Epson 410 User Manual
MICROCOM CORPORATION
MODEL 410
DIRECT THERMAL PRINTER
OPERATOR'S MANUAL
(6dpmm version)
January 1995 Software Version 3.35
Operator's Manual
410 Direct Thermal Printer
- Revised 01/13/95 MSG -
Centronics is a registered trademark of Data Computer Corp.
Epson is a registered trademark of Seiko Epson Corporation.
FX-86e is a trademark of Seiko Epson Corporation.
HP and LaserJet II are trademarks of Hewlett-Packard Company.
Other products, names, and brands are trademarks of their respective holders.
This manual is subject to change without notice.
Copyright © 1995, Microcom Corporation, Westerville, Ohio - All rights reserved.
Printed in the U.S.A.
Table of Contents
List of Tables
List of Figures
Introduction
CHAPTER 1: FEATURES AND SPECIFICATIONS
1.1 SPECIAL FEATURES ..............................................3
1.2 BAR CODES
1.3 FONTS ..........................................................4
1.4 PRINTING
1.5 INTERFACE COMMUNICATIONS .....................................4
1.6 PHYSICAL
1.7 ENVIRONMENT ...................................................5
1.8 ELECTRICAL
1.9 OPTIONS ........................................................5
1.10 PRINTER VARIATIONS
1.11 APPROVALS .....................................................6
CHAPTER 2: BASIC OPERATION ................................................9
2.1 UNPACKING THE 410 PRINTER .....................................9
2.2 FRONT PANEL SWITCH AND STATUS LIGHTS
2.3 THE STATUS LIGHT ..............................................11
2.4 LOADING PAPER
2.5 CLEARING LABEL MISFEEDS: DIAPHRAGM REMOVAL .................13
2.6 CLEANING INSTRUCTIONS
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2.2.1 NORMAL MODE ............................................9
2.2.2 BATCH MODE
2.2.3 STATUS LABEL MODE .......................................9
2.2.4 PAPER-OUT MODE
2.4.1 NORMAL AND TAG/TEAR MODES ............................12
2.4.2 PEEL-AND-DISPENSE MODE
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10
12
13
14
vi
vi
1
3
4
4
5
5
6
9
9
CHAPTER 3: COMMUNICATIONS
3.1 CABLE PINOUT ..................................................15
3.2 PRINTER CABLES
CHAPTER 4: DESIGNING LABELS USING LDS
4.1 CONTROL CHARACTERS .........................................17
4.2 GETTING STARTED
4.2.1 PC CONNECTION (SERIAL) ..................................17
4.2.2 PC CONNECTION (PARALLEL)
4.2.3 LEARNING LDS ............................................19
4.3 FORMATTING LABELS: AN OVERVIEW
4.3 LABEL HEADER .................................................21
4.3.1 A SAMPLE SESSION WITH A LABEL HEADER ...................25
4.4 LABEL FIELDS
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Table of Contents
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4.4.1 A SAMPLE SESSION WITH A LABEL FIELD .....................33
CHAPTER 5: PRINTER COMMANDS .............................................34
5.1 SPECIAL PRINTER CONTROL CODES
..............................
34
5.2 PRINTER ENQUIRIES .............................................35
5.3 SENDING ^D PRINTER COMMANDS
.................................
36
5.3.1 SOFTWARE DIP SWITCHES AND EEPROM COMMANDS .........37
5.3.2 PRINTING COMMANDS
......................................
42
5.3.3 AUTO-SIZING and VALID GAP COMMANDS .....................43
5.3.4 REAL-TIME CLOCK
........................................
45
5.3.5 SERIAL NUMBER COMMANDS ...............................47
5.3.6 LABEL HEADER COMMANDS
................................
49
5.3.7 SAVING FORMAT FILES COMMANDS ..........................50
5.3.8 LABEL PRESENCE SENSOR CONTROL
.......................
53
5.3.9 TEXT STRINGS COMMANDS .................................55
5.3.10 MISCELLANEOUS PRINTER COMMANDS
......................
57
CHAPTER 6: LOGOS
.........................................................
59
6.1 PROCEDURE FOR USING THE PCX2410 SOFTWARE .................60
6.2 FORMAT OF LOGO FILES
CHAPTER 7: SPECIAL DESIGNS
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62
64
7.1 DESIGNING WITH BAR CODES .....................................64
7.1.1 HUMAN READABLES .......................................64
7.2 MAKING LINES
...................................................
