable keyboard / display terminal, the DMX Passport™, for stand-alone printing.

I-Class 3

External Media Rewinder (specify voltage requirement when ordering)

A precision-crafted, bi-directional rewinding mechanism with device-dependant features:

¾ DMXREW1 – accommodates 1 to 4-inch (25 to 101 mm) diameter cores;

accepts a maximum label width of 4.5 inches (114 mm); and, rewinds to a 8-inch (203 mm) maximum outer diameter at 10 inches per second.

¾ DMXREW2 – accommodates 3-inch (76 mm) diameter cores; accepts a

maximum label width of 9.5 inches (241 mm); and, rewinds to a 12-inch (304 mm) maximum outer diameter at 30 inches per second.

Font Expansion Card (cannot be used with the I/O Expansi on card)

A slide-in circuit card assembly with 8MB Flash memory expansion for International Language Printing Capability (ILPC) and/or additional fonts and graphics. ILPC consists of one of the following:

¾ CG-Times (Western European) Scalable font ¾ Kanji Gothic B Scalable font ¾ Simplified Chinese GB Scalable font ¾ Korean Hangul Scalable font

ILPC – CG Times Firmware

The firmware can be upgraded to include the Datamax ILPC (International Language Printing Capability) CG Times font. This supports the Datamax

Enhanced Language Code Pages.

Internal Rewinder

An internal mechanism to wind six-inch outer diameter rolls of printed labels, or the label backing material for the Peel and Present option.

I/O Expansion Card (specify features at time of order)

The standard features* of this slide-in circuit card assembly include:

¾ General purpose (GPIO) interface for external printer and device control. ¾ Time and date calendar (Real Time Clock) function for label time-stamping.

An optional feature also offers: ¾ 8MB Flash memory expansion for graphics and/or additional fonts

including International Language Printing Capability (ILPC).

Linear Scanner

An integrated fixed-position CCD device featuring 32-bit microprocessor technology for high-speed operation and superior accuracy to ensure the

4I-Class

readability of printed bar codes. Minimum bar code “X” dimension is 10 mils; maximum width is 4 inches (101 mm).

Peel and Present Mechanism (requires the Internal Rewind option)

An output control device that automatically separates printed labels from the backing material and allows subsequent printing to occur only after the removal of a previously printed label. Minimum label length is 1.5 inches (38 mm).

Present Sensor

An output control device that allows subsequent printing to occur only after the removal of a previously printed label.

RS-422 Serial Interface**

Single-drop interface hardware to support greater distances from the host at communication rates of up to 38,400 baud.

Thermal Transfer (specify confi guration at time of order)

A printing method that uses ribbon to produce exceptional image clarity, as compared to most direct thermal media types. This option must be specified for use with either ‘coated side in’ ribbon or ‘coated side out’ ribbon.

Twinax/Coax Interface

A slide-in circuit card assembly that provides connectivity to AS/400 and System/3X Twinax host system or 3270-type host system. Cable included.

USB Port

A slide-in circuit card that provides the printer with a Universal Serial Bus, Version 1.1, for Windows printing environments only.

*Item unavailable for the I-4206. **Item unavailable for the I-4206 and I-4208 models.

I-Class 5

1.1 Option Installation

The following table lists the available options and the recommended qualification level of the installer. For detailed information concerning a specific option, contact your dealer or Datamax Technical Support.

Experience Level for Options Installation

Option Re comme nde d I nsta lle r

Cutters and trays: Light / Standard Duty Operator

DMXNet DMX Certified Technician

External Keyboard Operator

External Media Rewinder Operator

Font Expansion Card DMX Certified Technician

ILPC DMX Certified Technician

Internal Rewinder Operator

I/O Expansion Card DMX Certified Technician

Linear Scanner Factory only

Peel and Present Mechanism Operator

Present Sensor Operator

RS-422 Serial Interface DMX Certified Technician

Thermal Transfer Assembly Operator

Twinax/Coax Interface DMX Certified Technician

USB Port DMX Certified Technician

6I-Class

1.2 Hardware Components

The following drawing highlights the user-assessable components of the printer. Items denoted with an asterisk (*) are optional equipment.

I-Class 7

8I-Class

Getting Started

2.0 Unpacking the Printer

Inspect the shipping container(s) for damage; if evident, immediately notify the shipping company to report the nature and extent of the damage.

The printer has been carefully packaged to avoid damage during transit. In order to operate the printer, you will need to remove the tape and foam placed there for shipment. Complete the following steps prior to connecting power or attempting to load media.

n With the arrow on the box pointing up,

open the box.

o Remove Accessories Box.

p Tilt the printer on its side and slide the

printer out of its box.

q Place the printer in an upright position

and remove the packing foam, plastic bag, and tape.

;

Note: It is a good idea to save the carton and packaging materials in the

event that future shipment is required.

I-Class 9

2.0.1 Inspection

After removing the printer from the packaging material, check the contents of the package. In addition to this manual, the following items should be included:

¾ Printer ¾ Power Cord ¾ Accessories CD ¾ Any special or additionally

purchased items.

2.0.2 Additional Requirements

The following items are necessary to produce labels. Contact your dealer or a customer support representative for advice on which media and software may best suit your needs.

¾ A serial or parallel interface cable; see Section 3.0.1 ¾ Applicable media; see Section 2.1 for suggestions and Section 7.1 for

requirements.

¾ Applicable software

10 I-Class

2.1 Media and Ribbon Selection

The following is a limited overview of media characteristics. For complete infor mation and advice regardi ng your specific application needs, always consult a qualified media specialist or a Datamax Media Representative.

Media Selection – Direct Thermal Consider three important factors when selecting direct thermal stock:

The abrasive qualities of the material that covers the thermal reactive layer

of the paper.

The ability of that layer to control the chemical reaction that occurs when

the image is “burned”.

The amount of heat required to create an image on the paper.

Media Selection – Thermal Transfer Consider three important factors when selecting thermal transfer media

combinations:

The label top coating and ribbon combinations affect image quality. Ribbon backcoating is highly recommended. It provides protection for the

printhead, and may also provide an anti-static coating.

For additional printhead protection, use ribbon with a slightly greater width

than the overall width of the label and backing material.

2.1.1 Print Quality Controls

The printer provides flexibility with a comprehensive set of print controls. Of these, the amount of heat applied by the printhead and the rate of media movement will have the most effect on the printed images. Low cost direct thermal stocks, for example, have raised reaction temperatures and therefore require higher heat values and slower print speeds to make a clear image on the media. In general, there are three standard methods to control print quality:

The first method is to select the ‘Media Type’ menu setting that matches the

media being used. For example, when printing with ribbon use the thermal transfer setting.

The second method is to change the ‘Print Control / Heat’ menu setting

(also selectable as ‘Heat Setting’ in most labeling software programs). Increasing this value causes more energy to be transferred to the media,

I-Class 11

resulting in a darker image. Conversely, if the image is too dark, reduce this value.

The final method is to change the ‘Print Control / Print Speed’ menu setting

(also selectable as ‘Print Speed’ in most software programs). Changing the print speed changes the amount of time the media is under the printhead. Slower speeds allow more time and control for energy transfer, while faster speeds will increase throughput, but may require higher heat settings.

;

Note: Heat and Speed settings can be overridden by host software

commands.

You will find that printing barcodes and detailed images on less expensive direct thermal and thermal transfer media at higher speeds can be tricky. At one heat setting, the images will fade and at the next higher heat setting, the images will bleed. This is because the reaction temperature of the media is so high that at higher rates of speed, it cannot react fast enough. To print fine images at higher speed, media with lower reaction or release temperatures are required. On the slower end of the print rate settings, crisper images are possible because the media is not being stretched beyond its limits.

The following table is intended for reference only (for specific application information, consult your media specialist or a Datamax Media Representative).

Direct Thermal Me dia Ty pe Print Speed* Print Energy

Fasson 300 HD Direct Thermal Facesheet

Fasson 300 MD Direct Thermal Facesheet

Thermal Transfer

Me dia Ty pe

Ribbon

Type

Great Label TTL GPR Plus

10-12**

Speed*

Energy

10-12** Medium Medium

Medium

Image

Durability

MaxWax

IIMAK Versamark

Coated Paper,

Wax 2 - 10 Low Low

Uncoated Paper, Tag Stock, Some Films, So me Synthetics

Coated Paper, Glossy

Wax/Resin 2 - 8 Medium High

Paper, Tag Stock,

So me Synthetics, Films Synthetics, Films Resin 4 - 6 High High

*Values given in inches per second (IPS) **Highly recommended for optimum print quality at speeds above 10 IPS.

12 I-Class

☞

Setting Up the Printer

3.0 Installation

This section explains how to connect the printer, and load it with media and ribbon.

;

Note: When connecting the AC Power Cord or interface cables to the printer,

ensure the Power On/Off Switch is in the ‘Off’ position.

n Place the printer on a firm, level surface.

o Turn ‘Off’ the Host Computer and ensure that the Power Switch on the

Printer is in the ‘Off’ position.

p Depending upon your interfacing requirements, connect the appropriate

interface cable between Host Computer and Printer; see Section 3.0.1.

q 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. (The power supply automatically detects and then adjusts to the applied line voltage; see Section 7.0 for the acceptable voltage ranges.)

If connecting the printer to a network or USB port, refer to the additional documentation supplied with that option.

I-Class 13

3.0.1 Communications

Using a data detection process, the interface selection occurs automatically in the printer. At power-up, the printer begins monitoring the interface ports for activity. When the host transmits data, the printer port detecting this data is set ‘active’ and remains active as long as data flow continues. Once the incoming (received) data flow stops and the Host Timeout Value (see Section 4.1.6) is exceeded, the detection process will be repeated. In addition, should the data flow stop before a complete label format is received, the format will be ignored and must be sent to the printer again.

;

Note: To change an active port immediately, cycle the printer power ‘Off’

and ‘On’.

Paralle l Po rt:

The parallel interface has two menu-selectable modes of operation: unidirectional or bi-directional. Uni-directional mode is forward channel

communication and requires a Centronics cable with a 36 pin male connector. Bi-directional mode is IEEE 1284 Compliant, using forward and reverse channel communications. In this mode, data can be sent to the host provided it is also IEEE 1284 Compliant and has supporting software. This mode requires an IEEE

1284 cable with a Centronics 36 pin male connector.

Se rial Port:

The serial interface supports RS-232C and, if equipped, RS-422 communications. The following list of serial port settings is menu-selectable and must match the host computer’s serial port settings; see Section 4.1.6.

Baud Rate (serial communication speed) Word Length Word Parity Number of Stop Bits Handshaking Protocol

In addition to the port settings, the serial interface cable wiring must have specific connections (pin-outs) for proper data exchange between the host and printer. The different serial cable pin-outs, suggested applications, and part

numbers are in the following table (contact your reseller for ordering information).

14 I-Class

Serial Interface Cable Listing (all models, except as noted)

Null Modem (MXM) “PC” (DB9P) to Printer

Part Number 556000 Part Number 556001

For connection to other DCE equipment.

Flow control is only Xon/Xoff.

For connection to a PC compatible with

DB9P communication ports. Flow control

can be either Xon/Xoff or CTS/DTR.

