Datamax M-4206 User Manual

M- 4206

Operator’s Manual

Copyright Information:

CG Triumvirate is a trademark of Agfa Corporation.
CG Times based upon Times New Roman under license from the Monotype Corporation.
Windows is a registered trademark of the Microsoft Corporation.
All other brand and product names are trademarks, service marks, registered trademarks, or registered service marks of their respective
companies.

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 agre es not to, and not to authorize or permit any other person or party to,
duplicate or copy the Firm ware 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.

All rights reserved. Printed in the United States of America.

© Copyright 2002 by Datamax Corporation

Part Number: 88-2300-01

Revision: B

Agency Compliance and Approvals:

UL60950 Information Technology Equipment
C22.2 No. 950-M93

C US

Listed

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 Drahtd ur chmess er hat ; so wie e ine 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 manufa cture r dec lare s und er s ole re sponsib ility that this p rod uct co nfo rms 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 /A11:1997

Gost- R

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 ca use harmful
interference in which case the user will be required to correct the interference at his own expense.

Important Safety Instructions

This printer has been carefully designed to provide many years of safe, reliable performance. As with all electrical
equipment, there are a few basic precautions you should take to avoid hurting yourself or damaging the printer:

Carefully read the installation and operating instructions provided with your printer.

Read and follow all warning instruction labels on the printer.

Place the printer on a flat, firm, solid surface.

To protect your printer from overheating, make sure all openings on the printer are not blocked.

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

Do not use your printer near water, or spill liquid into it.

Be certain that your power source matches the rating listed on your printer. If you are unsure, check with your dealer

or with your local power company.

Do not place the power cord where it will be walked on. If the power cord becomes damaged or frayed replace it

immediately.

Do not insert anything into the ventilation slots or openings on the printer.

Only qualified, trained service technicians should attempt to repair your printer.

Printer Overview

1.0 Introduction...................................................................... 1

1.1 About this Printer ............................................................. 2

1.1.1 Standard Features................................................... 2

1.1.2 Optional Features................................................... 3

Getting Started

2.0 Before Using the Printer .................................................... 5

Setting Up the Printer

3.0 Introduction...................................................................... 7

3.1 Connecting the Printer....................................................... 7

3.1.1 Power Connection.................................................. 7

3.1.2 Interface Connection............................................... 8

3.2 Loading Media ................................................................. 9

3.3 Media Sensor Adjustment ................................................. 12

3.4 Loading Ribbon................................................................ 13

3.4.1 Ribbon Routing....................................................................15

Using the Front Panel

4.0 Introduction...................................................................... 16

4.1 Lights............................................................................... 16

4.2 Buttons............................................................................ 17

4.3 Normal Mode - Button Functions....................................... 17

4.4 Express Setup Mode - Button Functions............................. 18

4.5 Printer Setup Mode - Button Functions............................... 19

4.5.1 Printer Setup Menu List.......................................... 20

4.5.2 Menu Items and Values .......................................... 21

4.5.3 Step by Step Modification of the Printer Setup......... 24

4.6 Label Alignment ............................................................... 26

4.6.1 Label Alignment = YES.......................................... 26

4.6.2 Label Alignment = AUTO....................................... 27

4.6.3 Label Alignment = NO ...........................................27

4.6.4 Label Alignment Troubleshooting............................ 28

i

4.7 Calibration Mode – Button Functions................................. 30

4.7.1 Auto Media Sensor Calibration............................... 31

4.7.2 Manual Media Sensor Calibration ........................... 32

4.8 Internal Labels.................................................................. 33

4.8.1 Database Configuration and Dot Check Labels......... 33

4.8.2 Test Label ............................................................. 35

4.8.3 Hex Dump Label.................................................... 36

Maintenance and Adjustments

5.0 Introduction...................................................................... 37

5.1 Cleaning the Printhead....................................................... 38

5.2 Media Width Adjustment ..................................................39

5.3 Printhead Burn Line Adjustment......................................... 40

5.4 Printhead Pressure Adjustment .......................................... 41

5.5 Printhead Replacement...................................................... 42

5.6 Darkness Adjustment........................................................ 43

5.7 Resetting to the Factory Defaults ....................................... 43

5.8 Downloading Firmware and Fonts ...................................... 44

Troubleshooting

6.0 Introduction...................................................................... 45

6.1 Troubleshooting Tips........................................................ 45

Specifications.................................................................51

Appendix A

ASCII Control Code Chart........................................................ 53

Appendix B

Embedded Fonts and Barcodes.................................................. 55

Appendix C

Warranty Information................................................................ 65

Glossary

............................................................................67

ii

1.0 Introduction

The M-4206 (hereafter referred to as ‘the printer’) is a user-friendly printer that blends quality and durability into an
affordable package. The printer, available in direct and optional thermal transfer configurations, uses a unique front panel
design to simplify operation, while its USB, RS232 serial, and IEEE 1284 compliant parallel interfaces allow easy
connection to your host system.

This manual provides all the information necessary to operate the printer.

To print labels or tags simply refer to the instructions included with the software you have chosen to create the labels. A
Windows printer driver can be found on our website (www.datamaxcorp.com) or on the included CD-ROM. If you wish
to write a custom program, a copy of the M-4206 Programmer’s Manual (part number 88-2301-01) can also be found on

the CD-ROM.

M-4206 1

1.1 About this Printer

This printer offers the following standard and optional features:

1.1.1 Standard Features

Printing

¾ Direct Thermal Printing
¾ On Demand and Batch Printing
¾ 203 DPI Printhead
¾ AGFA Scalable Font Engine
¾ Date and Time Stamp

Memory

¾ 2 MB FLASH Memory

(256K available to user, designated: Module B)

¾ 4 MB DRAM Memory

Interfaces

¾ USB interface
¾ DB-9 RS-232 serial interface

¾ IEEE 1284 Centronics

parallel interface

Operational

¾ Simple Media Loading
¾ Media Tearbar
¾ Fan-fold media compatible from the bottom and rear of printer

2 M-4206

1.1.2 Optional Features

Thermal Transfer

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.

Media Cutter

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).

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).

Internal Rewind

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

Present Sensor

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

External Keyboard (specify voltage / country requirement when ordering)

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

External Ethernet Connectivity (uses printer’s parallel port)

The DMX100 External Print Server is an external Network Interface Controller (NIC) that enables the printer to
provide Ethernet

FLASH Memory Expansion (requires new main PCB)

An optional main PCB assembly is available with 4MB Flash memory expansion for International Language Printing

connectivity.

Capability (ILPC) and/or additional fonts and graphics.

ILPC

The International Language Print Capability consisting 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 font

M-4206 3

4 M-4206

2.0 Before Using the Printer

Removing the Packaging

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

The printer is carefully packaged to avoid any damage during transit. In order to operate the printer you will need to
remove the packaging materials (i.e., tape and foam) that were placed in the printer for shipment. Complete the following
steps prior to connecting power or attempting to load media.

¾ Ensure that the arrow on the box is pointing up, and then open the box.

¾ Remove the top piece of packing foam.

¾ Lift the printer from the box.

¾ Remove the printer from the plastic bag.

¾ Remove any tape or additional packing foam from the inside of the printer.

; Note: It is a good idea to save all packaging materials in the event that shipping the printer is ever required.

M-4206 5

Inspecting the Printer

After removing the printer from the packaging material, check the contents. The following items should be included:

¾ Printer
¾ Power Cord
¾ CD-ROM and Documentation
¾ Any special or additionally purchased items.

Additional Requirements

The following items are necessary for generating labels from your printer. Contact your customer support or sales
representative for advice on which media and software may best be suited for your application.

¾ Serial, USB or Parallel cable
¾ Applicable Media
¾ Applicable Software

6 M-4206

3.0 Introduction

This chapter explains how to connect your printer, load media (and ribbon, if equipped for thermal transfer), and print a
configuration label.

3.1 Connecting the Printer

3.1.1 Power Connection

;

Note: When connecting the AC Power Cord or interface cables to the pri nter, ensure the Power On/Off Switch is in the ‘Off’

position.

1. Place the printer on a firm, level surface.

2. Ensure that the Power Switch on the Printer is in the ‘Off’ position.

3. Connect the AC Power Cord to the receptacle on the back of the Printer, and then plug the AC Power Cord into a
properly grounded outlet. (The power supply automatically detects and then adjusts to the applied line voltage; see
Section 7.0 for the acceptable voltage ranges.)

M-4206 7

3.1.2 Interface Connection

The printer can be connected to the host via a USB, serial or parallel cable. The Printer will automatically connect to the

first port (USB, serial or parallel) that transmits valid data. After this connection has been made, the printer’s power must
be cycled ‘Off’ and ‘On’ to change the interface connection.

USB Connection:

The USB Interface is supported in Windows

95 and greater.
Depending upon the operating system of your host computer,
installation may differ slightly.

Parallel Connection:

The parallel interface requires a Centronics

IEEE 1284 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.

Serial Connection:

The serial interface supports RS-232C
communications via a DB-9 connector. The
following list of serial port settings is menu­selectable and must match the host computer’s serial
port settings; see Chapter 4.

Baud Rate (Default 9600 bps)
Word Length (Default 8 bits)

In addition to the port settings, the serial interface
cable wiring must have specific connections (pin­outs) for proper data exchange between the host and
printer. The different serial cable pin-outs and part
numbers are in the following table (contact your
reseller for ordering information).

8 M-4206

Part # 32-2300-01 Part # 32-2301-01

3.2 Loading Media

Load media into the printer as follows:

1. Open the media cover and lower the Media Hub Guide and Media Guide.

2. Press in on the Printhead Latch and raise the Printhead Assembly.

M-4206 9

3. Slide the Roll Media onto the Media Hub and raise the Media Hub Guide. The Media Hub Guide should be pushed

inward so that it is just touching the Roll Media.