67
7.3 REVERSE VIDEO ................................................68
CHAPTER 8: OPTIONS ........................................................69
8.1 LABEL SUPPORT RACK
..........................................
69
8.2 LARGE PAPER ROLL SUPPLY HOLDER .............................69
8.3 CLOCK/BATTERY BACKED RAM SOCKET
...........................
69
8.4 PCX2410 SOFTWARE ............................................69
8.5 WYSIWYG SOFTWARE PACKAGES
................................
70
8.6 PARALLEL CONVERSION BOARDS .................................70
8.7 CLEANING KIT
APPENDIX A: WARRANTY AND REPAIR PROCEDURES
APPENDIX B: CLEANING KIT & ACCESSORIES
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70
71
73
APPENDIX C: CONFIGURATION GUIDE
..........................................
BATTERY BACKED RAM WITH REAL-TIME CLOCK ..........................74
ADDITION FORMAT AREA
...............................................
Graphic Images ........................................................74
APPENDIX D: INSTALLING THE LABEL SUPPORT RACK ...........................75
APPENDIX E: MORE LABEL SAMPLES ...........................................76
DEFAULT POWER-UP LABEL ............................................76
FONTS 410
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Table of Contents
AIAG LABEL
APPENDIX F: SAMPLE BASIC PROGRAM
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APPENDIX G: QUICK REFERENCE COMMAND SUMMARY
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Index
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84
86
88
96
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410 Operators Manual
List of Tables
Status Light
Serial Port Configuration .......................................................15
Parallel Port Configuration
Print Speed ..................................................................23
Fonts
Bar code Symbologies .........................................................29
Graphic Images
Character Starting Positions ....................................................31
Enquiry Responses
Clock Field Parameters ........................................................45
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11
16
28
29
36
List of Figures
Front View
Rear View ....................................................................7
Status Label
Printer Feed Mechanism .......................................................12
Microcom Label
Label Header Parameters of a 4" X 3" Label ........................................21
Clock Option .................................................................46
European Date Format
U.S. Date Format .............................................................46
Time Format
Graphic Image in Four Rotations .................................................60
Two Graphic Images in Two Rotations
Bar Code Rotations ...........................................................64
Bar code Human Readables
Thick Lines ..................................................................67
Reverse Video
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410 Operators Manual
Introduction
The Microcom Corporation model 410 (6 dots/mm version) is a direct thermal label printer with a
640 element, 4.16 inch wide print head. The economic size and price have no effect on the
printer's ability to handle a wide variety of labeling tasks - even the most demanding applications.
The resident Label Design Software (LDS) is a powerful and easy to use package that allows
the user to create personalized label formats. It can be driven from a PC, mini-computer,
mainframe and most special purpose computers.
Among many other features, LDS supports graphics functions and multiple serial numbering. It
offers 18 different text fonts in four rotations and all popular bar code symbologies. Graphic
images can also be loaded into the printer's memory. Fonts, bar codes and graphic images can
be multiplied in size to offer great flexibility in custom designing labels. Once the labels are
designed, they can be stored in printer memory for high speed access.
The 410 is capable of printing on most types of label stock or fax paper. It offers operation in a
tag/tear, peel-and-dispense, batch mode, and user-defined advance mode. It can handle blowhole, black-line, label gap and continuous stock.
Many thermal printer applications use the same label format, but change the data on every label.
This is not a problem for the Microcom Corporation model 410 printer. Data may be changed
without down-loading the same fixed format, or fixed data fields, time after time. This increases
data access time and productivity.
Various options are available for the Model 410 printer. Label creation software packages are
offered with database capabilities including quick and easy on-screen label design, custom
fonts, bar codes and graphics.
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410 Operators Manual2
CHAPTER 1: FEATURES AND SPECIFICATIONS
The Microcom Corporation model 410 direct thermal printer is designed with many standard
features that are unique when compared to other printers. The 410 is built to meet the demands
of complicated applications and rigorous use. A guarantee of excellence in engineering is
provided by fulfilling the requirements for approval by UL, CSA and the FCC.
