Datamax Mark II M-4206, Mark II M-4208, Mark II M-4210, Mark II M-4306, M-Class M-4306 Operator's Manual

M- Class

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 agrees not to, and not to authorize or permit any other person or party to,
duplicate or copy the Firmware or the information contained in the non-volatile or programmable memory. The firmware
(Software) is protected by applicable copyright laws and Licensor retains all rights not expressly granted. In no event will Licensor or its
suppliers be liable for any damages or loss, including direct, incidental, economic, special, or consequential damages, arising out of the
use or inability to use the Firmware (Software).

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

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

© Copyright 2005 by Datamax Corporation

Part Number: 88-2313-01

Revision: E

Agency Compliance and Approvals:

C US

Listed

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

EN60950

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

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

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

The manufacturer declares under sole responsibility that this product conforms to the following standards or other normative documents:
EMC: EN 55022 (1993) Class B

EN 50024 (1998)

Safety: This product complies with the requirements of EN 60950 /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 cause 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 types of
electrical equipment, however, there are a few basic precautions you should take to avoid hurting yourself or damaging
the device:

 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.

i

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 (Non-display printers)

4.0 Introduction................................................................... 17

4.01 DMXConfig......................................................... 17

4.1 Lights............................................................................ 18

ii

4.2 Buttons ......................................................................... 18

4.3 Normal Mode - Button Functions.................................. 19

4.4 Express Setup Mode - Button Functions......................20

4.5 Printer Setup Mode - Button Functions ........................ 21

4.5.1 Printer Setup Menu List...................................... 22

4.5.2 Menu Items and Values ..................................... 23

4.5.3 Step by Step Modification of the Printer Setup .. 26

4.6 Label Alignment............................................................ 28

4.6.1 Label Alignment = YES......................................28

4.6.2 Label Alignment = AUTO ................................... 29

4.6.3 Label Alignment = NO........................................ 29

4.6.4 Label Alignment Troubleshooting....................... 30

4.7 Calibration Mode – Button Functions ........................... 32

4.7.1 Auto Media Sensor Calibration ..........................33

4.7.2 Manual Media Sensor Calibration...................... 34

4.8 Internal Labels.............................................................. 35

4.8.1 Database Configuration and Test Labels........... 35

4.8.2 Test Label .......................................................... 37

Using the Front Panel (Display-equipped printers)

5.0 Introduction................................................................... 39

5.0.1 Ready Mode....................................................... 39

iii

5.0.2 Menu Mode........................................................40

5.0.3 Quick Test Mode................................................ 41

5.0.4 Indicator Lights................................................... 42

5.0.5 LCD.................................................................... 42

5.1 The Menu System ........................................................ 43

5.1.1 Entrance and Exit Prompts ................................ 43

5.1.2 Media Settings ................................................... 44

5.1.3 Print Control.......................................................46

5.1.4 Printer Options...................................................47

5.1.5 System Settings.................................................49

5.1.6 Communications ................................................ 56

5.1.7 Diagnostics......................................................... 60

5.1.8 MCL Options......................................................61

5.2 Display Messages ........................................................ 62

5.2.1 User Prompts and Condition Messages............. 62

5.3 Quick Test Mode .......................................................... 64

5.3.1 Print Quality Label.............................................. 64

5.3.2 Configuration Label............................................ 65

5.3.3 Quick Ribbon Test Label.................................... 66

5.3.4 Validation Label.................................................. 66

5.3.5 Print Last Label .................................................. 67

iv

5.3.6 User Defined Label ............................................67

5.4 Media Sensor Calibration............................................. 68

5.4.1 Quick Calibration................................................ 68

5.4.2 Standard Calibration .......................................... 69

5.4.3 Advanced Entry Calibration................................ 72

Maintenance and Adjustments

6.0 Introduction................................................................... 79

6.1 Cleaning the Printhead................................................. 80

6.1.1 Automated Printhead Cleaning .......................... 81

6.2 Media Width Adjustment............................................... 82

6.3 Printhead Burn Line Adjustment................................... 83

6.4 Printhead Pressure Adjustment.................................... 84

6.5 Printhead Replacement................................................ 85

6.6 Darkness Adjustment ................................................... 86

6.7 Resetting the Printer..................................................... 86

6.8 Downloading Firmware and Fonts................................ 88

Troubleshooting

7.0 Problem Resolution......................................................89

7.1 Fault and Warning Messages....................................... 93

7.2 Hex Dump Mode........................................................... 98

Specifications...............................................................99

v

Appendix A

ASCII Control Code Chart.................................................... 103

Appendix B

Embedded Fonts and Barcodes .......................................... 105

Appendix C

Optional Internal Ethernet Printer Server............................. 115

Appendix D

Menu System Multi-Language Support................................ 141

Advanced File Handling Information.................................... 145

Appendix E

Saving a Configuration File.................................................. 147

Appendix F

GPIO Port Description ......................................................... 149

Warranty............................................................................153

Glossary............................................................................155

vi

M-Class 1

1.0 Introduction

Congratulations on your M-Class printer purchase. The M-Class family, hereafter referred to as ‘the printer’, blends the
rugged durability of die-cast construction with state-of-the-art electronics and user-friendly features to redefine the
standard in industrial thermal printers. Available in direct and optional thermal transfer configurations, the printers use
unique front panel designs to simplify operation, while its USB, RS232 serial, IEEE 1284 compliant parallel, or optional
(M-4208 and M-4306, only) internal print server allows easy interfacing to any 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 (http://www.datamaxcorp.com/

) or on the included CD-ROM. If
you wish to write a custom program, a copy of the Class Series Programmer’s Manual can also be found on the CD­ROM.

2 M-Class

1.1 About this Printer

This printer offers the following standard and optional features:

1.1.1 Standard Features

Printing

 Direct Thermal Printing
 On Demand and Batch Printing
 203 DPI (M-4206 and M-4208) 300 DPI (M-4306) Printhead
 Date and Time Stamp
 AGFA Scalable Font Engine
 2 Resident Scaleable fonts, CG Triumvirate™ regular and bold-condensed (M-4208 and M-4306 only)

Memory

 2 MB FLASH Memory (256K available to user, designated as Module B)
 4 MB DRAM Memory (M-4206)
 8 MB DRAM Memory (M-4208 and M-4306))

Interfaces

 USB interface
 DB-9 RS-232 serial interface
 IEEE 1284 Centronics



parallel interface

Operational

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

M-Class 3

1.1.2 Optional Features

Thermal Transfer

A printing method that uses ribbon to produce exceptional image clarity (as compared to most direct thermal stocks).
Note that this option must be specified for use with either ‘coated side in’ 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 1.0 inches (25.4 mm). Designed for ease of operation, the Media Cutter is automatically detected,
configured, and enabled when installed on the printer.

Peel and Present Mechanism (also 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 0.75 inches (19 mm).
Designed for ease of operation, the Peel and Present Mechanism is automatically detected, configured, and enabled
when installed on the printer.

Internal Rewind

An internal mechanism capable of winding printed labels or the label backing material only (when using the Peel and
Present option) into a maximum four-inch outer diameter roll.

Present Sensor

An output control device that allows subsequent printing to occur only after the removal of a previously printed label.
Designed for ease of operation, the Present Sensor is automatically detected, configured, and enabled when installed
on the printer.

FLASH Memory Expansion

An optional Main Circuit Card Assembly available with 4MB (M-4206) or 8MB (M-4208 and M-4306) of Flash
memory for International Language Printing Capability (ILPC) and/or additional fonts and graphics.

ILPC

A font set that allows International Language Print Capability consisting of one of the following:

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

4 M-Class

External Ethernet Connectivity (uses printer’s parallel port)

A print server (the DMX100) that is an external Network Interface Controller (NIC) to provide Ethernet
connectivity.

Internal Ethernet Connectivity (printers equipped with a front display, only)

An internal Network Interface Controller (NIC) that enables the printer to provide Ethernet connectivity. Features
include:

 Automatic selection of 10BaseT (Thinnet) or 100BaseT Fast Ethernet connection.
 Integral HTTP Server to allow monitoring and management from a standard Web browser program.
 FTP printing to allow printing directly from a Web browser or other FTP client.
 LPR/LPD over TCP/IP for UNIX platforms and Microsoft’s Windows.
 Raw sockets support over selectable TCP/IP port with filters for selected UNIX environment.
 IP SNMP support of MIB-2, proprietary NIC MIB and public and proprietary (private) Printer MIB.
 SNMP traps to alert administrators of printer errors (paper/ribbon out, head up, etc).
 DHCP, BootP, and RARP services supported

MCL (printers equipped with a front display, only)

A software tool suite designed for data collection applications. Once enabled, the printer can accept input data from
peripheral devices such as barcode scanners, weigh scales, and keyboards without the need of a host computer,
requesting and sending data to locally resident lookup files or remote databases, enhancing communication
capabilities within your system while reducing your hardware investment.

M-Class 5

2.0 Before Using the Printer

Removing the Packaging

Inspect the shipping container(s) for damage. If damage is evident, immediately 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 (for example, the tape and foam) that were placed in the printer for shipment. Complete
the following steps prior to connecting power or attempting to load media.

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

 Remove the top piece of packing foam.

 Lift the printer from the box.

 Remove the printer from the plastic bag.

 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.

6 M-Class

Inspecting the Printer

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

 Printer

 Power Cord

 CD-ROM and Documentation

 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.

 Serial, USB or Parallel cable

 Ethernet cable for optional LAN connectivity

 Applicable Media

 Applicable Software

M-Class 7

3.0 Introduction

This Section explains how to connect your printer, load media (and ribbon, if equipped for thermal transfer).