4. Route the Media through the printer as shown. Raise the Media Guide. The Media Guide should be pushed inward so

that it is just touching the edge of the Media.

10 M-4206

5. Close the Printhead Assembly and press down until it locks into place.

6. Close the cover and press the

FEED

button several times to position the media and ensure proper tracking.

If the printer does not correctly sense the top of each label, as denoted by the ERROR light, it may be necessary to

perform the Calibration Procedure, see section 4.7.1.

; Note: T he printer is factory set to use 4-inch media (and ribbon, if thermal transfer equipped). When using a different width of

media/ribbon, please refer to section 5.2.

M-4206 11

3.3 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 the front panel, (see ‘
adjust:

n With media loaded, as described in Section 3.2, 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.

Media Sensor Selection and Adjustment

Media Type Sensor Eye Mark Position Sensing

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 4.5.2 for Sensor Type selection.

CONT FORM LENGTH’, Section 4.5.2). To

Required

*

12 M-4206

3.4 Loading Ribbon

Ribbon is required with thermal transfer media. It is recommended that the width of the ribbon be slightly wider than the
media being used. Depending upon the type of Ribbon Supply Hub (see 3.4.1 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 ri bbon that is slightly wider than your media (and liner, i f any) will help protect against pri nthead wear.

1. Open the media cover. Press in on the Printhead Latch

and raise the printhead assembly.

2. Slide the Ribbon Roll onto the Ribbon Supply Hub until

it rests against the hub’s flange. Ensure the ribbon
unwinds in the correct direction (see 3.4.1 for
examples). Illustrations depict a ‘Coated Side In’
assembly.

3. Route the ribbon under the Ribbon Idler and then out the

front of the printer approximately 12 inches.

M-4206 13

4. Close the Printhead Assembly and press down until it

locks into place.

5. Route the ribbon up and then around to the Ribbon

Take-Up Hub, winding it several times in a clockwise
direction to secure it in place.

6. Close the cover and press the

7. The ‘Media Type’ setting within the printer’s setup must be set to ‘Thermal Transfer’ to print using a ribbon, see

FEED

button several times to position the ribbon and ensure proper tracking.

section 4.5.2.

14 M-4206

3.4.1 Ribbon Routing (Coated Side In & Coated Side Out)

;

Note: Directional Arrows near the Ribbon Suppl y Hub indicate the correct ribbon route. Ribbon types are availabl e with the ink

(coating) layer wound ‘in’ or ‘out’. These types are NOT i nterchangeable for use with the printer.

;

Note: Ensure the inked side of the ribbon faces the media and NOT the printhead.

Ribbon Routing Diagrams

‘Coating Side In’ Ribbon Supply Hub

‘Coating Side Out’ Ribbon Supply Hub

M-4206 15

4.0 Introduction

The Front Panel consists of three indicator lights and three function
buttons. The functions of these lights and controls are listed in the
following sections.

4.1 Lights

(Normal power-up)

Normal Mode

STOP

ERROR

READ Y

¾ Both the

16 M-4206

READY

and

STOP

Solid On: Indicates the printer is in the ‘Paused’ state

Flashing: (When using the Peel & Present Option) Indicates

a label is presented to the operator.

Indicates a top of form or mechanical error has occurred

Solid On: Indicates the printer is on and ready for printing

Flashing: Indicates the printer is receiving data from the host

Lights will be on during power-up initialization and a warm reset.

4.2 Buttons

The three buttons,
operational mode. The printer operates in one of the following modes:

Normal:

Express Setup: Allows quick access to the most common printer settings, (Sensor Type, Media Type, and Option Control. See

Printer Setup: Allows changes to the printer’s operational settings. See Section 4.5.

Calibration: Allows the ‘calibration’ of the media being used for the correct sensing of the top of form. See Section 4.7.

PAUSE

Normal printer functions. See Section 4.3.

Section 4.4.

,

FEED

, and

CANCEL

perform different functions based on the printer’s

4.3 Normal Mode - Button Functions

In ‘Normal’ mode, the printer’s buttons control normal operations such as pause, feed, and cancel, as well as the test and
reset functions by using button combinations as detailed below.

(Normal power-up)

Normal Mode

PAUSE

Pauses/Un-pauses the printer

FEED

Button Combinations (push buttons simultaneously)

PAUSE
PAUSE

FEED

M-4206 17

CANCEL

+

+
+

FEED

CANCEL
CANCEL

Feeds one label. Clears fault conditions

Press and Hold to perform “Label Alignment”, see section 4.6

Cancels the current batch of labels. Press the Pause button to
print the next batch of labels in the printer’s buffer

Prints the Test Label, see Section 4.8.2.

Performs a warm reset and returns to the Normal Mode of operation.

Produces Database Configuration and Dot Check Labels, see Section 4.8.1

4.4 Express Setup Mode - Button Functions

The Express Setup is a unique printer feature that allows users quick access to the most commonly used printer settings.
The selected setting is represent by a specific combination of the printer’s indicator lights for each of the three items,
(Sensor Type, Media Type, and Option Control). To enter the Express Setup…

Turn the printer OFF to save settings.

18 M-4206

4.5 Printer Setup Mode - Button Functions

In ‘Printer Setup’ mode, the buttons control the setting of the printer’s operational items such as media settings,
communications, and options as detailed below.

; Notes: It is recommended that the Printer Setup Mode not be entered while in Peel Mode or with the optional Present Sensor

enabled. Depending on label size this can cause unpredictable results.

Printer and cutter faults are disabled during

If at any time you wish to discard your changes and revert back to the previous values, simply turn off power to the printer.

If you wish to restore Factory Defaults see Section 5.7.

To change Printer Setup:

PAUSE

(Press and hold during power-up until the light turns off)

Printer Setup Mode

but can still occur while printing “test” labels.

,

STOP

FEED

+

Prints the ‘Printer Setup Menu List’, see section 4.5.1

Press and

(

Press and

(

Prints the ‘Test Label’ for “test”

Saves the current values
and resumes

PAUSE

FEED

FEED

CANCEL

PAUSE

+

CANCEL

Printer Setup Procedure

PAUSE

CANCEL

PAUSE

CANCEL

Feeds one label for “test”

Release

Increments item’s value

()

(

Decrements item’s value

Accepts the current
values for “test”

)

(Enters Printer Setup)

)

Hold

Nor mal Mode

(Current Item and Value is printed)

Press and

Release

Press and

Hold

Selects the next menu item

”Direct Select” menu item

)

eg. 7 Error light flashes = Baud Rate menu item #7

M-4206 19

4.5.1 Printer Setup Menu List

The Printer Setup Menu List label, shown below, contains the printer’s current values for each menu item that can be
modified via the front panel (See Section 4.5.2 for a detailed item description.)

The Menu Item Numbers correspond to the item’s position in the Menu List for selection when pressing the
during the Printer Setup Procedure (see Section 4.5). For example to “Direct Select” the BAUD RATE Menu Item press
and hold the
for 12 flashes, etc.

FEED

button for 7 flashes of the

Menu Item

Numbers

ERROR

light and then release or for the TOF GAIN item hold

Values

Menu
Items

1) DIRECT = MEDIA TYPE

2) EDGE = SENSOR TYPE

3) NO = PRESENT SENSOR

4) NO = CUTTER EQUIPPED

5) 127 = SOP ADJUST, 0.005 in.

6) 127 = PRESENT ADJUST, 0.005 in.

7) 9600 = BAUD RATE, bps

8) 8 = DATA BITS

9) STD = CONTROL CODES

10) 100 = CONT FORM LENGTH, 0.01 in.

11) 3 = OOS MAXVOLT, 0.1 Volts

12) 12 = TOF GAIN

13) 10 = TOF DELTA, 0.1 Volts

14) 0 = TOF LOW, 0.1 Volts

15) 426 = LABEL WIDTH, 0.01 in.

16) 64 = SCALABLE FONT, 4KB

17) 128 = INTERNAL MODULE, 4KB

18) NO = LABEL ALIGNMENT

19) 100 = ALIGNMENT LENGTH, 0.01 in.

20) AUTO = STOP LOCATION

21) DPL = INPUT MODE

22) STANDARD = DPL EMULATION

23) 10 = HEAT

FEED

button

FEED

; Note: When using narrow media, the ‘Menu Items’ column may be truncated.

20 M-4206

4.5.2 Menu Items and Values

The table below details the Printer Setup Menu List items with a brief description of the item’s function, and the possible
values. A “*” denotes the default setting.

1) MEDIA TYPE

Sets printing for direct thermal (no
ribbon) or thermal transfer (ribbon)
media.

Possible Values:

* DIRECT THERMAL

THERMAL TRANSFER

3) PRESENT SENSOR

Enables/Disables the optional
Present Sensor feature.

Possible Values:

*AUTO

NO
YES

5) SOP ADJUST

Sets the start of print (SOP) location,
relative to the top of form.

Possible Values:

Range: 0 – 255; nominal = *128
(0 = close to edge; 255 = farthest

from edge)

2) SENSOR TYPE

Selects the sensor type used to detect the
media’s Top Of Form (TOF) mark.

Possible Values:

* EDGE: gap / notch TOF marks

REFL (Reflective): black marks

CONT (Continuous): no TOF marks

4) CUTTER EQUIPPED

Enables/Disables the optional Media
Cutter feature.

Possible Values:

*AUTO

NO
YES

6) PRESENT ADJUST

Specifies an additional amount to feed
the label after printing.

Possible Values:

Range: 0 – 255; nominal = *128
(0 = close to edge; 255 = farthest from

edge)

7) BAUD RATE

Sets the serial port baud rate. (Must
match the host setting).

