Datamax Prodigy Operator's Manual

Prodigy
Operator’s Manual
Information in this document is subject to change without notice and does not represent a commitment on the part of DATAMAX Bar Code 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 express written permission of DATAMAX Bar Code Products Corporation. All rights reserved. Printed in the U.S.A.
Copyright 1990, 1995 by DATAMAX Bar Code Products Corporation. 7500 Flying Cloud Drive, Suite 655, Eden Prairie, MN 55344 (612) 946-0026
Documentation P/N: 510366 Revision B1
TABLE of CONTENTS
1
Product Description............................................................... 1
1.1 Specifications .............................................................. 6
1.2 Printer Options...........................................................10
1.3 Supplies......................................................................11
2
Getting Started......................................................................15
2.1 Unpacking and Inspection...........................................15
2.2 Equipment Checklist...................................................16
2.3 Switches and Indicators..............................................17
3
Setup and Self Test................................................................21
3.1 Checking Voltage Selection .......................................21
3.2 Installing Print Media.................................................22
3.3 Power Up Self Test....................................................27
3.4 Explanation of the Self Test Label .............................28
3.5 Print Test Label .........................................................30
3.6 Monitoring Input After Self Test................................32
3.7 Printhead Pressure and Support Adjustment..............33
3.8 Modes of Operation...................................................35
3.9 Selecting the Mode ....................................................36
3.10 Using Standard Input Mode .......................................36
3.11 Setting the Baud Rate and Word Length.....................37
3.12 Using the Present Sensor Option................................38
3.13 Maintenance ..............................................................39
I
4
Using the Printer...................................................................41
4.1 Printer Command Interpreter.....................................41
4.2 Control Code Reference ............................................43
4.3 System Level Commands — Immediate ....................44
4.4 System Level Commands...........................................45
4.5 Label Formatting Commands.....................................48
4.6 Field Definition — Human Readable Fields...............51
4.7 Field Definition — Bar Code Fields...........................52
4.8 Graphic Images..........................................................53
4.9 Printing Lines and Boxes ...........................................56
4.10 Defining and Printing a Label....................................56
4.11 Register Loading........................................................62
4.12 Label Formatting Commands.....................................64
4.13 System and Formatting Commands ...........................69
4.14 Controlling Print Quality ...........................................72
5
Using the Printer's Internal Labeling Software...................75
5.1 Preparing the Printer for Use With a LINK CRT.........75
5.1.1 Connect Cables..................................................76
5.1.2 LINK CRT Settings............................................76
5.1.3 Select Stand-Alone Labeling Software Mode.....77
5.1.4 Verify Setup, Power Up, and Load Media..........78
5.1.5 Install and Configure a Memory Module............78
5.2 Function Keys.............................................................81
5.2.1 ALT Keys..........................................................82
5.3 Other Important Keys.................................................85
5.4 Create/Modify Label Screen........................................85
5.5 Print Label Screen.......................................................94
5.6 System Maintenance Screen........................................96
II
Appendix A
ASCII Control Code Chart................................................. 1
Appendix B
DIP Switch Settings............................................................ 1
Appendix C
Interface Cable Applications............................................... 1
Pin Connections........................................................... 1
Null Modem Cable....................................................... 2
Straight Cable (MM)..................................................... 2
PC (DB25P) to Printer.................................................. 3
PC (DB9P) to Printer.................................................... 4
Appendix D
Available Fonts and Bar Codes........................................... 1
I. Standard Human Readable Fonts ........................... 1
II. BAR CODES With Interpretation Line................... 2
III. Standard Fonts - Human Readable Examples ......... 4
IV ..................................................Bar Code Examples
11
Appendix E
Transmitted Error Codes .................................................... 1
Warranty Information
Printer................................................................................ 1
Thermal Printhead.............................................................. 1
Warranty Service Procedures.............................................. 2
General Warranty Provisions.............................................. 2
Limitation of Liability......................................................... 3
III
1 Product Description
The Prodigy Label Printer, hereafter referred to as 'the Printer' is a high­performance, low-cost thermal and thermal transfer label Printer. Powerful capabilities and easy to use features set a new price/ performance standard for industrial direct thermal and thermal transfer label printers.
The Printer has a maximum print speed of up to 4 inches per second (101.6 mm/sec.) All popular bar codes are resident in the Printer's memory and can be printed with or without human readable interpretations. Nine different character fonts can be printed in any one of four directions. Each character font is unique, and can be multiplied into 14 different magnifications, each with its own set of dot tables. This feature allows the Printer to print characters from .035 inch (.9 mm) to
7.68 inches (195.1 mm) high.
In addition to the built-in human readable and bar code fonts, the Printer can accept “picture images” that directly address the dot generation of the Printer. Several PC-based scanning and image editing packages are compatible with the Printer’s imaging capabilities.
________________________________________________________ __ Product Description Page - 1
For printing high-density bar codes and very small characters, the printhead has an extremely fine 5 mil element size, which gives the Printer 203 DPI (dots per inch) print resolution. Although the Printer is able to produce 5 mil pixels, the actual pixel size can also be multiplied by two in the horizontal direction and by two or three in the vertical direction, this amounts to a maximum pixel size of 10 mil by 15 mil. An optional 152 dot per inch (6 dot/mm) printhead (Prodigy 152) is also available. It is approximately 25% less dense, yet can print 100% UPC/EAN and 9.6 cpi Code 39.
Several innovative new features are designed into the Printer. For example, label formatting can be done while printing is taking place, eliminating the need for slow memory-intensive bit-mapping. This not only reduces the size and cost of the Printer, but also allows an impressive maximum label size of 4.65" (118 mm) x 99.99" (2.5 meters). Labels generated in the 5 mil pixel mode can maintain 2" (50.8 mm) per second. For labels in the 10 mil and 15 mil pixel modes, print rates of 3" and 4" per second (76.2 mm and 101.6 mm) are easily attained. The optional 152 dpi printhead places less demand on the CPU, allowing longer labels to be printed at faster speeds.
Software-selectable printhead temperature, print speed, slew rates, and form dimensions provide the option of storing a wide variety of parameters, thus eliminating time for manual adjustments. This is especially helpful when using several different types or brands of label stock, or when switching between direct thermal printing and thermal transfer printing.
The Printer hosts both RS-232C and RS-422 computer interfaces. The Printer can be driven from almost any host computer, or in stand-alone configuration with built-in label batch software. For stand-alone label printing, the Printer is connected directly to a CRT. Label formats are stored in plug-in memory cartridges. Approximately 50 typical label formats can be stored in each module.
For applications that require a larger data base of label formats, refer to Datamax's PC-BatchTM Software for IBM PCs® and compatibles.
________________________________________________________ __ Page - 2 Product Description
Applications
The Printer is designed for use in many different types of applications. Examples include: *Point of sale *Warehouse ticketing
*Parts count labeling *Inventory control labeling *Retail merchandise labeling *Pharmaceutical labels *Deli labeling *Retail garment *VICS standard labels *Price marking *HIBC (Health Industry) *Military LOGMARS *UPC shipping container labels *Work in process *Bakery *Document tracking *Asset management *Serial numbering *ID plates *TALC tickets *Time/attendance *Product labeling *Shelf labeling *Property identification *Cataloging *Baggage/boarding tags/passes *Item tracking *AIAG (Auto Industry Action Group)
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Features
Additional features of the Printer include:
* Thermal transfer and direct thermal printing * Extremely high dot density (203 dots/inch, 8 dots/mm); optional 152
dots/inch, (6 dots/mm) * Prints up to 4.0" (101 mm)/sec * Large maximum media size: 4.65"W x 99.99"L (118 mm x
2539 mm) * Print area of 4.4"W x 99.99"L (112 mm x 2539 mm);
optional 152 print area 4.15" W x 99.99"L (105mm x
2539mm) * User-selectable bar code ratios and heights * Printing on label, ticket, and tag stock; both die cut and continuous
form * Self-peeling demand mode, internal rewind mechanism for
rewinding label backing * Easy to load label stock and transfer ribbon mechanism * Dot-addressable graphics function; IBM PC® compatible driven
scanner packages * Diagnostics - Self test * Protocol - XON/XOFF; CTS/DTR * User selectable and software-selectable:
Printhead temperatures Slew rates Form dimensions Print speeds
________________________________________________________ __ Page - 4 Product Description
Compliances
FCC: 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 instruction manual, 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 or her own expense.
UL: The Prodigy is listed under UL 1950 INFORMATION
TECHNOLOGY EQUIPMENT, file number E156091
CSA: DATAMAX Corporation has been authorized by Canadian
Standards Association to represent the Prodigy as CSA Certified under CSA Standard C22.2 No 220-M1986, file number LR68943-13.
VDE: DATAMAX Corporation certifies that the Prodigy label
Printer complies with the RFI suppression requirement of Vfg 1046/1984 for VDE Class B equipment.
TUV-GS: The Prodigy Printer has been tested and complies with EN
60 950/06.88 and bears the TUV-GS mark. License Number: S9371819.
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1.1 Specifications
Printing
Type: Direct thermal or thermal transfer
Print Speed: 1.0" (25.4 mm) per second to 4.0" (101.6
mm) per second
White Space Slew Rate: 1.0" (25.4 mm) per second to 4.0"(101.6
mm) per second
Maximum Fields Per Label: 100
Minimum Dot Size: 0.005" (0.127 mm) square
Optional Dot Sizes: 0.010" (0.254 mm), 0.015" (0.381 mm)
vertical, 0.010" (0.254 mm) horizontal
Font Styles: Prodigy: Nine alphanumeric fonts from
0.035"H (0.9 mm) to 7.68"H (195.1 mm) including OCR-A and OCR-B. Prodigy 152: has nine alphanumeric fonts from .047"H (1 mm) to 10.24"H (260 mm).
Character Density: Prodigy: 33.83 cpi FONT 0 at 1X, .70 cpi
FONT 6 at 8X Prodigy 152: 25.64 cpi FONT 0 at 1X, .54 cpi FONT 6 at 8X
________________________________________________________ __ Page - 6 Product Description
Bar Code Fonts: Code 39, Interleaved 2 of 5, (maximum 8
interleaved 2 of 5 per label) CODABAR, Code 128, UPC-A and UPC-E, EAN-13 and EAN-8, Plessey, Universal Shipping Container Symbology, Code 39 variations to produce all industry standards such as LOGMARS, HIBC, and AIAG
Bar Code Density: Prodigy: 12.69 cpi, Code 3 of 9, 0.005"
narrow bar, 3:1 ratio 6.34 cpi, Code 3 of 9,
0.010" narrow bar, 3:1 ratio Prodigy 152: 9.6 cpi, Code 39, 0.0066" narrow bar, 3:1 ratio, 4.81 cpi, Code 39,
0.013" narrow bar, 3:1 ratio
Media
Width: 0.75"(19 mm) to 4.65"(118 mm)
Length: 0.50"(13 mm) to 99.99"(2539 mm)
Thickness: 0.0023"(0.06 mm) to .010" (0.254 mm)
Type: Roll-fed, die-cut labels, tags, tickets, and
continuous forms
Supply Roll Capacity: 8" (203 mm) maximum outside diameter on
standard 1.5" (38 mm) and 3"(76 mm) core. 6250" lineal stock, 0.0065 thick
Capacity in Rewind Mode: 5"(127 mm) maximum outside diameter on
internal rewind spindle 1.5" core (38 mm). 2100" lineal stock, 0.0065 thick
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Label Material: Thermal transfer-plain coated papers, vinyl,
Mylar, metalized paper, nonwoven fabric, fine woven fabric, thermal-visible light scannable paper, infrared scannable paper, thermal ticket/tag stock, thermally sensitive plastic stock
Thermal Transfer Ribbon: Black or colored inks; 360 meters long, 4.6
microns, backcoated, ±10% label width
Indicators and Switches
Indicator Lights: POWER, RIBBON/PAPER OUT, PAUSE
Switches: POWER, STOP/CANCEL, PAUSE, FEED,
TRANSFER ON, Rear configuration DIP switch (SW1), and Darkness potentiometer.
Communications Interfacing
Communications: IEEE RS-232C and RS-422 at 150, 300,
600, 1200, 2400, 4800, or 9600 baud
Character Set: ANSI ASCII character set
Word Length: Selectable 7 or 8 bit data format
Handshaking: XON/XOFF and CTS/DTR
Input Buffer: 15,359 bytes, XOFF is transmitted and DTR
goes low when 15,059 bytes are in the buffer. XON is transmitted and DTR goes high when 255 bytes are left in the buffer.
Data is transmitted with no parity from the Printer.
________________________________________________________ __ Page - 8 Product Description
Electrical
Input Voltage: 115 VAC ±10%, single phase 50/60 Hz
230 VAC ±10%, single phase 50/60 Hz
Circuit Protection: At 115V = 1.5A Slo Blo;
At 230V = circuit breaker at 1.2A
Grounding: Unit must be connected to a properly
grounded receptacle
Environmental
Temperature: 40° F to 100° F (4° C to 38° C)
Humidity: 10% to 95% noncondensing
Ventilation: Free air movement
Dust: Nonconducting, noncorrosive
Electromagnetic Radiation: Moderate RF fields can be tolerated
Mechanical
Size: 10"H x 10"W x 18"D
(25.4 cm H x 25.4 cm W x 45.72 cm D)
Weight: 35 lb. (15.87 kg.)
Options
32K SRAM Memory Module Centronics Parallel Interface Adapter Present Sensor IBM PC compatible software for batch labeling systems; dot addressable graphics definition; and module programming
________________________________________________________ __ Product Description Page - 9
1.2 Printer Options
The Printer hosts a number of different options that can be added to the Printer for additional versatility. These options are described below.
CRT Terminal
A CRT terminal interface is available for configuring the Printer as a stand-alone label definition and batch label printing system. Application software is built into the Printer and can be turned “ON” or “OFF” by switches that are located on the rear of the Printer. When this internal application software is selected, prompts for label creation and label printing can be directly controlled by the Printer. Label formats are stored on optional 32K SRAM memory modules.
Memory Modules
Optional 32K SRAM memory modules can be purchased to extend the capabilities of the Printer in its CRT-based batch labeling system mode(s). These memory modules can also be used to store bit-mapped graphic images that are created by a host computing device. The memory module(s) can be dedicated for either label formats or bit­mapped graphic image arrays, or a 16K split of each.
PC-Batch Software
PC-Batch label creating and batch printing software is available for IBM PCs and compatibles. The software has the look and feel of the built-in application software, but uses a PC’s memory and disk storage to extend the capabilities of the Printer.
________________________________________________________ __ Page - 10 Product Description
Present Sensor
The Printer can be configured for a “one up” printing mode. With the sensor installed and enabled, the Printer will not print the next label in its internal buffer(s) until the last label printed has been removed from the Printer. Quantities of labels (printed one at a time) can still be requested by the internal batch labeling software or by remote computing devices.
1.3 Supplies
Print Media
The Printer is capable of both direct thermal and thermal transfer printing. The Printer allows for software and direct setting of many printing parameters, such as the head temperature, print speed, and slew rates. This enables the Printer to be compatible with many direct thermal or thermal transfer media.
Media sizes can range from 0.75"(19 mm) wide by 0.50"(13 mm) long to
4.65" (118 mm) wide by 99.99"(2539 mm) long. Label edge sensing is carried out by an optical photo sensor located 1/4" from the left edge of the media as it is fed out of the Printer. The sensor establishes the leading edge of a label, tag, or form by measuring levels of opaqueness. This sensor is controlled by the microprocessor in the Printer and requires no adjustment when changing media. Media thickness can range from 0.0023" (0.06 mm) to .008" (0.20 mm).
Supply rolls are to be wound on standard 1.5" (38 mm) or 3" (76 mm) inside diameter cores. The maximum roll diameter should not exceed 8" (203 mm).
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Common direct thermal stocks include visible-light scannable paper, infrared scannable paper, thermal ticket, tag, and sensitive plastic stocks. A similar list of thermal transfer stocks includes plain coated vinyl, Mylar, metalized paper, and nonwoven and fine woven fabrics.
Consider three important factors when selecting direct thermal media:
1. The abrasive qualities of the material that covers the thermal
reactive layer of the paper.
2. The ability of that layer to control the chemical reaction that
occurs when the image is “burned.”
3. The amount of heat required to image the paper.
If the coating layer is too abrasive, the printhead will be “sanded off” at a faster rate than would normally occur. If the layer cannot contain the reaction, the printhead will become “pitted,” and the dots across the web of the printhead will fail.
The reaction temperature, or the temperature at which the chemical process causes an image to print, is important because the greater the degree of heat required to image the paper, the greater the amount of time needed for the printhead and paper to cool. This process reduces the maximum print speed that can be obtained with the media.
The abrasive qualities of the media are not as critical in thermal transfer applications because the thermal transfer ribbon not the media is in contact with the printhead .
________________________________________________________ __ Page - 12 Product Description
Thermal Transfer Ribbons
Use of ribbons other than those supplied or approved by the manufacture's Value Added Resellers (VARs) or by the manufacture may result in a poor quality printing of bar codes and their ability to be scanned and /or may invalidate the printhead warranty. The manufacture's ribbons are:
* Black ink, scratch, and smudge resistant * 1182 feet long (360 meters), 4.6 microns thick * 1 inch core, no notch required * Ink side in * 1 foot opaque leader for opaque ribbons; clear leader for transparent
ribbons * 1 foot clear trailer for opaque ribbons; opaque trailer for transparent
ribbons * Backcoating required.
One ribbon has the capacity to image two full 8" diameter rolls wound on 3" ID cores.
A wide variety of ribbon sizes, formulas, and colors are available from the manufacture.
It is recommended that the width of the thermal transfer ribbon be the same or nearly the same width (±10%) as the label width used in an application.
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Label/Tag Media Specifications
Description MAX(in.) MIN(in.) A Label width 4.650 0.750 B Backing width 4.650 0.750 C Gap between labels 99.99 0.100 D Label length 99.99 0.500 E Backing thickness 0.010 0.0023 F Label thickness 0.010 0.0023 G Width of sensor opening 0.500 0.200 H Distance from edge of media
to edge of sensor opening
2.250 0.200
Lists of Approved Media
For a current list of approved standard media for use in this Printer, please contact your Value Added Reseller or call the manufacture at the telephone or fax number indicated on inside front page.
________________________________________________________ __ Page - 14 Product Description
2 Getting Started
2.1 Unpacking and Inspection
Inspect the shipping container(s) for signs of being dropped, crushed or punctured. If damage is evident, contact the carrier directly to specify the nature and extent of the damage.
The Printer is packed in custom styrofoam packaging. The Printer itself is enclosed in a plastic bag to reduce the chance of moisture damage during shipping. After removing the Printer from this plastic bag, remove any additional packing material from the Printer mechanism. (This material is placed in the Printer mechanism to prevent vibration during shipping).
The front door panel of the Printer is shipped in a separate bag and needs to be installed on the front of the Printer.
To install the front panel, locate the two hinge pins on the left-hand side of the Printer. Hold the panel vertically and perpendicular to the front of the Printer, align the two hinge pins with the panel and lower the panel into place.
________________________________________________________ __ Getting Started Page - 15
2.2 Equipment Checklist
In addition to the Printer, the shipping container(s) should include the following standard items:
* Printer's Operators Manual
* Front door panel (packaged separately)
* 20 fan-folded labels
* Thermal transfer ribbon rewind clamp
* Back rewind/label rewind clamp
* Power cord
Additionally, items purchased separately may be included. These items might include:
* Additional labels
* Additional ribbons
* Interface cables
* CRT terminal
* Memory module cartridges
* PC-Batch software
________________________________________________________ __ Page - 16 Getting Started
2.3 Switches and Indicators
The Printer has 3 function buttons, 3 indicator lights, 3 switches including a 8 position DIP switch on the back of the Printer, and a Darkness potentiometer for print quality control. These buttons, switches and indicators are shown in figures 2-1 and 2-2, with descriptions for each in the section that follows.
Figure 2-1 Front Panel (Front Cover Open)
________________________________________________________ __ Getting Started Page - 17
Figure 2-2 Rear View
PAUSE Button-- The PAUSE Button, when pressed, causes the
Printer to temporarily stop the printing of labels after the current label is printed. All data is still held in memory. The Printer can resume printing by pressing the PAUSE Button a second time.
FEED Button-- The FEED Button, when pressed,
automatically advances the media to the first print position on the next label.
________________________________________________________ __ Page - 18 Getting Started
STOP/CANCEL The STOP/CANCEL Button, when Button-- pressed, stops and cancels the current run of
labels. The Printer will then begin to print the next (if any) batch of labels stored in the print buffer.
PAUSE Indicator The PAUSE Indicator Lamp will light when Lamp-- the PAUSE Button is pressed, the lamp will go
out when the button is pressed again.
PAPER/RIBBON The PAPER/RIBBON Indicator Lamp Indicator Lamp-- will light when the Printer's sensors cannot
detect the presence of media or ribbon or both, or if the Printer fails to sense T.O.F (Top of Form).
POWER Indicator-- The POWER indicator should be ON whenever
the Printer's power switch on the rear of the unit is turned ON.
DARKNESS Control A Darkness adjustment potentiometer is located Potentiometer-- on the front panel. Turning the potentiometer
clockwise increases the burn time of the printhead, thus producing a darker image on the label. Turning the potentiometer counter­clockwise decreases the burn time of the printhead thus lightening the image on the label. This adjustment should be used after printhead replacement to supplement the difference in printhead characteristics. Do not adjust the Darkness to make up for other Printer adjustments, this could lead to print quality problems in the future.
________________________________________________________ __ Getting Started Page - 19
TRANSFER ON In Thermal Transfer printing, the individual dot Switch-- elements of the printhead apply heat to a ribbon.
The “ink” on the ribbon is a specially formulated material that is literally melted into the print media, bonding with the media to produce an image. The Transfer On Switch (Figure 2-1) must be set to ON (to the right) to use this printing method.
________________________________________________________ __ Page - 20 Getting Started
3 Setup and Self Test
The Printer has a unique SETUP AND SELF TEST routine that should be run after unpacking and physical inspection to ensure the Printer was not damaged during shipment. The self test will save time and familiarize you with the Printer's function that can be set, such as temperature, print speed, and slew rate.
In the SETUP AND SELF TEST procedure, the Printer will be loaded and tested with both types of media and ran in both print modes (Direct & Thermal Transfer).
3.1 Checking Voltage Selection
The standard Printer is shipped in a configuration that allows it to be connected to a properly grounded 115 VAC single-phase 50/60 Hz outlet. The maximum current draw will not exceed 2 amps. The line voltage should not fluctuate more than 10% and the Printer should be connected to a properly grounded receptacle. The Printer has a small sticker next to CJ1 (the power cord connection) that states the power requirements.
________________________________________________________ __ Setup and Self Test Page - 21
The Printer is also manufactured for 230 VAC operation. Most of these Printers are shipped to international markets. If you are at all uncertain about the configuration of the Printer, or the outlet you are connecting to, check with a qualified service technician to verify the installation before connecting power.
3.2 Installing Print Media
The Printer is designed for easy label stock and ribbon installation. A diagram located under the cover of the Printer shows the feed path for print media(s). Simply lift the cover of the printer from the right-hand side and open the front cover for installation instructions.
Media Loading Instructions:
1. Slide the Media Retainer to the outer end of the Supply Hanger, and fold the Media Retainer to its down position.
2. Place a roll of the chosen media onto the Supply Hanger. Rotate the Media Retainer to its up position and slide it inward until its just touching the roll of media.
Figure 3-1 Installing Roll Media
________________________________________________________ __ Page - 22 Setup and Self Test
3. Disengage the printhead by rotating the Head Lift Lever clockwise to the UP position.
4. Loosen the Label Adjust Guide and slide it outward.
5. Insert the label media as shown.
Figure 3-2 Media Routing
6. Slide the Label Adjust Guide inward until it just touches the media, tighten the guide in place.
7. Engage the printhead by rotating the Head Lift Lever counterclockwise to the DOWN position.
8. Press the FEED button a few times to insure proper alignment of the media.
________________________________________________________ __ Setup and Self Test Page - 23
NOTE: Insure the TRANSFER switch is in the OFF position if a
thermal transfer ribbon is not installed. If this is not done the Printer will only feed about .25" of media each time the FEED button is pushed.
Media Rewind Instructions
1. Remove the front door Window Cover.
2. Fasten the Rewind Adapter to the front of the Printer as shown.
Figure 3-3 Attaching the Rewind Adapter
________________________________________________________ __ Page - 24 Setup and Self Test
3. Route the media so that it passes over the Rewind Adapter as shown in Figure 3.4.
4. Route the end of the media around the Media Rewinder and replace the Clasp to hold it in place.
Figure 3-4 Routing Media for Rewinding
________________________________________________________ __ Setup and Self Test Page - 25
Ribbon Loading Instructions
1. Disengage the Printhead by rotating the Head Lift Lever clockwise to the UP position.
2. Slide the ribbon spool onto the Ribbon Supply Hub.
3. Route the ribbon and replace the clasp over the ribbon as shown in Figure 3.5.
4. Engage the printhead by rotating the Head Lift Lever counterclockwise to the DOWN position.
Figure 3-5 Ribbon Loading
5. Press the FEED button a few times to insure proper alignment of the ribbon.
________________________________________________________ __ Page - 26 Setup and Self Test
Alternate Ribbon Loading Instructions
When loading partial ribbons, or ribbons with leaders that have a high elasticity, you may have some difficulty removing the clasp after the ribbon has been consumed. As an alternate method of loading the ribbon, you can neatly wrap the ribbon over a 1.3" paper ribbon core, turning the take up spindle until the ribbon appears to track smoothly through the Printer. When the ribbon has been consumed, the ribbon can easily be removed from the spindle.
3.3 Power Up Self Test
Once labels are installed in the Printer, a self test should be performed. The Printer will power up in the SELF TEST mode when the FEED button is depressed as the Printer is being turned on. The Printer should be loaded with 4.5" wide stock whenever this test is conducted. The self test prints across the entire width of the printhead.
If a label edge is not detected within 12" of stock, the Printer will stop feeding labels. If this occurs, refer back to section 3.2 and re-feed the media. If a label edge was detected, the Printer will begin to print the SELF TEST pattern.
________________________________________________________ __ Setup and Self Test Page - 27
3.4 Explanation of the Self Test Label
Below is an illustration of an actual Configuration Label. The label contains information of the Printer's current setup settings, as well as the RAM and ROM checksums, and other important information.
PROGRAM VERSION: 02.4 10/22/90 SYSTEM ROM CHECKSUM: 9D IS GOOD
FONT ROM CHECKSUM: A8 IS GOOD TOTAL ROM SUM: 45 IS GOOD SYSTEM RAM-U15 CHECKS GOOD SYSTEM RAM-U16 CHECKS GOOD SYSTEM RAM-U17 CHECKS GOOD
SERIAL PORT BAUD RATE IS 9600 TRANSFER SWITCH IS ON
SETUP SWITCH 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 OFF OFF OFF OFF OFF OFF OFF OFF
ANALOG INPUT VALUES: PAPER: 236 EDGE: 184 TEMP 064 VOLT: 228
Figure 3-6 Configuration Label
The following is an explanation of the Configuration Label in Figure 3-6.
PROGRAM VERSION: 02.4 10/22/90PROGRAM VERSION: 02.4 10/22/90
This line contains the Printers firmware version level.
________________________________________________________ __ Page - 28 Setup and Self Test
SYSTEM ROM CHECKSUM: 9D IS GOODSYSTEM ROM CHECKSUM: 9D IS GOOD FONT ROM CHECKSUM: A8 IS GOODFONT ROM CHECKSUM: A8 IS GOOD TOTAL ROM SUM: 45 IS GOODTOTAL ROM SUM: 45 IS GOOD SYSTEM RAM-U15 CHECKS GOODSYSTEM RAM-U15 CHECKS GOOD SYSTEM RAM-U16 CHECKS GOODSYSTEM RAM-U16 CHECKS GOOD SYSTEM RAM-U17 CHECKS GOODSYSTEM RAM-U17 CHECKS GOOD
These lines list the results and values of all RAM and ROM Checksums.
SERIAL PORT BAUD RATE IS 9600SERIAL PORT BAUD RATE IS 9600
This line contains the Printer's Serial Port baud rate setting.
TRANSFER SWITCH IS ONTRANSFER SWITCH IS ON
This line states whether the Transfer Switch on the front of the Printer is ON or OFF.
SETUP SWITCH 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8SETUP SWITCH 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 OFF OFF OFF OFF OFF OFF OFF OFF OFF OFF OFF OFF OFF OFF OFF OFF
This line contains the positions of the Printer's DIP switches.
ANALOG INPUT VALUES:ANALOG INPUT VALUES:
PAPER: 236 EDGE: 184 TEMP 064 VOLT: 228
These lines list the values of the sensors and adjustment potentiometers within the Printer.
________________________________________________________ __ Setup and Self Test Page - 29
3.5 Print Test Label
The Print Test Label consists of a test pattern of printed bars, this label can be used to isolate problems in print quality and to determine bad printheads or rollers.
Figure 3-7 Print Test Label
________________________________________________________ __ Page - 30 Setup and Self Test
If you want to perform the TXD/RXD and CTS/DTR loop checks, you will need to fabricate a test plug as illustrated below in Figure 3.8 Connect the plug to the RS-232 connector on the back of the Printer and run the self test again.
Figure 3-8 Test Plugs
If the Printer passes the loop back checks the following two line will print on the Self Test label.
SERIAL LOOP BACK CHECK IS GOODSERIAL LOOP BACK CHECK IS GOOD CTS & DTR LOOP BACK CHECK IS GOODCTS & DTR LOOP BACK CHECK IS GOOD
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3.6 Monitoring Input After Self Test
After the self test is complete, the Printer goes into a mode that is very useful in two major situations. The first situation involves checking serial transmissions from the sending device to the Printer. The second situation involves monitoring data that is to be interpreted as graphic control statements.
Any character received will be printed. The Printer will print the data in its buffer as soon as a full line of information has been received, or after a pause of 1/4 of a second in received data is registered.
The complete set of ASCII characters can be printed by the Printer including the characters that have values ranging from 0 to 31. These characters will be represented by their control codes. An ASCII NUL (DEC 00, HEX 00) character has a value of 0 and is represented by a control“@” or “^@”. The ASCII SOH character (DEC 01, HEX 01) has a value of 1 and is represented by a “^A”. The STX and ETX are “^B” and “^C” respectively. This pattern continues through ASCII value 31, the US character. Character values greater than 31 will print as the actual ASCII character. See APPENDIX A for a table of ASCII character values.
When you have finished with the self test, reset the Printer by turning the main POWER switch off and on.
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3.7 Printhead Pressure and Support Adjustment
The Printers printhead pressure is not adjustable. Two springs in the head mount assembly apply a fixed 9.5 lbs of force upon the printhead.
The adjustment of the Printhead Support may be required if you are changing from wide full width media to narrow media that is significantly different in terms of thickness.
The head support plate exists for the purpose of supporting the outer end of the printhead when narrow media is used. Without this support, the printhead would bear down on the drive roller, causing diminished print quality and premature wear. The head support plate needs to be engaged only when the media width is less than 4 inches.
To make the adjustment, loosen the two mount screws that fasten the head support plate, leaving the screw on the left snug (see Figure 3-9). Using the media to be printed on, cut a strip about 5 inches long. Place the strip between the drive roller and the printhead, and then engage the printhead by rotating the head lift lever to the down position. Then push down on the head support plate on the right hand side until it comes in contact with the roller bearing plate just below it. Finally, tighten the two mount screws to secure the support plate.
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Figure 3-9 Printhead Adjustment
NOTE: The mount screws which secure the head support plate
also secure the ribbon shield. When loosening these screws, be aware that both the plate and the shield are adjustable. If you move one, the other may move also.
NOTE: For narrow stock the head support plate should be
adjusted so that the print image on the outside edge of the label begins to lighten. Then gradually lower the head support plate until the print quality becomes acceptable. This should keep the printhead off of the roller. It would be advisable for the print quality on the outer edge to be lighter—if possible. This will ensure that the printhead does not come in contact with the roller. When this procedure is done you will have to realign the ribbon shield to compensate for ribbon tracking.
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3.8 Modes of Operation
Before operating the Printer, the correct mode of operation must be selected. Standard input and stand-alone batch labeling are the two different modes of operation available.
Standard Input
In this mode, the Printer receives ASCII data from the RS-232C/RS-422 serial data input port and prints characters on label media as requested by graphic control statements that the host device generates. All of the Printer commands can be accessed and the limits of the Printer are controlled by the host device.
This is the most widely used mode. Any Printer that is controlled by an intelligent host device performing the label formatting will use this mode of the printer. For example PC-Batch software (compatible with IBM PCs) uses this operating mode.
Stand-Alone Batch Labeling System
In this mode, a CRT terminal is connected to the Printer's serial data input/output port. Software that resides in the Printer is selected by special switch settings. The printer then manages a set of CREATE and PRINT screens where label formats can be designed and printed. Data entered while creating labels is stored on optional SRAM cartridges. These formats can be recalled by operators on the CRT screen during print sessions and quantities of a particular format can be printed.
Further information about this mode of operation can be found in Chapter 5.
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3.9 Selecting the Mode
After the mode of operation is determined, the function switch on the back of the Printer can be changed to select the desired mode. Turn the Printer OFF while making changes to the switch settings (function switches are only read during power-up).
SW1-5 STANDARD INPUT OFF STAND-ALONE BATCH ON
3.10 Using Standard Input Mode
For most applications, the interface between the Printer and the host device will be RS-232C. The cable needed to connect the Printer to the host will be either a straight through or null modem cable. This cable connects the DB-25 connector labeled J2 on the back of the Printer to the serial data connector on the host device.
Several cables for typical interfaces are listed in Appendix C. The pin configuration of the Printer for most descriptions of the RS-232 interface on a DB-25 connector is DTE (Data Terminal Equipment), that is, pin 2 is transmit, 3 is receive, and 7 is ground.
The Printer supports both XON/XOFF and CTS/DTR handshaking. Whenever the Printer is interfaced in a mode that will be using XON/XOFF, a jumper must be placed between pins 5 and 4 to enable the operation of the Printer's transmit line.
For connection to most host systems, the XON/XOFF handshaking works to reduce the number of wires needed in the interface cable. For interfacing RS-422 devices, the XON/XOFF handshake is the only appropriate method.
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3.11 Setting the Baud Rate and Word Length
For all modes of operation, you must set the baud rate of the interface. On the back of the Printer, you will find a single eight-position DIP switch. Positions 1, 2, and 3 control the setting of the baud rate.
The following table gives the position of the three switches and the corresponding baud rate that can be obtained by each setting:
S1-1 S1-2 S1-3
9600 OFF OFF OFF 4800 OFF OFF ON 2400 OFF ON OFF 1200 OFF ON ON 600 ON OFF OFF 300 ON OFF ON 19200 ON ON OFF TEST/9600 ON ON ON
The Printer can accept 7- or 8-bit data, while ignoring parity. It also requires at least 1 stop bit. This configuration assures the greatest compatibility with most serial devices, even if the data format arrangement of the host cannot be modified. Switch S1-4, located on the back of the Printer, selects the word length.
S1-4 7-BIT WORD ON 8-BIT WORD OFF
NOTE: It will be necessary to select the 8-bit mode if you want
to access the foreign language characters from the ASCII Code chart. These characters are available in fonts 1–6.
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3.12 Using the Present Sensor Option
With the addition of the PRESENT SENSOR option, the Printer can be configured for “one up” printing mode. With the sensor installed and enabled, the Printer will not print the next label in its internal buffer(s) until the last label printed has been removed from the Printer. Quantities of labels (printed one at a time) can still be requested by remote computing devices.
S1-6 on the back of the Printer enables the sensor. The Printer must be reset in order to read in the switch setting.
S1-6 ENABLE SENSOR ON DISABLE SENSOR OFF
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3.13 Maintenance
Very little Printer maintenance is required. Keeping the Printer clean will help insure trouble free operation. Points of interest include:
3.13.1 Printhead
WARNING: Turn OFF the Printer and unplug the unit from
the outlet before cleaning the printhead.
The Printhead can become dirty from operation. Regular cleaning (approx. every 2000 inches dependent on media material) of the printhead should be done to insure print quality. This printhead is easily cleaned by using a cotton swab and Isopropyl Alcohol (see Figure 3-10).
Figure 3-10 Printhead Cleaning
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3.13.2 Internal/External Cleaning
WARNING: Turn OFF the Printer and unplug the unit
from the outlet before cleaning any part on the Printer.
A periodical cleaning should be done on all rollers, guides and assemblies. Isopropyl Alcohol can be used to clean these areas. This will insure all items are free from residue and will not contribute to any Printer malfunctions.
The outside of the Printer can be kept clean by using a soft damp (not wet) cloth. A mild detergent may be used to remove heavier stains. Do not use abrasive cleaners.
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4 Using the Printer
4.1 Printer Command Interpreter
After the cable is connected and the baud rate of the interface is selected, you are ready to start formatting labels.
Typical line printers require little, if any, formatting of data to trigger printing. Nearly any string of characters sent to a line printer terminated with an ASCII CR (DEC 13, HEX 0D) will work. Many line printers include special features to increase or decrease the standard width of print, line spacing, page length, and so on. The ability to print graphics (lines, pie charts, large characters, and possibly bar codes) is generated by a host computer creating these patterns. This type of printing usually takes more processing time.
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The Printer handles the printing of graphics in a manner that requires less system overhead by the host device. All of the dot patterns for nine different human readable fonts, and formulas for creating different types of bar codes are built directly into the Printer. All of these fonts and bar codes are presented in several different magnifications in APPENDIX D. Notice that each one has been assigned a single letter or digit. This character is used to select a font in the graphics request statement.
Unlike a line Printer whose only option is to print data received on the next line or to a line further down in a document, the Printer allows the host device to select where and how data is to appear on a label. The rotation of the data, the selection and magnification of the font style, and the data for each field can be controlled by the host through simple graphic request statements. The Printer has a 3000 character area that is able to store data that can be printed on a label in up to 99 different fields. Each field description may request the Printer to print up to 255 characters.
In addition to the control you have on “what” and “where” data is to be printed, the Printer also allows you to control the “how.” The how includes commands that control the burn temperature, the print speed, the slew rate during white space, and the amount of pre-calculation before images are printed on the stock.
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4.2 Control Code Reference
The commands that are executed by the host device fall into two basic categories: SYSTEM and LABEL FORMATTING commands. SYSTEM commands control such functions as test pattern, setting and clearing the front panel switches, and interactive communications to a host device. LABEL FORMATTING commands include setting the head temperature, print speed, slew rate, dot size, etc. LABEL FORMATTING commands also describe the actual label to be printed.
The tables on the following pages list the SYSTEM and LABEL FORMATTING commands that the Printer recognizes. All commands at the SYSTEM level that are proceeded by an ASCII SOH (DEC 01, HEX 01) character are executed immediately as they are received. All commands at the SYSTEM level proceeded by the ASCII STX (DEC 02, HEX 02) character are placed in the input buffer and are executed in the order received after any current label printing job is completed. All commands are terminated by an ASCII CR (DEC 13, HEX 0D) unless otherwise noted.
By using the commands listed in these tables, the Printer can be programmed with parameters for printing specific label formats. Following the table listing is a section that explains in detail the outcome of each command.
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4.3 System Level Commands — Immediate
These commands are interpreted before entry into the buffer; therefore, they happen immediately.
Upper level commands invoked after the attention getter: $01 (^A).
COMMANDDESCRIPTION
# Reset command, executes a power-on reset. Can be
used as an operation cancel. Clears buffers and initializes memory. All variables are set to default values.
A Send Printer status (ASCII String). Printer sends a
string of 8 characters back to host device.
Character # Description
1 Command interpreter Busy ? 2 Paper out ? 3 Ribbon out ? Only when enabled 4 Printing batch ? 5 Busy printing ? 6 Printer paused ? 7 Label presented ? Only when enabled 8 Always 0
Each character position contains either a “Y” or “N”
representing whether that event is true. B Toggle pause. Same as pressing front panel button. C Set stop/cancel. Same as pressing front panel button. D SOH shutdown. Command causes the Printer to
ignore
$01 (^A) commands. E Send Batch Quantity. Printer sends back a four digit
number followed by a carriage return.
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(continued)
COMMANDDESCRIPTION
F Send Printer status (1 byte Hex). Printer sends a single
byte in which each bit represents one of the Printer’s status flags.
Bit # Description
1 Command interpreter Busy ? 2 Paper out ? 3 Ribbon out ? Only when enabled 4 Printing batch ? 5 Busy printing ? 6 Printer paused ? 7 Label presented ? Only when enabled 8 Always N Each bit position contains either a “1” or “0” representing whether that event is true.
4.4 System Level Commands
SYSTEM LEVEL COMMANDS invoked after the attention getter $02 (^B).
COMMANDDESCRIPTION
A Reserved for future option. a Enable feedback characters (characters 30 and 31) to
be transmitted. (Default Mode with Version 1.x). B Reserved for future option. b Switches the cutter command (^BHnnnn) back to the
Ver. 1.X mode C Module copy command
Note: All Printer functions are shut down until copy
sequence is complete (including serial input). ________________________________________________________
__ Using the Printer Page - 45
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4.4 System Level Commands (continued)
COMMANDDESCRIPTION
cnnnn Set Continuous Paper Length. (For continuous forms
applications) nnnn = length of paper to feed per label
format. Set to zero for normal operation. Dbaaaa Memory dump (TEST MODE COMMAND).
b = Bank address.
aaaa = 4-digit address. Ennnn Set quantity to reprint (Followed by G command).
nnnn = 4 digits.
Max setting 9999 = quantity of labels. F Form feed. G Prints previously stored or printed label commands.
May also be used to restart a canceled batch if it was
the last processed label. Hnnnn Sets the delay after the 5 msec cut signal pulse.
nnnn = # of 24 usec delays.
System default = 3125 (75 msec). Iabfnnn... INPUT GRAPHICS DATA BLOCK
a = MEMORY MODULE BANK A (1st 1/2), B (2nd
1/2), or C(16K+)
b = (optional) A for 7 bit data, 8 bit if left out of
command
f = F for 7 bit IMG load file.
I for .IMG 8-bit format (image will be flipped) i for .IMG 8-bit format (save image as received) P for .PCX 8-bit format (image will be flipped) p for .PCX 8-bit format (save image as received)
n = up to 8 characters for image name
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J Request memory module status
Response from Printer x-bt<cr> x=Y or N for bank checksum status b=Bank partition being reported t =G for graphics bank
L for label format bank X for unformatted bank
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4.4 System Level Commands (continued)
COMMAND DESCRIPTION
Kbaaaa Change memory (TEST MODE COMMAND).
b = Bank address.
aaaa = 4-digit address. L ENTER LABEL FORMATTING COMMAND input
mode. After entering LABEL FORMATTING mode,
the Printer expects FIELD RECORD definition and
LABEL FORMATTING commands until command
“E” or “X” is received. Mnnnn Set maximum label length. ( 0.01" steps) which is used
for paper out sensing.
nnnn = 4 digits.
Max setting 9999 = 99.99 inches.
Default setting = 1200. m Set METRIC flag. All parameters passed to the Printer
that make reference in this manual to be by 0.01" will
now reference 1 mm steps instead. All reference to
measurement will be metric values until the Printer is
reset. N Switch from Standard Input mode to Stand-alone
Batch System. Onnnn Set form edge offset.
nnnn = 4 digits for offset.
where 250 is the “zero” setting.
Settings below 50 are adjusted back to 250. P When this command is received, the Printer enters the
“monitor” (self test) mode. Reset Printer to return to
normal operation. QaCLEAR Clear memory module bank.
a = Memory Module Bank A, B, or C. Rnnn Remove graphics images from memory module.
nnn = name of image up to 8 characters. STEST Module Memory Test. You must have a CRT terminal
connected to the Printer’s communication port to
answer testing questions and to receive results.
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4.4 System Level Commands (continued)
COMMAND DESCRIPTION
T Print dot pattern test label. Unnss.., Format register fill.
nn = String # in format, must be 2 digits. ss = New string data followed by a <CR>. Must equal original string length.
Vn Set pseudo switch settings.
n = 0-F System uses 4 bits to replace power-up status of switches 5, 6, 7, and 8.
Wa Request memory module directory.
a = G for directory of graphics images. L for directory of label format files.
Xatnnn FORMAT memory module partition.
a = Memory module bank A, B, or C. t = Type, G for Graphics, L for label format.
nnn = Up to 8-character name of module bank. Y Display analog inputs (TEST MODE FUNCTION). Z Print human readable test data.
4.5 Label Formatting Commands
COMMANDS TO BE SENT AFTER “STX L” SYSTEM LEVEL COMMANDS AND BEFORE FIELD DESCRIPTIONS
COMMAND DESCRIPTION
Cnnnn Set column offset amount.
nnnn = 4 digits of column offset. Default setting = 0000.
Dhv Set horizontal and vertical dot size.
h = Horizontal dot size; can be 1 or 2. v = Vertical dot size; can be 1, 2, or 3. ( 0.005" steps ) Default is “D22”
E Terminate field generation and print label.
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4.5 Label Formatting Commands (continued)
COMMAND DESCRIPTION
G Enter last field’s string into global table. Strings are
consecutively named within a label format starting
with A. Up to P strings may be stored into global
table. Hnn Enter heat setting for label.
nn = 2 digits. 1 - 20.
10 is nominal and default. m Set METRIC flag. Same function as ^Bm system
level command. The Printer must be reset in order to
return to standard measure. Pa Enter maximum speed for print cycle. 1 digit.
a Speed.
A 1 " per second.
B 1.5" per second.
C 2 " per second.
D 2.5" per second.
E 3 " per second. Default.
F 3.5" per second.
G 4 " per second. Qnnnn Quantity of labels to print.
nnnn = 4 digits of quantity. Rnnnn Set row offset amount. (0.01" steps)
nnnn = 4 digits of row offset.
Default setting = 0000. Sa Enter maximum slew rate speed for feeding of labels.
a Speed.
A 1 " per second.
B 1.5" per second.
C 2 " per second.
D 2.5" per second.
E 3 " per second.
F 3.5" per second.
G 4 " per second. Default.
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4.5 Label Formatting Commands (continued)
COMMAND DESCRIPTION
W Set to format label before printing. Will cause Printer
to format 560 dot rows into bit mapped RAM before
the first dot row is plotted to media. X Terminate field generation and exit to command
processor. This command is used when the ^BE,
^BG, and ^BU commands will be used to modify a
fixed format. +pii... Make last entered field incrementing.
p = Zero fill character.
ii... = Data added to field.
-pii... Make last entered field decrementing.
p = Zero fill character.
ii... = Data subtracted from field. >pii... Make last entered field incrementing. 0 - Z.
p = Zero fill character.
ii... = Data added to field. <pii... Make last entered field decrementing. 0 - Z.
p = Zero fill character.
ii... = Data subtracted from field. ^nn Set count by amount.
nn = 2 digits.
Skip # of labels before updating count fields and
time fields.
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4.6 Field Definition — Human Readable Fields
Field definition statements to be sent after “STX L” SYSTEM LEVEL command. LABEL FORMATTING mode terminated by “E” or “X” LABEL FORMATTING command.
Field Record for Label Input Mode Human Readable Fields:
CHAR # DESCRIPTION
1 Flag for rotation.
1 = 0 deg. 2 = 90 deg. 3 = 180 deg. 4 = 270 deg.
2 Font selected.
Any valid font character. Bar codes automatically select bar code field format.
3 Horizontal multiplier.
1 = X1, 2 = X2, 4 = X4.
4 Vertical multiplier.
1 = X1, 2 = X2, 4 = X4, 8 = X8. 5, 6, 7 Always 0 0 0. Must be 3 digits. 8, 9, 10, 11 Row address. Must be 4 digits. ( 0.01"/step)
0000-9999 12, 13, 14, 15 Column address. Must be 4 digits. ( 0.01"/step) 0000-
0447 16, . . . String data.
ASCII printable data for font selected.
Terminate with a <CR>.
^B Switch to string input commands:
Sn Select stored string from global table.
Strings stored by the “G” label formatting command
n = String location. A-P.
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4.7 Field Definition — Bar Code Fields
Field definition statements to be sent after “STX L” SYSTEM LEVEL command. LABEL FORMATTING mode terminated by “E” or “X” LABEL FORMATTING command.
Field Record for Label Input Mode Bar Code Fields:
CHAR # DESCRIPTION
1 Flag for rotation.
1 = 0 deg.
2 = 90 deg.
3 = 180 deg.
4 = 270 deg. 2 Font selected.
Any valid font character.
Bar codes automatically select bar code field format.
Fonts designated by uppercase ALPHA letters print
with human readable interpretations. Lowercase
ALPHA bar code fonts print as bars only. 3 Bar code wide bar width.
.005 increments. Accepts 1-9 and A-K.
For UPC and 128 fonts, only 1,2,3,4,6, & 8 are valid
when interpretation is printed.
4 Bar code narrow bar width.
.005 increments.
Accepts 1-9 and A-K. For UPC and 128 fonts,
narrow bar should be set equal to wide bar setting. 5, 6, 7 Bar code height. Must be 3 digits. (0.01" step)
001-999 8, 9, 10, 11 Row address. Must be 4 digits. (0.01" step)
0000-9999
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12, 13, 14, 15 Column address. Must be 4 digits (0.01" step)
0000-0447 16,... String data.
ASCII printable data for font selected.
Terminate with a <CR>.
^B Switch to string input commands:
Sn Select stored string from global table.
n = String location. A-P.
4.8 Graphic Images
To enter the graphic image input routine, the Printer must be outside of the LABEL INPUT command interpreter. The Printer must also receive a STX character followed by an ASCII “I”, a bank designation, an optional word length modifier, a format designation, and up to an 8­character string to identify the stored image data. The data that follows is the image data.
If you use any of the 8-bit input formats, you must execute a “SOH D” command before the GRAPHIC IMAGE INPUT. This command disables the SYSTEM LEVEL command interpreter.
Iabfnnn... INPUT GRAPHICS DATA BLOCK a = MEMORY MODULE BANK
A (1st 1/2), B (2nd 1/2), or C (16K+) b = (optional) A for 7-bit data, 8-bit if left out of command f = F for 7-bit IMG load file
I for .IMG 8-bit format (image will be flipped)
i for .IMG 8-bit format (save image as received)
P for .PCX 8-bit format (image will be flipped)
p for .PCX 8-bit format (save image as received) n = up to 8 characters for image name
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To print an image, select font type “Y”. The horizontal and vertical magnifications work with human readable fonts. The data sent into the field is also used as the name of the defined graphic image.
GRAPHICS INPUT TYPE I
.IMG 8-bit format. Same as 7-bit ASCII preceded by header record 00 01 00 08 00 01 00 00 00 00 00 XX XX where XX XX = high byte, low byte count of dot lines in image.
GRAPHICS INPUT TYPE P
.PCX 8-bit format
GRAPHICS INPUT TYPE F
7-bit ASCII
80nn
80 = Generate following data
nn = # of bytes for data
0000FFnn
0000FF = Generate following data line n times
nn = # of lines to generate
FFFF
FFFF = Terminate input of graphics
To print an image, specify font “Y”. The horizontal and vertical magnifications will work as if it were a human readable font. The data sent into the field is used as the name of the defined graphics image.
Once images are in memory, they can be removed with the “R” SYSTEM COMMAND. The image is named after the STX and the “R” command will be cleared. Images are stored dynamically, meaning that removing any images stored in the middle of a directory will shift forward any images found in the outer area of the directory.
The following example creates and prints the image DATAMAX using the type “F” graphics formatting method. The character “^B” denotes the ASCII STX character. This example was created as a text file on an IBM compatible PC with the DOS EDIT line editor program, and sent to the Printer with the COPY command.
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^BqA(CR) ^BIAAFLOGO(CR) 8030FFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFF0000(CR) 8030FFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFF0000(CR) 8030FFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFF0000(CR) 8030FFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFF0000(CR) 8030FFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFF0000(CR) 8030FFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFF0000(CR) 8030FFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFF0000(CR) 8030FFC00000007FFC0003FFFFC001FC0001FC0003FFFFC0018000FFC001FF8000C0003FFFFE000000FFFFE0001FFFFF0000(CR) 8030FFC00000000FFC0003FFFFC001FC0001FC0003FFFFC0018000FFC001FF800040001FFFFE0000007FFFC0001FFFFF0000(CR) 8030FFC000000003FC0001FFFFC001FC0001FC0001FFFFC0018000FFC001FF800040001FFFFE0000003FFFC0001FFFFF0000(CR) 8030FFC000000000FC0001FFFFC001FE0001FE0001FFFFC00180007FC000FF800060001FFFFE0000003FFFC0003FFFFF0000(CR) 8030FFE0000000007E0001FFFFC001FE0001FE0001FFFFC00180007FC000FFC00060000FFFFE0000001FFFC0003FFFFF0000(CR) 8030FFE0000000003E0000FFFFC001FE0000FE0000FFFFC00180007FC0007FC00020000FFFFE0000001FFF80003FFFFF0000(CR) 8030FFE0000000001E0000FFFFC001FE0000FF0000FFFFC001C0007FC0007FC00030000FFFFE0010000FFF80003FFFFF0000(CR) 8030FFE0000000000F0000FFFFC001FE0000FF0000FFFFC001C0007FC0007FC00030000FFFFE00180007FF80007FFFFF0000(CR) 8030FFE0000000000700007FFFC001FF0000FF80007FFFC001C0007FC0003FC000380007FFFE00180007FF80007FFFFF0000(CR) 8030FFF0000000000380007FFFC001FF0000FF80007FFFC001C0003FC0003FE000380007FFFE001C0003FF80007FFFFF0000(CR) 8030FFF0000000000380007FFFC001FF0000FF80007FFFC001C0003FC0003FE000380007FFFE001E0003FF80007FFFFF0000(CR) 8030FFF0000000000180003FFFC001FF00007FC0003FFFC001C0003FC0001FE0001C0003FFFE001E0001FF0000FFFFFF0000(CR) 8030FFF00000000001C0003FFFC001FF00007FC0003FFFC001E0003FC0001FE0001C0003FFFE001F0000FF0000FFFFFF0000(CR) 8030FFF00007C00000C0003FFFC001FF00007FE0003FFFC001E0003FC0000FF0001E0003FFFE001F0000FF0000FFFFFF0000(CR) 8030FFF80007F80000E0001FFFC001FF80007FE0001FFFC001E0003FC0000FF0001E0001FFFE001F80007F0000FFFFFF0000(CR) 8030FFF80007FC0000E00000000001FF80007FE00000000001E0001FC0000FF0001E00000000001FC0007F0000FFFFFF0000(CR) 8030FFF80007FE0000600000000001FF80003FF00000000001E0001FC00007F0000F00000000001FC0003F0001FFFFFF0000(CR) 8030FFF80003FF0000700000000001FF80003FF00000000001F0001FC00007F0000F00000000001FE0001E0001FFFFFF0000(CR) 8030FFF80003FF0000700000000001FF80003FF00000000001F0001FC00007F8000F00000000001FE0001E0001FFFFFF0000(CR) 8030FFFC0001FFC0003C0000000001FFE0001FFE0000000001F8000FC00000FC0007E0000000001FFE00000003FFFFFF0000(CR) 8030FFFE0001FFC0001E0000000001FFE0001FFE0000000001F8000FC00000FC0007E0000000001FFF00000003FFFFFF0000(CR) 8030FFFE0001FFC0001E0000000001FFE0001FFE0000000001F8000FC00000FC0007F0000000001FFF00000007FFFFFF0000(CR) 8030FFFE0000FFC0001F0000000001FFE0000FFF0000000001F8000FC000007C0003F0000000001FFF80000007FFFFFF0000(CR) 8030FFFE0000FFC0001F0000000001FFE0000FFF0000000001FC0007C000007E0003F0000000001FFF80000007FFFFFF0000(CR) 8030FFFE0000FFE0001F0001FFC001FFE0000FFF8001FFC001FC0007C000003E0003F8000FFE001FFFC0000007FFFFFF0000(CR) 8030FFFE0000FFE0000F8001FFC001FFF0000FFF8000FFC001FC0007C000003E0003F8000FFE001FFFE000000FFFFFFF0000(CR) 8030FFFF0000FFE0000F8000FFC001FFF0000FFF8000FFC001FC0007C000003E0003F8000FFE001FFFE000000FFFFFFF0000(CR) 8030FFFF0000FFE0000F8000FFC001FFF00007FFC000FFC001FC0007C000001F0001FC000FFE001FFFF000000FFFFFFF0000(CR) 8030FFFF00007FE0000FC000FFC001FFF00007FFC0007FC001FE0007C002001F0001FC0007FE001FFFF000000FFFFFFF0000(CR) 8030FFFF00007FF0000FC0007FC001FFF00007FFE0007FC001FE0003C002001F0001FE0007FE001FFFF800000FFFFFFF0000(CR) 8030FFFF00007FF0000FE0007FC001FFF80007FFE0007FC001FE0003C003000F0001FE0007FE001FFFFC00001FFFFFFF0000(CR) 8030FFFF80007FF00007E0007FC001FFF80007FFE0003FC001FE0003C003000F0001FE0003FE001FFFFC00001FFFFFFF0000(CR) 8030FFFF80007FF00007E0003FC001FFF80003FFF0003FC001FE0003C00300078001FF0003FE001FFFFE00001FFFFFFF0000(CR) 8030FFFF80003FF00007F0003FC001FFF80003FFF0003FC001FE0003C00380078000FF0003FE001FFFFE00001FFFFFFF0000(CR) 8030FFFF80003FF80007F0003FC001FFF80003FFF0001FC001FF0003C00380078000FF8001FE001FFFFE00001FFFFFFF0000(CR) 8030FFFF80003FF80007F0001FC001FFF80003FFF8001FC001FF0001C003C0038000FF8001FE001FFFFE00001FFFFFFF0000(CR) 8030FFFFFFC0000000007FFC000001F80000000000FC000001FFF0000003FFE0000007FFC000001FFFC0003F80007FFF0000(CR) 8030FFFFFFE000000000FFFC000001F80000000000FE000001FFF8000003FFE0000007FFE000001FFFC0003FC0003FFF0000(CR) 8030FFFFFFF000000000FFFE000001F80000000000FE000001FFF8000003FFF0000007FFE000001FFFC0003FC0003FFF0000(CR) 8030FFFFFFFC00000000FFFE000001FC0000000000FE000001FFF8000003FFF0000007FFE000001FFFC0003FE0001FFF0000(CR) 8030FFFFFFFE00000000FFFE000001FC00000000007F000001FFF8000003FFF0000007FFF000001FFFC0003FE0001FFF0000(CR) 8030FFFFFFFF00000001FFFF000001FC00000000007F000001FFF8000003FFF8000007FFF000001FFF80003FF0000FFF0000(CR) 8030FFFFFFFFC0000001FFFF000001FC00000000007F000001FFF8000003FFF8000003FFF800001FFF80007FF0000FFF0000(CR) 8030FFFFFFFFE0000003FFFF800001FC00000000007F800001FFFC000003FFF8000003FFF800001FFF80007FF80007FF0000(CR) 8030FFFFFFFFF0000007FFFF800001FC00000000007F800001FFFC000003FFFC000003FFF800001FFF80007FF80007FF0000(CR) 8030FFFFFFFFF800000FFFFF800001FE00000000003FC00001FFFC000003FFFC000003FFFC00001FFF00007FFC0003FF0000(CR) 8030FFFFFFFFFE00001FFFFFC00001FE00000000003FC00001FFFC000003FFFE000003FFFC00001FFF00007FFC0003FF0000(CR) 8030FFFFFFFFFF00007FFFFFC00001FE00000000003FC00001FFFC000003FFFE000003FFFE00001FFF00007FFE0001FF0000(CR) 8030FFFFFFFFFF8003FFFFFFC00001FE00000000003FE00001FFFC000003FFFF000003FFFE00001FFF00007FFE0001FF0000(CR) 8030FFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFF0000(CR) 8030FFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFF0000(CR) 8030FFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFF0000(CR) 8030FFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFF0000(CR) 8030FFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFF0000(CR) 8030FFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFF0000(CR) 8030FFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFF0000(CR) FFFF(CR) ^BL(CR) 1Y1100000000000LOGO(CR) E(CR)
The graphic printed by this command sequence is:
FIGURE 4-1
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4.9 Printing Lines and Boxes
Lines and boxes can be created by requesting font “X” from within the LABEL COMMAND interpreter. The horizontal and vertical multipliers work with the line and box routines in the same manner as human readable fonts. The format of the data area is as follows:
Lhhhvvv Where L = L to specify line drawing (solid box)
hhh = horizontal width of line (solid box)
vvv = vertical height of line (solid box) or, Bhhhvvvbbbsss Where B = B to specify box drawing
hhh = horizontal width of box
vvv = vertical height of box
bbb = thickness of bottom and top box edges
sss = thickness of sides of box
4.10 Defining and Printing a Label
The following is the procedure for formatting labels:
1. The ASCII STX (DEC 02, HEX 02) followed by an ASCII “L” (DEC
76, HEX 4C) must be sent to the Printer. This sets the Printer up to accept LABEL FORMATTING COMMANDS. At the entrance into the LABEL FORMATTING mode, the Printer does several things. It clears the field register area and loads the FIELD GENERATION interpreter. The interpreter will scan the data as it is received, placing completed fields into registers. The paper is in the “home position” at the time the STX L command is received and set. References made by the statements that follow will consider the current paper position as 0,0.
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2. The Printer begins to look for strings terminated by ASCII CRs
(DEC 13, HEX 0D). The interpreter takes the data in the string and places the appropriate pieces into the appropriate registers. Whenever the Printer encounters an ASCII control code that has a value of less than 32, the data is not accepted. The beginning of that field is considered invalid and is discarded.
The rules that the interpreter uses for placing data into registers are detailed in the previous tables. The tables show that the first 15 bytes received control the rotation, font, magnification, bar height, and print location of the data to be printed. The remaining characters in the string are the actual data.
3. The first character of a field that is received is shown in the table to
be an ASCII character that selects the rotation. The possible choices for rotation are 1, 2, 3, and 4. If the Printer receives any other character as the first character in a command string, it will not consider this data to specify a field. It will check the string as a possible command for other action. If the string cannot be matched to a command, it will be discarded by the Printer.
The diagram on the next page details the direction of data that each rotation will give with respect to the label feed direction and the label opening in the front of the Printer.
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THE PRINTER IS HERE
123456
ROTATION 4
ROTATION 1
ROTATION 2
ROTATION 3
HOME POSITION
FIGURE 4-2
4. After the rotation field, the next character received is the font type.
It must be one of the characters 0 through 8 to select a human readable font or A through L to select a bar code font. Uppercase bar code fonts will print with human readable interpretation, lowercase bar code fonts do not include the interpretation. The selection of the font is made from the samples available in APPENDIX D.
5. The following digit, character number 3, is the horizontal multiplier
for human readable fonts. The magnification factor represents the number of times the dot tables for the font selected are multiplied in the horizontal direction. For human readable fonts, the valid choices for magnification are 1, 2, 4, and 8 times the normal dot pattern.
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If the font selected is a bar code, this character specifies the wide bar width. The range of allowable values for bar code fonts is 1 to 9 and A through K. This range will give a wide bar width of 0.005" to 0.300" when added to the Printer’s ability to vary the dot size.
For UPC and 128 fonts, the valid multipliers are 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, and 8 when selecting the uppercase version of these fonts. If other multipliers are selected, the Printer rounds down to one of these values.
6. The next digit, character number 4, is the vertical multiplier for
human readable fonts. The magnification factor represents the number of times the dot table for the selected font is multiplied in the vertical direction. For human readable fonts, the valid choices for magnification are 1, 2, 4, and 8 times the normal dot pattern.
If the font selected is a bar code, this character specifies the narrow bar width. The range of allowable values for bar code fonts is 1 to 9 and A through L. This range will give a narrow bar width of
0.005" to 0.300" when added to the Printer’s ability to vary the dot size.
For UPC and 128 fonts, this number should be the same as the horizontal multiplier because these bar codes are element-based and not ratio-based bar codes.
7. The next three characters, bytes 5, 6, and 7 for all human readable
fonts will be discarded, but must be sent to the Printer as zeros. These characters only affect the printing of bar codes. When a bar code font has been selected, the height of the bar code is controlled in 0.010" increments. The minimum value is “001”, the maximum value is “999”. This gives a variable bar height of 0.01" to 9.99". (Note: Bar heights below 0.08" may vary depending on the starting row position. To suppress this variance, the row position should be given as a value evenly divisible by eight.)
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8. The next four digits, bytes 8 through 11, are the vertical offset. This
offset determines the placement, from the home position, of the data that is specified at the end of the string received. The home position is the lower left hand corner of the next print media currently held under the printhead. Field offset data is always expressed in hundredths of an inch on the Printer's graphic interfaces unless the toggle to metric measure has been made. This value can be thought of as “how far up” from the bottom of the label the data is to be printed.
9. The next four digits in the string, bytes 12 through 15, are used as
the horizontal offset, in inches, for the data string. This value can be thought of as “how far over” to the right on the label the data is to be printed.
10. The remaining data in the string up to the CR or LF is the data to be
printed. This data can be from 1 to 255 characters. Characters that are placed in this field may or may not actually be able to print on the label. The Printer will print all of the characters that fall within the possible range of the printhead. For example: you direct the Printer to print “HELLO WORLD” in rotation 1, font 6, and to magnify 2X in the horizontal and the vertical direction. The characters “HELLO W” and part of the “O” will appear at the very bottom of the label. The “RLD” will not show up on the label since it is outside the physical limits of the Printer.
11. The Printer can accept up to 3000 characters of field data per label,
in up to 99 fields. Each field follows the same format as described in the preceding instructions. Fields and LABEL FORMATTING commands are sent to the Printer until the desired label format is formatted.
If any received string does not meet the requirements to become a field, the Printer checks to see if the string is an internal command of the LABEL FORMATTING interpreter. If the command does not match, the field is discarded.
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12. After the last field is sent, the host device terminates the formatting
session by sending an ASCII “E” (DEC 69, HEX 45) as a single character string terminated by an ASCII CR (DEC 13, HEX 0D). The label Printer will print the label from the field registers created and return to the SYSTEM command processor.
The following is an example of the process explained in Section 4.10. Power up the Printer, press FORM FEED and then the host device sends out the following ASCII characters:
STX L CR 1 3 2 1 000 0100 0050 TEST123 CR 1 a 3 1 090 0000 0110 123456 CR E
(Spaces in example are shown only for clarity.) A label will print that looks like the sample below.
FIGURE 4-3
The STX L is a SYSTEM command that sends the Printer into the LABEL FORMATTING interpreter.
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The first string “132100001000050TEST 123” is defined as the register number “01” in the Printer. On the label, it appears as the human readable message “TEST 123” located above the bar code. You can see from the sample label that the data printed in the standard left-to-right rotation “1”, in font “3”, at a 2X width and 1X height magnification. The lower left-hand corner of the field was located approximately 1" up from the bottom “0100”, and over from the edge .5" “0050”. This is the position specified by the eight digits that precede the data string “TEST
The bar code field is defined by the string “1a3109000000110123456”. This field is printed in the standard rotation, font a (Code 3 of 9 without human readable interpretation), with a wide-to-narrow bar ratio of 3:1. The bar code is positioned to print on the label 0" from the bottom and over from the edge 1.10". The data in the bar code was “123456”.
The last character sent is the ASCII “E” character. It requests the Printer to begin plotting the characters and bar codes as specified in the memory stored registers.
4.11 Register Loading
The Printer prints labels in one of two modes. The standard mode is described in the previous section. It requires that the complete format be sent to the Printer each time a label is to be created. However, there is a more efficient way of creating labels on the Printer. This method involves programming for a fixed label format. At the end of the format the host device sends an ASCII X (DEC 88, HEX 58) instead of the E character. This stores the register data in memory and returns the Printer to the SYSTEM command processor. However, a label is not produced. From this point, the SYSTEM command processor allows single or multiple labels to be printed from the stored field registers.
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The ASCII character STX G is sent to instruct the Printer to print a label from its internal register data. After the label has finished printing, the host device may send additional STX G characters to print additional copies of the same label.
The host device may also reload a particular register with new data and send another STX G command. This will generate a new label from the previously created font and positioning parameters.
When data is entered into the Printer’s label format memory, each properly formatted string creates a register. The registers are numbered 01, 02, 03, etc. to 99. To fill the register responsible for printing the bar code in the following example, the host device uses the “STX U## DATA...” command to fill a new string into an existing field.
STX U 02 112233 CR
The Printer recognizes “STX U” as the FILL REGISTER COMMAND. The “02” instructs the Printer to fill register 02 with the following data: “112233”. The CR terminates the fill register command. Then the host can send a STX G command. The Printer begins printing a label from this stored data in the registers of graphics memory.
This process can be repeated as many times as necessary to print all of the labels following a particular format. The host device must resend a label format if the Printer is sent a RESET command, or if the Printer is powered down.
NOTE: The data string length of any register is set by the length
of the string when it is created. If you attempt to load a register with a new string that is longer than the original string, the Printer will truncate the field to match the original size. If you load a register with a string shorter than the original, the new characters replace the old characters in position, leaving behind the characters from the previous field.
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4.12 Label Formatting Commands
There are several commands listed in the label formatting tables in Section 4.5 that have not been covered in the examples. This section examines these commands. The following commands are sent to the Printer after the STX L command, which causes the Printer to switch from the SYSTEM level command processor to the LABEL FORMATTING command processor. Any commands received while in the LABEL FORMATTING command processor not starting with a 1, 2, 3, or 4 (specifying a field rotation) are interpreted as printing process commands.
1. “R####” COMMAND. SETTING THE ROW OFFSET VALUE.
“SETTING THE ROW OFFSET VALUE” is a FORMATTING command that is used to adjust the printing of data on a label. This feature is useful when you need to print a single format on several different types of preprinted labels. If the preprinted data does not appear in the same place every time, the data you image onto the label may overlap the preprinted data. The “R####” command instructs the Printer to print the following label formats further up on the label than the format actually specifies. The numbers in the command are digits 0 to 9, which can specify a number from 0000 to 9999. This value is the number of 1/100th of an inch of label to feed before the printing of the label format data begins.
2. “H##” COMMAND. CHANGING THE BURN TIME.
The “H##” formatting command changes the “dot on time” for the individual dot rows on the Printer. The Printer powers up with a default value of 10. Varying this number changes the amount of time the dots are “turned on.” This changes the amount of heat that is transferred from the head to the media, causing lighter and darker images to be burned. The range of valid settings are from 01 to 20. Each step increases or reduces the burn time by 100 µS.
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The control on the front of the Printer labeled “DARKER” —>” is for matching replacement printheads to the Printer during the head replacement procedure. It has very little control over the actual burn temperature used for imaging.
This command is beneficial when the Printer is used with several different media types. When a label format is sent to the Printer and the media requires more or less heat than the amount set by the default temperature, the host device may send a command before or after the format to correct for the media.
3. “C####” COMMAND. SETTING THE COLUMN OFFSET
VALUE.
The Printer has a FORMATTING command function that is used to adjust the printing of data on a label horizontally. This feature is useful when you need to print a single format on several different types of labels that have preprinted information. If the preprinted data does not show up in the same place every time, the data you image on the label may overlap the preprinted data. The “C####” command instructs the Printer to print the following label formats over #### increments to the right of where the format actually specifies. The numbers in the command are digits 0 to 9 which can specify a number from 0000 to 0400.
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4. “Pa” COMMAND. SETTING THE PRINT SPEED.
The print speed of the Printer can be adjusted by the host device to meet specific requirements of particular applications. The command “Pa” will set the print speed according to the single digit represented by the “a” in the command. The print speeds are listed below:
A 1.0" per second B 1.5" per second C 2.0" per second D 2.5" per second E 3.0" per second F 3.5" per second G 4.0" per second
5. “Sa” COMMAND. SETTING THE SLEW RATE.
The slew rate, which is the rate at which the label is advanced when no printing is taking place, can be set by the “Sa” command where the “a” is replaced by an alpha character A through G to get slew rates of:
A 1.0" per second B 1.5" per second C 2.0" per second D 2.5" per second E 3.0" per second F 3.5" per second G 4.0" per second
6. “W” COMMAND. SETTING THE FORMATTING MODE.
The formatting mode of the Printer is to begin printing immediately once the command to generate is executed. Some printers create an entire video image of the label in memory before printing begins. Sending the “W” command will enable the Printer to fill its format buffer before printing.
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7. “+pii...” COMMAND. THE INCREMENT FUNCTION.
The Printer formatter is capable of incrementing data fields between each print. To cause a field to increment, send the field in the normal manner to the Printer. After the ASCII CR that terminates the field, send the string “+pii...” where the “p” is a fill character for the far left-hand characters of the field and the “ii” is the string to increment by. The data in the field will increment by the value after the “+” sign each time a label is printed.
The “+” character may be replaced by a “>” character to make the field increment alphanumerically instead of just numerically.
To generate a single field label format that prints the first label with a value of 10000 and increments by 1 for three labels, refer to the commands below:
STX L CR
1 3 2 2 000 0000 0000 10000 CR
+01CR
Q0003 CR
E CR
8. “-pii_” COMMAND. THE DECREMENT FUNCTION.
The Printer is capable of decrementing data fields between each print. To cause a field to decrement, send the field in the normal manner to the Printer. After the ASCII CR that terminates the field, send the string “-pii_” where “p” is the fill character used for characters farthest on the left. The “ii” is the string to decrement the field by.
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The “-” character may be replaced by a “<” character to make the field decrement alphanumerically instead of just numerically.
To generate a single field label format that prints the first label with a value of 10000 and decrements by 1 for three labels, refer to the following commands:
STX L CR
1 3 2 2 000 0000 0000 10000 CR
-01 CR
Q0003 CR
E CR
9. “^##” COMMAND. INCREMENT AND DECREMENT ON
COUNT.
An application that requires incrementing or decrementing fields will occasionally require that a duplicate label be printed with the same values before the update of field data occurs. The Printer handles this feature with the “^##” command. The “##” after the “^” is a two digit value. It specifies how many labels are to be generated before the modification of the incrementing or decrementing field is to occur. This command can only be sent once per label format.
The same commands from the previous example, with two labels printed per decrement instead of one, would look like this:
STX L CR
1 3 2 2 000 0000 0000 100000 CR
-01 CR
^02 CR
Q0006 CR
E CR
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10. PLACE DATA IN GLOBAL REGISTER
The Printer also contains a utility for printing duplicate data fields (for example, several different places on a label). After a field has been created, the “G” command may be sent as the next string to the Printer. The data in the field is placed into a global register. Global registers are named in the order created, starting with A and assigned consecutively through register P.
11. TAKE DATA FROM GLOBAL REGISTER AND PLACE IT INTO
DATA FIELD
Once a global register has been defined, it can be used as the data in other fields. Simply send “STX S?” where “?” is the register A to P in the command string as data. The Printer will place the data from the global register into the field.
A set of commands to use this feature would be:
STX L CR
1 2 1 1 000 0000 0000 PRINTER CR
G CR
1 A 6 2 100 0100 0000 STX SA CR
E CR
The “G CR” command after the first field will place the string “PRINTER” into the next available global register, which in this case will be A. The “STX SA” in the second field will take the data out of global register A and place it in field number 2.
4.13 System and Formatting Commands
Other than the “F”, “L”, and “G” commands that have been used in the examples, other SYSTEM commands listed in the tables in the beginning of the chapter have not been discussed. This section examines these very powerful commands and their typical uses in label production.
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1. “SOH A” COMMAND. CHECKING THE PRINTER STATUS.
The Printer can be polled as to the current Printer status. The SYSTEM command to cause the Printer to send this data is “SOH
The Printer will respond as soon as it is able to with an 8-character response followed by an ASCII CR (DEC 13, HEX 0D). Each character will be a “Y” or “N” for the status of the condition. The string will be of the following format:
1 Command interpreter busy
2 Paper out
3 Ribbon out (only when enabled)
4 Printing batch
5 Busy printing
6 Printer paused
7 Label presented (only when enabled)
8 Always N
2. “SOH #” COMMAND. SERIAL PRINTER RESET.
The host device may cause the Printer to reset itself. In effect, the Printer powers down and back up again. This command is the “SOH #” command. When the Printer receives this command, all of the Printer’s programmable parameters are set back to default values.
3. “STX T” COMMAND. TEST MODE.
Sending the “STX T” command to the Printer will cause it to print the test pattern that is generated on a POWER UP SELF TEST.
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4. “STX Vn” COMMAND. SETTING THE PSEUDO SWITCHES.
Switch SW1, mounted on the back of the Printer, is read on power­up or on soft reset. The positions of switches 5 through 8 can be modified through this command. Send “STX Vn” where “n” is a hex value of 0 to F to define the settings.
* 5 Mode switch, RS-232/batch
6 Label present sensor 7 Ignore ribbon out 8 Undefined
*This setting is of no value.
5. “M####” COMMAND. SETTING THE MAXIMUM LABEL SIZE.
The Printer was designed to accept labels with a maximum length of
99.99". The maximum label size can be reduced by sending the Printer a “M####” command where the numbers 0 to 9 represent the maximum length of the label. “####” is expressed to the nearest 1/100th of an inch; decimal place removed. This command is a nice feature while designing labels. It prevents the Printer from feeding out tremendously long strips of media if an error is made by the host device. The Printer defaults to a value of “1200”.
It is recommended that the label-out value be set to 2.5 times the actual label length that is being used. This will allow for a label to be missing on a roll without stopping the printing.
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6. “O####” COMMAND. CHANGING THE DEFAULT
LABEL OFFSET.
The “O####” command changes the label offset. The Printer will accept the “####” string to be in the range of 0000 to 0999. The Printer normally stops the label media at 0.20" past the printhead. This means that the last label printed is still attached to the label backing and can be removed by an operator.
If you are printing in batch mode and rewinding the labels, you may want to have the label offset changed so that printing can begin on the very bottom of a label.
This command is different from the “C####” command, which changes the location of the print on the label. The “O####” command actually changes the zero reference point of the label.
4.14 Controlling Print Quality
The Printer provides maximum flexibility by offering a direct thermal and thermal transfer print capability. To provide this diverse printing option, the Printer has a flexible set of printing controls.
The amount of heat applied per dot row and the rate at which the paper moves under the head have the most effect on the images that are printed. The Printer allows you to control these factors but also limits them so you cannot ask the Printer to print an image that could be damaging. For example, low cost direct thermal stocks have very high reaction temperatures. It takes a lot of heat to make clear images on this type of paper. The Printer allows two methods of compensation. The burn time can be set to a greater value by using the “H” LABEL FORMATTING command. This would cause more heat to be transferred into the media, which would generate a darker image. The second method would be to reduce the print speed with the “P” LABEL FORMATTING command. This would allow the paper to remain under the head for a longer amount of time. This would also allow more heat to transfer into the media.
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You will find that printing fine images on the less expensive direct thermal and thermal transfer media at the higher speeds can be tricky. At one heat setting the image will fade and at the next higher heat setting the image can bleed. This is because the reaction temperature of the media is so high that at higher rates of speed, it cannot react quick enough.
To print fine images at higher speed, media with lower reaction or release temperatures are required. On the slower end of the print rate settings, crisper images are possible because the media is not being stretched beyond its limits.
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5 Using the Printer's Internal
Labeling Software
The program is very easy to learn and operate. Just two screens are used to create or modify and then print labels. A system maintenance screen is included for printing test labels, copying and formatting memory modules, and several other functions. 32K RAM memory modules store up to 50 label formats each. Modules can be divided in a 16K/16K split between label formats and graphic images (pictures). As many memory modules as are necessary can be purchased, which effectively allows unlimited memory capacity.
5.1 P reparing the Printer for Use With a LINK CRT
Several steps are necessary before you can begin to format and print labels on the Printer. These steps are explained in the next two sections.
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5.1.1 Connect Cables
Verify that the LINK CRT and the Printer main power switches are OFF. Connect the LINK CRT terminal to the Printer with the supplied cable, or construct an MXM-type cable as described in APPENDIX C. Plug in the supplied power cords for the Printer and the LINK CRT terminal.
NOTE: The Printer does not connect to the Link Parallel Port.
5.1.2 LINK CRT Settings
The LINK CRT is shipped ready for use with the Printer. (NOTE: The settings should be changed only when necessary.) If the terminal’s settings have been changed since shipment from the factory, follow the terminal’s set-up procedure to re-establish all default values. For reference, the following values are necessary. The Printer will set all remaining parameters. However, these settings are not saved in CRT’s RAM. To save them, follow the CRT’s “save changes” routine after normal operation is established.
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Handshake: NONE Mode: FDX Data Bits: 8 Stop Bits: 1 Parity: NONE Baud Rate: 9600 Keys: US Blk End: US/CR Auto NL: ON CR: CR Compatible: LINK MC 2 Function keys equivalent to:
F1: CNTL W
F2: CNTL X
F3: CNTL Y
F4: CNTL Z
5.1.3 Select Stand-Alone Labeling Software Mode
The Printer is typically shipped in the RS-232 mode for use with PCs. To use the CRT instead, a DIP switch setting needs to be changed. Before changing any switch settings, turn the Printer’s main power switch to the OFF position. DIP switch changes are read only upon power up.
To enable the internal stand-alone labeling software, set DIP switch SW1-5, located on the back panel of the Printer, to the ON (toward numbers) position.
Also verify that the proper baud rate is set. Select 9600 baud by turning SW1-1, 2, and 3 to the OFF (away from numbers) positions.
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5.1.4 Verify Setup, Power Up, and Load Media
Check that all connections are made and that you have correctly configured DIP switch SW-1. Turn on the CRT first and then the Printer's power switch. Press the F1 key on the CRT several times. The CREATE/MODIFY LABEL and PRINT LABEL screens should toggle back and forth. If they don’t, something is wrong. Check the CRT settings again, check the interface cable, check that you have power to both the Printer and CRT, and then try again. Contact your Value Added Reseller (VAR) or the manufacture if you cannot get the screens to appear.
You should load the Printer with media at this time.
5.1.5 Install and Configure a Memory Module
Memory modules are used to store label formats, graphics, or a combination of both. At least one memory module is required to operate the internal labeling software program. Properly configured, up to 50 typical label formats can be stored in each module.
To install a module and configure it for use, follow these steps:
1. Use a small screwdriver or a similar tool to turn the module’s Write
Protect Switch to the OFF position. Label formats cannot be sent to the module if the switch is in the ON position. Later, to prevent accidental changes or modifications to formats, you will probably want to turn the Write Protect Switch back to the ON position.
2. Open the front door of the Printer.
3. Place the module in the Memory Module Bay to the left bottom of
the front of the Printer. The label side should be facing up and the printing upside down. Press the module firmly into place and shut the front door of the Printer.
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4. Press and hold the ALT key and press the “S” key at the same time.
This screen will appear:
SYSTEM MAINTENANCE
1) FORMAT MODULE
2) COPY MODULE
3) METRIC? NO
4) PRINT TEST LABEL
5) SYSTEM TEST LABEL
6) TEST MODULE
7) RESET PRINTER
8) EXIT TO RS232 SYSTEM ENTER NUMBER:
5. Press the “1” key to select FORMAT MODULE. This screen will
appear:
FORMAT MODULE
USAGE TYPE G/L: DIRECTORY A/B/C: MODULE NAME:
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6. Now you need to decide how to partition the module’s memory.
The memory module can be configured into two single 16K banks or joined together into one continuous bank. The two banks are referred to as bank A and bank B. For most applications involving the internal batch program, you should format the module so that bank A and B are both formatted to accept label formats. If you are using the graphics, the host computer should format the module as bank A-labels, bank B-graphics and load the graphics into bank B. The only time you need to format a memory module with directory C is if you have a graphic image bigger than 16K bytes. You cannot use modules formatted for bank C graphics with the internal batch program.
In this example we will format the module for storing label formats. Enter “L” for label formats at the USAGE TYPE prompt and press the RETURN key. The cursor moves to the DIRECTORY position. Enter “A” to select bank A to be formatted as type “L”, label formats. The cursor moves to the MODULE NAME position. Enter up to a 16-character name for this module, then press the RETURN key. Repeat the procedure selecting “B” instead of “A”. Both banks of the module will then be ready to accept label format data.
The screen returns to the SYSTEM MAINTENANCE menu after the formatting procedure. Press the ESC key to return to the PRINT LABEL or CREATE/ MODIFY LABEL screen. You may want to verify that the module has been configured correctly by pressing the F2 key from either screen. F2 calls up a directory listing of that module. You will see that it lists the name, TYPE, and MEMORY AVAILABLE for each bank of memory you’ve partitioned.
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5.2 Function Keys
Four function keys are used extensively in the label formatting process. They are labeled F1, F2, F3, and F4. These keys have the following functions:
F1 or ESC (SWITCH)
Toggles between the PRINT and CREATE/MODIFY LABEL screens. F1 can only be used in the LABEL NAME: position of the CREATE/MODIFY or PRINT screens.
F2 (LIST)
Displays a library listing of every label format and/or graphic image loaded in the current memory module. Used only when the prompt is in the LABEL NAME: position of the CREATE/MODIFY or PRINT screens.
F3 (COPY)
Used in the CREATE/MODIFY LABEL screen only. Enter a new label name, then press the F3 key. The message “COPY FROM:” will appear. Enter the name of an existing label already in memory, then press the ENTER key. A new label is then created with the same data as the source label, which allows immediate editing of the new label format.
The F3 COPY feature will also copy the current field to the next field when the cursor is at the farthest left position of the CREATE/MODIFY LABEL screen.
F4 (KILL)
Used in the CREATE/MODIFY LABEL screen only. Enter an existing label name, followed by the F4 key. The message “REMOVE LABEL? (Y/N)” will appear. Answer yes or no with the “Y” or “N” key. If “Y”, the label is permanently removed from the memory module (if the WRITE PROTECT SWITCH is OFF).
When creating or modifying a label format, the F4 KILL feature also deletes a single format line at a time. Move the cursor to the farthest left position of the screen, then press F4. The current line will be deleted.
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5.2.1 ALT Keys
Several very important and powerful Printer settings are called up and/or controlled by the ALT key. To use the ALT functions, press and hold the ALT key as you press another key. The ALT functions are:
ALT-P
While in the far left position (ROT) of the CREATE/MODIFY LABEL screen or the SAMPLE? position of the PRINT LABEL screen, press ALT-P to bring up the PRINT PARAMETERS window. It looks like this:
PRINTER ADJUSTMENTS
HEAT FACTOR: 10 PRINT SPEED: E SLEW SPEED: G DOT PATTERN(5 mil): 2x2 FORMAT W/Z: Z ROW OFFSET: 00.00 COLUMN OFFSET: 00.00 COUNT BY: 01 MAX LABEL WIDTH: 04.47 MAX LABEL LENGTH: 12.00 CONTINUOUS FORMS: NO
Print parameters include row and column offsets, label edge offset, pixel (dot) size, print speed, slew (feed) rate, heat setting, and the type of print mode desired (“WAIT” OR “ZIP”).
Use the arrow keys to move from one position to the next. Key in any values that need to be changed. Press the ESC key to exit the window.
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Valid settings, defaults, and a description of each print parameter are listed below:
HEAT FACTOR: 0 to 20. Default is 10. PRINT RATE: A to G. A = 1 inch/sec.
G = 4 inches/sec. Default is E (3.0 inches/sec.).
SLEW RATE: A to G. A = 1 inch/sec.
G = 4 inches/sec. Default is G (4 inches/sec.).
DOT PATTERN: 1 or 2 wide.
Default is 2 (10 mil dot). 1, 2, or 3 high. Default is 2 (10 mil dot).
FORMAT W/Z: W = “WAIT” - format first in bit
map memory.
Z = “ZIP” - format while printing. FORM EDGE OFFSET: 0.00" to 9.99". Default is 2.50" . ROW OFFSET: 0.00" to 99.99". Default is 0.00".
Moves entire format up or down. COLUMN OFFSET: 0.00" to 4.50". Default is 0.00".
Moves entire format side to side. UPDATE COUNT ON: 0 to 99. Default is 1.
Number of labels printed before
updating consecutive number. MAX LABEL WIDTH: 0.00" to 99.99". Default is 4.47".
Maximum width and length
settings are used by Printer to
calculate maximum number of
characters that will fit in a
particular field. MAX LABEL LENGTH: 0.00" to 99.99". Default is 12.00".
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If ALT-P parameters are changed while in the CREATE/MODIFY LABEL screen, the changes are saved with the label format. If they are changed in the PRINT LABEL screen, they are not saved and will affect only the current print job. Changing parameters in the PRINT LABEL screen is useful when testing a new label to determine optimum print parameter settings for that particular format.
ALT-S
Calls up the SYSTEM MAINTENANCE screen.
ALT-I
This function is used in the CREATE/MODIFY LABEL screen to insert a new field description line between existing field description lines on the screen. It is especially useful when the REPEAT function is used and other lines on the screen are already below the field to be repeated.
ALT-F
Feeds one label at a time. It operates the same as the front panel FEED switch. This function is useful when loading new media to register the photoelectric sensor.
ALT-X
May be pressed while at the ROT field of the CREATE screen. It will cause the PRINT screen to come up with a preset quantity of 1 for the purposes of printing a test label.
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5.3 Other Important Keys
Several other keys are used in the editing and printing steps. These keys have the following functions:
RETURN
Enters an answer for the prompt and moves to the next position if the answer is acceptable.
ARROW KEYS
Used to move left and right and up and down in the CREATE/MODIFY and PRINT screens. Up and down arrows in the CREATE screen are restricted to the ROT position.
ESC
Ends the formatting for that particular label, returns the cursor to the top of the screen, and allows the F1 key to be used to switch screens. The ESC key is also used to exit ALT-S and ALT-P screens.
DEL or DELETE
Erases one character.
HOME
Deletes the current field and moves the cursor to the beginning of that field.
5.4 Create/Modify Label Screen
This section describes how to create a new label. Before starting, a good tool to have on hand is a ruler marked in tenths of an inch. All label format print positions are specified in tenths and hundredths of an inch. The procedure for creating a new label is as follows:
1. Power up the CRT terminal with the switch on the front of the unit,
then turn the Printer on with the POWER switch (located on the rear of the Printer). The CRT screen will look like this:
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PRINT LABEL LABEL NAME:
QUANTITY:0
Press the F1 key, and the screen will look like this:
CREATE/MODIFY LABEL DIRECTORY: MEMORY LEFT:99% LABEL NAME:-----------------------
ROT FNT XW XH BH ROW COL TYPE DATA/PROMPT
--- --- -- -- -- --- --- ---- -----------
2. The software has only two operating screens: CREATE/MODIFY
LABEL and PRINT LABEL. Both have already appeared on your CRT!
All data is entered in fields. A field is some individual group of information—a product name, an address, a bar code, a consecutive number, and so on—that is specified on individual lines on the CRT screen. Because fields are independent of each other, it is possible and sometimes quite desirable to place two or more fields on the same horizontal or vertical measurement. Be careful, however, to not print one field over another.
You will notice in the upper left-hand corner of the screen that the current FIELD NUMBER is displayed. The program can handle up to 80 fields per format. Use the RETURN key or the arrow keys to move around within the 80 fields, one field at a time.
To CREATE a label, press the F1 key to return to the CREATE/MODIFY LABEL screen. Operation begins in the LABEL NAME position.
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3. Enter up to a 16-character alphanumeric name for this label,
followed by the RETURN key. The message “NEW LABEL FORMAT?” appears. Answer “Y” for yes or “N” for no. If yes, the operation moves to the ROT position. If the cursor won’t proceed past the “NEW LABEL FORMAT” position, the memory module’s “write protect” switch is ON. Turn it OFF to continue.
4. The Printer can print fonts, bar codes, and graphics at 0, 90, 180, or
270 degrees rotation. Valid responses to the ROT prompt are:
1 = 0 degrees 2 = 90 degrees 3 = 180 degrees 4 = 270 degrees
5. In the FNT position, enter the type of font you want to print. This
can be an alphanumeric font or a bar code. Enter one of the following: a. An alphanumeric font type, followed by the RETURN key.
Choices are: 0 through 8. See APPENDIX D for examples of each available font type and for the actual printed size of the various fonts using different multiplications.
b. A bar code, followed by the RETURN key. Choices are
uppercase A through L for bar codes that include the human readable interpretation line, or lowercase a through l for bar codes without human readable lines. Again, see APPENDIX D for examples of each available bar code.
c. The “Y” and “X” special font choices are not actually fonts. The
“Y” font selects a graphic image that has already been loaded into the memory module. If this font is selected, you will enter the name of the graphic image in the DATA/PROMPT field.
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The “X” font selects box and line drawing. Later, in the DATA/PROMPT field, you will enter the following format for lines or boxes:
LINES: Lhhhvvv
Where:
L = “L” specifies line drawing hhh = horizontal width of line vvv = vertical height of line
NOTE: Reverse printing is accomplished by printing a very high
(or wide) solid line. Any text placed at the same coordinates (inside the line) is reversed with white letters on a black background.
BOXES: Bhhhvvvbbbsss
Where:
B = “B” specifies box drawing hhh = horizontal width of box vvv = vertical height of box bbb = thickness of bottom and top box edges sss = thickness of sides of box
If any letter or number is entered in the FNT position other than those specified above, the following error message will appear:
INVALID FONT TYPE
You will have to re-enter the data. After entering the desired font and pressing the RETURN key, the prompt moves to the XW position.
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6. The XW and XH positions are used to magnify widths and heights
of fonts and to change the X/Y ratio of bar codes. a. If a font, valid responses are 1, 2, 4, and 8. Default is 1 for
fonts.
b. If a bar code, valid responses are 1 through 9 and A through K.
The default is 3 for ratio-based bar codes and 1 for all other bar code fields. 1 is a 5 mil narrow bar if the pixel width is 1 or a 10 mil narrow bar if the pixel width is 2. Pixel sizes by label format are specified in the PRINT PARAMETERS screen (ALT­P). Enter the desired XW dimension and press the RETURN key. The cursor moves to the XH position.
7. Enter the desired XH dimension. The default for fonts is 1. The
default for element bar codes such as UPC or 128 is 1. For ratio­based bar codes, the default is 1. Enter the desired XH dimension and press the RETURN key. The prompt moves to the bar height (BH) position.
8. In the BH position, a 3-digit number defines the printed bar height
for this field. For UPC/EAN bar codes, the default is .80". For all other bar code fields, the default is .40". On all alphanumeric fonts, the BH value is set at 0.00". Enter the desired bar height and press the RETURN key. The cursor moves to the ROW position.
9. The 4-digit ROW field tells the Printer “how far up” on the label
you want to print the data. The default is 0.00" and the maximum number cannot exceed the maximum label length set in the PRINT PARAMETERS window. Use the bottom left corner as the starting point for ROW and COLUMN positioning in all rotations.
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Enter up to a 4-digit number for the desired vertical placement of your field, followed by the RETURN key. If the measurement you have entered is acceptable, the prompt moves to the COL position. If the measurement you select is too large for the given space or the capability of the Printer, the following error message will appear:
NUMBER OUT OF RANGE
You will have to re-enter the data.
When specifying measurements, always measure to the bottom of the field. For example, if using font “6”, the measurement will be to the bottom of the alphanumeric letters. If using a bar code, the measurement will be to the bottom of the bar code’s human readable line. If the bar code you are printing does not have a human readable line, measure to the bottom of the bars.
When rotating a bar code or alphanumeric field, the ROW measurement is specified as the amount of space from the starting point of the label to the top of the field (wherever you want printing to begin).
10. The 4-digit COLUMN number tells the Printer “how far over” from
the left edge of the label data is to be printed. Enter the number for this field, then press the RETURN key. If the measurement is acceptable, the prompt moves to the TYPE position. If the measurement is too large for the given space or the capability of the Printer, the NUMBER OUT OF RANGE error message will appear and you will have to re-enter your data. The cursor moves to the TYPE position.
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