3.1 Connecting the Printer

3.1.1 Power Connection



Note: Before connecting the AC Power Cord or interface cables to the printer, 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 8.0 for the acceptable voltage ranges.)

8 M-Class

3.1.2 Interface Connection

The printer can be connected to the host via the parallel, USB, serial, or optional network interface. The printer will
automatically connect to the first port that delivers valid data. Once established, the printer’s power must be cycled ‘Off’
and ‘On’ to change an interface connection.

 The Parallel Connection needs a Centronics



IEEE 1284 cable with a
36-pin male connector for unidirectional (forward channel)
communications, or an IEEE 1284 Compliant cable for bi-directional
communications (forward and reverse channels). Also, for bi-directional
communications your host must have supporting software. See Section 5
for more information.

 The USB Connection needs a USB cable and is supported in

Windows



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

 The Serial Connection needs a serial interface cable with specific pin-

outs for proper communications (part numbers and pin-outs are given,
below; contact your reseller to order). The interface supports RS-232C
communications via a DB-9 connector. Serial port settings are menu­selectable and must match your host’s serial port settings; see Section 4,
for non-display printers or Section 5 for display-equipped printers.

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

 The Optional Internal Ethernet Print Server is available only for display-equipped printers. When using this

interface, refer to Appendix C, or the instructions included with the option for proper cabling, setup, and
configuration.

M-Class 9

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.

10 M-Class

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.

M-Class 11

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:

Printers without front display: Perform the Auto Media Sensor Calibration, see section 4.7.1.
Printers with front display: Press and hold the

FEED

button until at least one label gap or mark is advanced then

release. For additional calibration procedures, see section 5.4



Note: The 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 6.2.

12 M-Class

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.

To adjust:

 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.

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

Media Sensor Selection and Adjustment

Media Type Sensor Eye Mark Position Sensing Required

Die-cut Near the middle of the label Gap

Notched Centered over the notch Gap

Reflective Centered over the black mark Reflective

Continuous Near the middle of the media Continuous

M-Class 13

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 ribbon that is slightly wider than your media (and liner, if any) will help protect against printhead 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.

14 M-Class

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

FEED

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

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

Printers without front display: See section 4.5.2
Printers with front display: See section 5.1.2

M-Class 15

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



Note: Directional Arrows near the Ribbon Supply Hub indicate the correct ribbon route. Ribbon types are available with the ink

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

16 M-Class

M-Class 17

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.

4.01 DMXConfig

DMXConfig (located on the M-class CD-ROM) is a Windows-based configuration utility that can simplify printer setup.
This application allows the user to make changes to the existing printer setup without using the front panel buttons. Visit
our website at www.datamaxcorp.com/software/m-class/ for the latest releases.

DMXConfig Features:

 Simplify Printer Setup Process
 Allows Real-Time Control/Query of Printer Configuration
 Define and Save Optimal Configurations for Applications i.e.

Ribbon / Label Stock Combinations

 Saved Configurations can be Shared with other Printers and Sent

via Email

 Download Files, Formats and Fonts
 Query Memory Modules

(Sample screenshot)

18 M-Class

4.1 Lights

Normal Mode

(Normal power-up)

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 opera tor.

Indicates a top of form or mechanical er ro r has occurred

Solid On:

Indicates the printer is on and ready for printing

Flashing:

Indicates the printer is receiving data from the host

ERROR

READY

 Both the

READY

and

STOP

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

4.2 Buttons

The three buttons,

PAU S E

,

FEED

, and

CANCEL

perform different functions based on the printer’s

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

Normal: Normal printer functions. See Section 4.3.

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

Control. See Section 4.4.

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.

M-Class 19

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.

Pauses/Un-pauses the printer

Feeds one label. Clears fault conditions

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

Normal Mode

(Normal power-up)

CANCEL

PAU S E

FEED

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

Button Combinations (push buttons simultaneously)

PAU S E

+

FEED

Prints the Test Label, see Section 4.8.2.

PAU S E

+

CANCEL

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

FEED

+

CANCEL

Produces Database Configuration and Test Labels, see Section 4.8.1

20 M-Class

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…

T urn the printer OFF to save settings.

M-Class 21

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

,

but can still occur while printing “test” labels.

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 6.7.

To change Printer Setup:

Printer Setup Procedure

Printer Setup Mode

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

Prints the ‘Test Label’ for “test”

(Current Item and Value is printed)

Increments ite m’s value

Decrements item’s value

Accepts the current
values for “test”

PAU SE

PAU S E

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

STOP

PAU S E

Feeds one label for “test”

Press and

Release

(

)

FEED

FEED

Press and

Hold

(

)

(Enters Printer Setup)

CANCEL

Saves the current values
and resumes

Normal Mode

+

PAU S E

CANCEL

Press and

Release

Selects the next menu item

(

)

Press and

Hold

”Direct Select” m enu item

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

(

)

FEED

CANCEL

+

PAU SE

CANCEL

DONE



Note: When adjusting CONT FORM LENGTH, LABEL WIDTH, or ALIGN LENGTH, momentarily pressing F1 or F2 will change the

value by one, or hold down the button until the Fault light flashes to change the value by ten for each flash.

22 M-Class

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

FEED

button during the Printer Setup Procedure (see Section 4.5). For example to “Direct Select” the BAUD RATE Menu Item
press and hold the

FEED

button for 7 flashes of the

ERROR

light and then release or for the TOF GAIN item hold

FEED

for 12 flashes, etc.

Menu
Items

Values

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 = OPTION CONTROL

21) DPL = INPUT MODE

22) STANDARD = DPL EMULATION

23) 10 = HEAT

24) NO = EXACT TIME

25) NO = GPIO

26) NO = NO REPRINT

Menu Item

Numbers



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

M-Class 23

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

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

3) PRESENT SENSOR

Enables/Disables the optional Present
Sensor feature.

Possible Values:

* AUTO
NO
YES

4) CUTTER EQUIPPED

Enables/Disables the optional
Media Cutter 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)

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

8) DATA BITS

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

Possible Values:

* 8

7

9) CONTROL CODES

Allows code selection listed in
Programmer’s manual.

Possible Values:

* (STD) Standard Codes

(ALT) Alternate Codes

10) CONT FORM LENGTH

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

Possible Values:

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

11) OOS MAXVOLT

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

Possible Values:

Range: 0 – 16; nominal = *2

(Units = .1 volt)

12) TOF GAIN

Sets media sensor Top of Form gain
value.

Possible Values:

Range: 0 – 15; nominal = *10

24 M-Class

13) TOF DELTA

Sets th e minimum media sensor
change required to signify a label
gap or mark.

Possible Values:

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

14) TOF LOW

Sets th e minimum media 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) SCALABLE 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)

19) ALIGN LENGTH

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)

20) OPTION CONTROL

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.)

M-Class 25

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)

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

24) EXACT TIME

Instructs the printer to wait until the system is idle before the next
label’s data and time fields are formatted to eliminate any
discrepancy between the buffered and printed times.

Possible Values:

YES or NO; default = *NO

25) GPIO

Sets the printer’s option port to function for GPIO
applications, (see Appendix F for more
information).

Possible Values:

YES or NO; default = *NO

26) NO REPRINT

When a fault condtions is detected, printing stops and the ERROR
light turns on. After the problem is corrected, the FEED Key must
be pressed to clear the fault. The label in process is not reprinted.

Possible Values:

YES or NO; default = *NO

(NO = NO REPRINT” disabled, reprinting will occur.)



Note: All of the values for these Menu Items will be stored in non-volatile memory for future power-ups.

26 M-Class

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

PAU SE

button while powering ‘On’ the

printer. Continue to hold the button until the

STOP

light turns off, then release it.

2. Press and hold the

FEED

button and count 7 flashes of the

ERROR

light, then release it. The following printout

should be produced:

3. Press the

PAU SE

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

PAU SE

+

CANCEL

buttons. Wait until the

STOP

light goes off.



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.

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

PAU SE

+

CANCEL

buttons. Wait until the

STOP

light goes off.

M-Class 27

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.

Label 1

Label 2

WED NOVEMBER 10, 2003 21:41:31
323
VER: M4206 - 05.08 11/07/03
BOOT 83-2383-05E
CODE 83-2385-05H
FPGA 83-2384-05B
FONT 83-2460-01C
UMOD 83-2472-01A
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
POT_______________ 33
TRAN______________ 157
REFL______________ 0
RIBN______________ 237
TEMP______________ 64
VOLT______________ 218
PRESENT SENSOR____ 0

COUNTER INFORMATION
ABSOLUTE VALUES 7-16-2003
LENGTH____ 773 INCHES
TIME______ 20 HOURS
RESETTABLE VALUES 7-16-2003
LENGTH____ 969 INCHES
TIME

______

56 HOURS

MEMORY CONFIGURATION
INTERNAL MODULE A______ 128
SCALABLE FONTS_________ 64
LABEL SIZE 0426:10912
IN

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
OPTION CONTROL____ AUTO
INPUT MODE________ DPL
DPL EMULATION_____ STANDARD
HEAT______________ 10
EXACT TIME________ NO
GPIO______________ NO
NO REPRINT________ NO
SYMBOL SET________ PM
FONT SUBSTITUTION_ NONE

IGNORE COMMANDS
SYMBOL SET SELECT_ NO
CNTRL CODES_______ NO
HEAT______________ NO
SPEED_____________ NO
SOP OFFSET________ NO

28 M-Class

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 Label Alignment Setting

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.

M-Class 29

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

PAU SE

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.

