Q8 Barcode Label Printer
User’s Manual
Q8 User’s Manual
FCC Notice
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to
the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause harmful
interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received,
including interference that may cause undesired operation.
This equipment may generate, use and/or radiate radio frequency energy. If
not installed and used in full accordance with this User’s Manual,
interference to radio communications may occur. This equipment complies
with the limits for a Class A Information Technology Equipment pursuant to
Part 15 of the FCC Rules, which are designed to provide reasonable
protection against such interference when operated in a commercial
environment. Operation of this equipment in a residential area may also
cause interference. In such case the user, at his/her expense, will be required
to correct the interference using whatever means necessary.
Trademarks
EC Printer is a registered trademark by EC Electronics Limited.
Microsoft, Windows are registered trademarks by Microsoft Corporation.
Copyright
© 2011 by EC Electronics Limited. All rights reserved. Under the copyright laws,
this manual cannot be reproduced in any form without the prior written permission of
EC Printer No patent liability is assumed with respect to the use of the information
contained herein.
EC Printer Q8 Barcode Label Printer User’s Manual
1st edition Jan. 2012
i
Q8 User’s Manual
Disclaimer
This manual has been validated and reviewed for accuracy. The instructions and
descriptions it contains are accurate for the EC Printer Q8 Label Printer at the time of
this manual’s printing. However, succeeding printers and manuals are subject to
change without notice. EC Printer assumes no liability for damages incurred directly
or indirectly from errors, omissions or discrepancies between the printer and this
manual.
Although this manual describes and details many issues, which could possibly occur,
the manufacturer cannot warrant against unpredictable conditions during the printing
process. For problems such as the printer not working, lost or unclear print content,
etc., the manufacturer and resellers are responsible for correcting these issues
(according to EC Printer Printer Warranty Clauses). In no event shall the
manufacturer or the resellers involved be liable for any damages whatsoever
including without limitation; damages for loss of business profits, business
interruption, loss of business information, or other pecuniary loss arising from the use
of this product.
ii
Q8 User’s Manual
Important Safety Instructions
Only qualified and trained authorized EC PRINTER service providers should
attempt to disassemble or repair the printer. Incorrect disassembling of the
product or its power adaptor may cause an electronic short, human injury or
printer component damages.
Do not use a worn or damaged power cord as it could result in electric shock
and personal injury. If the power cord becomes damaged or frayed, replace it
immediately.
Be sure that the output of the power adapter is 24VDC and your power source
matches the rating listed on the power adapter. Ensure the power source is
grounded.
Do not insert anything into the ventilation slots or openings on the printer.
The printer and power adapter should never be operated in a location where
either one can get wet. Personal injury may result.
The Printhead becomes hot while printing. To protect from damaging the
Printhead and risk of personal injury, avoid touching it.
To obtain increased Printhead longevity and higher quality output, always use
quality labels, tags and thermal transfer ribbons. Check for quality supplies with
a EC PRINTER reseller.
Static electricity that accumulates on the surface of the human body or other
surfaces can damage or destroy the Printhead or electronic components in this
device. DO NOT touch the Printhead or the electronic components with bare
hands.
Place the printer on a flat, firm, solid surface.
Warnings:
This is a Class A product. In a domestic environment this product may cause radio
interference in which case the user may be required to take adequate measures (see
FCC Notice).
Static electricity that accumulates on the surface of the human body or other objects
can damage the print head or electronic components in the V6 printer. Observe
proper electrostatic safety precautions when handling.
Power off the printer when not in use for extended periods of time.
Never operate in a high temperature environment.