Possible Values:

600 to 38.4k; default = *9600 BPS

M-4206 21

8) DATA BITS

Sets the serial data word length (Must
match the host setting).

Possible Values:

*8

7

9) CONTROL CODES

10) CONT FORM LENGT H

Allows code selection listed in
Programmer’s manual.

Possible Values:

* (STD) Standard Codes

(ALT) Alternate Codes

11) OOS MAXVOLT

Sets the media sensor level for the
Out Of Stock condition.

Possible Values:

Range: 0 – 16; nominal = *2
(Units = .1 volt)

13) TOF DELTA

Sets the mini mum medi a sensor
change required to signify a label
gap or mark.

Possible Values:

Range: 0 – 50; nominal = *10
(Units = .1 volt)

Sets the page (label) size when the
‘SENSOR TYPE’ is set to continuous

media.

Possible Values:

Range: 0 – 9999; default = *100
(Units = .01 inch)

12) TOF GAIN

Sets media sensor Top of Form gain
value.

Possible Values:

Range: 0 – 15; nominal = *10

14) TOF LOW

Sets the mini mum medi a sensor reading
for paper (gap/notch) or mark
(reflective).

Possible Values:

Range: 0 – 50; nominal = *0
(Units = 0.1 volt)

15) LABEL WIDTH

Sets the label width.

Possible Values:

Range: 75 – 426; default = *426
(Units = .01 inch)

16 ) SCAL ABLE FONT

Sets the number of memory blocks to
allocate for scalable fonts.

Possible Values:

Range: 0 – 128; default = *64
(Units = 4K Bytes)

17) INTERNAL MODULE

Sets the number of memory blocks to
allocate for the internal RAM
module.

Possible Values:

Range: 0 – 128; default = *128
(Units = 4K Bytes)

18) LABEL ALIGNMENT

Sets the label alignment method (see

Section 4.6)

.

Possible Values:

YES (user manually determines

‘ALIGN LENGTH’)

AUTO (printer determines ‘ALIGN

LENGTH’)

* NO (no Label Alignment used)

22 M-4206

19) ALIGN LENGTH

20) STOP LOCATION

Leading edge distance of two
successive labels. Must be entered if
‘LABEL ALIGNMENT’ is set to
Yes (see Section 4.6).

Possible Values:

0 – 999; default =100*
(Units = .01 inch)

21) INPUT MODE

Selects between the standard or
template interpretation of incoming
data.

Possible Values:

* DPL (printer constructs the label

using the standard DPL
commands)

LINE (printer constructs the label

using a preloaded template
form)

Sets label stopping (and in certain cases the starting)
location for different printer configurations.

Possible Values:

* AUTO (Automatically sets the stop location. Installed

options will be ‘auto-sensed’ and the
appropriate stop position will automatically
be set. Host commands are ignored.)

HOST (Sets stop position according to options

installed. If no options are installed the printer
sets stop location to the next label’s start of
print. Host commands will override.)

22) DPL EMULATION

This instructs the firmware to process specific DPL data
(Start of Print, DPI, and Imaging function) according to
the selected printer emulation.

Possible Values:

* STANDARD

ALLEGRO (Allegro Emulation)
P PLUS (Prodigy Plus Emulation)

PRODIGY (Prodigy Emulation)

23) HEAT

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

Possible Values:

Range: 0 – 30; default = *10

; Note: All of the menu items listed in the previous section are stored in non-volatile memory.

M-4206 23

4.5.3 Step by Step Modification of the Printer Setup

The following is an example of Printer Setup modification. Although this example will detail how to modify the serial
Baud Rate, the same method can be used to change any of the printer’s menu item settings.

; Note: It is recommended that the Printer Setup Mode not be entered while in Peel Mode or with the optional Present Sensor

enabled. Depending on label size this can cause unpredictable results.

1. With printer ‘Off’ and properly loaded with media, press and hold the

Continue to hold the button until the

2. Press and hold the

FEED

button and count 7 flashes of the

STOP

light turns off, then release it.

ERROR

PAUSE

button while powering ‘On’ the printer.

light, then release it. The following printout

should be produced:

3. Press the

PAUSE

button one time to increment to the 19200 bps value. The following printout should be produced:

4. At this point you will accept the current values for “test” and exit the Printer Setup Procedure by simultaneously and

briefly pressing the

; Note: If you wish to discard your changes and revert back to the previous values simply turn off power to the printer before Step

5.

PAUSE

CANCEL

+

buttons. Wait until the

STOP

light goes off.

5. Now you can save your changes and resume by simultaneously and briefly pressing the

CANCEL

buttons. Wait until the

24 M-4206

STOP

light goes off.

PAUSE

+

6. To confirm that your changes have been made press the

FEED

+

CANCEL

buttons simultaneously, this will print the

Database Configuration Label. The label should show the new Baud Rate value of 19200.

FRI JANUARY 10, 2003 19:29 010
VER: M4206 - 05.03 01/07/03
BOOT 83-2383-05C
CODE 83-2385-05C
FPGA 83-2384-05A
FONT 83-2386-05C
256K FLASH MODULE B
SYSTEM FLASH SIZE_____2 MBYTES
SYSTEM RAM CHECKS____ GOOD
SYSTEM RAM SIZE___ 4096 KBYTES
SYSTEM RAM AVAIL__ 3180 KBYTES

AUTO DETECTION
CUTTER____________NOT DETECTED
PRESENT SENSOR____NOT DETECTED
CURRENT STOP LOC__TEAR

EXPRESS SETUP
MEDIA SENSOR______EDGE
PRINT METHOD______TRANSFER
OPTION CONTROL____AUTO

INPUT VALUES
PAPER_____________ 207
DARKNESS__________ 119
TRAN______________ 157
REFL______________ 0
RIBN______________ 237
TEMP______________ 64
VOLT______________ 218
PRESENT SENSOR____ 0

CONFIGURATION
SERIAL PORT SELECTED

19.2; 8BITS
EDGE
MEDIA TYPE________ TRANSFER
CONT FORM LENGTH__ 0
PRESENT ADJUST____ 128
SOP ADJUST________ 128
TOF LOW___________ 0 0
TOF DELTA_________ 10 10
TOF GAIN__________ 7 5
OOS MAXVOLT_______ 3 2
LABEL ALIGNMENT___ AUTO
ALIGN LENGTH______ 611
STOP LOCATION_____ AUTO
INPUT MODE________ DPL
DPL EMULATION_____ STANDARD
HEAT______________ 10

COUNTER INFORMATION
ABSOLUTE VALUES 1- 7-2003
LENGTH____ 773 INCHES
TIME______ 20 HOURS
RESETTABLE VALUES 1- 7-2003
LENGTH____ 576 INCHES
TIME______ 10 HOURS

MEMORY CONFIGURATION
INTERNAL MODULE A______ 128
SCALABLE FONTS_________ 64
LABEL SIZE 0426:11255 IN

The new

19200

Baud

Rate

M-4206 25

4.6 Label Alignment

The Label Alignment function is intended for use when the label length is less than the distance between the printhead and
the media sensor or where label waste at power-up is a concern. Label Alignment (see table below) is not recommended
for label lengths greater than 6.5 inches or for media containing 2 or more form lengths.

Label Stock Labe l Alig nment Se tting

Continuous NO

6.5 inches or less YES or AUTO

6.5 inches or more NO

Multiple length labels NO

The Label Alignment function is chosen via the menu system (see Section 4.5) or by host commands. The three possible
modes, YES, AUTO, and NO, are detailed in the following sections.

4.6.1 Label Alignment = YES

In this mode, the operator must supply an ‘ALIGN LENGTH’ value.
This value must be physically measured from leading edge to leading
edge of two successive labels, as shown. The measurement must be as
accurate as possible. For very short labels, errors as small as 0.01” can
result in noticeable print variations on the labels between the media
sensor and the printhead.

The measured value must be sent to the printer via the host computer or
entered using the Printer Setup Mode (see Section 4.5).

Then, in Normal Mode, press and hold the

FEED

button (about 4

seconds). The printer will align the label to the top of form position.

; Note: If media with a different label length is subsequently loaded, the ‘ALIGN LENGTH’ must be recalculated and re-entered.

26 M-4206

4.6.2 Label Alignment = AUTO

In this mode, the printer automatically calculates the ‘ALIGN LENGTH’ thus eliminating the need to physically measure
the label. This mode is usually preferred in applications that require frequent media changes to labels of different lengths.

To perform an Auto Alignment, in Normal Mode press and hold the

FEED

button (about 4 seconds). The printer will
feed labels to calculate the label length. Following the calculation, the printer will save the measurement and align to the
top of form position. Auto Alignment can result in wasted labels during the measurement process (the longer the label
length the greater the waste).

Auto Alignment with the Present Sensor enabled:

If the printer is equipped with the Present Sensor option and that feature is enabled, while the label length is calculated the
printer will pause and illuminate the

STOP

light after each movement. The operator must press the

PAUSE

button for the
alignment to continue. This allows the operator to remove any labels as required; however, labels should not be forcibly
removed since they may not actually be positioned for removal, but at an interim position required for measurement.

4.6.3 Label Alignment = NO

When Label Alignment is not enabled (i.e., set to NO), printing begins at the current label position without alignment,
assuming the label is at the start of print position. Additionally, if the label length is short, labels between the printhead and
the media sensor may be unused.

M-4206 27

4.6.4 Label Alignment Troubleshooting

If you experience label alignment problems, the following table offers possible causes and solutions.

Problem Possible Caus e Solution

Attempting to perform
Label Alignment results
in no paper movement.

With the Present Sensor
enabled, Label Alignment
cannot be performed
without a Label Length.