30 M-Class

4.6.4 Label Alignment Troubleshooting

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

Problem Possible Cause 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.

 Set Label Alignment to AUTO, press and hold

FEED

until

media moves for the automatic length measurement.

~OR~

 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.

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

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.

 Set Label Alignment to AUTO, press and hold

FEED

until
paper moves for automatic Label Alignment length
measurement.

~OR~

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

new length, ensure desired length has been set.

 Obtain a slightly different label Alignment Length

measurement. Using the Label Alignment AUTO mode, hold
the

FEED

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.

Label Alignment is
incorrect. Pressing

FEED

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

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.

 Set Label Alignment to AUTO. Press and hold

FEED

until
paper moves for automatic Label Alignment Length
measurement.

~OR~

 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.

M-Class 31

Problem Possible Cause 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

 Set Label Alignment to AUTO. Press and hold

FEED

until
paper moves for automatic Label Alignment length
measurement.

~OR~

 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 forward.

Another present position
has been determined.
Enabling the Present
Sensor causes the label
stop position (present
position) to be
approximately 0.1”
behind the peel bar.

~OR~

The Present Adjust value
is not correct.

 Disable the Present Sensor.

~OR~

 Ensure the host computer is not providing a Present Distance

shorter than is required for the Tear Bar.

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

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

Another present position
has been determined.

~OR~

The Present Adjust value
is not correct.

 Ensure the host computer is not providing a Present Distance

longer than is required for the Tear Bar.

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

The

ERROR

light
illuminates during label
alignment.

The label supply is empty  Load media.

32 M-Class

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

and

, but can still occur while

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 6.7

To perform Calibration:

Auto Media Calibration

(See section 4.7.1)

(Until Paused light turns off)

(See section 4.7.2)

Calibration Mode

Analyze for ‘Paper’
Analyze for ‘Backing or ‘Mark’
Analyze ‘Out of Media’ condition

Prints the ‘Test Label’ for “test”

Media Sensor Calibration

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

STOP

CANCEL

PAU S E

Feeds one label f o r “ test”

Press and

Release

(

)

FEED

FEED

Press and

Hold

(

)

CANCEL

Saves the current values
and resumes

Normal Mode

+

PAU S E

CANCEL

PAU S E

FEED

CANCEL

Accepts the current
values for “test”

+

PAU S E

CANCEL

DONE

M-Class 33

4.7.1 Auto Media Sensor Calibration

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



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:

1. With the desired media loaded, hold the

CANCEL

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

until the

STOP

light turns off then release it.

2. Next press the

PAU SE

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

PAU SE

+

CANCEL

buttons simultaneously and

briefly. Wait until the

STOP

light goes off.

34 M-Class

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

STOP

light turns off; then

release the button. Next, press and hold the

FEED

button, continue to hold the button until the

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

PAU SE

button. The printer will flash the

ERROR

light as it analyzes the material.

5. Simultaneously and briefly press the

PAU SE

+

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 calibration simply turn off the printer before Step 7.

7. Now save the changes and resume

by pressing the

PAU SE

+

CANCEL

buttons simultaneously and

briefly. Wait until the

STOP

light goes off.

M-Class 35

4.8 Internal Labels

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

4.8.1 Database Configuration and Test 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 Test Labels:

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

FEED

+

CANCEL

buttons simultaneously.

The first label printed will be the Database Configuration Label.

Label 1

Label 2

WED NOVEMBER 10, 2003 21:41:31
323
VER: M4206 - 05.08 11/07/03
BOOT 83-2383-05E
CODE 83-2385-05H
FPGA 83-2384-05B
FONT 83-2460-01C
UMOD 83-2472-01A
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
POT_______________ 33
TRAN______________ 157
REFL______________ 0
RIBN______________ 237
TEMP______________ 64
VOLT______________ 218
PRESENT SENSOR____ 0

COUNTER INFORMATION
ABSOLUTE VALUES 7-16-2003
LENGTH____ 773 INCHES
TIME______ 20 HOURS
RESETTABLE VALUES 7-16-2003
LENGTH____ 969 INCHES
TIME

______

56 HOURS

MEMORY CONFIGURATION
INTERNAL MODULE A______ 128
SCALABLE FONTS_________ 64
LABEL SIZE 0426:10912
IN

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
OPTION CONTROL____ AUTO
INPUT MODE________ DPL
DPL EMULATION_____ STANDARD
HEAT______________ 10
EXACT TIME________ NO
GPIO______________ NO
NO REPRINT________ NO
SYMBOL SET________ PM
FONT SUBSTITUTION_ NONE

IGNORE COMMANDS
SYMBOL SET SELECT_ NO
CNTRL CODES_______ NO
HEAT______________ NO
SPEED_____________ NO
SOP OFFSET________ NO

36 M-Class

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

Good Print Quality Label:

Even pattern consistency
indicates correct printhead
operation.

Faulty Print Quality Label:

Streaks indicate a dirty or
faulty printhead. See Section

6.1 for cleaning instructions.

M-Class 37

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

PAU SE

+

FEED

buttons.

38 M-Class

M-Class 39

5.0 Introduction

Controlling Printer Settings with the Internal Printserver

If your printer is equipped with the optional Internal Printserver, many of the printer’s setting and parameters can be
modified and controlled via the built-in HTML pages resident in the printer. These pages can be accessed using any
web browser by simply entering the IP address in the URL bar.

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



Note: To Adjust the LCD contrast, press and hold the

MENU

key for 10 to 20 seconds to modify the LCD contrast level.

5.0.1 Ready Mode: Normal Operation (Ready Light ‘On’)



The PAUSE Key temporarily suspends printing. Pressing it again will return the printer to normal
operation.



The FEED Key advances one label, and clears any corrected faults.
Pressing and holding causes the printer to perform a Quick Media Calibration; see Section 5.4.1.



The CANCEL Key ‘pauses’ the printer and then prompts you for confirmation. If yes, the current job
is cancelled. The printer remains paused.

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



MENU

The MENU Key toggles between the Ready and Menu Modes. In the Ready Mode, pressing and
holding four seconds will change the display contrast.



The TEST Key enters (or exits) the Quick Test Menu.

40 M-Class

5.0.2 Menu Mode: Configuration (Ready Light ‘Flashing’)



REV

The LEFT ARROW Key scrolls to the previous menu item on the same menu level.
It also decrements numerical values in most menu selections.



FWD

The RIGHT ARROW Key scrolls to the next menu item. It also increments
numerical values in most menu selections.


The ENTER Key selects the function, item or displayed value. It also moves
between selections within multiple parameter fields.


The ESCAPE Key moves to the previous menu level, and finally back to the Ready
Mode.



When a print job is in progress, pressing the TEST Key will terminate the job. The
printer will prompt you for confirmation; if ‘Yes,’ the current job is cancelled and
then Menu Mode is restored.

M-Class 41

5.0.3 Quick Test Mode: Print Test Labels



Note: The Quick Test Mode functions are disabled while processing data from communications interfaces until the Host Timeout

value expires. Also, You can program a time delay between the printings of test labels using the ‘Print Test Rate’ feature;
see Section 5.1.7



REV

The LEFT ARROW Key scrolls to the previous test function.



FWD

The RIGHT ARROW Key scrolls to the next test function.


The ENTER Key will change the selected test label quantity of 2, 100, 1000, or
9999 (except the ‘Configuration Label’, quantity of one). Holding down the key
scrolls quantities.


The ESCAPE Key will exit the Quick Test Mode without printing.



The TEST Key will print the selected test label at the selected quantity. During test

label printing, this key also functions as a cancel key (the printer will prompt you for

confirmation before cancellation occurs).

42 M-Class

5.0.4 Indicator Lights



‘On’ indicates that the printer is powered ‘On’ and, after initialization, it indicates

the Ready Mode.

‘Slow Flashing’ indicates Menu Mode.

‘Fast Flashing’ indicates data is being received and processed.



‘On’ indicates a ‘Paused’ condition.



‘Slow Flashing’ indicates a Warning. ‘Fast Flashing’ indicates a Fault. See Section

7.1 for a listing of associated messages.

5.0.5 LCD

 Liquid Crystal Display

The display provides several types of information:

 Following a brief power-up sequence (initialization), the ‘Ready’ message.

 The time and date, if the printer has received it from one of the following: the

host, the front panel setting, or the Time and Date option.

 A label counter during a

batch print job.

 The Menu System when in Menu Mode.

 Any prompt, condition, downloading, warning, or fault message.

M-Class 43

5.1 The Menu System

Printer operation can be controlled through the user interface, allowing the operator access to these six menu system
branches: Media Settings; Print Control; Printer Options; System Settings; Communications; and, Diagnostics.

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

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



Note: In the following subsections, the factory default settings are denoted with the ‘’ symbol. Selections denoted with a diamond

() can only be changed through the menu system - all other selections can be overridden by host software commands.

Consult the Class Series Programmer’s Manual for specific information.

5.1.1 Entrance and Exit Prompts

With ‘Ready’ displayed on the LCD, press the

MENU

Key to enter Menu Mode.



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

MENU MODE

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

ENTER PASSWORD
0 0 0 0

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

KEEP HOST CHANGES?

ENTER = YES

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

SAVE CHANGES?

ENTER = YES

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



Note: If changes have been made that require a reset, the printer will automatically invoke that reset.

44 M-Class

5.1.2 Media Settings

MEDIA TYPE

Selects the printing method.

DIRECT THERMAL

For use with heat sensitive media.

THERMAL TRANSFER

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

SENSOR TYPE

Selects the top-of-form (TOF) sensing method for the media.