Follow all recommendations and setup instructions included in this manual.
iii
Q8 User’s Manual
iv
Contents
Preface....................................................................................................................... 1
Important Notice, Read Me First!........................................................................... 1
Chapter 1 Introduction............................................................................................. 2
Specifications...................................................................................................... 2
Specifications for Printer .................................................................................... 2
Specifications for Power Adapter............................................................. 3
Contents of Box........................................................................................ 3
Packing List.............................................................................................. 3
Chapter 2 Setup and Use.......................................................................................... 5
Setting up............................................................................................................ 5
Main Parts and Structures ................................................................................... 5
Connecting the Printer ........................................................................................ 8
Interface Connection ................................................................................ 8
Loading the Ribbon ............................................................................................ 9
Loading the Media.............................................................................................13
Standard Mode ........................................................................................13
Peel-off Mode..........................................................................................17
Cutting Mode ..........................................................................................20
Adjusting the Position of Media Sensor.............................................................21
Chapter 3: Operations and Settings.......................................................................25
Basic Operations .....................................................................................25
Power Switch ..........................................................................................25
The Front Panel.......................................................................................25
Indicator Lamps ......................................................................................25
Advanced Operations ..............................................................................26
DIP Switch Panel.....................................................................................28
Windows Driver and Bartender-Postek Software ..............................................29
Chapter 4: Maintenance..........................................................................................30
Cleaning the Printhead.......................................................................................30
Cleaning the Platen Roller .................................................................................31
Cleaning the Printer Interior ..............................................................................31
Chapter 5: Troubleshooting ....................................................................................32
Error Indicators..................................................................................................32
Miscellaneous ....................................................................................................34
Appendix A: IO Interface Specifications...............................................................36
Appendix B: ASCII Table........................................................................................38
Preface / Important Notice Q8 Series User’s Manual
Preface
Your EC PRINTER Q8 barcode label printer provides many outstanding
features to enjoy. The EC PRINTER Q8 is compact, versatile, and easy
to use. It supports both direct thermal and thermal transfer printing
methods, and employs an unparalleled print engine that reduces noise
and enhances durability.
This manual explains how to set up and begin using your EC PRINTER
Q8 printer. It also provides detailed information on configuring your Q8
printer, basic operations, maintenance and troubleshooting.
Please read this manual carefully and completely before using the EC
PRINTER Q8 printer.
1
Q8 User’s Manual Important Notice, Read Me First!
1
Important Notice, Read Me First!
A thermal Printhead can be easily damaged due to its precision
construction. A Printhead damaged due to misuse is not covered under
the terms of the warranty. To ensure longevity of the Printhead, please
note the following:
DO NOT scrape, or use tools that might damage the Printhead
surface.
To protect from corroding the Printhead, DO NOT touch the
Printhead with bare hands.
DO NOT use thermal paper or thermal transfer ribbon, which
contains Na, K or Cl.
Keep Printhead away from any liquid or dampness.
Use a cotton swab dipped in anhydrous isopropyl alcohol to clean
the Printhead only.
Always use high-quality consumables:
- When the Printhead module is closed, pressure is placed
directly onto the Printhead; dirt such as paper scraps, sand, dust
and glue can scrape or damage the Printhead.
- The Printhead is also easily damaged by static electricity,
which may be generated by poor quality ribbons. Always
inspect consumables for quality before purchasing.
Q8 User’s Manual Chapter 1 Introduction
Chapter 1 Introduction
Specifications
Specifications for Printer
Mode Q8/200 Q8/300
Printing method Direct Thermal & Thermal transfer
Printing
resolution
203 dpi (8 dots/mm) 300 dpi (11.8 dots/mm)
Max printing
speed
4 ips (101.6 mm/s) 3 ips (76.2 mm/s)
Max printing
width
4.25″(108 mm) 4.17″(106 mm)
Max printing
length
157″ (4000 mm) 79” (2000 mm)
Memory 2 MB FLASH ROM, 8 MB SDRAM
Media
Roll-feed, die-cut, continuous, tags, tickets in plain paper or
thermal paper
Width：4.33” (110 mm) max., 98“ (25 mm) min.
Supply roll: OD 5″ (127 mm) max., ID 1″ (25.4 mm) min.
Thickness: 0.003″～0.006″ (0.08～0.15 mm), including liner
Ribbon
Wax, Wax/Resin, Resin
Ribbon roll: OD 1.5″ (38 mm) max., ID 0.5″ (12.7 mm)
core
Max width: 4.3” (110 mm); Max length: 360’ (110 M)
Fonts Five built-in ASCII fonts; Optional multiple language fonts
Bar Code Types
1D Barcode : Code 39, Code 93, Code 128/subset A,B,C,
Codabar, Interleave 2 of 5, UPC A/E 2 and 5 add-on,
EAN-13/8/128, UCC-128, etc.