“PC” (DB25P) to Printer RS-422 Connection

Part Number 556002 Part Number N/A

For connection to a PC compatible with

DB25 communication ports. Flow control

can be either Xon/Xoff or CTS/DTR.

Diagram only provided for reference.

Not available for the I-4206 and I-4208.

NIC Adapte r (optional):

The NIC Adapter has several menu-selectable modes; see Section 4.1.6 for details. Refer to the information provided with the option for connection requirements and detailed operational instructions. The Status Indicators, viewable from the back of the printer, provide a quick operational check.

Normal Operating Conditions:

Green LED – indicates the operating condition. Upon power-up, the LED is ‘On’ indicating that the NIC Adapter is performing self-tests. The LED may also be ‘On’ when awaiting a print job.

I-Class 15

When finished with the self-tests, the LED blinks, and may blink again after printer initialization is completed.

Amber LED – generally indicates job activity. When receiving print jobs over the network, the amber LED blinks; it remains ‘Off’ during inactivity.

Error Conditions:

Combinations of blinking LEDs – 1 to 7 amber blinks followed by 1 to 12 green blinks – indicate various hardware failures. See the DMXNet Resource Manual for more information.

;

Note: Following power-up the printer may indicate ‘READY.’ However, the

NIC Adapter will NOT be able to receive data until its boot-up process (as denoted by the message ‘DMXNET INITIALIZING’) is complete. This process may take up to two minutes.

USB Po rt ( opt ional):

The USB Interface is supported under Windows 95/98/2000/ME/XP. Depending upon the operating system of your host computer, installation may differ slightly. Consult the additional documentation supplied with this option for detailed information.

The USB Port is plug and play and operates transparently within the printer; there are no menu-selectable settings or modes.

The USB Port is a device-end only printer connection. Never connect a keyboard, mouse, modem, etc. into this port. Damage

WARNING

can result.

16 I-Class

3.1 Loading Media

Begin loading as follows:

n Raise the Access Cover.

o Rotate the Printhead Latch forward and raise the Printhead Assembly.

p Slide the Media Guide out away from the frame and then lower it to the

down position.

q If using roll media, the Media Hub can accept 3.0-inch (76mm) and 1.5-

inch (38mm) cores. To use 1.5-inch cores, first slide off the 3 Inch Hub by grasping and then pulling it firmly outward.

r Proceed according to the type of media you are using: go to Section 3.1.1

for Roll Media or go to Section 3.1.2 for Fan-Fold Media.

I-Class 17

☞

3.1.1 Roll Media

This loading method is for roll type media applications. To load:

n Slide the Roll Media

onto the Media Hub until it rests against the Backstop.

o Route the media as

shown: under the Media Idler, through the Media Sensor, then out the front of the printer.

p Raise and slide the

Media Guide over until it rests lightly against the edge of the media.

q Position the Media Sensor; see Section 3.2.

r If your application uses thermal transfer media, load ribbon (see Section

3.3); otherwise continue.

s Lower the Printhead Assembly and rotate the Printhead Latch completely

back into the locked position. Close the Access Cover.

t Turn ‘On’ the printer. After ‘Ready is displayed, press and hold the FEED

Key until at least one label gap or mark is advanced; see Section 3.4.

If using less than full width media, adjust the Leveling Cam; see Section 5.1.1.

18 I-Class

☞

3.1.2 Fan-Fold Media

This loading method is for tag and fan-fold type media applications. To load:

n Bring the media in through the Bottom or the Rear Media Slot. (If using

reflective stock, ensure that the mark is facedown.)

o Depending upon the entry point, route the media as shown: if through the

Rear Media Slot, route the media over the Media Hub; or, if through the Bottom Media Slot, route the media over the Media Rewind Hub.

p Continue routing the media under the Media Idler, through the Media

Sensor and out the front of the printer.

q Raise and slide the Media Guide over until it rests lightly against the edge

of the media.

r Position the Media Sensor; see Section 3.2.

s If your application uses thermal transfer media, load ribbon (see Section

3.3); otherwise continue.

t Lower the Printhead Assembly and rotate the Printhead Latch completely

back into the locked position. Close the Access Cover.

u Turn ‘On’ the printer. After ‘Ready is displayed, press and hold the FEED

Key until at least one label gap or mark is advanced; see Section 3.4.

If using less than full width media, adjust the Leveling Cam; see Section 5.1.1.

I-Class 19

3.2 Media Sensor Adjustment

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 programming; see Label Length, Section 4.1.2). To adjust:

n With media loaded, as described in Section 3.1.1 or 3.1.2, grasp the Slide

Tab and move the Sensor Eye Mark into position over media according to the table below.

o If loading media, return to the media loading instructions.

Me dia Se nsor Sele ct ion a nd A djust me nt

Me dia Ty pe Se nsor Eye Mark Posit ion Sensing Required

Die-cut Near the middle of the label Gap

Notched Centered over the notch Gap

Reflective Centered over the black mark Reflective

Continuous Near the middle of the media Continuous

See Section 4.1.2 for Sensor Type selection.

;

Note: Changes to the start of print position can be made using the Print

Control/Row Adjust or Row Offset (see Section 4.1.3).

20 I-Class

3.3 Loading Ribbon

Ribbon is required with thermal transfer media. Depending upon the type of Ribbon Supply Hub (see the next page for examples), the printer must use either ribbons with the ‘coating side in’ or ribbons with the ‘coating side out’. To load:

;

Note: Using a ribbon that is slightly wider than your media (and liner, if any)

will help protect against printhead wear.

n With the access cover raised and the printhead assembly up, position the

ribbon to be dispensed in the direction appropriate for the Ribbon Supply Hub.

o Slide the ribbon onto the Ribbon Supply Hub until it rests against the hub’s

flange.

p Route the ribbon under the Ribbon Idler, out the front of the printer and

then up aro und to the Ribbo n Take-Up Hub, winding it several times i n a clockwise direction to secure it in place.

q If loading media, return to the media loading instructions. Otherwise, lower

the Printhead Assembly and rotate the Printhead Latch completely back into the locked position. Close the Access Cover.

Removal:

When the supply is exhausted, pull the empty core from the Ribbon Supply

Hub and discard it. To remove used ribbon: grasp the Ribbon Take-Up Hub, pull outward, then squeeze to collapse the hub and take off the ribbon.

I-Class 21

;

Note: Directional Arrows near the Ribbon Supply Hub indicate the correct

ribbon route. Ribbon types are available with the ink (coating) layer wound ‘in’ or ‘out’. These types are NOT interchangeable for use with the printer.

Ribbon Routing Diagrams

‘Coating Side In’ Ribbon Supply Hub

‘Coating Side Out’ Ribbon Supply Hub

22 I-Class

3.4 Quick Media Calibration

☞

At the factory, the printer is calibrated to sense a wide range of media types. Quick Media Calibration fine-tunes the media sensor for yo ur gap, notc h or reflective media application. Note that this is not required if you are using continuous media. Perform this calibration during initial set-up or after changing your media type. To calibrate:

n Ensure that media is loaded (see Section 3.1), that the Media Sensor is

o Press and hold the FEED Key. The printer will begin advancing me dia;

Upon successful completion, the ‘Calibration Completed’ message will flash; the printer will feed to the next label TOF and ‘Ready’ will be displayed. (A ‘Warni ng Low Backing’ message may appear if usi ng notched media or media on a transparent liner; however, the calibration was successful).

;

When ‘Uncalibrated’ is displayed, follow the Media Sensor Calibration procedure in Section 5.0.

adjusted (see Section 3.2), and that the printer is idle.

allow at least one label gap (or mark) to advance under the sensor during this process.

Note: Media containing large gaps may require a change in the ‘Paper Out

Distance’ setting; see Section 4.1.2.

Calibration Hints:

In certain cases, the printer may have trouble differentiating between the label and liner. If the printer stops feeding in the middle of a label or if ‘Cannot Calibrate’ is displayed, try calibrating over a longer distance:

Press and hold the FEED Key to allow two or more gaps (or marks) to

advance under the sensor.

If this method fails, see Media Sensor Calibration (Section 5.0).

I-Class 23

3.5 Outputting Labels

In addition to directly outputting labels from the printer, there are several optional output configurations available.

3.5.1 Rewinding

With the Internal Media Rewinder option, the printer can wind the printed labels and backing material. To rewind labels:

;

Note: When winding labels, do not allow the outer diameter of the roll to

exceed 6 inches (154 mm) on the Media Rewind Hub.

n Remove the Front Fascia.

o Remove the Tear Plate by

first removing the Thumbscrew.

p Position the Rewind Plate

on the printer and install and tighten the Thumbscrew.

q If installed, remove the

Rewind Retainer and Media Clip from the Media Rewind Hub (see drawing next page).

r Load media as described in Section 3.1, press the FEED Key and advance

approximately 20 inches (51 cm) of media.

24 I-Class

s Route the media back to the Media Rewind Hub, as shown below.

t Insert the leading edge into a Slot on the Media Rewind Hub then insert the

Media Clip into a Slot to secure it in place.

u Position the Rewind Retainer lightly against the edge of the media on the

Media Rewind Hub. Tighten the Thumbscrew to secure the retainer in place.

v Manually rotate the Media Rewind Hub to remove any slack in the media.

Close the Access Cover.

Removal: Remove the Rewind Retainer and Media Clip. Grasp the end of the hub. While

pulling outwardly, squeeze the hub together to collapse it and then slide off the labels.

I-Class 25

3.5.2 On-Demand Dispensing

When equipped with the Peel and Present option, labels are dispensed then separated automatically from the liner for immediate application.

n With the Peel and Present

Mechanism installed on the printer, pull outward on the Latch and allow the Roller Bracket to swing forward.

o With media loaded as

described in Section 3.1, press the FEED Ke y to adva nce approximately 20 inches (51 cm) of media. Remove all of the labels from the backing ma ter ia l.

p Route the backing material through the Roller Bracket as shown (the

backing should go under the top black roller, then out).

q Raise the Roller Bracket up to its latched position.

26 I-Class

☞

r If installed, remove the Media Clip and the Rewind Retainer from the

Media Rewind Hub. Route the Backing Material around the Media Rewind Hub, as shown.

s Insert the leading edge into a Slot on the Media Rewind Hub then insert the

Media Clip into a Slot to secure it in place.

t Position the Rewind Retainer lightly against the edge of the backing on the

Media Rewind Hub. Tighten the Thumbscrew to secure the retainer in place.

u Manually rotate the Media Rewind Hub to remove any slack in the media.

Close the Access Cover.

For on-demand printing, ensure that the Present Sensor has been enabled; see Section 4.1.4.

Removal:

Remove the Rewind Retainer and Media Clip. Grasp the hub. Pull the hub

outward then squeeze to collapse it and slide off the backing material.

I-Class 27

☞

3.5.3 Cutting

When equipped with a Cutter, cut labels are dispensed automatically from the printer. To load media on a cutter equipped printer

n Ensure the leading edge of media is clean, straight and firmly attached to the

liner.

o Load media according to Section 3.1, except route the media out through the

Opening of the Cutter Assembly.

For label cutting, ensure that the Cutter has been enabled; see Section

4.1.4.

28 I-Class

Using the Front Panel

4.0 Operation

The front panel is comprised of three indicator lights, a Liquid Crystal Display and five mode-dependant keys. The selectable modes (Ready, Menu and Quick Test) and the related functions of the printer keys are detailed below.