1.1 SPECIAL FEATURES
! Operates as tag or ticket feed
! Resolution of 6 dots/mm (.0065" per dot) and a print width of 640 dots (4.16")
! Print length is virtually unlimited
! WYSIWYG software compatible
! Print speeds up to 3.0"/sec (2"/sec for large supply roll, narrow stock or peel mode)
! Media supply rack allows roll size up to 5 inches OD (8 inch optional)
! Prints on die-cut, continuous, fax, or preprinted label stock
! Prints on tag stock up to 9.0 mil thickness (factory adjustment required)
! Software-controlled contrast adjustment
! Standard memory of 128K bytes ROM, 32K bytes RAM
! Easy to load label path with liner for easy misfeed removal
! Adjustable guides for easy label centering
! Preheated head for improved print quality and life
! Detects label gap, black line, or blow-hole stock
! Internal statistical counter for inches and labels printed
! Automatic label sizing on power up
! Logo/graphics capability in four rotations (with optional RAM)
! Incrementing and decrementing fields
! Machine state enquiries for security and maintenance
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Features and Specifications Chapter 1
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1.2 BAR CODES
! Code 39, Interleaved 2 of 5, CODABAR, Code 128, Code 93, Plessey, Modified Plessey,
UPC-A, UPC-E, EAN-8, EAN-13
! Selectable ratios for producing HIBC, AIAG, LOGMARS, and Bookland
1.3 FONTS
! 18 resident font styles, including OCR-A
! All fonts expandable in height and width up to 255 times
! Rotated fonts and bar codes: 0, 90, 180, and 270 degrees
1.4 PRINTING
! Peel function strips label off of backing
! Tag/tear mode advances label to the tear bar
! Batch mode printing
! User defined label advancement for special stock or application
! Label-presence sensor allows printer to dispense at operator's pace
! Label back-up to prevent wasted media in tag/tear and peel modes
1.5 INTERFACE COMMUNICATIONS
! Serial: RS-232C, 9 pin female D-Sub connector (DCE)
-Flow control: XON/XOFF, CTS
-Baud rate: 110 to 19200, user-selectable
-Parity: odd, even or none
-Data bits: 7 or 8
! Parallel: 25 pin female (optional)
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Chapter 1 Features and Specifications
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1.6 PHYSICAL
! Construction: Rigid painted steel construction
! Height: 5" (127mm)
! Width: 8.5" (216mm)
! Depth: 10.5" (267mm)
! Weight: 12 LBS (5.44 Kg)
1.7 ENVIRONMENT
! Temperature: 0" C to 40" C operating
! Humidity: 10-85% non-condensing
1.8 ELECTRICAL
! Voltage: 117 VAC nom.,60Hz
! Current: 3 AMPS maximum
1.9 OPTIONS
! Cleaning kit
! Assorted printer cables
! On-screen label design PC software packages
! Expandable memory: 128K bytes ROM, 64K bytes RAM or 256K bytes ROM, 32K bytes
RAM
! Media supply rack of 8 inch outer diameter (no charge option)
! Real-time clock that battery-backs RAM
! PCX to printer graphic conversion PC software
! Parallel interface
! On-demand label support rack
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Features and Specifications Chapter 1
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1.10 PRINTER VARIATIONS
! 230V European power supply
! Battery powered model (405)
1.11 APPROVALS
! UL, CSA, Complies with FCC, Class A
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410 Operators Manual6
Chapter 1 Features and Specifications
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LABEL SUPPORT RACKS
LABEL SUPPLY SHAFT
PUSH TO LIFT HEAD LEVER
PEEL EDGE
TOP COVER
DRIVE ROLLER
POWER CORD
FRONT PANEL LED
SERIAL PORT
LINE GUIDE IDLER
LINE GUIDE SHAFT
FRONT PANEL
PINCH ROLLER
LABEL FEED AND LINE FEED BUTTON
Front View
Figure 1
LINE GUIDE ADJUSTMENT KNOB
THUMB NUTS
LABEL DIAPHRAGMS
POWER SWITCH
POWER CORD
PAPER LINE GUIDES
REAR PANEL
Rear View
Figure 2
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410 Operators Manual8
CHAPTER 2: BASIC OPERATION
2.1 UNPACKING THE 410 PRINTER
While unpacking the printer, please check all packing materials closely to avoid misplacing any
necessary parts. After the printer is removed from the box, verify that all parts are present and in
good condition (see Figure 3). All packaging material should be kept and used if the printer is to
be shipped. The printer must be returned in the original container to insure proper warranty
coverage.