¾ Set Label Alignment to AUTO, press and hold

media moves for the automatic length measurement.

~OR~

¾ Re-measure the Label Alignment Length. Use Printer Setup mode

to enter the new length. Print a Database Configuration label to
ensure the new length has been set.

FEED

until

First label is wasted
during al ignment. All
labels thereafter print to
the correct start of print
position.

Label Alignment is
incorrect. Pressing

FEED

successively
results in a short label
length, one-inch.

Alignment Length is too
long.

~OR~

For labels whose length
and stop position cause
them to stop between
labels on the media
sensor, the alignment
function can result in
wasted labels.

Label Alignment Length is
not correct. The default
Label Alignment Length is

1.00”, and will result in
this behavior when any
larger label length is used
without setting the
appropriate length.

¾ Set Label Alignment to AUTO, press and hold

FEED

until

paper moves for automatic Label Alignment length measurement.

~OR~

¾ Re-measure Label Alignment Length, use Menu Setup to set new

length, ensure desired length has been set.

¾ Obtain a slightly different label Alignment Length measurement.

Using the Label Alignment AUTO mode, hold the
button to force an alignment and label measurement. Ensuring
slack in the label stock may result in a slightly different
measurement. The Alignment Length may also be set manually via
the Setup Menu. Increasing or decreasing the value by 1 or 2
units (in./100) may help to prevent the wasted labels; however,
this may result in incorrect print positions for labels that are short
in length.

¾ Set Label Alignment to AUTO. Press and hold

paper moves for automatic Label Alignment Length
measurement.

~OR~

¾ Measure the label length and use the Setup Menu to set the new

length. Print a Database Configuration label to ensure the new
length has been set.

FEED

FEED

until

28 M-4206

Problem Possible Caus e Solution

Label Alignment is
incorrect. Pressing

FEED

successively
results in a label length
longer than actual, one­inch.

Label Alignment Length is
not correct. The default
Label Alignment Length is

1.00”, and will result in
this behavior when any
larger label length is used
without setting the
appropriate length

¾ Set Label Alignment to AUTO. Press and hold

FEED

until
paper moves for automatic Label Alignment length
measurement.

~OR~

¾ Measure the label length and use the Setup Menu to set the new

length. Print a Database Configuration label to ensure the new
length has been set.

Tear Mode is selected
but the label stop
position (present
position) is not far
enough forw ard.

Tear Mode is selected
but the label stop
position (present
position) is too far
forward.

The

ERROR

light
illuminates during label
alignment.

Another present position

¾ Disable the Present Sensor.
has been determined.
Enabling the Present
Sensor causes the label
stop position (present

¾ Ensure the host computer is not providing a Present Distance

shorter than is required for the Tear Bar.
position) to be
approximately 0.1” behind
the peel bar.

~OR~

The Present Adjust value

¾ Use the Setup Menu to modify the Present Adjust value.

is not correct.

Another present position
has been determined.

¾ Ensure the host computer is not providing a Present Distance

longer than is required for the Tear Bar.

~OR~

The Present Adjust value
is not correct.

¾ Use the Setup Menu to modify the Present Adjust value.

The label supply is empty ¾ Load media.

~OR~

M-4206 29

4.7 Calibration Mode – Button Functions

In ‘Calibration’ mode, the buttons allow the printer to adjust to the media being used. Calibration can be performed either
automatically or manually, as detailed below.

; Notes: Before calibrating, ensure that the Printhead Carrier Assembly is latched down, that the cover is closed, and that the media

sensor has been set for the appropriate media type, see Section 4.5.2.

Printer and cutter faults are disabled during
printing “test” labels.

If at any time you wish to discard your changes and revert back to the previous calibration simply turn off power to the
printer. Also, Factory Defaults can be restored, see Section 5.7

To perform Calibration:

CANCEL

(Press and hold during power-up until the light turns off)

Calibration Mode

PAU SE

Auto Media Calibration

FEED

FEED

CANCEL

PAUSE

+

CANCEL

and

(See section 4.7.1)

Press a nd

(

Release

Press and

(

Hold

Prints the ‘Test Label’ for “test”

Saves the current values
and resumes

Feeds one label for “test”

)

(Until P aused light turns off)

)

Normal Mode

, but can still occur while

STOP

Media Sensor Calibration

PAUSE

FEED

CANCEL

PAUSE

+

CANCEL

30 M-4206

(See section 4.7.2)

Analyze for ‘Paper’

Analyze for ‘Backing or ‘Mark’

Analyze ‘Out of Media’ condition

Accepts the current
values for “test”

4.7.1 Auto Media Sensor Calibration

Auto Media Sensor Calibration automatically establishes the optimum sensing values for the media you are using in the
printer.

; Note: Before calibrating, be sure the media sensor is set for the appropriate media type, see Section 4.5.2; also, ensure that the

Printhead Carrier Assembly is latched down and the cover is closed.

To automatically calibrate the media sensor:

CANCEL

1. With the desired media loaded, hold the
until the

STOP

light turns off then release it.

button while powering up the printer. Continue to hold the button

2. Next press the

PAUSE

button. The printer will feed approximately ten inches of media to calculate the TOF Delta

and Low values to be used.

3. Upon completion, one of the following lights will flash five times to denote the result of the auto calibration attempt:

STOP

light = Successful calibration. Proceed to Step 4.

ERROR light = Unsuccessful calibration, try again. If the calibration continues to fail proceed to Section 4.7.2.

; Note: If you wish to discard the changes and revert back to the previous calibration simply turn off the printer before Step

4.

4. Now save the changes and resume by pressing the

STOP

briefly. Wait until the

light goes off.

PAUSE

CANCEL

+

buttons simultaneously and

M-4206 31

4.7.2 Manual Media Sensor Calibration

The Manual Media Sensor Calibration procedure should be used in cases where the printer continues to suffer from media
sensing problems after performing or attempting to perform the Auto Media Sensor Calibration (see Section 4.7.1).

; Note: Before calibrating, be sure the media sensor is set for the appropriate media type, see Section 4.5.2; also, ensure that the

Printhead Carrier Assembly is latched down and the cover is closed.

To manually calibrate the media sensor:

1. Hold the

CANCEL

button and power-up the printer. Continue to hold the button until the

release the button. Next, press and hold the

FEED

button, continue to hold the button until the

STOP

light turns off; then

STOP

light turns on;

then release the button.

2. Remove all the material from the media sensor, (see Section 3.3 for the sensor’s location), close the Printhead Carrier
Assembly, and then press the

CANCEL

button. The printer will flash the ERROR light as it analyzes the no media

condition.

3. Position the backing material or the black (reflective) mark in the media sensor, close the Printhead Carrier Assembly,
and then press the

FEED

button. The printer will flash the ERROR light as it analyzes the top of form mark.

4. Place the media with the backing attached (if any) in the media sensor,close the Printhead Carrier Assembly, and then
press the

5. Simultaneously and briefly press the

PAUSE

button. The printer will flash the ERROR light as it analyzes the material.

PAUSE

CANCEL

+

buttons to accept the calibration for “test” and exit the

. One of the following lights will flash five times to denote the result of the manual calibration

attempt:

STOP

light = Successful calibration. Proceed to Step 6.

ERROR light = Unsuccessful calibration. Retry the procedure beginning at Step 1.

6. Use the

FEED

button (feeds a label), and the

CANCEL

button (prints a test label) to test the current calibration.

; Note: If you wish to discard the changes and revert back to the previous c alibration simply turn of f the printer before Step 7.

7. Now save the changes and resume by pressing the

STOP

briefly. Wait until the

32 M-4206

light goes off.

PAUSE

CANCEL

+

buttons simultaneously and

4.8 Internal Labels

The following section details the printer’s internally generated configuration and test labels.

4.8.1 Database Configuration and Dot Check Labels

The Database Configuration Label provides valuable printer information including the firmware version, memory
allocations, enabled options, and label-counter data.

To print the Database Configuration and Dot Check Labels:

With the printer on, loaded with media (at least 4 inches wide) and ribbon (if printing with thermal transfer media), press

+

CANCEL

buttons simultaneously.

FRI JANUARY 10, 2003 19:29 010
VER: M4206 - 05.03 01/07/03
BOOT 83-2383-05C
CODE 83-2385-05C
FPGA 83-2384-05A
FONT 83-2386-05C
256K FLASH MODULE B
SYSTEM FLASH SIZE_____2 MBYTES
SYSTEM RAM CHECKS____ GOOD
SYSTEM RAM SIZE___ 4096 KBYTES
SYSTEM RAM AVAIL__ 3180 KBYTES

AUTO DETECTION
CUTTER____________NOT DETECTED
PRESENT SENSOR____NOT DETECTED
CURRENT STOP LOC__TEAR

EXPRESS SETUP
MEDIA SENSOR______EDGE
PRINT METHOD______TRANSFER
OPTION CONTROL____AUTO

INPUT VALUES
PAPER_____________ 207
DARKNESS__________ 119
TRAN______________ 157
REFL______________ 0
RIBN______________ 237
TEMP______________ 64
VOLT______________ 218
PRESENT SENSOR____ 0

CONFIGURATION
SERIAL PORT SELECTED

19.2; 8BITS
EDGE
MEDIA TYPE________ TRANSFER
CONT FORM LENGTH__ 0
PRESENT ADJUST____ 128
SOP ADJUST________ 128
TOF LOW___________ 0 0
TOF DELTA_________ 10 10
TOF GAIN__________ 7 5
OOS MAXVOLT_______ 3 2
LABEL ALIGNMENT___ AUTO
ALIGN LENGTH______ 611
STOP LOCATION_____ AUTO
INPUT MODE________ DPL
DPL EMULATION_____ STANDARD
HEAT______________ 10

COUNTER INFORMATION
ABSOLUTE VALUES 1- 7-2003
LENGTH____ 773 INCHES
TIME______ 20 HOURS
RESETTABLE VALUES 1- 7-2003
LENGTH____ 576 INCHES
TIME______ 10 HOURS

MEMORY CONFIGURATION
INTERNAL MODULE A______ 128
SCALABLE FONTS_________ 64
LABEL SIZE 0426:11255 IN

the

The first label printed will be the Database Configuration Label.