4.0.1 Ready Mode: Normal Operatio n (Ready Light ‘On’)

n The PAUSE Key temporarily suspends printing.

Pressing it again will return the printer to normal operation.

o The FEED Key advances one label, and clears any

corrected faults. Pressing and holding ca uses the printer to perform

a Quick Media Calibration; see Section 3.4.

p The CANCEL Key ‘pauses’ the printer and then

prompts you for confir mati on. If yes, the current job is cancelled. The printer remains paused.

Pressing and holding four seconds will reset the printer and clear temporary host settings (soft reset).

q The MENU Key toggles between the Ready and

Menu Modes. In the Ready Mode, pressing and holding four seconds will change the display contrast.

r The TEST Key enters (or exits) the Quick Test

Menu.

I-Class 29

4.0.2 Menu Mode: Configuratio n (Ready Light ‘Flashing’)

n The DOWN ARROW Key scrolls to the previous

menu i te m on the sa me me nu l eve l . It al so decrements numerical values in most menu selections.

o The UP ARROW Key scrolls to the next menu

item. It also increments numerical values in most menu selections.

p The ENTER Key selects the function, item or

displayed value. It also moves between selections within multiple parameter fields.

q The ESCAPE Key moves to the previous menu

level, and finally back to the Ready Mode.

r When a print job is in progress, pressing the TEST

Key will terminate the job. The printer will prompt you for confirmation; if ‘Yes,’ the current job is cancelled and then Menu Mode is restored.

30 I-Class

4.0.3 Quick Test Mode: Print Test Labels

;

Note: The Quick Test Mode functions are disabled while processing data

from communications interfaces until the Host Timeout value expires.

n The DOWN ARROW Ke y scrolls to the previous

test function.

The UP ARROW Key scrolls to the next test

function.

The ENTER Key will change the selected test

label quantity of 2, 100, 1000, or 9999 (except the ‘Configuration Label’, quantity of one). Holding down the key scrolls quanti ties.

The ESCAPE Key will exit the Quick Test Mode

without printing.

The TEST Key will print the selected test label at the selected quantity. During test label printing, this key also functions as a cancel key (the printer will prompt you for confirmation before cancellation occurs).

☞

I-Class 31

You can program a time delay between the printing of test labels using the ‘Print Test Rate’ feature; see Section 4.1.7.

4.0.4 Indicator Lights

4.0.5 LCD

n ‘On’ indicates that the printer is powered ‘On’

and, after initialization, it indicates the Ready Mode.

‘Slow Flashing’ indicates Menu Mode. ‘Fast Flashing’ indicates data is being received

and processed.

o ‘On’ indicates a ‘Paused’ condition.

p ‘Slow Flashing’ indicates a Warning.

‘Fast Flashing’ indicates a Fault.

See Section 6.1 for a listing of associated

messages.

n Liqui d Crystal Display The display provides several types of information:

Following a brief power-up sequence

(initialization), the ‘Ready’ message.

The time and date, if the printer has received it

from one of the following: the host, the front panel setting, or the Time and Date option.

A label counter during a batch print job. The Menu System when in Menu Mode. Any prompt, condition, downloading, warning,

or fault message.

32 I-Class

4.0.6 Resetting the Printer

Depending upon the method used, there are three reset levels possible:

4.0.6.1 Soft Reset

To reset the printer and clear any temporary host settings:

With the printer ‘On’, press and hold the CANCEL Key for approximately four seconds.

4.0.6.2 Level One Reset

To return the printer to the factory default settings or, if saved, to restore the Factory Setting File:

n Turn ‘Off’ the printer.

o Press and hold the PAUSE and CANCEL Keys while turning ‘On’ the

printer; continue to depress the keys until the ‘SYSTEM RESET’ messa ge flashes.

;

Note: This reset has the same effect as the System Settings / Set

Factory Defaults selection in the menu system. (See Section 4.1 for a listing of the factory default settings and Section 4.1.5 for information about the Factory Setting File.)

4.0.6.3 Level Tw o Reset

To return the printer to the factory default settings, and clear all the calibration and adjustment parameters:

n Turn ‘Off’ the printer.

o Press and hold the P AUSE, FEED, and CANCEL Keys while turni ng ‘On’

the printer; continue to depress the keys until the ‘SYSTEM RESET’ message flashes.

;

Note: After executing a Level 2 Reset, the media calibration must be

performed; see Section 5.0. A listing of the factory default settings can be found in Section 4.1.

I-Class 33

4.1 The Menu System

Printer operation can be controlled through the user interface, allowing the operator access to these six menu system branches:

Media Settings Print Control Printer Options System Settings Communicatio ns Diagnostics

While in the menu system, the current selection will be indicated with an asterisk (*) next to the displayed item on the LCD. Selections designated with a section symbol (§) will require a printer reset before becoming effective. A reset will be automatically invoked when exiting the menu system and answering ‘Yes’ to the ‘Save Changes’ prompt. Changes made will be saved. When power is removed, the new settings will be restored upon power-up.

The same functional commands from your host computer may, in some cases, override the printer’s menu settings. In addition, as a security feature for the prevention of accidental or unauthorized changes, the menu system has a password protection feature.

;

Note: In the following subsections, the factory default settings are denoted

with the ‘’ symbol. Selections denoted with a diamond ( ) can only

be changed through the menu system - all other selections can be overridden by host software commands. Consult the I & W Class Programmer’s Manual for specific information.

34 I-Class

4.1.1 Entrance and Exit Prompts

With ‘Ready’ displayed on the LCD, press the Key to enter Menu Mode.

;

Note: While in Menu Mode, the printer will stop processing new DPL (or

bitmapped) data.

MENU MODE Depending upon the co nfiguratio n of the

printer, the following Entrance and Exit Prompts may be displayed when accessing or leaving the Menu System.

ENTER PASSWORD 0 0 0 0

KEEP HOST CHANGES? ENTER = YES

SAVE CHANGES? ENTER = YES

You are atte mpting to enter Menu Mode. Security has been enabled and now the correct user-definable password is required before accessing the Menu Mode functions.

You are now entering Menu Mode. Existing Host commands have affected the configuration of the printer. Pressing ENTER will save these changes; otherwise, the printer will revert to previously saved settings.

You are now exiting Menu Mode, but have made changes to the printer’s settings. Pressing ENTER will reconfigure your printer according to these changes; otherwise, the printer will revert to previously saved settings.

;

Note: If changes have been made that require a

reset, the printer will automatically invoke that reset.

I-Class 35

4.1.2 Media Settings

MEDIA TYPE Selects the printing method.

DIRECT THERMAL

THERMAL TRANSFER

For use with heat sensitive media.

For use with media requiring a ribbon to create an image.

SENSOR TYPE Selects the top-of-form (TOF) sensing

method for the media.

GAP

The printer recognizes the TOF by sensing gaps in the media.

CONTINUOUS

No TOF sensing. The LABEL LENGTH setting determines the length.

REFLECTIVE

The printer recognizes the TOF by sensing reflective (black) marks on the media.

LABEL LENGTH

04.00in (0-99.99)

MAXIMUM LABEL LENGTH

16.00in (0-99.99)

When the Sensor Type is set to Continuous, this value is used to determine the TOF.

Sets the maximum length between TOF marks (gap or reflective). If this limit is exceeded, a top of form fault is declared.

PAPER OUT DISTANCE

00.25in (0-99.99)

Sets the length of travel before an Out of Stoc k condi tion is declared.

LABEL WIDTH Sets the maxi mum limit for the printable

surface width. Objects extending beyond this limit will NOT print; see Appendix C for the default values.

SENSOR CALIBRATION

Adjusts the printer to sense your media.

PERFORM CALIBRATION

The user follows steps to allow the printer to calculate the empty, gap (or mark), and paper values to set the media sensor.

ADVANCED ENTRY

The user directly inputs the best values to adjust the media sensor.

SENSOR LEVELS

Sets threshold values for the media sensor parameters. Manual entry for paper, gap (or mark), and empty thresholds.

SENSOR GAIN

Observe A/D reading and set SENSOR GAIN. Adjusts the sensitivity of the sensor for custom label stock.

36 I-Class

☞

4.1.3 Print Control

Refer to Section 2.1.1 for detailed information on print quality controls.

HEAT

10 (0-30)

PRINT SPEED Controls the rate of label movement during

FEED SPEED Controls the rate of label movement between

REVERSE SPEED Controls the rate of label movement during

ROW OFFSET

00.00in (0-99.99)

COLUMN OFFSET

00.00 in (0-99.99)

PRESENT DISTANCE

0.00 in (0-4.00)

Controls the ‘burn-time’ of the printhead. This is the equivalent of Heat Setting on most label software programs.

the printing process; see Appendix C.

printing areas; see Appendix C.

backup positioning for start of print, cutting or present distance; see Appendix C.

Shifts the vertical start of print position. This is the user setting for row adjustment.

Shifts the horizontal, left-justified start of print position to the right without shifting the Label Width termination point to the right. This is the user setting for Column Adj ust.

Sets the label stop position past the start of print. When the next label format is received, the printer will automatically backfeed to the start position. If a quantity of more than one label is printed without a present sensor enabled, or if the present distance is set to zero, the printer will operate without reversing.

I-Class 37

Print Control (continued)

CUSTOM ADJUSTMENTS

DARKNESS XX (1-64)

ROW ADJUST XXX DOTS (-100 Æ 100)

COLUMN ADJUST XXX DOTS (0-128)

PRESENT ADJUST XXX DOTS (0-128)

These factory adjustments independently change the listed parameters to finely tune the printer and compensate for slight mechanical differences sometimes evident if multiple printers share label formats. In addition, each of the following adjustments has no factory default setting and restoring factory defaults will not affect these settings.

Controls the printhead strobe time to finetune the HEAT setting.

Shifts the vertical start of print position in dots upward or downward to fine-tune the ROW OFFSET setting; see Appendix C.

Shifts both the horizontal start o f print position and the LABEL WIDTH termination point to the right in dots to fine-tune the COLUMN OFFSET setting; see Appendix C. Adjusts the label stopping position in dots to fine-tune the PRESENT DISTANCE setting; see Appendix C.

38 I-Class

4.1.4 Printer Options

MODULES Memory available for user storage of

graphics, fonts and label formats. (The physical presence of the respective memory module must be detected to show the function selections in the menu system. See Appendix C for a listing of all possible modules.)

PRINT DIRECTORY

PRINT FILE

FORMAT MODULE

DELETE FILE

PACK MODULE

PRESENT SENSOR Used for on-demand label dispensing, where

ENABLED

Prints a label directory of selected, or of all available modules, the available space on these modules, the files present, and the type of module and files.

The user may select from a list of available files for sample printing. The user may select from a list of available modules for formatting – all data will be erased.

The user may select from a list of available files for deleting (protected modules will not appear). Bytes will not be retrieved until the module that contained the deleted file is packed. Packing the module removes files marked as deleted and defragments existing file structures to recover space.

a printed label blocking the sensor will inhibit further printing until removed. (The physical presence of the device must be detected to show the ENABLE/DISABLE selections.)

Enables the sensor for on-demand printing.

DISABLED

NOT INSTALLED

Disables the sensor.

No Present Sensor is detected.

I-Class 39

Printer Options (continued)

CUTTER Used to cut media into separate labels.