GAP

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

CONTINUOUS

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

REFLECTIVE

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

LABEL LENGTH

04.00in (0-99.99)

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

MAXIMUM LABEL LENGTH

16.00in (0-99.99)

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

PAPER OUT DISTANCE

00.25in (0-99.99)

Sets the length of travel before an out of stock condition is declared.

LABEL WIDTH

203DPI > 04.26in (.75-4.26)
300DPI > 04.16in (.75-4.16)

Sets the maximum limit for the printable width. Objects extending beyond this limit
will be clipped off and not printed.

RIBBON LOW DIAMETER 

1.38 in (1.00-2.00)

Sets the threshold for a low ribbon indication.

SENSOR CALIBRATION 

Adjusts the printer to sense your media.

PERFORM CALIBRATION

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

ADVANCED ENTRY

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

SENSOR LEVELS

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

SENSOR GAIN

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

M-Class 45

PRINTHEAD CLEANING

Controls the printhead cleaning routine.

CLEAN HEAD SCHEDULE
000 in. (* 1000)

Specifies the inch (or centimeter) count to reach before prompting a printhead
cleaning. If the number specified is exceeded three times, the printer will fault until
cleaning is initiated.



Notes: The default value (zero) disables this function. Also, the number specified is

multiplied by one thousand.

CLEAN HEAD COUNTER
0 in.

Indicates the number of inches (or centimeters) since printhead cleaning was last
initiated.

RESET COUNTER

Allows the clean head counter to be set to zero

CLEAN HEAD NOW

Initiates printhead cleaning and resets the Clean Head Counter.



Notes:

Remove ribbon, if installed.
Enter Menu Mode / Media Settings / Media Type and set the printer for Direct Thermal.
Ensure that full width media is installed.
See Section 6.1 for detailed instructions.

46 M-Class

5.1.3 Print Control

HEAT

10 (0-30)

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

PRINT SPEED

M-4206 > 6 in/s (2-6)
M-4208 > 8 in/s (2-8)
M-4306 > 6 in/s (2-6)

Controls the rate of label movement during the printing process.

FEED SPEED

M-4206 > 6 in/s (2-6)
M-4208 > 8 in/s (2-8)
M-4306 > 6 in/s (2-6)

Controls the rate of label when the FEED Key is pressed.

REVERSE SPEED

M-4206 > 4 in/s (2-5)
M-4208 > 4 in/s (2-5)
M-4306 > 4 in/s (2-5)

Controls the rate of label movement during backup positioning for start of print,
cutting or present distance.

ROW OFFSET

00.00in (0-99.99)

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

COLUMN OFFSET

00.00in (0-99.99)

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

PRESENT DISTANCE

0.00in (0-4.00)

Sets the label stop position past the start of print. When the next label format is
received, it will automatically be back fed to the start position. If the present distance
is set to zero, the printer will operate without reversing.

CUSTOM ADJUSTMENTS 

These factory adjustments independently change the listed parameters to finely tune
the printer and compensate for slight mechanical differences sometimes evident if
multiple printers share label formats.

DARKNESS
32 (1-64)

Controls the printhead strobe time to fine-tune the HEAT setting.

CONTRAST
32 (1-64)

It allows relative print edge (gray) adjustment for the print quality, which allows
fine-tuning for specific media/ribbon mix.

ROW ADJUST
000 DOTS (-150 -150)

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

COLUMN ADJUST
000 DOTS (0-128)

Shifts both the horizontal start of print position and the LABEL WIDTH termination
point to the right in dots to fine-tune the COLUMN OFFSET setting.

PRESENT ADJUST
064 DOTS (0-128)

Adjusts the label stopping position in dots to fine-tune the PRESENT DISTANCE
setting.

M-Class 47

5.1.4 Printer Options

MODULES

Memory available for user storage of graphics, fonts and label formats. (The
physical presence of the respective memory module must be detected to show the
function selections in the menu system.

PRINT DIRECTORY

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

PRINT FILE

The user may select from a list of available files for sample printing.

FORMAT MODULE

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

DELETE FILE

The user may select from a list of available files for deleting (protected modules will
not appear). Bytes will not be retrieved until the module that contained the deleted
file is packed.

PACK MODULE

Packing the module removes files marked as deleted and defragments existing file
structures to recover space.

PRESENT SENSOR

Used for on-demand label dispensing, where a printed label blocking the sensor will
inhibit further printing until removed. (The physical presence of the Present Sensor
must be detected to show the ENABLE/DISABLE selections, else NOT
INSTALLED will be displayed momentarily).

MODE

Sets Present Sensor to desired mode of operation.

AUTO

Enables the present sensor when option is installed – present sensor or peel and
present mechanism. Stop location (present distance is automatically set
appropriately for the installed hardware.

ENABLED

Enables the sensor for on-demand printing. Stop location (present distance is
automatically set appropriately for the installed hardware.

DISABLED

Disables the sensor.

RETRACTION DELAY
070 x 10mS (1-255)

Time delay prior to moving label to next start of print in milliseconds.

48 M-Class

CUTTER

Used to cut media into separate labels. (The physical presence of a device must be
detected to show the ENABLE/DISABLE selections, else NOT INSTALLED will
be momentarily displayed).

AUTO

Enables the cutter when option is installed. Stop location (present distance is
automatically set appropriately for the installed hardware.

ENABLED

Enables cutting.

DISABLED

Disables cutting.

GPIO PORT 

Used to interface the printer to external controlling devices (see Appendix D).

GPIO DEVICE

Sets the GPIO Port to work with a specific type of device.

DISABLED

Disables the GPIO Port.

APPLICATOR

Enables the GPIO for a label applicator.

BARCODE VERIFIER

Enables the GPIO for a bar code verifier.

START OF PRINT

Programmable signal input that controls the Start of Print (SOP) process.

ACTIVE HIGH

SOP signal must go ‘high’ for at least 50 milliseconds to initiate printing.

ACTIVE LOW

SOP signal must go ‘low’ for at least 50 milliseconds to initiate printing.

END OF PRINT

Programmable signal output that signifies the End of Print (EOP) process.

LOW PULSE

Outputs a low pulse (approximately 30 milliseconds long) following printing.

HIGH PULSE

Outputs a high pulse (approximately 30 milliseconds long) following printing.

ACTIVE LOW

Outputs a logic ‘low’ following printing.

ACTIVE HIGH

Outputs a logic ‘high’ following printing.

M-Class 49

5.1.5 System Settings

CONFIGURATION FILE 

Options for storage and recall of printer configuration files. See Appendix E for
details.

RESTORE AS CURRENT

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

SAVE SETTING AS

Saves the entire effective configuration of the printer to a file. Unique names with
up to nineteen characters are possible.

DELETE FILE

Provides a list of available configuration files. Files selected are immediately
removed, freeing the module.



Note: A currently activated file cannot be deleted.

FACTORY SETTING FILE

Provides a list of available configuration files. The selected file will be restored
whenever a Level 1 reset is performed; see Section 6.7.

INTERNAL MODULE D

1024 KB (100-5120)

Sets the number of 1K blocks allocated for the internal RAM ‘D’ module.

DEFAULT MODULE

D

Sets the default module used to store files when no other module is specified.
Available choices are G=FLASH memory or D=RAM memory

SCALEABLE FONT CACHE

0312 KB (100-5120)

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

SINGLE BYTE SYMBOLS

Selects the code page used to print single byte fonts unless otherwise specified in
DPL.

PC_850 MULTILINGUAL

One of many selectable standard sets; see the Class Series Programmer’s Manual
for details.

DOUBLE BYTE SYMBOLS

When equipped with the ILPC option, this selects the code page used to print double
byte fonts unless otherwise specified in DPL; see the Class Series Programmer’s
Manual.

UNICODE

Unicode (including Korean)

GB

Government Bureau Industry Standard; Chinese (PRC)

BIG 5

Taiwan encoded

JIS

Japanese Industry Standard

SHIFT JIS

Shift Japanese Industry Standard

EUC

Extended UNIX Code

TIME AND DATE

Allows the user to set the time and date.

50 M-Class

System Settings (continued)

MEDIA COUNTERS 

Internal record of inches printed and time of use.

ABSOLUTE COUNTER

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

RESETTABLE COUNTER

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

RESET COUNTER

Resets the Resettable Counter to zero.

PRINT CONFIGURATION

Prints the effective configuration of the system. In addition, if settings were
changed that require a reset to become effective, this will be indicated with the ‘§’
symbol. A bulleted item () indicates that it was changed via the host, but not saved
in non-volatile memory.

CONFIGURATION LEVEL 

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

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

vvvv-cwxx-yyyyyy-zzz

Where:

vvvv– represents the model number of the application loaded

cwxx– represents the hardware / software feature level, where:
c – represents the printer class.
w – represents hardware feature level of the main board.
xx – represents the software feature level. Software feature levels are

accepted up to the ‘xx’ value (increases beyond this level require
an authorization code)

10 = Standard DPL
20 = Internal CG Times Font

yyyyyy– is a manufacturing date code

PRINTER KEY

zzz– is a unique time stamp

APPLICATION VERSION

Displays the Application version of the printer’s firmware.

BOOT LOADER

Displays the Boot Loader version of the printer’s firmware.

UPGRADE PRINTER CODE

This function is used to upgrade the software feature level of the printer. Datamax
authorization is required.

UNLOCK FEATURE

This function is used to unlock the additional optional features within the printer.
Datamax authorization is required.

M-Class 51

System Settings (continued)

SET FACTORY DEFAULTS

Parameters in this menu listing with the ‘’ symbol are the designated defaults.