2D Barcode : MaxiCode, PDF417, Data matrix, etc.
Media sensor Reflective
Interfaces
S-232 Serial, USB
2
Chapter 1 Introduction Q8 User’s Manual
Power rating
24 VDC Power adapter
Weight 2.1 kgs
Dimensions W 8.3” (210 mm) x D 10” (255 mm) x H 5.9” (150 mm)
Operation
environment
Temperature: 32 F ~ +104 F (0 C ~ 40 C)
Relative humidity: 5% - 85% non condensing
Storage
environment
Temperature: -40 F ~ +140 F (-40 C ~ 60 C)
Relative humidity: 5% - 85% non condensing
Optional items Guillotine Cutter, Peeler Kit
Specifications for Power Adapter
Input AC 100 ~ 240 V, 47 ~ 63 Hz
Output DC 24V, 2.5 A
Environment
32 F ~ 104 F (0 C ~ 40 C)
Contents of Box
Inspect the shipping carton(s) for possible shipping damage, if damage is discovered,
notify the shipping company to report the nature and extent of the damage.
Please check the items according to the Packing List. If there are any items missing,
notify your authorized reseller.
Packing List
1 Q8 Printer 1 pc
2 Quick Start Guide 1 pc
3 Power Adapter 1 pc
4 USB interface cable 1 pc
5 Media Spindle 1 pc
6 Media Roll Guides 2 pc
7 Warranty card 1 pc
8 CD-ROM pack 1 pc
9 Sample Media 1 pc
10 Sample Ribbon 1 pc
Note: CD-ROM pack includes the Q8 printer driver, Bartender-Postek software, Q8
User’s Guide and the Programming Manual.
3
Q8 User’s Manual Chapter 1 Introduction
Power Adapter
Printe
r
Ribbon
Media
Sample Media
4
CD-Rom
Media Roll Guide
Quick Start Guide
Figure 1: Printer and Accessories
Chapter 2 Setup and Use Q8 User’s Manual
Chapter 2 Setup and Use
Setting up
Before setting up the printer consider the following:
1. Make sure there is adequate space around the printer for loading
consumables and proper ventilation.
2. Make sure the printer is close to the host so the interface cable is
easily accessible at either end.
Main Parts and Structures
8
9
3
1
2
4
5
6
7
Figure 2
5
Q8 User’s Manual Chapter 2 Setup and Use
1. READY Indicator 4. PAUSE Button 7. Media Exit
2. MEDIA Indicator 5. FEED Button 8. Cover Handle
3. RIBBON Indicator 6. CANCEL Button 9. Observation Window
7
6
6
Figure 3
2
3
4
1
5
1. Ribbon Take-up 4. Printhead Module Plate 7. Media Compartment
2. Printhead Bracket 5. Ribbon Release Knobs
3. Handle 6. Ribbon Supply
Chapter 2 Setup and Use Q8 User’s Manual
2
3
4
5
1
Figure 4
1. RS-232 Serial Interface 4. Power Jack
2. DIP Switches 5. Power Switch
3. USB Interface
7
Q8 User’s Manual Chapter 2 Setup and Use
8
Connecting the Printer
Warnings:
(1) Using the wrong power adapter will cause damage to your printer.
EC PRINTER assumes no liability for any damage in such cases.
The rating for the printer is 24VDC.
(2) Do not operate the printer near heat sources, liquids or corrosive
chemicals.
1. Make sure the printer is powered OFF.
2. Connect the power cord to the power adapter.
3. Connect the power adapter’s DC input plug to the power jack.
4. Plug the power cord into a live wall outlet.
Interface Connection
The Q
8 supports USB and RS-232 Serial interface connections.