FEED

M-4206 33

The second label printed is the Dot Check Label. This label is used to test the condition of the printhead, as shown below:

Good Dot Check Label:

Even pattern consistency

indicates that the printhead
is operating normally.

Faulty Dot Check Label:

Streaks in the patterns

indicate a dirty or faulty
printhead (see Chapter 5).

34 M-4206

4.8.2 Test Label

The Test Label is used to evaluate the current printer setup for print quality, label tracking, and print positioning.

To print the Test Label:

With the printer loaded with media (at least 4 inches wide), and ribbon (if printing with thermal transfer media),
simultaneously press the

PAUSE

FEED

+

buttons.

M-4206 35

4.8.3 Hex Dump Label

The Hex Dump Label is a useful tool in the diagnosis of problems including communications handshaking and DPL syntax
errors. To generate a Hex Dump Label the printer enters into Hex Dump Mode. In this mode, all data sent to the printer
will be immediately output in hexadecimal code, along with the printable ASCII equivalents. To decode this information,
the Programmer’s Manual is an essential reference. As a final note, many software programs use bit mapping to construct
the label, making diagnosis of this data difficult. Contact Datamax Technical Support with any questions.

To print the Hex Dump Label:

With the printer on, loaded with media (at least 4 inches wide) and ribbon (if printing with thermal transfer media), press
and hold the

FEED

button while turning the printer on. Continue holding the

FEED

button until the

off. Now, all data received by the printer will be output in hexadecimal code, as shown below.

STOP

light turns

To exit the Hex Dump Mode:

Turn the printer off.

36 M-4206

5.0 Introduction

This chapter details the cleaning, adjusting, and troubleshooting tips for the printer. The following table outlines the

recommended maintenance schedule for the various printer parts.

Area Method Interval

Printhead Turn off the printer before cleaning

the printhead. Use solvent* on a

After every roll

of media.
cotton swab to clean the printhead
from end to end.

Platen Roller Turn the power off. Rotate the

platen roller and clean it thoroughly

After every roll

of media.
with solvent* and a cotton swab.

Peel-Off

Roller

Rotate the peel-off roller and clean

it thoroughly with solvent* and a

After every roll

of media.
cotton swab.

Media Path Solvent* After every roll

of media.

Peel/Tear Bar Solvent* As needed
Media Sensor Air blow Monthly
Exterior Mild detergent or desktop cleaner. As needed
Interior Brush or vacuum cleaner As needed.

* It is recommended that a solvent containing isopropyl alcohol be used.

Isopropyl alcohol is a flammable solvent, always take the proper

Warning

M-4206 37

precautions when using this substance.

5.1 Cleaning the Printhead

If print quality declines (symptoms include non-compliant bar codes, print dropouts, streaks), 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:

1. Turn ‘Off’ and unplug the printer.

2. Open the cover. Unlock the Printhead Latch and raise the Printhead Assembly. Allow the printhead to cool before

proceeding.

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

4. 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.

5. Replace the ribbon and media. Lower the Printhead Assembly back to the locked position.

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

38 M-4206

5.2 Media Width Adjustment

When printing on less than full width media, the printer has a printhead-leveling cam to adjust the right side of the printhead
for even pressure distribution. To adjust the leveling cam:

1. With media loaded in the printer, print a label (press the

FEED

+

examine it..

2. While observing the printed labels, loosen the
Thumbscrew and move it to the left most position. (see
Example 1, below).

3. Next, move the Thumbscrew to the right until the
printed labels contain a complete, even image (see
Example 2). Tighten the Thumbscrew.

CANCEL

buttons simultaneously) and

☞

;

Note: Under-adjustment of the Leveling Cam: Problems can include ribbon wrinkli ng, label tracking, and platen roller and

printhead wear.

M-4206 39

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

Example 1 – Over adjustment:

Too much adjustment produces an image that
fades across the label. To correct this, move
the Thumbscrew to the right.

Example 2 – Correct adjustment:

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

5.3 Printhead Burn Line Adjustment

☞

The Burn Line has been adjusted at the factory for strict compliance using 6.5-mil (.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. Typically, thicker media requires a slight forward adjustment,
while thinner media requires a slight backward adjustment.

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

To adjust the Burn Line:

1. Load the printer with your media (and ribbon, if required).

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

3. Turn the Adjustment Screws counter-clockwise until the
burn line is past the platen roller vertex. Print a test label
(press the

PAUSE

+

FEED

buttons simultaneously).

The label should look light and uneven.

4. 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).

5. Turn each Adjustment Screw clockwise about a ¼ turn (or an 1/8 turn for finer adjustments, see note below). Print
another test 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-clockwi se will NOT move the printhead

outward; if you have adjusted the printhead too far inward, restart the enti re procedure.

6. Tighten the Locking Screws. Print a final Test label to verify the adjustment.

40 M-4206

5.4 Printhead Pressure Adjustment

To accommodate a variety of media types, the pressure applied by the printhead assembly is adjustable. This pressure is
factory set to work with most media types, so this adjustment should only be performed after attempting to improve print
quality through the use of the (1) heat and/or (2) print speed. When adjusting, use only the minimum pressure necessary for
better imaging. To adjust:

1. Load at least 4” (102mm) wide media and ribbon, see Section 3.2.

2. Ensure the Media Width Adjustment is set to its “left most” position, see Section 5.2.

3. Press the

FEED

+

CANCEL

buttons simultaneously to print a ‘Configuration/Dot Check’ test label.

4. Turn the Printhead Pressure Adjustment Screws counterclockwise to increase the applied pressure or clockwise to
decrease it. Make equal adjustments to each screw to achieve even print contrast across the media.

; Note: When using narrow media it is sometimes necessary to increase the pressure on the inner (closest to

centerplate) Printhead Pressure Adjustment Screw to prevent ribbon smudging.

; Note: Excessive pressure can reduce the service life of the printhead and platen roller.

Unequal pressure may cause ribbon and label tracking problems.

M-4206 41

5.5 Printhead Replacement

Removal:

;

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 techni cian or Datamax Technical Support before proceeding.

1. Touch a bare metal part of the printer’s frame to
discharge any static electricity that may be present on
your body.

2. Turn ‘Off’ and unplug the printer. Open the cover; if
ribbon is installed, remove it.

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

4. Unlatch the Printhead Assembly. While holding the
Printhead, raise the assembly. Disconnect the two
cables and then remove the old Printhead.

5. While carefully holding the new Printhead, connect both
cables.

6. Position the Printhead onto the Locating Pins in the
Printhead Assembly and secure in place with the
Printhead Mounting Screw (do not over-tighten).

7. Clean the Printhead (see Section 5.1).

8. Reload ribbon (if removed), lower the printhead
assembly, and rotate the printhead latch back, into the
locked position.

9. Use the Darkness Adjustment to match the print contrast of the new printhead to that of the old printhead (see Section

5.6).

42 M-4206

5.6 Darkness Adjustment

The Darkness Adjustment allows the operator to match the print
contrast following a printhead replacement. Turning the Darkness
Adjustment clockwise will darken the print, while turning it
counterclockwise will lighten the print. Compare a label printed
with the old printhead and make this adjustment so that the new
printhead matches the darkest portion of that label.

; Note: Large increases in the ‘Darkness Adjustment’ can shorten

printhead life. If you need to increase the darkness of the
printed labels, try increasing the Heat value and/or slow the
Print Speed using your software program or via DPL
commands.

5.7 Resetting to the Factory Defaults

With the printer power ‘Off,’ press and hold all three buttons while turning ‘On’ the printer. Continue to hold the buttons

down until the
See Section 4.5.1 for a listing of the factory default settings. Resetting to ‘Factory Defaults’ will not effect the following
settings:

STOP

light turns off (approximately 17 seconds). The printer will now be set to the ‘Factory Defaults.’

5) SOP ADJUST 12) TOF GAIN

6) PRESENT ADJUST 13) TOF DELTA

11) OOS MAXVOLT 14) TOF LOW

M-4206 43

5.8 Downloading Firmware and Fonts

The operating programs and fonts for the printer are stored in Flash memory on the Main PCB. When program updates
and/or new features are added, they can be downloaded to the printer as follows:

1. Identify the new version for your model of printer from the Datamax Web site at www.datamaxcorp.com and download
it onto your computer’s hard drive or a floppy disk.

2. Ensure that the printer is connected to the host, (via parallel port only) and that the power is ‘On.’ Using the DOS copy
command enter:

copy filename.dlf lpt1/b

; Note: Other programs (e.g., hyper-terminal and certain Windows

Driver programs) may also be used to download this file.

3. The

4. Following a successful download, the

READY

light will flash during the download.

STOP

Light will illuminate then the printer will perform a ‘cold reset.’ The
previous printer setup will not be affected unless substantial firmware data structure changes have occurred. Print a
Database Configuration Label to verify your new firmware version.

¾ Following an unsuccessful download, the

reset’ (both the

READY

and

STOP

lights will be on during power-up initialization). The original firmware will

ERROR

Light will illuminate then the printer will perform a ‘warm

remain operational. If the printer fails to reset, toggle the power ‘Off’ and ‘On.’

Try re-sending the file to the printer. If the failure continues, check the following possible causes:
An invalid or corrupted file is being downloaded - Ensure the file being downloaded is correct and applicable

for your printer model.