SET FACTORY DEFAULTS

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



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

FORMAT ATTRIBUTES

Affects the manner in which overlapping text and graphics are treated as the label
is printed. Consult the Class Series Programmer’s Manual for details.

XOR

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

OPAQUE

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

TRANSPARENT

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

LABEL ROTATION 

Instructs the printer to rotate the label format 180 degrees before printing.

ENABLED

Label formats are flipped top to bottom.

DISABLED

Label formats are printed normally.

IMAGING MODE 

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



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

MULTIPLE LABEL

The printer images multiple labels as memory permits, achieving the fastest
throughput; however, if time-stamping, the time will reflect the moment the label
is imaged rather than when actually printed.

SINGLE LABEL

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

PAUSE MODE

When enabled, suspends printing between each label until the PAUSE Key is
pressed.

ENABLED

Requires an operator press the PAUSE Key after each label.

DISABLED

The printer completes label batch without pausing between labels.

52 M-Class

System Settings (continued)

PEEL MODE

Specifies that a Feed operation be prevented when the label is presented and not
removed, or if the printer is to wait for the GPIO start of print signal.

ENABLED

Feed is inhibited according to the above criteria.

DISABLED

Feed is always enabled.

SECURITY 

Provides the user with the ability to password-protect all settings available through
the User Interface. Default password is: 1 2 3 4

SELECT SECURITY

Enable or disable the security feature of the User Interface.

MENU AND TEST

The Menu and Test areas will require a password before access is granted.

SECURE MENU

The Menu area will require a password before access is granted.

DISABLED

All menu items are accessible without protection.

MODIFY PASSWORD

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

UNITS OF MEASURE

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

IMPERIAL

Inch standard: lengths and counters given in inches.

METRIC

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

INPUT MODE 

Defines the type of printer language.

DPL

Standard DPL processing.

LINE

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

M-Class 53

System Settings (continued)

DPL EMULATION 

(not available with M-4306)

Determines SOP Emulation (start of print (<STX>O)) see above, Column
Emulation (see above), positions barcodes as does selected printer.

STANDARD

Start of print 220; the below exceptions are disabled.

ALLEGRO

PRODIGY PLUS

PRODIGY

Allegro, Prodigy Plus, and Prodigy emulations enabled:

Data Terminator – I 2 of 5 Barcodes (IDs D, J, and L), the first non-numeric

character processed will terminate the barcode data field.

Bar Size – I 2 of 5 Barcode (ID L), when the bar size is specified greater than P

(25), the size is automatically decreased to 10.

Human Readable Fonts – The EAN and UPC barcodes (IDs B, C, F, G, M, and

N) print a fixed font size.

Lines and boxes: Rotations 2 and 4 are affected by the vertical multi-plication

factor defined in the DPL Dxx command.

Column positions greater than the printhead width are adjusted back to the

printable area and printed.

Barcodes (rotation 3, upside down / right to left) with row position less than

barcode height result in row position equal to barcode height, that is, barcodes
falling off label leading edge are pushed back onto the label.

<STX>L (Label Command) followed by no printable fields result in no paper

movement. (When disabled a blank label is printed).

Allegro Only:

 The row position is calculated based on 194 DPI.

COLUMN EMULATION 

* Not available in M-4306

Compensation for location of column position 0 via columnar dots per inch (dpi)
emulation.

203 in (180 - 250)

Dpi emulation, smaller numbers shrink text from right to left.

54 M-Class

System Settings (continued)

SOP EMULATION 

Enables the <STX>O and <STX>f print positioning commands to allow backward
compatibility with label formats designed for other printers.

110 (PRODPLUS)

Emulates the Prodigy Plus® printer.

220 (ALLEGRO)

Emulates the Allegro® printer.

250 (PRODIGY)

Emulates the Prodigy™ printer.

DISABLED

No emulation: natural start of print position. (System Commands <STX>O and
<STX>f are ignored).

BACK AFTER PRINT

When the present distance is set with the GPIO enabled, this determines the timing
of the label back up.

ENABLED

Commands the printer to immediately back up the label after the applicator issued
start of print signal is received for faster throughput.

DISABLED

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

FONT EMULATION 

The selected font is substituted for all Datamax internal fonts. This function
provides the printer to define a new default font without changing the host DPL
data streams.

STANDARD FONTS
CG TIMES
USER ID S50

MENU LANGUAGE 

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

ENGLISH

English

FRANCAIS

French

ITALIANO

Italian

DEUTSCH

German

ESPAÑOL

Spanish

USER DEFINED

User defined, downloaded language(s) and displayed only if present.

M-Class 55

System Settings (continued)

FAULT HANDLING

When a fault condition (ribbon out, media out, etc.) is detected, this setting
determines the level of intervention and the disposition of the label being printed at
the time the fault occurred.

LEVEL

Selects the printer’s action, the action required by the operator, and the label’s
reprint status.

STANDARD

Printing stops and a fault message is displayed. After the problem is corrected, the
FEED Key must be pressed to clear the fault. The label in process is reprinted.

VOID AND RETRY

Depending upon the RETRY COUNT, one of the following actions when faulted:
 If the Retry Count setting has not been exceeded, ‘VOID’ is printed on the label

in process and reprinting occurs automatically;

 If the Retry Count has been exceeded, printing stops and a fault message is

displayed. After the problem is corrected, the FEED Key must be pressed to
clear the fault. The label in process is reprinted; or,

 If the CANCEL Key is pressed the operator now has the option of canceling the

reprint:
To allow the reprint, press the ESCAPE Key or to cancel the reprint, press the

ENTER Key (the operator now has the option of canceling the entire label batch
by pressing the ENTER Key again.)



Note: VOID will not be printed when insufficient space exists for the height of the text (see VOID
DISTANCE, below) or if the fault occurred after the entire label was completed (i.e., when the label
reaches its Present Distance at or above the TOF).

NO REPRINT

Printing stops and a fault message is displayed. After the problem is corrected, the
FEED Key must be pressed to clear the fault. The label in process is not reprinted.

VOID DISTANCE

0.50 in (.10-2.00)

Sets the distance to backup the faulted label to print ‘VOID’ on its trailing edge,
which also indirectly establishes the font size of the void message.

RETRY COUNT

1 (0-3)

Establishes the number of times the printer will attempt to reprint a label. If the last

label printed in this count has been voided, the printer will stop and display a fault
message.

56 M-Class

5.1.6 Communications

SERIAL PORT A 

Controls the communications settings for Serial Port A.

BAUD RATE

Determines the serial communication rate.

38400

38400 bits per second

28800

28800 bits per second

19200

19200 bits per second

9600

9600 bits per second

4800

4800 bits per second

2400

2400 bits per second

1200

1200 bits per second

PROTOCOL

Sets the data flow control (handshaking) method.

BOTH

Uses both handshaking methods.

SOFTWARE

XON/XOFF

HARDWARE

CTS/DTR

NONE

No flow control is used.

PARITY

Sets Word parity

NONE

No parity

ODD

Odd parity

EVEN

Even parity

DATA BITS

Sets Word length

7

Seven bit Word length

8

Eight bit Word length

STOP BITS

Sets the number of stop bits

1

One stop bit

2

Two stop bits

PARALLEL PORT A

Controls the communications settings for Parallel Port A.

PORT DIRECTION

Determines if data is sent from the printer to the host via the parallel port.

UNI-DIRECTIONAL

One-way printer communication.

BI-DIRECTIONAL

Enables IEEE 1284 back-channel operation.

M-Class 57

Communications (continued)

NIC ADAPTER

Network Interface Card Adapter (optional). If not present, this displays ‘NOT
INSTALLED’ when accessed. After making changes to these parameters, save the
changes, exit the menu system, the printer will then reset for the changes to take
effect.

IP ADDRESS

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

SUBNET MASK

The static subnet assigned to the NIC Adapter.

GATEWAY

Specifies the network gateway address the NIC Adapter should use.

SNMPTRAP DESTINATION

Selects the Network IP address where all SNMP Traps will be sent. If zeroed, no
traps are sent. The Receiver must have SNMP service installed.

IP DISCOVERY

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



Note: For faster NIC Adapter boot times, disable any discovery methods not used.

ENABLED

Default. Modifications to IP, Subnet Mask, or Gateway addresses will not be allowed.

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

DISABLED

Disables IP Discovery.



Note: Select this option to ensure that any stored static IP is used by the NIC Adapter.

SET FACTORY DEFAULTS

Resets all of the network parameters to factory default settings. Including some
parameters that are not accessible through the printer’s menu.

Not available when “IP

Discovery” is enabled

58 M-Class

Communications (continued)

HOST SETTINGS 

Settings which affect all communications with a host.

HOST TIMEOUT
10 SEC (1-60)

The number of seconds a communications port must be idle before the printer may
process data from a different port. This value is also used to “timeout” an image /
label format download (i.e., if, at any time, data flow stops before a complete label
format is received, the data will be ignored).

CONTROL CODES

Allows the operator to change the prefix of the software commands interpreted by
the printer.

STANDARD CODES

Hex 01 = SOH command; Hex 02 = STX command; count-by = ^;
Hex 1B = ESC; Hex 0x0D = Carriage Return

ALTERNATE CODES

Hex 5E = SOH command; Hex 7E = STX command; count-by = @;
Hex 1B = ESC; Hex 0x0D = Carriage Return

ALTERNATE CODES 2

Hex 5E = SOH command; Hex 7E = STX command; count-by = @;
Hex 1B = ESC; Hex 0x7C = Carriage Return

CUSTOM CODES

Each DPL command (SOH, STX, CR, and count-by) may be selected by entering
the desired Hex code. (The  and  Keys will scroll the characters, while the
ENTER Key selects character and then advances the cursor.)