(The physical presence of a device must be detected to show the ENABLE/DISABLE selections.)

ENABLED

Enables cutting.

DISABLED

NOT INSTALLED

Disables cutting.

No Cutter is detected.

SCANNER Used to check the bar codes on the labels.

(The physical presence of a device must be detected to show the menu selections.)

NOT INSTALLED

MODE

No Scanner is detected.

Enables bar codes to be read by the Scanner.

PICKET FENCE

Reads horizontal bar codes (individual bars appear like the pickets in a fence) as the label exits the printer.

DISABLED

BARCODES

Disables the scanner.

Enables the scanner to read the respective bar code. Also see Appendix B.

;

Note: To maximize throughput and decoding

integrity enable only those symbologies that will be read.

CODE 39 IATA

CODABAR INTERLEAVED 2 OF 5 INDUSTRIAL 2 OF 5 CODE 93 CODE 128 MSI/PLESSEY EAN(13/8) EAN(13/8)+2 EAN(13/8)+5 UPC(A/E) UPC(A/E)+2 UPC(A/E)+5

40 I-Class

Printer Options (continued)

BARCODE COUNT 00 (00-99)

REDUNDANCY LEVEL

READ BARCODE (1X)

READ BARCODE (2X)

READ BARCODE (3X)

READ BARCODE (4X)

Used to set the specific number of barcodes to be read on the label. 00 selects AUTO Mode, allowing a variable number of barcodes to be read per label format. AUTO Mode should not be used with imaged (bitmapped) barcodes or with certain bar code addendums as shown in Appendix B.

Used to ensure the data integrity of the bar code. The selected level determines the number of consecutive, identical decodes required before passing the bar code (i.e., if set to three times, the barcode will not pass until it has decoded the same values three times in succession.)

;

Note: Depending upon the print speed, higher verification levels may cause erroneous failures when scanning multiple bar codes or bar codes that are small in height.

One decode per barcode.

Two decodes per barcode.

Three decodes per barcode.

Four decodes per barcode.

READ BARCODE (5X)

READ BARCODE (6X)

BUZZER

ENABLED

DISABLED

SET DEFAULTS

Five decodes per barcode.

Six decodes per barcode.

Audible signal indicating a ‘good’ bar code.

;

Note: Disable this function for higher label

throughput speeds.

Enables the buzzer.

Disables the buzzer.

Reset the current settings of the Scanner to the default settings.

I-Class 41

Printer Options (continued)

GPIO PORT Model dependant option used to interface

the printer to an external controlling device (see Appendix D).

GPIO DEVICE

Input control signal is required to print a label.

DISABLED

Disables the GPIO.

APPLICATOR

BARCODE VERIFIER

START OF PRINT

ACT IVE H IGH

ACT IVE L OW

END OF PRINT

LOW PULSE

HIGH PULSE

ACT IVE L OW

ACT IVE H IGH

Enables the GPIO for a Label Applicator.

Enables the GPIO for the Barcode Verifier.

Programmable signal input controlling the Start of Print (SOP).

Signal must go high at SOP.

Signal must go low at SOP.

Programmable signal output for End of Print (EOP).

Low p ulse generated at E OP.

High pulse generated at EOP.

Signal goes low at EOP.

Signal goes high at EOP.

42 I-Class

4.1.5 System Settings

CONFIGURATION FILE Options for storage and recall of printer

configuration files. See Appendix F for details.

RESTORE AS CURRENT

SAVE SETTING AS

DELETE FILE

FACTORY SETTING FILE

INTERNAL MODULE

1024 KB

DEFAULT MODULE

D

SCALE ABLE FONT CACHE

312 KB

SINGLE BYTE SYMBOLS Selects the code page used to print single

PC_850 MULTILINGUAL

Provides a list of available configuration files. Selecting a file from the list causes a printer reset; afterward, the printer is configured according to the activated file.

Saves the entire effective configuration of the printer to a file. Unique names with up to nineteen characters are possible. Provides a list of available configuration files. Files selected are immediately removed, freeing the module.

;

Note: A currently activated file can not be

deleted.

Provides a list of available configuration files. The selected file will be restored whenever a Level 1 reset is performed; see Section 4.0.6.2.

Sets the number of 1K blocks allocated for the internal RAM ‘D’ module. Available memory dependent upon model; see Appendix C.

Sets the default module used to store files when no other module is specified; see Appendix C.

Sets the number of 1K blocks allocated for the scaleable font engine. Available memory dependent upon model; see Appendix C.

byte fonts unless otherwise specified in DPL.

61 selectable sets are standard; see the I & W Class Programmer’s Manual for details.

I-Class 43

System Settings (continued)

DOUBLE BYTE SYMBOLS When equipped with the ILPC option, this

selects the code page used to print double byte fonts unless otherwise specified in DPL; see the I & W Class Programmer’s Manual for details.

UNICODE

Unicode (including Korean)

Government Bureau Industry Standard; Chinese (PRC)

BIG 5

JIS

SHIFT JIS

EUC

Taiwan encoded

Japanese Industry Standard

Shift Japanese Industry Standard

Extended UNIX Code

TIME AND DATE Allows the user to set Ti me and Date.

MEDIA COUNT ERS Internal record of inches printed and time

of use.

ABSOLUTE COUNTER

Shows the number of inches printed since being set at the factor y. Not resettable.

RESETTABLE COUNTER

The number of inches printed since the last reset. User may reset.

RESET COUNTER

Resets the Resettable Counter to zero.

PRINT CONFIGURATION Prints the effective configuration of the

system. In addition, if settings were changed that require a reset to become effective, this will be indicated with the ‘§’ symbol.

A bulleted item ( ) indicates that it was changed via the host, but not saved in nonvolatile memory.

44 I-Class

System Settings (continued)

CONFIGURATION LEVEL To upgrade the application program

(resident software) version of the printer, the hardware and software compatibility levels must match for the update to be accepted. This information is displayed here; it is also printed on a configuration label.

PRINTER KEY

Each printer has a unique Key number in the following form:

vvvv-wwxx-yyyyyy-zzz

Where:

vvvv– represents the model number of

the application loaded

wwxx– represents the hardware /

software feature level, where: ww – represents the hardware

feature level of the main board:

PA = PCB 51-2178-xx TB = PCB 51-2301-xx

xx – represents the software

feature level:

10 = Standard DPL 11 = 4208 20 = Internal CG Times

Font

The printer will accept software feature levels up to the ‘xx’ value. (This feature level requires Datamax authorization to upgrade.)

yyyyyy– is a manufacturing date code

zzz– is a unique ti me stamp

UPGRADE PRINTER CODE

This func tion is used to up grade the software feature level of the printer. Datamax authorization is required.

I-Class 45

System Settings (continued)

SET FACTORY DEFAULTS Parameters in this menu listing with the

‘’ symbol are the designated defaults.

SET FACTORY DEFAULTS

Overwrite the current settings with the factory default settings or, if selected, will restore the Factory Setting File.

;

Note: The reset will be automatic. If no Factory Setting File is used, all menu settings will be restored except CUSTOM ADJUSTMENTS, and the media and ribbon sensor calibrations.

FORMAT ATTRIBUTES Affects the manner in which overlapping

text and graphics are treated as the label is printed. Consult the I & W Class Programmer’s Manual for details.

TRANSPARENT

Intersecting text strings, images, and bar codes will not be printed. (An odd number of overlapping objects will print.)

XOR

Intersecting text strings, images, and bar codes print on top of one another.

OPAQUE

Interacting text strings, images, and bar codes are obliterated by those formatted last. Each character cell is treated as opaque.

IMAGING MODE

Instructs the printer whether to pre-image the label format.

;

Note: This selection can affect the accuracy of time-stamped labels and label throughput.

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.

SINGLE LABEL

The printer images the next label only after the previous label has been successfully printed. Single processing provides timestamps that are more accurate, but it slows label throughput time.

46 I-Class

System Settings (continued)

PAUSE MODE When enabled, suspends printing between

each label until the PAUSE Key is pressed.

ENABLED

Requires an operator press the PAUSE Key after each label.

DISABLED

The printer completes label batch without pausing between labels.

PEEL MODE Specifies that a Feed operation be

prevented when the label is presented and not removed, or if the printer is to wait for the GPIO start of print signal.

ENABLED

Feed is inhibited according to the above criteria.

DISABLED

Feed is always enabled.

SECURITY

Provides the user with the ability to password protect all printer settings made through the front panel.

SELECT SECURITY

Enable or disable the menu system’s security feature.

ENABLED

DISABLED

MODIFY PASSWORD

Password protected.

No protection.

Modify the password required to access the menu system when security is enabled.

UNITS OF MEASURE Selects the measurement system in whic h

the system’s settings are represented in the menu system and on configuration labels.

METRIC

Metric standard: lengths given in millimeters and counters in centimeters.

IMPERIAL

Inch standard: lengths and counters given in inches.

INPUT MODE Defines the type of printer language.

DPL

LINE

Standard DPL processing.

Standard DPL processing with addition Line mode Template processing enabled. Line Mode exacts data terminated by a carriage return to be inserted in a DPL template and printed.

I-Class 47

System Settings (continued)

;

Note: As indicated, the following menu selections will only appear

according to the model of your printer.

PLUS EMULATION This instructs the firmware to process

specific DPL data as would the Prodigy Pl us® printer without all of the variations. The calculated Column position based on 200 DPI using a 203 DPI printhead.

ENABLED

This list of exceptions will be updated with new firmware releases:

Data Terminator – I 2 of 5 Barcodes

(IDs D, J, a nd L), the first nonnumeric character processed will terminate the barcode data field.

Bar Size – I 2 of 5 Barcode (ID L),

when the bar size is specified greater than P (25), the size is automatically decreased to 10.

Human Readable Fonts – The EAN

and UPC barcodes (IDs B, C, F, G, M, and N) print a fixed font size.

Lines and boxes: Rotations 2 and 4

are affected by the vertical multiplication factor defined in the DPL Dxx co mmand.

Column positions greater than the

printhead width are adjusted back to the printable area and printed.

DISABLED

The above exceptions are disabled.

I-4206, I-4208, & I-4212 Models

48 I-Class

System Settings (continued)

;

Note: As indicted, the following menu selections will only appear according

to the model of your printer.

ALLEGRO EMULATION This instructs the firmware to process

specific DPL data as would the Allegro® printer without all of the variations.

ENABLED

The row position is calculated based on 194 DPI.

Lines and boxes: Rotations 2 and 4

are affected by the vertical multiplication factor defined in the DPL Dxx co mmand.

Column positions greater than the

printhead width are adjusted back to the printable area and printed.

DISABLED

The above exception is disabled.

I-4206, I-4208, & I-4212 Models

DPI EMUL ATION For users who want to print DPL files

intended for a 203 DPI printer.

DISABLED

Label formats interpreted as intended for 406 DPI.

203 DOTS PER INCH

Label formats interpreted as intended for 203 DPI.

DPI EMUL ATION For users who want to print DPL files

intended for a 203 or 300 DPI printer.

DISABLED

Label formats interpreted as intended for 600 DPI.

300 DOTS PER INCH

Label formats interpreted as intended for 300 DPI.

203 DOTS PER INCH

Label formats interpreted as intended for 203 DPI.