2.2 FRONT PANEL SWITCH AND STATUS LIGHTS
The front panel switch performs several different functions depending on the printer mode:
2.2.1 NORMAL MODE
The front panel switch (see figure 1) acts as both a paper feed button and a label request button.
If the button is pressed and then released within a half second, the unit will print a label using the
current label format. If the button is held for more than the half second, the unit will start to feed
paper until the button is released.
2.2.2 BATCH MODE
If the printer is in the process of printing a predetermined quantity of labels (see ^D73, section
5.3), pressing the button after the printer has started to print these labels will cause the unit to
pause. Pressing the button again will allow the printer to continue the batch.
2.2.3 STATUS LABEL MODE
When status label mode is accessed, the printer creates a status label and temporarily defaults
all serial communication settings.
To print a status label, hold the button while turning on the printer until the status light turns
orange. Release the button and a test pattern with statistical information will be printed (see
figure 3). When a status label is created, the communication settings will be temporarily set to
9600 baud rate, no parity, 8 data bits, and 1 stop bit. The printer will return to the old settings, if
different, after power down or a soft reset.
The printed labels and total labels represent the number of labels printed to date. The printed
labels and printed inches fields are user resetable while the total labels and total inches are not.
Printed inches and printed labels are reset using the ^D29 command (see section 5.3). Other
useful information on the power-up label is the unit serial number, the non-resetable power-on
hours, the previous serial parameters (not the default parameters caused by executing creating
a status label), and the revision number of the Label Design Software (LDS).
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Basic Operation Chapter 2
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The switch bank settings reflect the contents of the four software dip switches that configure the
operation of the printer. See section 5.3, specifically ^D21, ^D22, ^D23 and ^D24, for more
information on software dip switch settings.
PRINTER SERIAL #: 0-1083
PRINTED LABELS: 3097
TOTAL LABELS: 4937
PRINTED INCHES: 7150
TOTAL INCHES: 11885
POWER ON HOURS: 353
SWITCH BANK 1: 10001011
SWITCH BANK 2: 01010001
SWITCH BANK 3: 00000000
SWITCH BANK 4: 00000000
SERIAL PARAMETERS: 9600-N-8-1
LDS 410 REV 3.0 8/02/91
Status Label
Figure 3
2.2.4 PAPER-OUT MODE
After a paper-out condition, the front panel switch serves to load and realign the new label stock.
When a paper out condition occurs, the indicator light will turn red. Pressing the button and
holding it will cause the status light to go from red to yellow and feed paper. The status light will
then flash yellow until the button is pressed for a label request. It will then turn yellow and the
printer will print a duplicate of the last label printed and return to the blinking mode. This feature
was designed to facilitate batches with serial numbers or other variable data. This process can
be repeated as often as necessary to allow the paper to align itself. To return to the pre-paper
out condition, tap the button while the duplicate label is being printed. The status light will turn
green and normal printing may resume.
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410 Operators Manual10
Chapter 2 Basic Operation
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2.3 THE STATUS LIGHT
The status light has different functions depending upon the mode of the printer. Table 1 shows
the relationship between the status light and the different modes.
Status Light
Light
Mode Meaning
Color
Green All On-Line and ready to print
Red All Printer error:
Caused by a paper-out condition or a hardware failure. If
paper is out, follow instructions in section 2.3, otherwise
turn printer off and back on. If condition persists, contact
your service representative.
Flashing
Red
All Spike or low voltage on the AC line. The unit will remain in
this mode until the condition is removed and the printer is
powered off.
Yellow Tag/tear, Peel Label present. Label is ready to be removed from the printer
mouth
Flashing
Yellow
All Printer is paused or in standby mode and is waiting for the
front panel button to be pressed. If the paper was just
changed and the reprinted label look good, press the button
during the next print cycle to clear the repeat function and
flashing yellow light.
Flashing
Yellow and
Red
All A serial port buffer overflow has occurred. Check the host
flow control for problems. (Note: the serial buffer will only
accept 9 characters after the printer drops the clear to send
signal or optionally sends the XOFF character.)