FEEDBACK CHARACTERS

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

ENABLED

Feedback characters are sent to the host.

DISABLED

No feedback characters are sent.

ESC SEQUENCES

Allows data containing invalid ESC control code sequences to be processed,
helpful because some systems send a “banner” to the printer.

ENABLED

Normal printer operating mode.

DISABLED

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

HEAT COMMAND

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

ENABLED

Normal printer operating mode.

DISABLED

DPL Heat commands are ignored. The heat value is controlled via the menu
setting; see Section 5.1.3.

M-Class 59

Communications (continued)

SPEED COMMANDS

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

ENABLED

Normal printer operating mode.

DISABLED

DPL speed commands are ignored. The speeds are controlled via the menu setting;
see Section 5.1.3.

TOF SENSING COMMANDS

Allows the user to disable the DPL Top of Form commands (Gap, Continuous, and
Reflective).

ENABLED

Normal printer operating mode.

DISABLED

DPL TOF commands are ignored. The TOF is controlled via the menu setting; see
Section 5.1.2.

SYMBOL SET COMMAND

Allows the user to disable the DPL Single and Double Symbol Set selection
commands.

ENABLED

Normal printer operating mode.

DISABLED

DPL Symbol Set commands are ignored. The Symbol Set selection is controlled
via the menu setting; see Section 5.1.5.

CNTRL-CODES (DATA)

Allows the user to remove control codes (data < 20 Hex) from the data fields. The
selected line terminator is processed.

ENABLED

Normal printer operating mode.

DISABLED

DPL Control Code (SOH, STX, CR, ESC, and ^) functions are ignored.

STX-V SW SETTINGS

Allows the user to disable DPL software switch settings commands.

ENABLED

Normal printer operating mode.

DISABLED

DPL option-enable command (<STX>V) is ignored.

60 M-Class

5.1.7 Diagnostics

HEX DUMP MODE 

Most commonly used for troubleshooting. Prints data and instructions received
from the host rather than interpreting them as label formats; see Section 7.2.

ENABLED

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

DISABLED

Executes and prints label formats (normal operating mode).

OPTIONS TESTING 

Allows or performs diagnostics of specific options within the printer.

TEST PRESENT SENSOR

Performs a functional test of the present sensor.

TEST CUTTER

Performs a functional test of the cutter.

PERFORM TEST
1 TIME

The test will cycle the selected number of times (1, 10, or 100) with the results
displayed following each attempt.

PRINT TEST RATE (min) 

000 (0-120)

The number of minutes to delay between the printing of batches of Quick Test
Labels.

SENSOR READINGS 

Analog Sensor readings are displayed.

THR TRAN RIBM 24V PS HD RANK
255 255 255 255 255 255 255

Live sensor values are displayed. Maximum values are shown in this example,
where:

THR = thermistor sensor;
TRAN = transmissive (gap) media sensor (REFL is shown if the SENSOR TYPE
is set to ‘reflective’);
RIB M = ribbon motion sensor;
24V = 24 volt DC power supply sensor;
PS = Present sensor;
HD = head-down sensor; and,
RANK = the value of the printhead ranking resistor.

RIBBON SENSOR LIMITS 

Displays ribbon sensor ADC low and high values used for motion detection.

RIBBON ADC LOW HIGH

070 164

Approximate default values are shown here (actual values will vary).

M-Class 61

5.1.8 MCL Options

MCL AT POWER-UP 

MCL (Macro Command Language) is tool suite designed for data collection
applications. The printer will accept input data from peripheral devices and the
application can request and send data to locally resident lookup files or remote
databases.

ENABLED

After power to the printer is turned ‘Off’ and ‘On,’ MCL will be started. The
printer is now ready to accept input data from peripheral devices such as barcode
scanners, weigh scales, and keyboards without the need of a host computer.

DISABLED

Normal printer functions.

START MCL 

MCL with be started after exiting from the menu.

62 M-Class

5.2 Display Messages

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

 User Prompts and Condition Messages (also see Section 5.1.1 for a listing of the Enter/Exit Prompts)

 Application and Boot Loader Updating Messages (see Section 6.8)

 Fault and Warning Messages (see Section 7.1)

5.2.1 User Prompts and Condition Messages

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

User Prompts and Condition Messages

Displayed Message Description Condition(s)

!

!!
DMFBSJOH!GBVMUT!

!

The printer is trying to clear a fault
condition.

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

!

!
DBMJCSBUJOH!

A media calibration is being performed. The FEED Key was pressed and held.

!

DBODFM!SFQSJOU@!
FOUFS!LFZ!>!ZFT!

!

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

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

!

DBODFM!CBUDI@!
FOUFS!LFZ!>!ZFT!

!

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

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

!

!
QBVTFE!

The printer is paused or offline.

The printer is in a paused condition.

M-Class 63

User Prompts and Condition Messages

Displayed Message Description Condition(s)

!

!
SFBEZ!

!

Ready Mode.

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

!

!
SFNPWF!MBCFM!

!

A label is awaiting removal.

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

!

TZTUFN!
JOJUJBMJ[JOH!

!

Normal power-up and soft reset
condition.

Follows the ‘SYSTEM RESET IN
PROGRESS’ message after a reset or power­up.

!

TZTUFN!SFTFU!!
JO!QSPHSFTT!

!

Normal power-up and soft reset
condition.

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

!

!
VODBMJCSBUFE!

!

The media calibration is not set.

Perform calibration; see Section 5.4.

!

YYYY!PG!YYYY!
QSJOUJOH!

!

The print job is being processed.

Batch status indication, updated with each label
printed.

64 M-Class

5.3 Quick Test Mode

This section explains the functions of the resident Quick Tests, accessible by pressing the

Key on the Front Panel.



Notes: (1) With the exception of the Configuration Label, all Quick Test labels require 4-inch (102mm) wide media to print the

entire format. If using narrower media, change the Label Width setting (Section 5.1.2) to match your media’s width to
avoid printing on the platen.

(2) During any Quick Test, press the Key or the Key to stop printing.
(3) Using the ‘Print Test Rate’ feature (Section 5.1.7), a time delay can be set for printing labels in Quick Test Mode.

5.3.1 Print Quality Label

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

To print a Print Quality Label:

 Press the

Key.

 Use the

FWD

Key to scroll to ‘Print Quality Label’.

 Use the Key to select a quantity; see Section 5.0.3.
 Press the Key to start printing.

M-Class 65

5.3.2 Configuration Label

The Configuration Label provides printer valuable database
information, as detailed in Section 5.1.

To print a Configuration Label:

 Press the Key.

 Use the

FWD

Key to scroll to ‘Print Configuration’.

 Press the

Key to print.



Note: The contents of this label may vary with the application version and
printer model and equipped options. To capture all the information, use
media at least 2 inches wide (51mm) with the Label Width setting matched
accordingly (see Section 5.1.2).

FORMAT ATTRIBUTES

XOR

LABEL ROTATION

DISABLED

IMAGING MODE

MULTIPLE LABEL

PAUSE MODE

DISABLED

PEEL MODE

DISABLED

SECURITY

DISABLED

UNITS OF MEASURE

IMPERIAL

INPUT MODE

DPL

DPL EMULATION

STANDARD

COLUMN EMULATION

203 DOTS

SOP EMULATION

DISABLED

BACK AFTER PRINT

DISABLED

FONT EMULATION

STANDARD FONTS

MENU LANGUAGE

ENGLISH

FAULT HANDLING:

LEVEL

STANDARD

VOID DISTANCE

0.50 in.

RETRY COUNT

1

COMMUNICATIONS

SERIAL PORT A:

BAUD RATE

9600

PROTOCOL

BOTH

PARITY

NONE

DATA BITS

8

STOP BITS

1

USB PORT

INSTALLED

PARALLEL PORT A:

PORT DIRECTION

UNI-DIRECTIONAL

NIC ADAPTER:

MAC:00-0d-70-00-00-09
IP ADDRESS

192.000.000.192

SUBNET MASK

000.000.000.000

GATEWAY

000.000.000.000

SNMPTRAP DESTINATION

000.000.000.000

IP DISCOVERY

ENABLED

HOST SETTINGS:

HOST TIMEOUT

10 sec

CONTROL CODES

STANDARD CODES

FEEDBACK CHARACTERS

DISABLED

ESC SEQUENCES

ENABLED

HEAT COMMAND

ENABLED

SPEED COMMANDS

ENABLED

TOF SENSING COMMANDS

ENABLED

SYMBOL SET COMMAND

ENABLED

CNTRL-CODES (DATA)

ENABLED

STX-V SW SETTINGS

ENABLED

CONFIGURATION

FRI 09:38PM 21NOV2003
PRINTER KEY:

4208-MD10-030915-198

APPLICATION VERSION:

83-2407-08B 8. 01 1/14/2004

MCL Version: 1.03
BOOT LOADER:

83-2406-08B 08.01 01/14/2004

SYSTEM INFORMATION

PRINT BUFFER SIZE:

117 in.

FLASH SIZE:

2 MB

RAM TEST:

PASS

OPTIONAL LANGUAGES:

NONE

CONFIGURATION FILE:

NONE

MEDIA SETTINGS

MEDIA TYPE

RIBBON TRANSFER

SENSOR TYPE

GAP

LABEL LENGTH

04.00 in.

MAXIMUM LABEL LENGTH

16.00 in.

PAPER OUT DISTANCE

00.25 in.