I-Class 49

I-4406 Model

I-4604 Model

System Settings (continued)

COLUMN EMUL ATION

Provides compatibility with legacy Datamax products. The Prodigy Plus and Allegro calculated column positions using 200 DPI math but had 203 DPI printheads. Also, decreasing the DPI compensates for different printer models column “1” positions.

203 DOTS (180-203)

Selects the desired DPI emulation.

SOP EMULATION Enables the <STX>O and <STX>f pri nt

positioning commands to allow backward compatibility with label formats designed for other printers. (When changing these values, the printer will automatically feed two labels to setup the new print position.)

110 (PRODPLUS)

220 (ALLEGRO)

250 (PRODIGY)

DISABLED

Emulates the Prodigy Plus® printer.

Emulates the Allegro® printer.

Emulates the Prodigy™ printer.

No emulation, natural start of print position.

BACK AFTER PRINT When the present distance is set with the

cutter, present sensor or GPIO option enabled, this setting determines the timing of the label back up.

ENABLED

Commands the printer to immediately back up the label after the cut operation, the GPIO start of print signal is received, or the present sensor is clear. It provides the advantage of faster throughput.

DISABLED

The printer will not initiate repositioning until the next label is ready to print. May help prevent the curling of the label edge.

50 I-Class

System Settings (continued)

MENU LANGUAGE

Selects the language in which the menu system messages and configuration label are shown. Only languages that are resident will be available.

ENGLISH

FRANCAIS

ITAL IANO

DEUTSCH

ESPANOL

USER DEFINED

English

French

Italian

German

Spanish

User defined, downloaded language(s).

FAULT HANDLING When a faulted condition (ribbon or paper

out, failed bar code, etc.) has been detected, this setting determines the action to be taken by the operator and the printer.

LEVEL

Establishes the required corrective action following a fault.

1

Stops and displays a fault message. The FEED Key must be pressed to clear the fault and continue after the problem is corrected by the operator.

Displays a fault message after the printer backs up and prints a VOID Message on the defective label (no message will be printed if there is insufficient space for the VOID text height on the defective label or if the fault occurred after the entire label was completed).

;

Note: The label is considered completed when

it reaches its presen t distance at or above the TOF.

I-Class 51

System Settings (continued)

VOID DISTANCE 0.25in (0-2.00)

RETRY COUNT 1 (0-3)

The distance to backup on the defective label and the font size in which to print the VOID text.

Establishes the number of retries the printer will attempt to reprint a defective label after it has been voided. If the last label printed has been voided, it will be reprinted after correcting the problem. After the last retry, the printer will stop and display a fault message.

;

Note: If the CANCEL Key is pressed when the printer is faulted and the last printed label was not completed, the operator has a choice to cancel the reprint of the last label. Subsequent pressing of the CANCEL Key will allow canceling the entire label batch.

(Pressing the CANCEL Key while the printer is

stopped and faulted will indicate whether the last label is waiting to be reprinted. The operator has a choice to cancel the reprint by pressing the ENTER Key or allowing the reprint to take place by pressing the ESCAPE Key.)

52 I-Class

4.1.6 Communications

SERIAL PORT A

BAUD RATE

38400 28800 19200 9600 4800 2400 1200

PROTOCOL

BOTH SOFTWARE HARDWARE NONE

PARITY

NONE ODD EVEN

DATA BITS

7 8

STOP BITS

Controls the communications settings for Serial Port A.

Determines the serial communication rate.

38400 bits per second 28800 bits per second 19200 bits per second 9600 bits per second 4800 bits per second 2400 bits per second 1200 bits per second Sets the data flow control (handshaking)

method. Uses both ha ndsha king me thods. XON/XOFF CTS/DTR

No flow control is used. Sets Word parity

No parity Odd parity Even parity Sets Word length

Seven bit Word length Eight bit Word length Sets the number of stop bits

1 2

SERIAL PORT B

One stop bit Two stop bits

Same as Serial Port A, for an optional connection. If not present, this displays ‘NOT INSTALLED’ when accessed.

I-Class 53

Communications (continued)

PARALLEL PORT A

Controls the communications settings for Parallel Port A.

PORT DIRECTION

Determines if messages are sent from the printer to the host via the parallel port.

UNI-DIRECTIONAL

BI-DIRECTIONAL

One-way pri nter communication.

Enables IEEE 1284 back-channel operation.

PARALLEL PORT B

Same as Parallel Port A, for an optional Ethernet connection. If not present, this displays ‘NOT INSTALLED’ when accessed.

;

Note: If the ‘LOCKED’ message appears when attempting to access the NIC ADAPTER menu, the printer may have active print requests or multiple users may be trying to access these parameters (for example, during simultaneous telenet sessions).

NIC ADAPTER

Network Interface Card Adapter (optional). If not present, this displays ‘NOT INSTALLED’ when accessed.

After making changes to these parameters, save the changes, exit the menu system, and cycle the printer’s power ‘Off’ and ‘On’ for the changes to take effect.

;

Note: The boot process (taking up to t wo minutes) must be completed at powe r-up. During this time, the NIC Adapter will not be accessible or configurable; "DMXNET INACTIVE" will be indicated when in the menu system or on a Configuration Label. After this process, you will be able to configure the options provided using

the menu system.

IP ADDRESS

The static IP address of the NIC Adapter. This is in standard dotted-decimal format.

SUBNET MASK

The static subnet assigned to the NIC Adapter.

54 I-Class

Communications (continued)

GATEWAY

SNMPTRAP DESTINATION

PROTOCOL

NETWARE

ENABLED

DISABLED

DISCOVERY

DHCP

ENABLED

DISABLED

Specifi es the network gateway address the NIC Adapter should use.

Selects the Network IP address where all SNMP Traps will be sent. If zeroed, no traps are sent.

The network protocols recognized by the NIC Adapter.

Allow the printer to be driven from an NDS Novell Print Queue.

Netware is enabled by default.

Ignore the Netware protocol. Select this option if Netware is not needed.

This is the address discovery method used by the NIC Adapter if a static address is not utilized. If no server for any of the discovery methods is found, the static value specified above is used.

;

Note: For faster NIC Adapter boot times,

disable any discovery methods not used.

Dynamic Host Control Protocol. Automatically assign IP address from a DHCP Server.

DHCP is enabled by default.

WARNING! An IP Address assigned by a DHCP has precedence over any static IP Address stored in the NIC Adapter.

Disable DHCP.

;

Note: Select this option to insure any static IP

stored is used by the NIC Adapter.

I-Class 55

Communications (continued)

HOST SETTINGS Settings which affect all communications

with a host.

HOST TIMEOUT 10 SEC (1-60)

The number of seconds a communications port must be idle before the printer may process data from a different port. This value is also used to “timeout” an image / label format download.

CONTROL CODES Allows the operator to change the prefix of

the software commands interpreted by the printer.

STANDARD CODES

Hex 01 = SOH command; Hex 02 = STX command; count-b y = ^; He x 1B = ESC; Hex 0x0D = Carriage Return

ALTERNATE CODES

Hex 5E = SOH command; Hex 7E = STX command; count-b y = @; He x 1B = ESC; Hex 0x0D = Carriage Return

ALTERNATE CODES 2

Hex 5E = SOH command; Hex 7E = STX command; count-b y = @; He x 1B = ESC ; Hex 0x7C = Carriage Return

ALTERNATE CODES 3

Hex 5E = SOH command; He x 23 = STX command; count-b y = @; He x 1B = ESC; Hex 0x0D = Carriage Return

FEEDBACK CHARACTERS

Returns a Hex 1E, [RS], after each label successfully prints, and a Hex 1F, [US], after each batch of labels is printed.

ENABLED

Feedback characters are sent to the host.

DISABLED

ESC SEQUENCES

No feedback characters are sent.

Allows data containing invalid ESC control code sequences to be processed.

ENABLED

DISABLED

Normal printer operating mode.

ESC sequences are ignored and the data is processed. Bitmapped font downloads are disabled in this mode.

56 I-Class

Communications (continued)

HEAT COMMAND

ENABLED

DISABLED

SPEED COMMANDS

ENABLED

DISABLED

Allows the user to disable the DPL Heat Command, providing compatibility with other DATAMAX printers.

Normal printer operating mode.

DPL Heat Commands are ignored. The heat value is controlled via the menu setting; see Print Control, Section 4.1.3.

Allows the user to disable the DPL speed commands (Print, Feed, and Reverse).

Normal printer operating mode.

DPL speed commands are ignored. The print, feed and reverse speeds are controlled via the menu setting; see Print Control, Section 4.1.3.

I-Class 57

4.1.7 Diagnostics

HEX DUMP MODE Most co mmonl y used for troubleshooting.

Prints data and instructions received from the host rather than interpreting them as label formats; see Section 6.2.

ENABLE

Prints raw ASCII data received from the host rather than executing the commands.

DISABLE

Executes and prints label formats (normal operating mode).

OPTIONS TESTING Tests currently i nstalled options

TEST PRESENT SENSOR

TEST CUTTER

PERFORM TEST 1 TIME

MONITOR GPIO INPUT

TEST GPIO OUTPUT

TEST SCANNER

SCAN TEST

ALIGNMENT TEST

PRINT TEST RATE (min) 000 (0-120)

Performs a functional test of the Present Sensor circuitry.

Performs a functional test of the optional cutter mechanism and circuitry.

The cutter will cycle 1, 10 or 100 times (selectable). The results of each attempt will be displayed.

Performs a functional test of the Scanner.

Enters “read once mode.” A bar code is read and the decoded results are displayed.

Enters “constant read mode.” Bar codes are read; decoded results are displayed; and, a read-count is incremented.

The number of minutes to delay between the printing of batches of labels in Quick Test Mode.

58 I-Class

Diagnostics (continued)

SENSOR READINGS Analog Sensor readings are displayed.

THR TRAN RIBM 24V Æ 255 255 255 255

Å PS HD RANK 255 255 255

RIBBON SENSOR LIMITS Displays ribbon sensor ADC low and high

RIBBO N ADC LOW HIGH

070 164

Live sensor values are displayed. View can be toggled with the FORWARD and REVERSE Keys. Maximum values are shown in this example: thermistor sensor, transmissive (gap) media sensor (TRAN is replaced with REFL when the SENSOR TYPE is set to ‘reflective’), ribbon sensor, 24 volt power supply sensor.

Present sensor, head down sensor, printhead ranking resistor.

values used for motion detection. Approximate default values are shown

here (actual values will vary).

I-Class 59

4.2 Display Messages

The printer displays several different types of information (if not in the menu system or Quick Test Mode):

¾ User Prompts and Condition Messages (also see Section 4.1.1 for a listing

of the Enter/Exit Prompts)

¾ Application and Boot Loader Updating Messages (see Section 5.4 and 5.5) ¾ Fault and Warni ng Messages (see Section 6.1)

4.2.1 User Prompts and Condition Messages

User Prompts alert the operator to a required action. Condition Messages are used to indicate an operational state.

User Prompts and Condition Messages

Displaye d Message Description Conditio n(s)

! DMFBSJOH!GBVMUT

DBMJCSBUJOH

DBODFM!SFQSJOU@ FOUFS!LFZ!>!ZFT

DBODFM!CBUDI@ FOUFS!LFZ!>!ZFT

QBVTFE

The printer is trying to clear a fault condition.