Table 1
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410 Operators Manual 11
Basic Operation Chapter 2
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2.4 LOADING PAPER
The following two sections explain the dispensing modes. Refer to figures 1, 2 and 4 for the
printer components.
Printer Feed Mechanism
Figure 4
2.4.1 NORMAL AND TAG/TEAR MODES
Unwind about two feet of stock from the paper supply roll of paper. Set the roll behind the printer
on the table. Remove the label supply shaft. Insert the paper with the thermally sensitive side up,
under the rear threaded paper guide shaft, and into the printer until the paper stops. Turn the
paper guide adjust knob at the rear of the printer until the paper guides are slightly wider than the
label stock. Continue to apply pressure on the paper with your left hand. With your right hand
apply slight pressure to the printhead lift lever with your little finger. Press and hold the front
panel button with your pointing finger until the paper has advanced to a point past the printhead
and release the pressure of your little finger from the lift lever. To align the paper, press down on
the head lift lever and move the paper until the desired alignment is reached. Replace the label
supply roll shaft and stock onto the wire rack.
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410 Operators Manual12
Chapter 2 Basic Operation
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2.4.2 PEEL-AND-DISPENSE MODE
1. Follow the paper loading in the normal and tag mode directions.
2. Remove enough labels to expose about two feet of backing paper.
3. Insert the stock into the printer and allow about three inches to protrude out of the
front.
4. Make sure the leading edge of the backing paper is square and straight. (Tear at
perforation or cut if necessary)
5. Insert the leading edge of the backing paper between the black drive roller and the
white pinch roller, making sure it is positioned evenly between the rollers.
6. Press and hold the print button and feed the backing paper completely through
the rollers until about three inches protrude out of the printer.
7. Firmly push the head lift lever and press the feed button until most of the slack is
taken out, then release the lift lever.
8. Continue feeding paper until labels are reached. To avoid a paper jam, remove
the labels as they start to peel.
9. Enable the peel-and-dispense mode using the ^A1^D98<CR> command
described in this manual.
*If the label height is over 2", a label support rack should be used. This rack will
support the peeled label until it is removed.
2.5 CLEARING LABEL MISFEEDS: DIAPHRAGM REMOVAL
The purpose of the label diaphragm is to provide a smooth path for labels through the printer and
provide an easy means of removing label misfeeds. If a label misfeed occurs, remove the supply
roll shaft at rear of printer. Remove the four black thumb nuts which hold the diaphragm sheets
in place. Gently slip the sheets off the threaded studs. Once the sheets are removed, clean all
foreign matter and any adhesive gum. To replace the sheets repeat this process in reverse.
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Basic Operation Chapter 2
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2.6 CLEANING INSTRUCTIONS
The printer and printhead should be cleaned approximately every 5,000 labels or every two
weeks whichever occurs first. The printer should also be cleaned whenever a label roll is
changed. A Microcom Corporation cleaning kit should be used for cleaning and maintaining the
model 410 printer. It is important to note that the optimum printhead life is achieved by
maintaining a clean printer and printhead.
To clean the printer:
1) Turn the printer off.
2) Lift the printhead using the "PUSH TO LIFT HEAD" lever and remove any label stock that
remains inside the head mechanism.
3) Using the cleaning brush, sweep away all small label and adhesive particles that may be
in the area of the printhead.
4) Moisten a cleaning swab with the cleaning solution and wipe away any adhesive from the
rollers or the aluminum peel bar.
5) Dampen a swab with cleaning solution and lift the print head by pushing the lever in the
direction of the arrows. Take the moistened swab and gently wipe the underside of the
printhead. Repeat if necessary (if swab is extremely dirty).
6) Moisten the felt side of a cleaning card with the cleaning solution. Insert card with felt side
facing up into the rear of the printer as you would insert label stock. Hold down on the
print button to feed the card through the printer (see section 2.3). Do not lift the print head
for this operation. Allow the printhead to ride on the cleaning card. Repeat the process if
needed. The cleaning card may be used once at each end.
7) Remove the label diaphragm (see section 2.4).
WARNING: DO NOT TOUCH THE PRINTHEAD WITH ANY METAL OR SHARP OBJECTS
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410 Operators Manual14
CHAPTER 3: COMMUNICATIONS
The printer may be connected to PC's, mini-computers, main frames, and many other special
purpose machines. The following sections explain the communication interfaces.
3.1 CABLE PINOUT
Table 2 shows the signals of the 410's 9-pin RS-232 serial port. Out of the box, unless
otherwise requested, the printer communicates serially at 9600 baud, 8 data bits, 1 stop bit and
no parity with both hardware and software handshaking. This configuration may be changed
through software commands as explained in the programming section of this manual. Table 3
shows the optional parallel port configuration.
If XON/XOFF hand shaking is used, the only signals the 410 requires are RXD, TXD, and GND. If
hardware (CTS) hand shaking is used, a CTS signal is provided. XON/XOFF may be disabled
through the software dip switch #1 (see chapter 5). The other signals are offered in the event the
host computer requires them.
Serial Port Configuration
25 TO 9 PIN 9 TO 9 PIN
State 412 Direction PC
HI 1 DCD---->---- DCD 8
XX 2 TXD---->---- RXD 3
XX 3 RXD----<---- TXD 2
HI 4 DSR----<---- DTR 20
LO 5 GND---<->--- GND 7
HI 6 DTR---->---- DSR 6
DC 7 CTS----<---- RTS 4
XX 8 RTS---->---- CTS 5
HI 9 +5V
DE-9 DB-25
DC = Do Not Care
XX = Indeterminate
State 412 Direction PC
XX 1 DCD---->---- DCD 1
XX 2 TXD---->---- RXD 2
XX 3 RXD----<---- TXD 3
HI 4 DSR----<---- DTR 4
LO 5 GND---<->--- GND 5
HI 6 DTR---->---- DSR 6
DC 7 CTS----<---- RTS 7
XX 8 RTS---->---- CTS 8
HI 9 +5V---->---- +5V 9
DE-9 DE-9
DC = Do Not Care
XX = Indeterminate
Table 2
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Communications Chapter 3
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Parallel Port Configuration
1 = /STROBE
2 = D0
3 = D1
4 = D2
5 = D3
6 = D4
7 = D5
8 = D6
9 = D7
10 = /ACK
11 = BUSY
12 = PAPER OUT
13 = SLCT
14 = NC
15 = /ERROR
16 = /INIT
17 = NC
18-25 = GROUND
(25 PIN FEMALE)
Table 3
3.2 PRINTER CABLES
Warning: Connection of a serial printer to a parallel port may result in damage to the printer
and/or computer. Connection of a parallel printer to a serial port may result in damage to the
printer and/or computer.
The printer cables needed are standard and available through Microcom Corporation. You will
not need a NULL-modem cable because the printer is DCE equipment.
For parallel connection, use a straight 25 pin male to 25 pin male cable, connected from the
desired parallel port of the host computer to the 25 pin connector on the optional parallel board.
For serial connection, if your host computer has a...
25 pin serial com port - Use a standard 25 pin male to 9 pin male serial cable.
9 pin serial com port - Use a 9 pin female to 9 pin male video extension cable.
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410 Operators Manual16
CHAPTER 4: DESIGNING LABELS USING LDS
Label Design Software (LDS) refers to the firmware language resident in the printer that is used
to process information sent by the host computer. All fonts, character sets and bar codes
symbologies are resident in the printer.
A label format is produced by a series of 5 steps:
1: Control commands to define printer operation
2: A header to define label height, width, print speed, etc..
3: Field data to define placement of text, bar code, graphic or line
4: Actual text data to place in the above text or bar code fields
5: Control commands to initiate printing
4.1 CONTROL CHARACTERS
Throughout this manual there are references to control characters. In order to print them in this
manual, they have been written using standard characters and icons. Escape characters are
represented by <ESC> and a carriage return is represented by the 5 symbol. It is important to
note that all printer functions, unless otherwise noted, must be followed with a carriage return5.
4.2 GETTING STARTED
There are many different machines that can send information to the printer: For example - main
frames, mini-computers, special purpose computers and PC's. However, if you are using the
printer for the first time, the easiest way to start is with a PC and terminal emulation software.
This will allow two-way, serial communication with the printer. You will be able to quickly upload
files and access label sizing and other features that will help considerably in formatting your first
labels.
4.2.1 PC CONNECTION (SERIAL)
Items required:
- A computer with at least one unused serial communications port. (COM1,COM2...)