LABEL WIDTH

4.16 in.

RIBBON LOW DIAMETER

1.40 in.

SENSOR CALIBRATION

PAPER SENSOR LEVEL

143

GAP SENSOR LEVEL

19

TRAN SENSOR LEVEL

7

REFL PAPER LEVEL

170

MARK SENSOR LEVEL

40

REFL SENSOR LEVEL

15

EMPTY SENSOR LEVEL

9

CLEAN HEAD SCHEDULE

000 in. (*1000)

CLEAN HEAD COUNTER

0 in.

PRINT CONTROL

HEAT

10

PRINT SPEED

6.0 in/sec

FEED SPEED

6.0 in/sec

REVERSE SPEED

4.0 in/sec

ROW OFFSET

00.00 inches

COLUMN OFFSET

00.00 inches

PRESENT DISTANCE

0.00 inches

CUSTOM ADJUST MENT S:
DARKNESS

32

CONTRAST

32

ROW ADJUS T

0 DOTS

COLUMN AD J US T

0 DOTS

PRESENT ADJUST

64 DOTS

PRINTER OPTIONS

MODULES

D: FORMATTED
G: FORMATTED
X: FORMATTED
Y: FORMATTED

PRESENT SENSOR:

NOT INSTALLED

CUTTER

NOT INSTALLED

SYSTEM SETTINGS

FACTORY SETTING FILE

NONE

INTERNAL MODUL E

1024 KB

DEFAULT MODULE

D

SCALABEL FONT CACHE

312 KB

SINGLE BYTE SYMBOLS

PC-850 MULTILINGUAL

DOUBLE BYTE SYMBOLS

UNICODE

MEDIA COUNTERS:

ABSOLUTE COUNTERS

374 in.
07MAY2003

RESETTABLE COUNTERS

374 in.
07MAY2003

DIAGNOSTICS

HEX DUMP MODE

DISABLED

PRINT TEST RATE(min)

0

SENSOR READINGS

THR TRAN RIBM 24V
190 134 011 171
PS HD RANK
000 244 009

RIBBON SENSOR LIMITS

RIBBON ADC LOW
007
RIBBON ADC HIGH
232

MCL OPTIONS

MCL AT POWER-UP

DISABLED

66 M-Class

5.3.3 Quick Ribbon Test Label

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

To print a Quick Ribbon Test Label:

 Press the

Key.

 Use the

FWD

Key to scroll to ‘Ribbon Test Label’.

 Use the

Key to select a quantity; see Section 5.0.3.

 Press the

Key to start printing.

5.3.4 Validation Label

The Validation Label is another useful tool for evaluating overall print quality.

To generate a Validation Label:

 Press the

Key.

 Use the

FWD

Key to scroll to ‘Validation Label’.

 Use the

Key to select a quantity; see Section 5.0.3.

 Press the

Key to start printing.

M-Class 67

5.3.5 Print Last Label

Print Last Label reprints the last label format printed. The format can be any of the Test Labels, a label from the host, or
one recalled from memory.



Note: If a job was cancelled prior to its completion, or if power has been removed since the last print job and the request for this

label, this selection will print a ‘VOID’ message.

5.3.6 User Defined Label

The User Defined Label reprints from a list of previously printed label formats. Use the

FWD

Key to scroll through the

listing, then use the

Key to select and print the label.



Note: If a job was cancelled prior to its completion or if power has been removed since the last print job and the request for this

label, ‘NO FILES AVAILABLE’ will be displayed and no printing will occur.

68 M-Class

5.4 Media Sensor Calibration

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

5.4.1 Quick Calibration

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



Notes: If ‘Uncalibrated’ is displayed, follow the Media Sensor Calibration procedure in Section 5.4.2. Also, media containing large

gaps may first require a change in the ‘Paper Out Distance’ setting; see Section 5.1.2.

To calibrate:

 Ensure that media is loaded (see Section 3.2), that the Media Sensor is adjusted (see Section 3.3), and that the printer

is idle.

 Press and hold the

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

advance under the sensor before releasing the button.

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

Calibration Hint:

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

 Press and hold the

Key to allow two or more gaps (or marks) to advance under the sensor. If this fails, see

Standard Calibration (Section 5.4.2).

M-Class 69

5.4.2 Standard Calibration

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

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

To perform a Standard Calibration:

Step Operator Action Displayed Message Comment

1

(Media should be loaded and
the appropriate Sensor Type
selected.)

Turn ‘On’ the printer.

!

!!
VODBMJCSBUFE!

!

Wait until the printer initializes (about six
seconds).

2

Press the

MENU

Key.

Raise the printhead assembly.

!

NFOV!NPEF!
NFEJB!TFUUJOHT!

!!

!

!

You are entering Menu Mode.

3

Press the

Key to enter

the Media Settings menu.

!

NFEJB!TFUUJOHT!
NFEJB!UZQF!

!!

!

!

See Section 5.1.2 for menu layout.

4

Press the

FWD

Key and scroll

to ‘Sensor Calibration’.

!

NFEJB!TFUUJOHT!
TFOTPS!DBMJCSBUJPO!

!!

!

Press the

Key to abort this procedure.

5

Press the

Key.

!

TFOTPS!DBMJCSBUJPO!
QFSGPSN!DBMJCSBUJPO!

!

You are beginning the standard calibration
procedure.

6

Press the

Key.

Remove the media from the
Media Sensor then the
key.

!!

SFNPWF!MBCFM!TUPDL!
QSFTT!FTD!LFZ!=zzz?!

!

This sets the parameter for the ‘empty’ value.

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

70 M-Class

Standard Calibration (continued)

Step Operator Action Displayed Message Comment

7

Proceed according to your
media type:

Die-cut stock: strip the media
from the backing and then
reinsert it into the sensor;
adjust the Sensor Eye Mark
over the center of the backing.

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

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

Continuous stock: go to Step

8.

Press the key to
continue.

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

!

Or, for reflective media:

!

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

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

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



Note: Never position the sensor over a perforation

when recording a sensor reading.



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

8

Position the label (and backing,
if any) under the Sensor Eye
Mark.



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

Press the key to continue.

!

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

!
!

This sets the parameter for the ‘paper’ value.
Where ‘yyy’ is a numerical value representing the

current sensor reading.

M-Class 71

Standard Calibration (continued)

Step Operator Action Displayed Message Comment

9

Observe the display.

!

HBQ!NPEF!
DBMJCSBUJPO!DPNQMFUF!

!
!

Or, for reflective media:

!

SFGMFDUJWF!NPEF!!
DBMJCSBUJPO!DPNQMFUF!

!
!

Or, for continuous media:

!!

DPOUJOVPVT!NPEF!!
DBMJCSBUJPO!DPNQMFUF!

The calibration was successful.
See note below if another message was displayed.

10 Exit upon successful

calibration: Back out of the
menu tree by repeatedly
pressing the

Key.

If using gap or reflective media,
press and hold the

Key.

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

!

UIV!22;42B!36NBS3115!!
SFBEZ!

!

The printer is now ready to begin printing.

If this calibration was unsuccessful, go to Section

5.4.3.



Note: A ‘Warning Low Backing’ message indicates that the calibration was successful with notched media or media on a transparent

liner; see Section 7.1 for details on this and other possible messages.

72 M-Class

5.4.3 Advanced Entry Calibration



Note: Advanced Entry Calibration will override all previous calibration settings; this method should be used only when Standard

Calibration has failed.

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

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

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

To perform an Advanced Entry Calibration:

Step Operator Action Displayed Message Comment

1

(Media should be loaded and
the appropriate Sensor Type
selected.)

Turn ‘On’ the printer.

!

!!
VODBMJCSBUFE!

!

Wait until the printer initializes (about six seconds).

2

Press the

MENU

Key.

Raise the printhead assembly.

!

NFOV!NPEF!
NFEJB!TFUUJOHT!

!!

!

!

You are entering Menu Mode.

3

Press the

Key to enter

the Media Settings menu.

!

NFEJB!TFUUJOHT!
NFEJB!UZQF!

!!

!

!

See Section 5.1.2 for menu layout.

4

Press the

FWD

Key and scroll

to ‘Sensor Calibration’.

!

NFEJB!TFUUJOHT!
TFOTPS!DBMJCSBUJPO!

!!

!

Press the

Key to abort this procedure.

5

Press the

Key.

!

TFOTPS!DBMJCSBUJPO!
QFSGPSN!DBMJCSBUJPO!

!

You are entering the calibration submenu.

M-Class 73

Advanced Entry Calibration (continued)

Step Operator Action Displayed Message Comment

6

Press the

FWD

Key to scroll to

‘Advanced Entry’.

!

TFOTPS!DBMJCSBUJPO!
BEWBODFE!FOUSZ!

!

You are entering Advanced Entry Calibration.

7

Press the

Key.

!

BEWBODFE!FOUSZ!
TFOTPS!MFWFMT!

!!

Press the

Key to abort this procedure.

8

Press the

FWD

Key.

!

BEWBODFE!FOUSZ!
TFOTPS!HBJO!

!!

You are beginning the Advanced Entry Calibration.

9

Press the

Key.

Place the label under the Sensor
Eye Mark and lower the
printhead assembly.

!

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

!

-OR-

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

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

10 Press the

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

Next, press the

FWD

Key to

increment the Gain Number.
Repeat this step for each of the

Gain Numbers (00-32).

!

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

!

-OR-

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

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



Note: Never position the sensor over a perforation

when recording a sensor reading.