Possible communications error - Check the cable connection between the host and printer and ensure that a

quality, shielded cable is used.

Possible Flash memory problem - Call for service.

If the printer fails to boot-up after an unsuccessful download, turn ‘Off’ the power. Simultaneously press and hold
the

PAUSE

CANCEL

+

buttons while powering ‘On’ the printer. Now, try downloading the file to the printer.

44 M-4206

6.0 Introduction

Occasionally, situations arise that require troubleshooting. Possible problem situations and potential solutions are listed in

this section. While not every situation is addressed, you may find some of these tips helpful. After the correction action is
taken press the

FEED

button to clear the alarm. Contact a qualified service technician for problems that persist or are

not covered in this section.

6.1 Troubleshooting Tips

The following table lists the symptoms of the topics covered in the troubleshooting section.

Problem Situation

Unacceptable print quality

The printer does not print or prints several labels at once

The ribbon does not advance
Skips every other label
Unable to print in rotation 4
Prints light on the right side of the label
Printer fails to turn on
Label advances 1-2 inches before a fault indication
Label advances 16 inches before a fault indication

STOP

Tracking Problems
Ribbon Smudging with narrow media during label back-feed

light flashing

M-4206 45

Unacceptable print quality

Dirty printhead: Clean the printhead (see Chapter 5).
The temperature setting may be incorrect for the media being used: Use the software program or DPL

commands adjust the Heat Setting and Print Speed.

A mismatched incorrect ribbon/media combination is being used: Check the types being used.
Verify that the Media Type is set correctly for the printing method being used (see Chapter 4).

The printer does not print or prints several labels at once:

The labels are incorrectly loaded: See the loading instructions on the inside cover of the printer or Chapter 3.
The media is not calibrated: Calibrate it (see Chapter 4).
The Media Sensor may need to be repositioned (see Chapter 3).

Faulty printhead: Replace it (see Chapter 5) or call for service.

The media sensor or sensor circuitry may be defective: Call for service.

The ribbon does not advance
(The paper advances, but ribbon does not).

The ribbon may be installed incorrectly: Ensure that the ribbon’s inked side faces the paper. With most

ribbons this can be verified by rubbing paper against the ribbon; the ink should smudge the paper. Or, if using
label stock, the sticky side of a label will pull off the ink.

A mismatched ribbon/paper combination is resulting in an insufficient amount of friction between paper and

ribbon: Ensure that the correct type of ribbon is being used with the media.

46 M-4206

Skips every other label
(Print quality is good, but every other label is skipped).

The label is formatted too close to the top edge of the label: Leave white space equal to 8-dot rows (about .02

inch [.5mm]) at the top of the label.

The media is not calibrated: Calibrate it (see Chapter 4).
The Media Sensor may need to be repositioned (see Chapter 3).

Unable to print in rotation 4

The characters are formatted outside the dimensions of the label: Check that the row/column values provide

enough room for the height of the image being printed.

The media sensor or media sensor circuitry may be defective: Call for service.

Prints light on the right side of the label

The media width adjustment is set for a narrower media width than is actually being used: Adjust for the

media width (see Chapter 5).

The printhead is not properly aligned: Call for service.
The printhead carrier assembly is not latched down: Latch it.

Printer fails to power on

The AC wall outlet may be faulty: Try another outlet.
A fuse may be blown: Call for service.
The power supply may be faulty: Call for service.
A defective power switch may exist on the printer: Call for service.

Label advances 1-2 inches before a fault indication

The ribbon may be incorrectly installed. Ensure that the ribbon’s inked side faces the paper. With most

ribbons this can be verified by rubbing paper against the ribbon; the ink should smudge the paper. Or, if using
label stock, the sticky side of a label will pull off the ink.

A mismatched ribbon/paper combination is resulting in an insufficient amount of friction between paper and

ribbon: Ensure that the correct type of ribbon is being used with the media.

M-4206 47

Label advances 16 inches before a fault indication

The media may not be properly loaded: Reload it (see Chapter 3). When loading media ensure that the media

hub and media guide are against the media and that gaps or marks in the labels are in line with the media
sensor.

The Media Sensor may need to be repositioned (see Chapter 3).
The media sensor or media sensor circuitry may be defective: Call for service.

STOP

Light flashing

When the printer is equipped with the Peel and Present Options the

presented to the operator. This is considered normal.

If the printer is configured to use the Peel and Present option and yet the option is not installed or the option is

removed with power on, the

Tracking Problems

STOP

The media may not be properly loaded: Reload it (see Chapter 3). When loading media ensure that the media

hub and media guide are against the media and that gaps or marks in the labels are in line with the media
sensor.

The media width adjustment may not be properly set: Readjust for the label width (see Chapter 5).

Ribbon Smudging during label back-feed

When printing with a ribbon, the width of the ribbon must be slightly wider than the label media being used.

Ensure the ribbon width is approximately .125” (4mm) to .250”(7mm) wider then the label media.

Increase the inner (closest to centerplate) Printhead Pressure Adjustment Screw counterclockwise to increase

the applied pressure (see Chapter 5).

light will flash to alert the operator.

STOP

light will flash when a label is

48 M-4206

Mechanical

Width 9.8” (24.9 cm)
Depth 18.06” (45.9 cm)
Height 10.3” (26.2 cm)
Weight 21.5 lbs. (9.77 kg)
Operating Temperature

Humidity

AC Input Voltage 90 – 132 or 180 – 264 VAC @ 47–63 Hz, auto-ranging.

40 F to 95 F (4 C to 35 C)
10% 95% non-condensing

Printing

Print Method Direct Thermal; Thermal Transfer (optional)
Print Speed 2 - 6 IPS (50 - 152 mm/s)
Resolution 203 dpi (8 dots/mm)
Tear Bar Tear Down
DRAM Memory 4MB
FLASH Memory 2MB

M-4206 49

Media/Ribbon

Media Types Roll-Fed, Die-Cut, Continuous, Fan-Fold
Max. Media Width 4.65" (118 mm)
Min. Media Width 1" (25.4 mm)
Max. Print Width 4.09" (104 mm)
Print Length Range .25 - 99" (6 - 2475 mm)
Media Thickness Range .0025 - .01" (.064 mm - .254 mm)
Media Supply Roll Capacity 8" (203 mm) O.D. on 1.5 - 3.0" (38 – 76.2 mm) cores

Ribbon Width Range

Ribbon Roll Capacity Matched to media: approx. 1476’ (450 m) long

1.0 - 4.5" (25 - 114 mm)

Ribbon Core:

1.010” .006” (25.6 mm .2 mm) inner diameter.

Communications

Interface USB, RS-232 (DB-9), and IEEE 1284 Compliant Centronics Parallel
Baud Speed 600 to 38,400 bits per second (BPS)
Handshaking Xon/Xoff, CTS, DTR
Parity Even, Odd, or None
Stop Bits 1 or 2
Data Bits 7 or 8

Fonts

9 Bit Map Fonts; rotated 0, 90, 180, 270 degrees.

Embedded Bar Codes

Code 39, Interleaved 2 of 5,Code 128 A, B & C, Codabar, LOGMARS, UPC-A, UPC-E, UPC 2&5, EAN-8, EAN-13, EAN 2&5, UPC
Random Weight, Code 93, Plessey, USCS, Code 128 MOD 43, Postnet, Uss/EAN-128 Random Weight, Telepen, UPS Maxicode,
PDF417, DataMatrix, Aztec, QR Code, MicroPDF417, and TLC39

50 M-4206

Approved Media

To achieve optimum print quality and maximum printhead life, Datamax specifies the use of DATAMAX brand media and
ribbons. These supplies are specially formulated for use in our printers; use of non-Datamax supplies may affect the print
quality, performance, and life of the printer or its components.

For a current list of approved media and ribbons for use in direct thermal and thermal transfer applications, please contact
a Media Representative at [phone].

Side View Top View

G

F

I

H

J

E

D

K

A

B

Media Dimensions

Designator Description Maximum

A label width 4.65 1.00
B liner width 4.65 1.00
C gap (or notch) between labels

D label length

[3]

E media thickness .0100 .0025
F notch opening width .500 .200

G distance from the media’s edge to the media sensor

aperture (left justified)

H reflective (black) mark width

I distance between reflective marks
J reflective mark length

K label repeat distance

[1]

Units of measure given in inches.

[2]

The reflective (black) mark must be carbon based, placed on the backside of the stock, and the reflectance shall be less than 10% at
wavelengths of 950 and 640 nm.

[3]

The maximum allowable length of the combined label and gap (or mark) measurement can not exceed 99.99 inches.