A media calibration is being performed.

The CANCEL or TEST Key was pressed during the fault handling process.

The CANCEL or TEST Key was pressed during a batch job.

The printer is paused or offline.

Occurs when the FEED Key is pressed after the correction of a fault.

The FEED Key was pressed and held.

The faulted label will be cancelled if ENTER is pressed, then the remaining labels in the batch will be printed.

The current print batch will be cancelled if ENTER is pressed; the remaining labels will not be printed.

The printer is in a paused condition.

60 I-Class

User Prompts and Condition Messages (continued)

Displaye d Message Description Conditio n(s)

Ready Mode.

SFBEZ

Normal operating mode. The printer is ready to receive and process label formats.

SFNPWF!MBCFM

TZTUFN JOJUJBMJ[JOH

TZTUFN!SFTFU! JO!QSPHSFTT

VODBMJCSBUFE!

YYYY!PG!YYYY QSJOUJOH

A label is awaiting removal.

Normal power-up and soft reset condition.

The media calibration is not set.

The print job is being processed.

The Present Sensor option is enabled and a label blocks the sensor. Remove the label to continue printing.

Follows the ‘SYSTEM RESET IN PROGRESS’ message after a reset or power-up.

Occurs when the user resets the printer via the host or Front Panel.

Perform calibration; see Section 5.0.

Batch status indication, updated with each label printed.

I-Class 61

4.3 Quick Test Mode

This section explains the functions of the resident Quick Tests, accessible by pressing the Key on the Front Panel.

;

Notes: (1) With the exception of the Configuration Label, all Quick Test

labels require 4-inch (102mm) wide media to print the entire format. If using narrower media, change the Label Width setting (Section

4.1.2) to match your media’s width to avoid printing on the platen.

(2) During any Quick Test, press the Key or the Key to stop printing.

(3) Using the ‘Print Test Rate’ feature (Section 4.1.7), a time delay can be set for printing labels in Quick Test Mode.

4.3.1 Print Quality Label

The Print Quality Label provides an indication of overall print quality at a preselected heat and speed setting. This format consists of compliant bar codes in fence and ladder orientations, assorted font sizes, and graphic fill patterns. These can be used to ensure conformance, as well as aesthetics. To print a Print Quality Label:

n Press the Key.

o Use the Key to

scroll to ‘Print Quality Label’.

p Use the Key to

select a quantity; see Section

4.0.3.

q Press the Key to

start printing.

62 I-Class

4.3.2 Configuration Label

The Configuration Label provides printer valuable database information, as detailed in Section 4.1.

To print a Configuration Label:

n Press the Key.

o Use the Key to scroll to

‘Print Configuratio n’.

p Press the Key to print.

;

Note: The contents of this label may vary with the application version and printer model and equipped options. To capture all the information, use media at least 2 inches wide (51mm) with the Label Width setting matched

accordingly (see Section 4.1.2).

I-Class 63

4.3.3 Quick Ribbon Test Label

The Quick Ribbon Test Label features a compliant picket-fence bar code that can be used to verify thermal transfer and print quality functions. To print a Quick Ribbon Test Label:

n Press the Key.

o Use the Key to scroll to ‘Ribbon Test Label’.

p Use the Key to select a quantity; see Section 4.0.3.

q Press the Key to start printing.

64 I-Class

4.3.4 Dot Test Pattern Label

The Dot Test Pattern Label features patterns that exercise the thermal elements of the printhead to indicate its overall condition (see examples below). To print a Dot Test Pattern Label:

n Press the Key.

o Use the Key to scroll to ‘Dot Test Pattern’.

p Use the Key to select a quantity; see Section 4.0.3.

q Press the Key to start printing.

Good Test Pattern Label:

Even pattern consistenc

indicates correct printhead operation.

Faulty Test Pattern Label:

Streaks indicate a dirty or

faulty printhead. See Section 5.3.1 for cleaning instructions.

I-Class 65

4.3.5 Validation Label

The Validation Label is another useful tool for evaluating overall print quality. To generate a Validation Label:

n Press the Key.

o Use the Key to scroll to ‘Validation Label’.

p Use the Key to select a quantity; see Section 4.0.3.

q Press the Key to start printing.

4.3.6 User Defined Label

The User Defined Label reprints the last format printed. The format can be any of the Quick Tests, a label from the host, or a label recalled from a memory module.

;

Note: If a job was cancelled prior to its completion, or i f power has been

removed since the last print job and the request for this label, this selection will not reprint the previous label.

66 I-Class

Adjusting and

Maintaining the Printer

5.0 Media Sensor Calibration

In addition to the Sensor Type selection, Media Sensor calibration ensures that each label is detected correctly and reliably. Perform calibration when the ‘Uncalibrated’ message is displayed. Two different methods are available to calibrate the printer: Standard and Advanced Entry.

5.0.1 Standard Calibration

Standard Calibration is appropriate for most media types. During the process, the printhead assembly can be raised for visual access to the media and media sensor. In addition, displayed sensor readings can be used to indicate the best position over the media, which is helpful when using small, position-critical TOF notches or marks. Three readings are required:

Empty: No media in the sensor. Gap (or Mark): Only the backing, notch, or reflective mark in the sensor. Paper: The label (with the liner attached) in the sensor.

To perform a Standard Calibration:

Step Operator Action Displaye d Message Comment

(Media should be loaded

and the appropriate Sensor Type selected.)

Turn ‘On’ the printer.

Press the Key.

Raise the printhead

assembly.

I-Class 67

! VODBMJCSBUFE

NFOV!NPEF NFEJB!TFUUJOHT

Wait until the

printer initializes (about six seconds).

You are entering Menu Mode.

Standard Calibration (continued)

Step Operator Action Displaye d Message Comment

Press the Key

to enter the Media Settings menu.

Press the Key

and scroll to ‘Sensor Calibration’.

Press the

Key.

NFEJB!TFUUJOHT NFEJB!UZQF

NFEJB!TFUUJOHT TFOTPS!DBMJCSBUJPO

TFOTPS!DBMJCSBUJPO QFSGPSN!DBMJCSBUJPO

See Section 4.1.2

for menu layout.

Press the Key to abort this

procedure.

You are beginning the standard calibration procedure.

Press the Key. Remove the media from

the Media Sensor then press any key.

! SFNPWF!MBCFM!TUPDL

QSFTT!BOZ!LFZ!=zzz?

This sets the

parameter for the ‘empty’ value.

Where ‘yyy’ is a numerical value representing the current sensor reading.

68 I-Class

Standard Calibration (continued)

Step Operator Action Displaye d Message Comment

Proceed according to

your media type: Die-cut stock: strip the

media from the backing and then reinsert it into the sensor; adjust the Sensor Eye Mark over the center of the backing.

Notched stock : adjust the Sensor Eye Mark over the center of the notch.

Reflective stock: Adjust the Sensor Eye Mark over the center of the facedown black mark.

Co nt i n uo us s t ock: go to Step 8.

Press any ke y to

TDBO!CBDLJOH QSFTT!BOZ!LFZ!!!=zzz?

Or, for reflective media:

TDBO!NBSL QSFTT!BOZ!LFZ!!!=zzz?

conti nue.

;

Note: Do NOT move the position of the Media Sensor after it has been

adjusted.

Position the label (and

backing, if any) under the Sensor Eye Mark.

;

Note: If using preprinted media, ensure the label area under the sensor is free of preprinted text, graphics or borders.

TDBO!QBQFS QSFTT!BOZ!LFZ!!=zzz?

Press any ke y to

This sets the

parameter for the ‘gap’ or ‘mark’ value.

Where ‘yyy’ is a numerical value representing the current sensor reading: useful in locating the best sensor position.

;

Note: Never position the sensor over a perforation when recording a sensor reading.

This sets the parameter for the ‘paper’ value.

Where ‘yyy’ is a numerical value representing the current sensor reading.

conti nue.

I-Class 69

Standard Calibration (continued)

Step Operator Action Displaye d Message Comment

Observe the display.

HBQ!NPEF DBMJCSBUJPO!DPNQMFUF

Or, for reflective media:

SFGMFDUJWF!NPEF! DBMJCSBUJPO!DPNQMFUF

Or, for continuous media:

The calibration

was successful.

See note below if another message was displayed.

DPOUJOVPVT!NPEF! DBMJCSBUJPO!DPNQMFUF

10 Exit upon successful

calibration: Back out of the menu tree by

! SFBEZ

The printer is now

ready to be gin printing.

repeatedly pressing the

Key.

If usi ng gap or reflective media, press and hold

If this calibration was uns uccessful, go to Section 5.0.2.

the FEED Key. The printer will begin advancing media; allow at least one label gap (or mark) to advance under the sensor.

;

Note: A ‘Warning Low Backing’ message indicates that the calibration was

successful with notched media or media on a transparent liner; see Section 6.1 for details on this and other possible messages.

70 I-Class

☞

5.0.2 Advanced Entry Calibration

Advanced Entry Calibration is the alternate method for special-case media types. The procedure has two parts:

1) You must list the sensor readings for the label and TOF values using different algorithms.

2) From your list the best algorithm is chosen, new readings ta ken and those values entered.

Advanced Entry Calibration will override all previous calibration settings; this method should be used only when Standard Calibration has failed.

To perform an Advanced Entry Calibration:

Step Operator Action Displaye d Message Comment

(Media should be loaded

and the appropriate Sensor Type selected.)

Turn ‘On’ the printer.

Press the Key.

Raise the printhead

assembly.

Press the Key

to enter the Media Settings menu.

Press the Key

and scroll to ‘Sensor Calibration’.

Press the

Key.

! VODBMJCSBUFE

NFOV!NPEF NFEJB!TFUUJOHT

NFEJB!TFUUJOHT NFEJB!UZQF

NFEJB!TFUUJOHT TFOTPS!DBMJCSBUJPO

TFOTPS!DBMJCSBUJPO QFSGPSN!DBMJCSBUJPO

Wait until the

printer initializes (about six seconds).

You are entering Menu Mode.

See Section 4.1.2 for menu layout.

Press the Key to abort this

procedure.

You are entering the calibration submenu.

I-Class 71

Advanced Entry Calibration (continued)

Step Operator Action Dis played Message Co mment

Press the Key

to scroll to ‘Advanced Entry’.

Press the Key.

Place the label under the

Sensor Eye Mark and lower the printhead assembly.

10 Press the Key

to select the setting (denoted by an ‘*’) and then record the sensor reading (the ‘yyy’ value) in a table similar to the one shown after Step 12, as a Label Value.

Next, press the Key to increment the Gain Number.

Repeat this step for each of the Gain Numbers (00-32).

TFOTPS!DBMJCSBUJPO BEWBODFE!FOUSZ

BEWBODFE!FOUSZ TFOTPS!MFWFMT

BEWBODFE!FOUSZ TFOTPS!HBJO

HBJO!USBO!!!!!=zzz? +11!!!!!!!!=1!.!42?

-OR-

HBJO!SFGM!!!!!=zzz? +11!!!!!!!!)1!.!42*

HBJO!USBO!!!!!=zzz? +11!!!!!!!!=1!.!42?

-OR-

HBJO!SFGM!!!!!=zzz? +11!!!!!!!!)1!.!42*

You are entering

Advanced Entry Calibration.