Note: When connecting the Q8 to a computer via the USB cable, make
sure to utilize the same USB port used during the driver installation
process, which enables the printer to retrieve needed commands or data
from the PC. If the same USB port is not available or not known, then
in the printer’s Properties Dialogue Box, under the Ports tab, ensure the
current port location is checked.
To connect:
1. Make sure the printer is powered OFF.
2. The printer will identify the communication port automatically.
3. The default values of printer port can be obtained from the self-test
report. (See Chapter 2: Operation Basics/ Advanced Functions/ Self
Test)
4. Cable configurations for interfaces are found in Appendix A of this
guide.
5. Please take the following measures to reduce cable noise.
（1）Restrict the length of the interface cable to less than 6’ (1.83 M)
if possible.
（2）Keep the interface cable separate from power cords.
Chapter 2 Setup and Use Q8 User’s Manual
9
Loading the Ribbon
Note: Load ribbon only when using the thermal transfer printing
method. Remove any ribbon that may be loaded when using the
direct thermal printing method.
Warnings:
(1) The Q8 supports ribbons with ink on the outside only. Check
the ribbon package for ink side specifications.
(2) Always install a ribbon with the ink side facing outwards. The
ink side of the ribbon must face the media and NOT the
Printhead
(3) If using a ribbon less than 110 mm wide, place the ribbon roll
in the middle of the Ribbon Spindle for proper alignment.
(4) Make sure the inner diameter of the ribbon is 0.5″ (12.5 mm).
To install the ribbon:
1. Open the right cover of the printer and turn the handle to the
“open” position. Flip down the Printhead Module Plate (see
Figure 5-1).
2. Remove the ribbon from its package, and place the roll into the
Ribbon Supply area, pulling out the Ribbon Release Knob to
insert the roll, and allow the leading edge of the ribbon to fall
underneath the Printhead module. Ensure the ink side of the
ribbon is facing down (see Figure 5-2).
3. Lead the ribbon below the Printhead module towards the front
of the printer.
4. Attach the leading edge of the ribbon to an empty core. Mount
the core onto the Ribbon Take-up using the Ribbon Loading
Knob.
5. Turn the Ribbon Take-up Knob clockwise to ensure ribbon is
tight and smooth (see Figure 5-3).
6. Close the buckle and turn the handle to the “close” position to
lock the Printhead Module (see Figure 5-3).
Q8 User’s Manual Chapter 2 Setup and Use
10
Figure 5-1
Chapter 2 Setup and Use Q8 User’s Manual
11
Figure 5-2
Q8 User’s Manual Chapter 2 Setup and Use
12
Figure 5-3
Chapter 2 Setup and Use Q8 User’s Manual
13
Loading the Media
Q8 printers can be operated in three different modes: Standard mode,
Peel-off mode, and Cutting mode.
-- In Standard mode, each printed label remains on the backing liner.
-- In Peel-off mode, each printed label is peeled away from the
backing liner automatically.
-- In Cutting mode, the printer automatically cuts the label after it is
printed.
Note: Peel-off requires an optional Peeler Kit to be installed. Cutting
mode requires an optional Guillotine Cutter to be installed.
Standard Mode
T
o load media into the Q8 while using Standard Mode:
1. Lift the top cover to expose the Media Compartment.
2. Take out the Media Spindle (see Figure 6-1).
3. Load a Media Roll, with labels facing up, onto the Media Spindle,
using the scale on the Media Spindle to position the Media Roll in
the middle of the Spindle.
4. Next, insert the two Media Roll Guides, with their smooth sides
facing inwards towards the Media Roll, on each side of the Roll on
the Media Spindle. Push the two Media Roll Guides close to
Media Roll (see Figure 6- 2).
5. Insert the entire unit into the printer’s Media Compartment.
6. Turn the Handle to the “open” position to open the Printhead
module.
7. Route the labels under and pass the Media Guide Rod, and over
and pass the Platen Roller to the front of the printer.
8. Slide the Media Guides to the edge of the media; don’t squeeze the
labels, make sure they remain flat (see Figure 6-3).