[3]

[3]

[2]

[3]

[3]

C

[1]

.25 .100

– .250

2.250 .200

4.65 .500
– .500
– .100
– .350

Minimum

[1]

M-4206 51

52 M-4206

ASCII Control Code Chart

Ctrl @

Ctrl A

Ctrl B

Ctrl C

Ctrl D

Ctrl E

Ctrl F

Ctrl G

Ctrl H

Ctrl I

Ctrl J

Ctrl K

Ctrl L

Ctrl M

Ctrl N

Ctrl O

Ctrl P

Ctrl Q

Ctrl R

Ctrl S

Ctrl T

Ctrl U

Ctrl V

Ctrl W

Ctrl X

Ctrl Y

Ctrl Z

Ctrl [

Ctrl \

Ctrl ]

Ctrl ^

Ctrl _

Char De c Hex Char De c Hex Char De c He x Char Dec He x

NUL 0 00 32 20 @ 64 40 ` 96 60
SOH 1 01 ! 33 21 A 65 41 a 97 61
STX 2 02 “ 34 22 B 66 42 b 98 62
EXT 3 03 # 35 23 C 67 43 c 99 63
EOT 4 04 $ 36 24 D 68 44 d 100 64
ENQ 5 05 % 37 25 E 69 45 e 101 65
ACK 6 06 & 38 26 F 70 46 f 102 66
BEL 7 07 ‘ 39 27 G 71 47 g 103 67
BS 8 08 ( 40 28 H 72 48 h 104 68
HT 9 09 ) 41 29 I 73 49 i 105 69
LF 10 0A * 42 2A J 74 4A j 106 6A
VT 11 0B + 43 2B K 75 4B k 107 6B
FF 12 0C , 44 2C L 76 4C l 108 6C
CR 13 0D - 45 2D M 77 4D m 109 6D
SO 14 0E . 46 2E N 78 4E n 110 6E
SI 15 0F / 47 2F O 79 4F o 111 6F
DLE 16 10 0 48 30 P 80 50 p 112 70
DC1 17 11 1 49 31 Q 81 51 q 113 71
DC2 18 12 2 50 32 R 82 52 r 114 72
DC3 19 13 3 51 33 S 83 53 s 115 73
DC4 20 14 4 52 34 T 84 54 t 116 74
NAK 21 15 5 53 35 U 85 55 u 117 75
SYN 22 16 6 54 36 V 86 56 v 118 76
ETB 23 17 7 55 37 W 87 57 w 119 77
CAN 24 18 8 56 38 X 88 58 x 120 78
EM 25 19 9 57 39 Y 89 59 y 121 79
SUB 26 1A : 58 3A Z 90 5A z 122 7A
Esc 27 1B ; 59 3B [ 91 5B { 123 7B
FS 28 1C < 60 3C \ 92 5C | 124 7C
GS 29 1D = 61 3D ] 93 5D } 125 7D
RS 30 1E > 62 3E ^ 94 5E ~ 126 7E
US 31 1F ? 63 3F _ 95 5F 127 7F

M-4206 53

CharDec Hex Char Dec Hex CharDec Hex Char Dec Hex

Ç 128 80 á 160 A0 192 C0 Ó 224 E0
ü 129 81 í 161 A1 193 C1 ß 225 E1
é 130 82 ó 162 A2 194 C2 Ô 226 E2
â 131 83 ú 163 A3 195 C3 Ò 227 E3
ä 132 84 ñ 164 A4 196 C4 õ 228 E4
à 133 85 Ñ 165 A5 197 C5 Õ 229 E5
å 134 86
ç 135 87 ° 167 A7 Ã 199 C7 p 231 E7
ê 136 88 ¿ 168 A8 200 C8 p 232 E8
è 137 89 ® 169 A9 201 C9 Ú 233 E9
è 138 8A 170 AA 202 CA Û 234 EA
ï 139 8B 1/2 171 AB 203 CB Ù 235 EB
î 140 8C 1/4 172 AC 204 CC ´y 236 EC
ì 141 8D ¡ 173 AD 205 CD ´Y 237 ED
Ä 142 8E 174 AE 206 CE 238 EE
Å 143 8F
É 144 90 176 B0 Ò 208 D0 240 F0
Æ 145 91 177 B1 D 209 D1 ± 241 F1
Æ 146 92
ô 147 93
ö 148 94 ´ 180 B4 È 212 D4 244 F4
ò 149 95 Á 181 B5 213 D5 245 F5
û 150 96 Â 182 B6 Í 214 D6 ÷ 246 F6
ù 151 97 À 183 B7 Î 215 D7 ¸ 247 F7
ÿ 152 98 © 184 B8 Ï 216 D8 ° 248 F8
Ö 153 99
Ü 154 9A 186 BA 218 DA · 250 FA
Ø 155 9B » 187 BB 219 DB 251 FB
£ 156 9C 188 BC 220 DC 252 FC
Ø 157 9D ¢ 189 BD 221 DD 253 FD
x 158 9E ¥ 190 BE Ì 222 DE 254 FE
ƒ 159 9F 191 BF 223 DF 255 FF

a

166 A6 ã 198 C6 µ 230 E6

–

175 AF 207 CF 239 EF

2

178 B2 Ê 210 D2 242 F2

3

179 B3 Ë 211 D3 3/4 243 F3

1

185 B9 217 D9 ¨ 249 F9

; Notes: For the hardware handshake XON/XOFF commands:

XON = Ctrl Q (DC1)

XOFF = Ctrl S (DC3)

The Euro character has been added to the table above at 255 (FF) as a Datamax standard for resident bit-mapped fonts
0,1,2,3,4,5,6, and 9 (CG Triumvirate).

54 M-4206

Embedded Fonts and Barcodes

All character fonts and barcodes available with the printer are described in this section. Each font and barcode has a name
associated with it for use in programming. Human-readable fonts have numeric names while barcode fonts have alpha
names.

Fonts

Fonts 0 through 8 use the slash zero (Ø) conventions for distinguishing between the zero and the alphabetic O. The slash
can be removed with the label formatting command Z. These fonts are non-proportional (monospaced): all of the
characters take up the same amount of space when printed.

The Triumvirate font number 9 is a proportional font; each character will take up a different amount of space when printed.

Font Valid ASCII Characters (decimal) Use with Record

Structure Type

0 32-127,255
1 32-168, 171, 172, 225,255
2 32-168, 171, 172, 225,255
3 32, 35-38, 40-58, 65-90, 128, 142-144, 146, 153,

154, 156, 157, 165, 168, 225,255

4 32, 35-38, 40-58, 65-90, 128, 142-144, 146, 153,

154, 156, 157, 165, 168, 225,255

5 32, 35-38, 40-58, 65-90, 128, 142-144, 146, 153,

154, 156, 157, 165, 168, 225,255

6 32, 35-38, 40-58, 65-90, 128, 142-144, 146, 153,

154, 156, 157, 165, 168, 225,255
7 32-126
8 32, 48-57, 60, 62, 67, 69, 78, 83, 84, 88, 90
9 32-126, 128-169, 171-173, 181-184, 189, 190, 198,

199, 208-216, 222, 224-237, 241, 243, 246-250,255 Smooth Font

Dependent upon selected symbol set; see the

9

Programmers Manual.

Internal

Bit-Mapped

Fonts

Downloadable

Scalable Font

M-4206 55

The table below lists the font sizes. The numbers indicate the number of dots.

FONT HEIGHT WIDTH SPACING

Font 0 7 5 1
Font 1 13 7 2
Font 2 18 10 2
Font 3 27 14 2
Font 4 36 18 3
Font 5 52 18 3
Font 6 64 32 4
Font 7 32 15 5
Font 8 28 15 5

Font 0 96-character
alphanumeric, upper and lower
case.

Font 2 138-character
alphanumeric, upper and lower
case.

Font 1 145-character upper and
lower case alphanumeric w/
descenders and ascenders.

Font 3 62-character
alphanumeric, uppercase.

56 M-4206

Font 4 62-character
alphanumeric, uppercase.

Font 5 62-character
alphanumeric, uppercase.

Font 6 62-character alphanumeric, uppercase.

M-4206 57

Font 7 OCR-A, size I. Font 8 OCR-B, size III.

Font 9 Internal Triumvirate font.

Point sizes are selected by the number in the barcode height.
Larger point sizes can be obtained by increasing the height and width
multipliers, 48pt and 72pt fonts are generated by doubling the 24pt and 36pt
fonts respectively (see the Programmer's Manual for more information).

58 M-4206

Barcodes

Bar Code fonts have alpha names (left column in the table below). Uppercase alpha names will print barcodes with human-readable
interpretations. Lowercase alpha names will print barcodes only. The table is followed by visual samples.

Bar Code

ID

A / a Code 3 of 9 Varies No 32, 36, 37, 42, 43, 45-57, 65-

B / b UPC-A 11 Yes 48-57 Numeric only

C / c UPC-E 6 Yes 48-57 Numeric only
D / d Interleaved 2 of 5 (I

E / e Code 128 Varies M-103 32-127

F / f EAN-13 12 Yes 48-57 Numeric only.

G / g EAN-8 7 Yes 48-57 Numeric only
H / h Health Industry Bar

I / i Codabar Varies No 36, 43, 45-58, 65-68
J / j I 2 of 5 with modulo

K / k Plessey Up to 14 M-10 48-57 Numeric only. Option +

L / l I 2 of 5 with modulo

M / m 2 digit UPC

N / n 5 digit UP C

O / o Code 93 Varies No 35-38, 42-58, 65-90, 97-122

p Postnet Varies Yes 48-57 Numeric only
Q / q UCC/EAN Code 128 19 Yes 48-57 Numeric only
R / r UCC/EAN Code 128

S / s UCC/EAN Code 128

T / t Telepen Var ies Yes Alphanumeric

U UPS MaxiCode 84 Yes Alphanumeric

Type Length Check-

2 of 5)

Code

10 checksum

10 checksum &
bearer bars

addendum

addendum

K-Mart NON EDI
bar code

Random Weight

Valid ASCII Characters,

sum

Varies No 48-57 Numeric only

Varies M-43 32, 36-39, 42, 43, 45-57, 65-

Varies M-10 48-57 Numeric only

13 M-10 48-57 Numeric only

2 Yes 48-57 Numeric only

5 Yes 48-57 Numeric only

18 Yes 48-57 Numeric only

34 + Yes 48-57 Numeric only

decimal value

representation

90

Option V used in the 6th &
7th position

Option V used in the 7th &
8th position

90

is Last Character for Second
M-11 checksum

M-4206 59

Bar Code

ID

u UPS MaxiCode with

v FIM 1 No A, B, C, D

z PDF417 Varies Yes All

Z PDF417 with Byte

W1c DataMatrix Varies Yes All 8-bit values
W1C DataMatrix with Byte

W1d QR Code – Auto

W1D QR Code – Manual

W1f Aztec Varies Yes All 8-bit values

W1F Aztec with Byte

W1T TCIF Linked

W1z MicroPDF417 Varies Yes All 8-bit values

W1Z MicroPDF417 with

Type Length Check-

Byte Count

Count

Count

format

format

Count

Barcode 3 of 9
(TLC39)