Press the Key to abort this

procedure.

You are beginning the Advanced Entry Calibration.

If usi ng preprinted media, ensure the label area under the sensor is free of preprinted text, grap hics or borders.

Where ‘yyy’ is a numerical value representing the current sensor reading: useful in locating the best sensor position.

;

Note: Never position the sensor over a perforation when recording a sensor reading.

72 I-Class

Advanced Entry Calibration (continued)

Step Operator Action Dis played Message Co mment

11 Proceed according to

your media type: Die-cut stock: strip the

media from the backing and then reinsert it into the sensor; adjust the Sensor Eye Mark over the center of the backing.

Notched stock : adjust the Sensor Eye Mark over the center of the notch.

Reflective stock: Adjust the Sensor Eye Mark over the center of the

HBJO!USBO!!!!!=zzz? +11!!!!!!!!)1!.!42*

Or, for reflective media:

HBJO!SFGM!!!!!=zzz? +11!!!!!!!!)1!.!42*

Where ‘yyy’ is a

numerical value representing the current sensor reading: useful in locating the best sensor position.

;

Note: Never position the sensor over a perforation when recording a sensor reading.

facedown black mark.

Press the Key to select the setting and then record the sensor reading in a table similar to the one shown after Step 12, as a TOF

Value.

Next, press the Key to increment the Gain Number.

Repeat for each of the Gain Numbers (00-32).

;

Note: Do NOT move the position of the Media Sensor after it has been

adjusted.

I-Class 73

Advanced Entry Calibration (continued)

Step Operator Action Displayed Message Comment

12 From the data collected in

Steps 10 and 11, where both the sensor readings are above 20, subtract each Label Value from the corresponding TOF Value. These are the Difference Values.

HBJO!USBO!!!!!!=zzz?

+11!!!!!!!!!)1!.!42*

Or, for reflective media:

HBJO!SFGM!!!!!!=zzz?

+11!!!!!!!!!)1!.!42*

Both se nsor readings must be above 20.

From the resulting list, find the largest Difference Value (see example below). Its associated Gain Number will provide the best algorithm for yo ur media.

For example, if your compiled data had the values shown in this table, Gain Number 8 would be chosen because it has the highest Difference Value (146) where both the Label Value and the TOF Value are above 20.

Gain

Number

00 255 254 1 01 251 240 11 02 241 213 28 03 231 182 49 04 219 150 69 05 212 119 93 06 200 88 112 07 189 58 131 08 178 32 146 09 167 19 N/A 10 156 17 N/A 11 146 16 N/A 12 136 15 N/A ………… 31 116 14 N/A 32 112 14 N/A

Label Val ue

TOF

Val ue

Difference

Val ue

74 I-Class

Advanced Entry Calibration (continued)

Step Operator Action Displayed Message Comment

13 Using the

select the Gain Number determined in Step 12. Press the Key to select the setting.

Key,

HBJO!USBO!!!!!!=zzz?

+19!!!!!!!!!)1!.!42*

Or, for reflective media:

HBJO!SFGM!!!!!!=zzz?

+19!!!!!!!!!)1!.!42*

Selection is denoted with an ‘*’.

14 n Place the media in the

Media Sensor. Record the sensor reading and label it ‘P’ (paper).

o Place the backing, mark,

or notch in the Media Sensor. Record the sensor reading and label it ‘G’ or ‘M’ (Gap or Mark).

p Remove all media.

Record the sensor reading and label it ‘E’ (Empty).

15 Press the Key.

Then press the Key.

HBJO!USBO!!!!!!=zzz?

+19!!!!!!!!!)1!.!42*

Or, for reflective media:

HBJO!SFGM!!!!!!=zzz?

+19!!!!!!!!!)1!.!42*

BEWBODFE!FOUSZ TFOTPS!MFWFMT

Where ‘yyy’ is

a numerical value representing the current sensor reading.

The sensor readings must be manually entered into the printer now.

I-Class 75

Advanced Entry Calibration (continued)

Step Operator Action Displayed Message Comment

16 Press the Key.

Using the or the

Key, set the ‘Paper’ level to the value determined in the previous step. Press the Key to set the entry (indicated by the ‘*’) and advance the menu.

Repeat for the ‘Gap’ (or ‘Mark’) and ‘Empty’ levels.

QBQFS!TFOTPS!MFWFM Q+2:9!H+195!F+125

HBQ!TFOTPS!MFWFM Q+2:9!H+195!F+125

FNQUZ!TFOTPS!MFWFM Q+2:9!H+195!F+125

Or, for reflective media:

QBQFS!TFOTPS!MFWFM Q+126!N+292!F+324

The selection

will flash and the display heading will change to indicate the item for entry.

NBSL!TFOTPS!MFWFM Q+126!N+292!F+324

FNQUZ!TFOTPS!MFWFM Q+126!N+292!F+324

17 After all entries have been

made, press the Key to back out of the menu and then press the

Key to save the

settings and return to the

TBWF!DIBOHFT@ FOUFS!LFZ!>!ZFT

From ‘Ready’,

press the FEED Key to advance to the next label TOF.

Ready Mode.

;

Note: If the Advanced Entry Calibration fails, try the following procedure.

Re-enter M edia Settings / Calibration / Advanced Entry / Sensor Gain

and lower the selected Gain Setting number by one (to make the sensor less sensitive). Select the new Gain Setting, save the changes, exit the menu, and then test your media. Repeat the procedure until a usable media setting is obtained.

76 I-Class

☞

5.1 Printhead Adjustments

To ensure consistent print quality over a wide range of media types and dimensions, the printer is equipped with a Leveling Cam adjustment and a Burn Line adjustme nt.

5.1.1 Leveling Cam Adjustment

When printing on less than full width media, use the Leveling Cam to adjust the right side of the Printhead Assembly for even pressure distribution. To adjust the Leveling Cam:

n With media loaded in the printer,

download your label format (or use a Quick Test format) and begin batch printing.

o While observing the printed labels, rotate the Leveling Cam counter-

clockwise to an over-adjusted position (see Example 1, below).

p Next, rotate the Leveling Cam clockwise, one click at a time, until the

printed labels contain a complete, even image (see Example 2).

When changing to a different width of label, readjust the Leveling Cam.

Example 1 – Over adjustment:

Too much adjustment produces an image that fades across the label. To correct this, decrease the setting of the Printhead Leveling Cam.

Example 2 – Correct adjustment:

The proper adjustment produces a complete image with even print contrast across the label (see note below).

;

Note: Under-adjustment of the Leveling Cam: Problems can include ribbon

wrinkling, label tracking, and platen roller and printhead wear.

I-Class 77

☞

5.1.2 Burn Line Adjustment

The Burn Line has been adjusted at the factory for strict compliance using 6.5mil (.0065 inch) media, ensuring print quality across a majority of media types. In extreme cases, however, if media of a different thickness or rigidity is used (for example, heavy tag stock), print quality can change. Try the suggestions in Section 2.1.1 and 5.3.1. If print quality remains unacceptable, an adjustment may be required. Typically, thicker media requires a slight forward adjustment, while thinner media requires a slight backward adjustment.

If you have questions, contact a qualified technician or Datamax Technical Support before proceeding.

To adjust the Burn Line:

n Load the printer with your

media (and ribbon, if required), lower the printhead assembly and rotate the printhead latch back into the locked position.

o Loosen the two Locking Screws approximately ¼ turn counter-clockwise.

p Turn the Adjustment Screws counter-clockwise until the burn line is past

the platen roller vertex. Print a Validation Label from the Quick Test menu; see Section 4.3.5. The label should look light and uneven.

q Tighten the Locking Screws just until they are ‘snug’ (tight enough to

remove any play in the printhead assembly, yet loose enough to allow the Adjustment Screws to move the printhead).

r Turn each Adjustment Screw clockwise about a ¼ turn (or an 1/8 turn for

finer adjustments, see note below). Print another Validation Label and examine the print quality. Repeat this step until the labels are produced with even print contrast and acceptable print quality are produced.

;

Note: When the Locking Screws are ‘snug’, turning the Adjustment Screws

counter-clockwise will NOT move the printhead outward; if you have adjusted the printhead too far inward, restart the entire procedure.

s Tighten the Locking Screws. Print a final Quick Test label to verify the

adjustment.

78 I-Class

5.2 Printhead Replacement

;

Note: 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 Technical Support before proceeding.

To replace the printhead:

n Touch a bare metal part of the printer’s frame to discharge any static

electricity that may be present on your body.

o Turn ‘Off’ and unplug the printer.

Open the access cover; if ribbon is installed, remove it.

p With the printhead locked in the

down position, loosen the Printhead Mounting Screw (it will remain in the assembly).

q Rotate the printhead latch forward. While holding the Printhead, raise the

assembly. Disconnect the two Cables and then remove the old Printhead.

r While carefully holding

the new Printhead, connect both Cables.

s Position the Printhead

onto the Locating Pins in the Printhead Assembly and secure in place with the Printhead Mounting Screw (do not overtighten). Please note that a printhead alignment is normally not required.

t Clean the Printhead; see Section 5.3.1.

u Reload ribbon (if removed), lower the printhead assembly, and rotate the

printhead latch back, into the locked position. Plug in and turn ‘On’ the printer. Print a Validation Label (Section 4.3.5) and if necessary, adjust the Print Control/Custom Adjustments/Darkness setting (Section 4.1.3) so that the print contrast produced by the new printhead matches the previous one.

I-Class 79

5.3 Maintenance Schedule

The following list and table detail the recommended items, techniques, and schedules to help you safely a nd effectively mai ntai n the printer.

Isopropyl alcohol Cotton swabs A clean, lint-free cloth Soft-bristle brush Soapy water/mild detergent

Compressed air

For your safety and to avoid damaging the printer, turn ‘Off’ and unplug the printer before cleaning; and take proper precautions

CAUTION

Area Me t ho d Interval

Printhead Using a cotton swab dampened with

Platen

Roller

Media

Path / Tear

Plate

Media Sensor

Interior Soft-brush or compressed air. Remove

Exterior Mild detergent. Remove all build-up. See

Cutter Refer to the documentation supplied with the option.

when using isopropyl alcohol, a flammable liquid.

Re comme nde d C le aning Sc hedule

Clean after each roll isopropyl alcohol, clean the printhead from end to end, removing all build-up. See Section 5.3.1.

Using a cotton swab dampened with isopropyl alcohol, rotate the platen and remove all build-up. See Section 5.3.2.

Compressed air / soft-bristle brush and isopropyl alcohol. Remove all build-up along the path that the ribbon and paper follow through the printer.

Compressed air. If needed, a swab dampened with isopropyl alcohol. Remove all build-up.

all build-up. See Section 5.3.3.

Section 5.3.3.

or box of labels, or

after each roll of

ribbon.

Clean after each roll

or box of labels, or

after each roll of

ribbon.

As needed, based on

a weekly visual

inspection.

Monthl y or as

needed.

As needed.

Scanner Refer to the documentation supplied with the option.