9. Turn the Handle to the “close” position.
Q8 User’s Manual Chapter 2 Setup and Use
10. Close the cover and press the “FEED” button to feed the Media and
ensure proper tracking. If the printer does not correctly sense the
top of each label, it may be necessary to perform the Media
Calibration (see Operations).
Figure 6-1
14
Chapter 2 Setup and Use Q8 User’s Manual
Figure 6-2
15
Q8 User’s Manual Chapter 2 Setup and Use
16
Media Guide
Platen Roller
Media Guide Rod
Media
Figure 6-3
Chapter 2 Setup and Use Q8 User’s Manual
Peel-off Mode
To load media into the Q8 while using Peel-off Mode:
1. Set the 4
th
DIP Switch to the ON position.
2. Turn on the printer.
3. Reset the Peeler Module: Press and hold the “Cancel” button for
4 seconds, until the 3 indicator lamps begin to blink
simultaneously. Release the “Cancel” button and press it again
one more time. Reset is complete.
4. Load a roll of ribbon. Push the Peeler Module to the “Open”
state. Route the media as shown, pull the liner to make sure it is
tight, and then turn the Peeler Module to the “Close” state.
Peeler Module installation is complete (see Figure 6-4 and
Figure 6-5).
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
OFF
ON
17
Q8 User’s Manual Chapter 2 Setup and Use
`
Label
Printhead Module
Liner
Figure 6-4
18
Chapter 2 Setup and Use Q8 User’s Manual
Peeler under Open state
Label Path
19
Peeler under Close state
Liner Path
Figure 6-5
Q8 User’s Manual Chapter 2 Setup and Use
Cutting Mode
1. Set the 3rd DIP Switch to ON to enable the cutter function (see
Figure 6-6).
2. Turn on the printer.
3. Reset the Cutter: Press and hold the “Cancel” button for 4
seconds, the three lamps will blink simultaneously. Release and
press the “Cancel” button again, the Cutter is ready to use (see
Figure 6-6).
4. Turn the Handle to the “open” position, and flip down the
Printhead Module Plate. Lead the labels through the Cutter, then
close the Printhead Module Plate, and turn the Handle to the
“close” position. Media roll is loaded (see Figure 6-7).
5. Remarks: It is a must to reset the cutter before loading media, or
else, the wrong location of cutter blade will cause label fail to go
through the cutter.
Figure 6-6
20
Chapter 2 Setup and Use Q8 User’s Manual
21
Figure 6-7
Adjusting the Position of Media Sensor
1. Lift the top cover (see Figure 7-1).
2. Turn the Handle to the “open” position, take out the Media Sensor
Cover to expose the Media Sensor (Figure 7-2).
3. Check the location of Media Sensor (see Figures 7-3, 7-4 and 7-5).
4. Remove the media sensor cover, remove the screw, adjust the media
sensor to the appropriate position, then fix the screw back (Figure 7-
7)
5. Put back the media sensor cover.
Q8 User’s Manual Chapter 2 Setup and Use
Media sensor slot
Figure 7-1
22
Chapter 2 Setup and Use Q8 User’s Manual
Figure 7-2
Media Sensor Cover
Figure 7-6
23
Q8 User’s Manual Chapter 2 Setup and Use
Figure 7-7
24
Chapter 3: Operations and Settings Q8 User’s Manual
Chapter 3: Operations and Settings
Basic Operations
Power Switch
The
power switch is on the back panel of the printer. The symbols on the
switch are defined as follows:
━ —ON
〇 —OFF
The Front Panel
The Fro
nt Panel of the Q8 printer consists of:
- Three Indicator Lamps: MEDIA, READY and RIBBON
- Three multi function buttons: PAUSE, FEED and CANCEL
Indicator Lamps
The
three lamps indicate the status of the printer (please refer to Chapter
4: Troubleshooting, for error indicators).
- Solid: Indicates the printer is in the normal state;
25
- Blinking:
Indicates the printer is in the ‘PAUSE’ state.
READY
- Solid: Indicates the printer is in the normal state;
MEDIA
- Blinking
simultaneously with READY: Running out
of media;
- Solid: Indicates thermal transfer printing;
RIBBON
- Off: Di
rect thermal printing (no ribbon installed);
- Blinking simultaneously with READY: Running out
of ribbon.
Q8 User’s Manual Chapter 3: Operations and Settings
Buttons
The three buttons have different functions based on the mode of the
operation is performed.
Mode Basic Functions
Advanced Functions
See Advanced Operations
below
Feed/Calibration Feeds one label Media Sensor Calibration
Pause/Self Test - Press once to
pause current
print job
- Press a second
time to resume
printing
Self-test:
The Printer performs a
self-test and prints out a
configuration report
Cancel/ Reset - Cancel current
batch of labels
- Forces the printer
to continue
working after an
error has been
corrected
Reset:
Resets the printer to
Factory Default Settings
Advanced Operations
Media Sensor Calibration
It is necess
ary to perform a Media Sensor Calibration after each new roll
of media is installed.
1. Press and hold the Feed/Calibration button for about 4 seconds.
2. The printer will feed several labels.
3. The three indicator lamps will stop blinking and remain lit; the printer
is back to a normal state.
Self Test
1. Press and
hold the Pause/Self Test button for about 4 seconds;
2. The printer will print out a configuration report and the three
indicator lamps will stop blinking and remain lit. The printer is back
to a normal state.
3. The following information will be printed on the self-test report:
26
Chapter 3: Operations and Settings Q8 User’s Manual
- Font list
- Hardware configuration and status
- Label parameters
- Firmware version
- Direct Thermal or Thermal Transfer printing method
Reset to Factory Default Settings
To reset the printer to factory default settings:
1. Press and hold the Cancel/
Reset button for 4 seconds, the three
lamps will blink simultaneously (the printer will return to normal
state automatically if no operations are performed within 4 seconds);
2. Release and press the Cancel/
Reset button again;
3. The three indicators stop blinking and remain lit. The printer is now
in its normal state.
Note: The printed label count and printed length may not be reset.
27
Q8 User’s Manual Chapter 3: Operations and Settings
DIP Switch Panel
The DIP Switch panel is located on the back of the printer.
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
OFF
ON
Note: Turn off the printer before setting DIP switches.
DIP Bit Functions Remarks
1
ON: Direct thermal print
OFF: Thermal transfer print
Printing type setting
Default: OFF
2
ON: Tear off position
OFF: Edge of next label
Stop position setting
Default: OFF
3
ON: Cutter is installed
OFF: Cutter is not installed
Cutter setting
Default: OFF
4
ON: Peeler is installed
OFF: Peeler is not installed
Peeler settings
Default: OFF
5 Reserved and not available
6
ON: Enable IP setting
OFF: Disable IP setting
IP address setup
Default: OFF
7
8
7
0 | 0 – 9600,n,8,1
RS232 Serial Port baud
rate setting
28
Chapter 3: Operations and Settings Q8 User’s Manual
29
8
0 | 1 – 19200,n,8,1
1 | 0 – 38400,n,8,1
1 | 1 – 57600,n,8,1
0: OFF, 1: ON
Default: 00
Windows Driver and Bartender-Postek Software
The Q8 printer is compatible with the following operating systems:
Windows 7 Windows Me
Windows Vista Windows 2000
Windows XP Windows 2003
Windows 9X
Additionally, the Q8 printer comes with powerful bar code software,
Bartender-Postek.
Both the Windows driver and Bartender-Postek are available on the
CD-ROM shipped with the product. Software upgrades are available for
download from:
www.ecline.com.mx or,
www.ecline.com.hk
No
te: Prior to uploading a new driver or installing an updated driver,
remove any old version of the driver that may be stored in your
computer.
Q8 User’s Manual Chapter 4: Maintenance
Chapter 4: Maintenance
Warnings
1. Make sure the printer is turned OFF before performing any
maintenance operations.
2. The printhead becomes hot while printing, be careful when
performing maintenance on the printhead.
3. Use only the cleaning agents indicated. EC Printer Electronics
Co., Ltd. will not be responsible for damage caused by any
other cleaning materials used on the printer.
4. Anhydrous isopropyl alcohol is a solvent containing no more
than one percent water. Isopropyl alcohol is a flammable
solvent; always take the proper precautions when using this
solvent.
Cleaning the Printhead
The Printhead is the mechanism that enables the ink to impact the
label. Due to the Printheads precision construction and necessary
location in the printer, it comes into contact with consumables and
therefore is susceptible to dirt accumulation. If dirt is not removed,
the Printhead may be damaged. To ensure longevity of the Printhead,
follow the recommended maintenance guidelines below:
Note: A Printhead damaged by misuse is not covered under warranty.
Clean the Printhead after every (1) roll of ribbon use or every (3) rolls of
label media use. To clean the Printhead:
1. Turn printer power off
2. Open the top cover of Q8 printer
3. Turn the handle to open.
4. Remove the ribbon (if applicable) and media
5. Use a cotton swab dipped in anhydrous isopropyl alcohol. Rub
the swab along the Printhead until the swab no longer
30
Chapter 4: Maintenance Q8 User’s Manual
accumulates ink
6. Let the Printhead dry before using the Q8 again
Cleaning the Platen Roller
The Platen Roller, located at the exit point and underneath labels,
supports the labels as they feed out of the printer. The roller can
accumulate debris from consumables, such as dirt, sand, dust or
glue. To ensure longevity of the Platen Roller, follow the
recommended maintenance guidelines below:
Clean the Platen Roller after every (3) rolls of label media used. To
clean the Platen Roller:
1. Turn off the printer.
2. Open the top cover.
3. Remove the ribbon (if applicable) and media.
4. Use a cotton swab dipped in anhydrous isopropyl alcohol. Rub
the swab along the Platen Roller while rotating the roller until
the swab no longer accumulates ink or debris.
Cleaning the Printer Interior
Over time, the printer’s interior may collect dust or debris from the
consumables. It is advised to periodically clean the printer’s interior
in order to prevent the accumulated debris from damaging internal
parts.
To clean the printer interior, use a cotton swabs dipped into
anhydrous isopropyl alcohol and remove any debris.
31
Q8 User’s Manual Chapter 5: Troubleshooting
Chapter 5: Troubleshooting
Error Indicators
Typically, when the printer is not functioning, the READY lamp on
the front panel will begin blinking, the communication between
printer and the host would be interrupted, and the printer would stop
working. Please check the LED indicators on the front panel to detect
the malfunction.
READY and MEDIA Lamps blink simultaneously
Possible Cause Recommended Solutions
Media sensor cannot
detect labels
(1) Check and confirm the media has
been loaded correctly
(2) Check the position of the media
sensor and confirm it could detect
the media gap or black line
(3) Calibrate the media sensor
Media ran out (4) Load a roll of media
Media jammed (5) Clear the jam
The Media Roll Guides
are not firmly positioned
against the Media or have
not been installed.
(6) Install the Media Roll Guides
correctly as shown in Figure 6-2.
Media sensor is broken
(7) Contact an authorized EC
PRINTER service provider for
technical support.
Note: If you are using continuous media without gaps or black lines,
please make sure the correct Media Type settings are input in
Bartender-Postek software.
32
Chapter 5: Troubleshooting Q8 User’s Manual
READY and RIBBON Lamps blink simultaneously:
Possible Cause Recommend Solutions
Ribbon ran out Load a new roll of ribbon
Ribbon jammed Clear the jam
Ribbon Sensor error
Contact an authorized EC PRINTER
service provider for technical support.
Only READY Lamp blinks:
Possible Cause Recommend Solutions
Serial I/O error Check DIP switches for the baud rate settings
Memory overflow
a. Restart the printer
b. Reset the printer
33
Q8 User’s Manual Chapter 5: Troubleshooting
Miscellaneous
Vertical Blank Lines Appear
If the printer prints vertical blank lines as shown in the below picture, it
may be due to a dirty or defective Printhead. See the table below for
possible causes and solutions.
Cause Corrective Action
The Printhead is
dirty.
Clean the Printhead. Follow the recommended
maintenance guidelines for cleaning the Printhead.
Vertical lines still
appear after
cleaning the
Printhead.
Contact an authorized EC PRINTER service
provider for technical support.
Printer Timeout Error Message
Execute following corrective actions:
1. Check the interface cable for proper connection.
2. Ensure the Q8 printer is powered on.
If the trouble still exists, please contact an authorized EC PRINTER
service provider for technical support.
Data Sent but Not Printing
1. Ensure the correct driver is chosen in the label software.
2. Reset the Q8 printer.
If the trouble still exists, please contact an authorized EC PRINTER
service provider for technical support.
34
Chapter 5: Troubleshooting Q8 User’s Manual
Poor Printing Quality
When experiencing poor print quality, check the following:
1. Adjust print darkness setting value.
2. Adjust print speed setting value.
3. Clean the Printhead and the platen roller.
4. Poor quality printing may be caused from using a low quality ribbon.
Change to higher quality ribbon.
5. Poor quality printing may be caused from using low quality media.
Change to higher quality media.
Recovery
After the miscellaneous has been cleared, press the CANCEL button to
clear the alarm or restart the printer to resume the printing automatically.
Note: For errors not listed here, please contact an authorized EC
PRINTER Service Provider for further assistance.
35
Q8 User’s Manual Appendix A: IO Interface Specifications
Appendix A: IO Interface Specifications
RS232 Serial Interface
The RS232 connector on the printer is a DB9F：
Pin Direction Definition
1 / /
2 Out TX
3 In RX
4 In CTS
5 - Ground
6 Out RTS
7 In DSR
8 Out DTR
9 / /
Connection with the Host:
Host 25S Printer 9S Host 9S Printer 9S
TX 2 ……… 3 RX RX 2 ……… 2 TX
RX 3 ……… 2 TX TX 3 ……… 3 RX
DSR 6 ……… 8 DTR DTR 4 ……… 7 DSR
DTR 20 ……… 7 DSR DSR 6 ……… 8 DTR
RTS 4 ……… 4 CTS RTS 7 ……… 4 CTS
CTS 5 ……… 6 RTS CTS 8 ……… 6 RTS
GND 7 ……… 5 GND GND 5 ……… 5 GND
Alternately, you can connect the 3 wires.
Host 25S Printer 9S Host 9S Printer 9S
TX 2 ……… 3 RX RX 2 ……… 2 TX
RX 3 ……… 2 TX TX 3 ……… 3 RX
GND 7 ……… 5 GND GND 5 ……… 5 GND
pin 4 pin 4
pin 5 pin 6
pin 6 pin 7
pin 20 pin 8
36
Appendix A: IO Interface Specifications Q8 User’s Manual
Baud rate: 9600, 19200, 38400, 57600 (Baud Rate set by DIP switches
7–8)
Data format: always 8 data bits, 1 start bit and 1 stop bit.
Parity: always non parity.
Flow control: RTS/CTS (Hardware flow control).
If using software or drivers under the Windows environment, the flow
control must be set to “hardware”
Any communications port can transmit data from the host (RS232 and
USB). Preliminary communications settings are not required since the
printer will automatically detect which port is active. Never send data
from 2 ports at the same time. Data cannot be sent to more than one port
simultaneously, otherwise, data corruption and print errors may occur.
37
Q8 User’s Manual Appendix B: ASCII Table
38
Appendix B: ASCII Table
0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
0
NUL 0 @ P ` p
1
SOH XON ! 1 A Q a q
2
STX “ 2 B R b r
3
XOFF # 3 C S c s
4
$ 4 D T d t
5
NAK % 5 E U e u
6
ACK & 6 F V f v
7
BEL ‘ 7 G W g w
8
BS ( 8 H X h x
9
) 9 I Y i y
A
LF * : J Z j z
B
ESC + ; K [ k {
C
FF , < L \ l |
D
CR - = M ] m }
E
SO RS . > N ^ n ~
F
SI US / ? O _ o DEL
Remark
: The € sign is included in the embedded table at DEC128 (HEX 80).
Please visit our web-site for more EC Line product information
www.ecline.com.mx
www.ecline.com.hk
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