Byte Count

Valid ASCII Characters,

sum

Specified Yes Alphanumeric

Specified Yes All

Specified Yes All 8-bit values

Varies Yes Alphanumeric

Varies Yes Single-byte or Kanji double-

byte

Specified Yes All 8-bit values

Varies No Alphanumeric

Specified Yes All 8-bit values

decimal value

representation

60 M-4206

Barcode A Code 3 of 9 Barcode B UPC-A

Barcode C UPC-E Barcode D Interleaved 2 of 5

Barcode E Code 128 Barcode F EAN-13

Barcode G EAN-8 Barcode H Health Industry

Barcode (HIBC)

M-4206 61

Barcode I Codabar Barcode J Interleaved 2 of 5

w/module 10 checksum

Barcode K Plessey Barcode L Interleaved 2 of 5

w/module 10 checksum and
shipping bearer bars

Barcode M 2 Digit UPC
addendum

Barcode N 5 Digit UPC
addendum

Barcode O Code 93 Barcode p Postnet

62 M-4206

Barcode Q UCC/EAN Code 128 Barcode R UCC/EAN Code 128

KMART NON EDI

Barcode S UCC/EAN Code 128 Random Weight

Barcode T Telepen Barcode u UPS MaxiCode

M-4206 63

Barcode v FIM Barcode z PDF417

Bar Code W1c: DataMatrix Bar Code W1d: QR Code

Bar Code W1f: Aztec Bar Code W1z: MicroPDF417

Bar Code W1T: TCIF Linked Barcode 3 of 9 (TLC39)

64 M-4206

Datamax Barcode Products

Limited Warranty Statement

M-Class™ Printer

Printer

Datamax warrants to Purchaser that under normal use and service, the M-Class™ Printer, (with the exception of the
thermal printhead) purchased hereunder shall be free from defects in material and workmanship for a period of (365) days
from the date of shipment by Datamax.

Expendable and/or consumable items or parts such as lamps, fuses, labels and ribbons are not covered under this warranty.
This warranty does not cover equipment or parts which have been misused, altered, neglected, handled carelessly, or used
for purposes other than those for which they were manufactured. This warranty also does not cover loss, damages resulting
from accident, or damages resulting from unauthorized service.

Thermal Printhead

This warranty is limited to a period of one year, (365 days), or 1,000,000 linear inches of use, whichever comes first, for
the M-Class
media is used, as defined in the then current Datamax list of approved thermal/thermal transfer media, a copy of which is
available from Datamax. Failure to use Datamax-approved media is justification for invalidation of this thermal printhead
warranty. This warranty does not cover printheads which have been misused, altered, neglected, handled carelessly, or
damaged due to improper cleaning or unauthorized repairs.

™ thermal printhead. This one year (365 days) warranty is valid only if a Datamax - approved thermal label

M-4206 65

Warranty Service Procedures

If a defect should occur during the warranty period, the defective unit shall be returned, freight and insurance prepaid, in
the original shipping containers, to Datamax at: 4501 Parkway Commerce Blvd., Orlando, Florida, 32808. A Return
Material Authorization (RMA) number must be issued before the product can be returned. To open an RMA please call
the Datamax Customer Service Department at [phone]. Please include your RMA number on the outside of the box
and on the shipping document. Include a contact name, action desired, a detailed description of the problem(s), and
examples when possible with the defective unit. Datamax shall not be responsible for any loss or damages incurred in
shipping. Any warranty work to be performed by Datamax shall be subject to Datamax’s confirmation that such product
meets Datamax warranty. In the event of a defect covered by its warranty, Datamax will return the repaired or replaced
product to the Purchaser at Datamax’s cost.

With respect to a defect in hardware covered by the warranty, the warranty shall continue in effect until the end of the
original warranty period, or for sixty (60) days after the repair or replacement, whichever is later.

General Warranty Provisions

Datamax makes no warranty as to the design, capability, capacity or suitability of any of its hardware, supplies, or
software.

Software is licensed on an “as is” basis without warranty. Except and to the extent expressly provided in this warranty and
in lieu of all other warranties, there are no warranties, expressed or implied, including, but not limited to, any warranties of
merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose.

Purchaser shall be solely responsible for the selection, use, efficiency and suitability of Datamax’s products.

Limitation of Liability

In no event shall Datamax be liable to the purchaser for any indirect, special or consequential damages or lost profits
arising out of or relating to Datamax’s products, or the performance or a breach thereof, even if Datamax has been advised
of the possibility thereof. Datamax’s liability, if any, to the purchaser or to the customer of the purchaser hereunder shall in
no event exceed the total amounts paid to Datamax hereunder by the purchaser for a defective product.

In no event shall Datamax be liable to the purchaser for any damages resulting from or related to any failure or delay of
Datamax in the delivery or installation of the computer hardware, supplies or software or in the performance of any
services.

Some states do not permit the exclusion of incidental or consequential damages, and in those states the foregoing
limitations may not apply. The warranties here give you specific legal rights, and you may have other legal rights which
vary from state to state.

66 M-4206

Glossary

alphanumeric Consisting of alphabetic, numeric, punctuation and other symbols.

backing material The silicon-coated paper carrier material to which labels with adhesive backing are affixed.

Also referred to as “liner”.

bar code A representation of alphanumeric information in a pattern of machine-readable marks. The basic

categories are divided into one-dimensional (UPC, Code 39, Postnet, etc.) and two-dimensional barcodes
(DataMatrix, MaxiCode, PDF417, etc.).

burn line The row of thermal elements in the printhead that create the images on the media.

calibration The process through which sensor readings are entered into the printer for correct sensor function (for

example, detection of a given media type) and TOF positioning.

character set The entire complement of alphanumeric symbols contained in a given font.

checksum An alphanumeric error detection method used in many bar code symbologies for informational security.

continuous media An uninterrupted roll or box of label or tag media that contains no gap, notch, or mark to

separate individual labels or tags.

core diameter The inside diameter measurement of the cardboard core at the center of a ribbon or media roll.

cutter A mechanical device with a rotary or guillotine type blade used to cut labels or tags following printing.

defaults The functional setting values returned following a factory reset of the printer.

diagnostics Programs used to locate and diagnose hardware problems.

die-cut media Media that has been cut into a pattern using a press, where the excess paper is removed leaving

individual labels, with gaps between them, attached to a backing material.

direct thermal The printing method that uses a heat sensitive media and only the heat of the thermal printhead to

create an image on the label.

M-4206 67

direct thermal media Media coated with special chemicals that react and darken with the application of heat.

DPI (dots per inch) A measurement of print resolution, rated in the number of thermal elements contained in one

inch of the printhead. Also referred to as “resolution”.

DPL (Datamax Programming Language) programming commands used specifically for control of and label

production in Datamax printers. A complete listing of commands can be found in the Programmer’s

Manual.

fan-fold Media that is folded and stacked.

feed speed The speed at which the media moves under the printhead in non-printed areas and between labels.

Flash memory Non-volatile memory (does not require printer power to maintain data) that can be erased and

reprogrammed, used to hold the printer’s operating programs.

font A set of alphanumeric characters that share a particular typeface.

gap A space between die-cut or notched labels used to sense the top of form.

IPS (inches per second) Imperial measurement of printer speeds.

label A paper or synthetic printing material, typically with a pressure sensitive adhesive backing.

label length The distance from the top of the label to the bottom of the label as it exits the printer.

label repeat The distance from the top of one label to the top of the next label.

label tracking Excessive lateral (side to side) movement of the media as it travels under the printhead.

label width The left to right measurement of the label as it exits the printer.

mark Generalized term to indicate the label top of form light.

media Generalized term for all types of printing stocks, including: roll fed, continuous, die-cut, reflective, and

fanfold.

media hub Device in the printer used to support roll media.

media sensor An electronic device equipped with photosensors to detect media and the top of form on die-cut,

notched or reflective media.

68 M-4206

notched stock Media, typically tag stock, with holes or notches in the material that is used to signal the top of

form. The printer must be set to ‘gap’ to use this media type.

preprinted media Label stock that contains borders, text, or graphics, floodcoating, etc.

perforation Small cuts extending through the backing and/or label material to facilitate their separation. Also

referred to as “perf”.

print speed The speed at which the media moves under the printhead during the printing process.

reflective media Media imprinted with carbon-based black marks on the underside of the material, which is used

to signal the top of form when the ‘reflective’ sensor is enabled.

registration Repeatable top to bottom alignment of printed labels.

reverse speed The backward rate of media motion into the printer during tear-off, peel and present and cutting

operations for positioning the label at the start of print position.

ribbon An extruded polyester tape with several layers of material, one of which is ink-like, used to produce an

image on the label. Also referred to as “foil”.

ribbon wrinkle An undesirable overlapping of the ribbon during the printing process that leads to voids on the

printed label, typically caused by an improper ribbon width adjustment.

roll media A form of media that is wound upon a cardboard core.

start of print The position on the label where the printing actually begins.

tag stock A heavy paper or synthetic printing material, typically featuring a notch or black mark for TOF and no

adhesive backing.

thermal transfer The printing method that creates an image by transferring ink from a ribbon onto the media using

the heat from the thermal printhead.

TOF (top of form) The start of a new label as indicated by a label gap, notch, mark or programming.

void An undesirable blank space in a printed image.

M-4206 69

70 M-4206