80 I-Class

5.3.1 Cleaning the Printhead

If print quality declines (symptoms include non-compliant bar codes, print dropouts, streaks; see Section 4.3.4), 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 life of the printhead. To clean the printhead:

n Turn ‘Off’ and unplug the printer.

o Open the access cover. Unlock the Printhead Latch and raise the Printhead

Assembly. A l low t he pri nt head to c ool be f ore proce e ding.

p Move media and ribbon away from the printhead as necessary.

q Using a cotton swab moistened, not soaked, with isopropyl alcohol gently

wipe away any build-up on the Printhead surface, paying close attention to the Burn Line. Allow the printhead to dry.

r Replace the ribbon and media. Lower the Printhead Assembly and rotate the

Printhead Latch completely back, to the locked position.

s Close the cover. Plug in and turn ‘On’ the printer. Feed several labels to

normalize tracking.

NEVER use a sharp object to clean the Printhead.

CAUTION

I-Class 81

5.3.2 Cleaning the Platen Roller

A platen roller contaminated with grit, label adhesive, or ink can cause a decline in print quality and, in extreme cases, cause labels to stick and wrap around the roller. To clean the platen roller:

n Turn ‘Off’ and unplug the printer.

o Open the access cover. Unlock the Printhead Latch and raise the Printhead

Assembly. Remove media and ribbon.

p Using a Cotton Swab dampened with isopropyl alcohol, clean the Platen

Roller; manually rotate the roller and repeat, cleaning the entire surface. Allow the Platen Roller to dry.

q Replace ribbon and media.

r Lower the Printhead Assembly and rotate the Printhead Latch completely

back, to the locked position.

s Close the access cover. Plug in and turn ‘On’ the printer. Feed several labels

to normalize tracking.

NEVER use a sharp object to clean the Platen Roller.

CAUTION

82 I-Class

5.3.3 Cleaning Interior and Exterior Surfaces

Inte rio r Surface s: During operation, dust particles from the media build-up inside the printer. Then, as the media is pulled through the printer, the particles can become attached and cause voids on the printed labels. To prevent this, turn ‘Off’ and unplug the printer. Remove all media. Using a soft bristle brush or compressed air, clean out the interior of the printer.

Exte rior S urfaces: The outer surfaces of the printer should be cleaned using a general-purpose cleanser. Never use abrasive cleansers or solvents. To clean, turn ‘Off’ and unplug the printer. Using a soft cloth or sponge dampened with the cleanser, wipe the exterior surfaces until clean.

5.4 Application Program Updates

The printer stores its application program in Flash memory on the Main PCB. A feature is included that allows updates to this program version through any printer interface port. Updates can be found at ftp://ftp.datamaxcorp.com.

There are two modes in which the firmware of the printer can be updated: (1) the Ready Mode, or (2) the Download Mode. Before beginning an update, identify the current version of the printer’s application program by printing a Configuration Label (see Section 4.3.2). Compare that version string to those filenames available from our FTP site and then download the desired file onto your computer’s hard drive.

Proceed with the printer update accordingly: y If the current application version is 2.091 or greater, refer to Section 5.4.1

or Section 5.4.2.

y If the current application version is 2.08 or earlier, refer to Section 5.4.2.

Should an error occur during the download (see Section 5.4.3), the update is aborted. If this process did not reach ‘Erasing Flash’ or ‘Updating Software’, the previous program is left intact;

WARNING

;

Note: Users desiring a foreign language menu: After updating from 2.xx to

otherwise, a successful download must be completed before the printer is operable.

3.xx firmware for the first time, you must also download the EFIGS menu language file. Go to the EFIGS ftp directory and copy

832296.01C (or most current version) to lpt1: /b (the DOS Copy command requires the /b parameter because this file contains binary

code).

I-Class 83

5.4.1 Updating from the Ready Mode

Update Procedure for Application Ve rsion 2.091 or greater

Step Displayed Me ssage Operator Action Comme nt(s)

! SFBEZ

VQHSBEJOH! TPGUXBSF

5323! 4/15!1803703111

! SFBEZ

Using the DOS copy command (where ‘filename’ is the program to be loaded and ‘lpt1’ is the selected interface port), enter the following:

copy filename lpt1:

As an example, this would be entered as:

copy 4212tb~1.zs lpt1

(Where ‘lpt1’ is the host computer’s port; however, this selection can differ to include a serial or other port, as the printer is equipped.)

The Ready Indicator will flash as data is received.

No action required. The new application program

is being stored and verified.

No action required. The printer has reset

automatically and is now displaying the new fir mware version.

No action required. The new application is now

running.

;

Note: If ‘Uncalibrated’ is displayed, the printer must be calibrated (see Section

5.0).

84 I-Class

5.4.2 Updating from the Download Mode

Required Update Procedure for Application Ve rsion 2.08 or earlier*

Step Displayed Message Operator Act ion Comme nt(s)

CPPU.QB21 13/19!3022011

VQEBUF!TPGUXBSF TFOE!TPGUXBSF

VQEBUF!TPGUXBSF SFBEJOH!JNBHF

FSBTJOH!GMBTI TPGUXBSF!JNBHF

XSJUJOH!GMBTI TPGUXBSF!JNBHF

Press and hold the PAUSE and TEST Keys while turning ‘On’ the printer to enter the Download Mode.

Using the DOS copy command, copy the filename to the printer (for an example see ‘Comment’ Step 1

The Boot Loader version

is displayed.

;

Note: This information will vary with the printer model and Boot Loader version.

The printer is ready to accept the new application version.

;

Note: The parallel port

(LPT1) must be used to write to the printer.

in Section 5.4.1).

No action required. The printer is receiving

the new image (program).

No action required. The progra m has been

received and verified; now memory is being cleared of the previous application.

No action required. The new program is being

written into Flash memor y. Upo n completion, the printer will automatically reset and start the new application.

;

Note: If ‘Uncalibrated’

is displayed, the printer must be calibrated (see Section 5.0).

*This can also be used as an alternate download method for all other version levels.

I-Class 85

5.4.3 Possible Problems during an Update

The following is list of possible error messages when downloading:

;

Note: If experiencing trouble when attempting to download the file to the

printer, try the following alternate methods:

1) Use the Download Mode (see Section 5.4.2).

2) Windows users – try restarting the computer in MS-DOS mode.

3) Use the Datamax Driver by Seagull Scientific™ – Device Setting / Send File to Printer function.

Applicatio n U pdate Erro r Me s sage s

Displaye d Message De scriptio ns / Cause s / Solutio ns

EFDPNQSFTTJPO!FSSPS

The printer detected an error during the decompression and transfer of file data from cache storage into the Flash memory. Confirm the version and retry in Download Mode; however, if the problem continues call for service.

! FSSPS!FSBTJOH!GMBTI

! FSSPS!XSJUJOH!GMBTI

IBSEXBSF!NJTNBUDI! EBUB!SFKFDUFE

JOWBMJE!TPGUXBSF EBUB!SFKFDUFE

TPGUXBSF!NJTNBUDI! EBUB!SFKFDUFE

The printer could not successfully erase Flash memory. The possible cause is defective Flash memory. Try the download again; however, if the problem continues call for service.

The printer could not successfully write the program into Flash memory. A possible cause is defective Flash memory. Try the download again; however, if the problem continues call for service.

Application Firmware downloaded was not compatible with the printer’s Main PCB. The firmware used was for a different class model and not supported by this boot loader version. See Configuration Level, Section 4.1.5.

The printer detected an error in the download. The

possible causes include:

An invalid or corrupted file was downloading.

Try saving the file to the host and then download again.

A communications error. Recheck cabling and

port setting.

Software level not authorized for this printer (See Section 4.1.5, Configuration Level/Printer Key.)

86 I-Class

5.5 Boot Loader Program Updates

The printer stores the Boot Loader Program in Flash memory on the Main PCB. A feature allows updates to this program via the printer’s interface port. Updates

can be found at ftp://ftp.datamaxcorp.com.

If power is lost while ‘Upgrading Software’ is displayed, the printer will become non-functional and must be returned to the factory for programming or the main logic board must be

WARNING

;

Note: Only printers with an Application Version of 2.09 or greater can

Before beginning the Boot Loader update, identify the printer’s current version. Print a Configuration Label (see Section 4.3.2) and compare that version string to those available from our FTP site. Download the desired version onto your computer’s hard drive. To update the Boot Loader Program:

Step Displayed Me ssage Operator Action Comme nt(s)

! SFBEZ

replaced.

update the Boot Loader Program.

Boot Loade r Update Procedure

Using the DOS copy command (where ‘filename’ is the program to be loaded and ‘lpt1’ is the selected interface port), enter the following:

copy filename lpt1:

As an example, this would be entered as:

copy boottb~1.bs lpt1

(Where ‘lpt1’ is the host computer’s output port; however, your selection can differ to include a serial or other port, as the printer is equipped.)

The Ready Indicator will flash as data is received.

VQHSBEJOH! TPGUXBSF

5323! 4/15!1803703111

! SFBEZ

No action required. The new program is being

stored and verified.

No action required. The printer has reset

automatically.

No action required. The new application is now

running.

;

Note: If ‘Uncalibrated’ is displayed, the printer must be calibrated (see Section

5.0).

I-Class 87

88 I-Class

☞

Troubleshooting

6.0 Problem Resolution

Should a problem arise, the information in this section will help you resolve it. The following table lists problems that will not necessarily generate an error message. (For information on displayed messages, see Section 6.1.)

If you have questions, or if problems persist, contact a qualified technician or Datamax

If e xpe rie nc i ng t his pro ble m… Try this solution…

Can not communicate thro ugh

the parallel port:

Can not load media through the optional cutter:

The LCD is blank, but the Ready Indicator is ‘On’:

Erratic feeding:

Technical Support.

Observe the Ready Indicator as the format is sent to the printer. If it does not flash, check the parallel cable type. Also check the protocol and port settings of the printer and host.

WARNING! Use extreme care. Turn ‘Off’ and unplug the printer before proceeding.

Ensure that the cutter and cutter cable are properly installed. Plug in and turn ‘On’ the printer. You should hear the cutter blade rotate and position itself properly. However, if the problem continues call for service.

The display co ntrast ma y set too low. Press and hold the MENU Key for 10 seconds or until the display reappears.

The printer may require a Quick Media Calibration; see Section 3.4.

I-Class 89

If e xpe rie nc i ng t his pro ble m… Try this solution…

Erratic printing (instead of the

label format, strange characters are printed):

The printer may be in Hex Dump Mode;

see Section 6.2.

If using the serial port for communicating,

check both the host and printer port settings; the printer may be set to eight data bits while the host is set to 7 (or vice versa).

Intellifont will not print:

Light print on the right side (facing the printer) of the label:

Missing information in the printed label:

Missing print on left or right side of the label:

Intellifont format is Little/Big Endian specific. The printer uses Big Endian. Refer to yo ur fo nt supplier for informatio n.

The Printhead Leveling Cam may be

incorrectly adjusted; see Section 5.1.1.

The Platen Roller may be dirty or worn;

see Section 5.3.2.

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.

The available memory may have been

exceeded by the memory requirement of the label format. Try reducing the memory allocated to either the internal module or scaleable font caches; see System Settings / Memory Settings, Section 4.1.5.

If using serial communications, ensure that

the interface cable meets the requirements found in Section 3.0.1.

Information may be formatted outside the label dimensions. Check your softw are program label size or check the values in the menu for Print Control / Column Offset and Print Control / Custom Adjustments / Column Offset; see Section 4.1.3.

90 I-Class

Datamax 4604, 4208, 4406, 4212, 4308 User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual