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
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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
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