74 M-Class

Advanced Entry Calibration (continued)

Step Operator Action Displayed Message Comment

11

Proceed according to your
media type:

Die-cut stock: strip the media
from the backing and then
reinsert it into the sensor; adjust
the Sensor Eye Mark over the
center of the backing.

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

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

Press the

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

Next, press the

FWD

Key to

increment the Gain Number.

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

!

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

!

Or, for reflective media:

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

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



Note: Never position the sensor over a perforation

when recording a sensor reading.



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

M-Class 75

Advanced Entry Calibration (continued)

Step Operator Action Displayed Message Comment

12 From the data collected in

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

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

!

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

!

Or, for reflective media:

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

Both sensor readings must be above 20.

Gain

Number

Label

Value

TOF

Value

Difference

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

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

32 112 14 N/A

76 M-Class

Advanced Entry Calibration (continued)

Step Operator Action Displayed Message Comment

13 Using the

FWD

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

!

HBJO!USBO!!!!!!=zzz?+1
9!!!!!!!!!)1!.!42*!

!

Or, for reflective media:

HBJO!SFGM!!!!!!=zzz?+1
9!!!!!!!!!)1!.!42*!

Selection is denoted with an ‘*’.

14  Place the media in the Media

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

 Place the backing, mark, or

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

 Remove all media. Record

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

!

HBJO!USBO!!!!!!=zzz?+1
9!!!!!!!!!)1!.!42*!

!

Or, for reflective media:

HBJO!SFGM!!!!!!=zzz?+1
9!!!!!!!!!)1!.!42*!

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

15 Press the

Key. Then

press the

FWD

Key.

!

BEWBODFE!FOUSZ!
TFOTPS!MFWFMT!

!

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

M-Class 77

Advanced Entry Calibration (continued)

Step Operator Action Displayed Message Comment

16 Press the

Key.

Using the

FWD

or the

REV

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

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

!

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

!

!

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

!

!

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

!
!
!
!

Or, for reflective media:

!

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

!

!

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

!

!

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

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

17 After all entries have been

made, press the

Key to
back out of the menu and then
press the

Key

to save
the settings and return to the
Ready Mode.

!

TBWF!DIBOHFT@!
FOUFS!LFZ!>!ZFT!

!
!
!

From ‘Ready’, press the FEED Key to advance to
the next label TOF.



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

Re-enter Media Settings / Calibration / Advanced Entry / Sensor Gain and lower the selected Gain Setting number by one (to

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

78 M-Class

M-Class 79

6.0 Introduction

This Section 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 cotton swab to clean
the printhead from end to end.

After every roll of media.

Platen Roller Turn the power off. Rotate the platen roller and

clean it thoroughly with solvent* and a cotton
swab.

After every roll of media.

Peel-Off Roller Rotate the peel-off roller and clean it thoroughly

with solvent* and a cotton swab.

After every roll of media.

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.

WARNING

Isopropyl alcohol is a flammable solvent; always take the proper precautions when using this substance.

80 M-Class

6.1 Cleaning the Printhead

If print quality declines (symptoms include non-compliant bar codes, print dropouts, and streaks; see sample label below),
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 service life of the printhead.

Faulty Print Quality Label:

Streaks indicate a dirty or faulty 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.

M-Class 81

6.1.1 Automated Printhead Cleaning (printers with display, only)

1. Remove media and ribbon.

2. Place a Datamax Cleaning Card, part number 70-2013-01 under the printhead. Lower and lock the printhead. Ensure
that the Leveling Cam is not

engaged (positioned in its left most position).

3. Press and hold the TEST Key for approximately four seconds.

The printer will begin the cleaning routine.

4. In cases of heavy build-up, or if high heat values are typically used for printing, flip the card over and repeat Step 3.

5. Reinstall your ribbon and media (if necessary, readjust the Leveling Cam, see Section 6.2). Lower and lock the
printhead. Close the cover.

82 M-Class

6.2 Media Width Adjustment

When printing on less than full width media, adjust the printhead-leveling cam for even pressure distribution, as follows:

1. With media loaded in the printer, print a label and
examine it.

Non-display printers:

Simultaneously press the

PAU SE

+

FEED

buttons

Display printers:

See Section 5.3.1

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.

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).



Note: Under-adjustment of the Leveling Cam can also cause problems including ribbon wrinkling, label tracking, and platen roller

and printhead wear. When changing to a different width of label, always adjust the Leveling Cam.

M-Class 83

6.3 Printhead Burn Line Adjustment

The Burn Line has been adjusted 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.



Note: If you have questions, contact a qualified 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 counter­clockwise.

3. Turn the Adjustment Screws counter-clockwise until the burn line is
past the platen roller vertex. Print a test label; the label should look
light and uneven.

Non-display printers:

Simultaneously press the

PAU SE

+

FEED

buttons

Display printers:

See Section 5.3.1

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 labels are produced with even print contrast and
acceptable print quality.



Note: When the Locking Screws are ‘snug’, turning the Adjustment Screws counter-clockwise will NOT move the printhead

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

6. Tighten the Locking Screws then print a final test label to verify the adjustment.

84 M-Class

6.4 Printhead Pressure Adjustment

To accommodate a variety of media types, printhead pressure 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 6.2.

3. Print a test label.

Non-display printers:

Simultaneously press the

PAU SE

+

FEED

buttons

Display printers:

See Section 5.3.1

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.



Notes: 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.

Excessive pressure can reduce the service life of the printhead and platen roller, while unequal pressure may cause

ribbon and label tracking problems.

M-Class 85

6.5 Printhead Replacement

To replace a damaged printhead, follow the procedure below.



Note: Printheads are fragile; use extreme care when handling and never use a sharp object on the surface. If you have questions,

contact a qualified technician or Datamax Technical Support before proceeding.

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 6.1).

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 (for non­display printers see Section 6.6 for display printers see Section 5.1.3).

86 M-Class

6.6 Darkness Adjustment

Non-display printers: 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.

Display-equipped printers: Use the menu to adjust Darkness; see Section 5.1.3, Print
Control / Custom Adjustments.



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.

6.7 Resetting the Printer

Non-Display Printers:

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

STOP

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

See Section 4.5.1 for a listing of the factory default settings.

Display Printers:

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

Soft Reset

To reset the printer and clear any temporary host settings:

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

M-Class 87

Level One Reset

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

 Turn ‘Off’ the printer.

 Press and hold the PAUSE and CANCEL Keys while turning ‘On’ the printer; continue to depress the keys until the

‘READY’ message appears.



Note: This reset has the same effect as the System Settings / Set Factory Defaults selection in the menu system. (See

Section 5.1 for a listing of the factory default settings and Section 5.1.5 for information about the Factory Setting File.)

Level Two Reset

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

 Turn ‘Off’ the printer.

 Press and hold the PAUSE, FEED, and CANCEL Keys while turning ‘On’ the printer; continue to depress the keys

until the ‘READY’ message appears.



Note: After executing a Level 2 Reset, the media calibration must be performed; see Section 5.4. A listing of the factory

default settings can be found in Section 5.1.

88 M-Class

6.8 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

(non-display printer firmware is .dlf extension)

copy filename.zs lpt1/b

(display printer firmware is .zs extension)



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



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

3. The

READY

light will flash during the download.

4. Following a successful download, the

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.

 Following an unsuccessful download, the

ERROR

Light will illuminate then the printer will perform a ‘warm

reset’ (both the

READY

and

STOP

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

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.

M-Class 89

7.0 Problem Resolution

Should a problem arise, the information in this section will help you resolve it. The following table lists problems that
may not necessarily generate an error condition. Items denoted with an asterisk (*) are only for printers with displays.



Note: If you have questions, contact a qualified technician or Datamax Technical Support.

If experiencing this problem…

Try this solution…

Can not communicate through the
parallel port:

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

Can not load media through the
optional cutter:

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

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

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

The display contrast may set too low. Press and hold the MENU Key for 10
seconds or until the display reappears.

Erratic feeding:

The printer may require Calibration;

Printers without front display: Perform calibration, see section 4.7.1.
Printers with front display: Press and hold the

FEED

button until at least

one label gap or mark is advanced.

Erratic printing (instead of the
label format, strange characters
are printed):

 The printer may be in Hex Dump Mode; see Section 7.2.
 If using the serial port for communicating, check both the host and printer port

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

90 M-Class

If experiencing this problem…

Try this solution…

Intellifont will not print:

Intellifont



format is Little/Big Endian specific. The printer uses Big Endian.

Refer to your font supplier for information.

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

 The Printhead Leveling Cam may be incorrectly adjusted; see Section 6.2.
 The Printhead or Platen Roller may be dirty or worn; clean or call for service.

Missing information in the printed
label:

 Check the label format for character placement outside the dimensions of the

label; all row/column values must allow enough space for the height/length of
the characters and bar codes to be printed within the format size.

 The available memory may have been exceeded by the memory requirement of

the label format. Try reducing the memory allocated to either the internal
module or scaleable font caches; non-display printers see Section 4.5.2, display
printers see Section 5.1.5

 If using serial communications, ensure that the interface cable meets the

requirements found in Section 3.1.2.

Missing print on left or right side
of the label:

Information may be formatted outside the label dimensions. Check your software
program label size. For display printers also check the values in the menu for
Print Control / Column Offset and Print Control / Custom Adjustments / Column
Offset; see Section 5.1.3.

No power (all indicator lights are
‘Off”):

Verify that the AC power cord connection has been made at both the outlet and

the printer; also, ensure the power switch is ‘On’.

Verify that the AC outlet is functioning, or try moving the printer to another AC

circuit.

The AC cord may be damaged; replace it.
The line fuse may be blown; call for service.