- A serial interface cable. (See section 3.2 for cable information)
- A terminal emulation program.
Note: This communications test assumes that you have a standard serial printer.
Set the communication parameters in the PC terminal software program to 9600 baud, no parity,
8 data bits and 1 stop bit. Unless modified by the user, this is the printers' communication
configuration out of the box. Depress ^C (ASCII or control code) on the PC keyboard. If the
printer prints a label, proper PC to printer communications have been confirmed. Depress ^E to
verify printer to PC communication. You will receive a text response from the printer.
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Designing Labels Using LDS Chapter 4
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If a terminal program is not available, it is possible to send files to the printer using the DOS
COPY command. To do this you must first create a text file containing the information to be sent
(i.e. ^C ). You may use any text editor that does not add its own formatting characters).
Use the following DOS MODE command to set up the appropriate PC port.
Note: COM1 may be any available communications port on your PC.
C:>MODE COM1:9600,N,8,1,P
You must then send the file to the printer using the following DOS command.
C:>COPY FILENAME COM1
4.2.2 PC CONNECTION (PARALLEL)
Items required:
- A computer with at least one unused parallel communications port. (LPT1,LPT2...)
- A parallel interface cable. (See section 3.2 for cable information)
Create a text file containing the information to be sent. (^C is the print command.)
^C
You may use any text editor that does not add its own formatting characters. Send the file to the
printer using the following DOS command. Note: LPT1 may be any available printer port on your
PC.
C:>COPY FILENAME LPT1
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4.2.3 LEARNING LDS
You can test some of the control code functions (see section 5.1) directly through the keyboard.
Large label files, such as some of those illustrated in Appendix B, may be entered in a straight
ASCII text word editor and then up-loaded to the printer using a terminal emulation program or
the DOS copy command. (To use the DOS copy command, first use the DOS mode instruction
to configure the PC. For example, MODE COM1:9600,N,8,1,P).
There are some special features offered by the printer that will aid label design. For example, the
auto-size command (^A2^D395) will provide most of the header format information needed to
define the different properties of label stock. The state of the machine is accessed through the
enquiry command (^D55 or ^E). The statistical printer information is made available through the
^A0^D295 command.
The following sections of this chapter are designed to give an overview of a label format, define
the label header, and list the different types of field information available. Chapter 5 explains the
special functions of the control codes. Once some understanding of these basic concepts are
achieved, use the quick reference guide in Appendix D for expedient label design.
4.3 FORMATTING LABELS: AN OVERVIEW
A label format consists of a header record and field records, followed by the text data to be
printed. The records describe how the label is to be printed. The header contains information
about the label itself such as label height, width, print speed, etc. The field records refer to the
data section and contain information about positioning coordinates, the type of character
generators or bar codes to use, etc.. Below is a sample label format. We will refer to this format
as we break down the components of its structure.
(See figure 5)
^D57<CR>
4,615,153,,20,30,,70,4<CR>
1,100, 40, 4, 1,4<CR>
2,100, 60,17, 1,4<CR>
3,100,100, 5, 1,6<CR>
3,100,150, 5,16,2,,,,30<CR>
^D56<CR>
^D2<CR>
EASY<CR>
MICROCOM MAKES IT<CR>
HELLO<CR>
^D3<CR>
A format is coming
Header information
Field #1 information
Field #2 information
Field #3 information
Field #4 information
Select RAM Format
Text Data is Coming
Text String #1
Text String #2
Text String #3
Print
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Microcom Label
Figure 5
The sequence ^D57<CR> puts the printer in format entry mode.
The next line is the header information: sizing the label (615 dots wide 153 dots high).
The next four lines are layout information for each printable text string.
The sequence ^D56<CR> selects the user layout.
The sequence ^D2<CR> tells the printer to start accepting text data for each defined field.
The next three lines contain the text for each field. The first string will be TSN# 1, the second will be
TSN#2 and so on.
Text string #3 is accessed twice. The format will print the word 'easy' and then the barcode
equivalent.
The sequence ^D3<CR> starts the print cycle (unless otherwise defined, it will print one copy).
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4.3 LABEL HEADER
The header is broken down into eleven different parameters. These parameters contain information
about the label. It is not necessary to enter information for all of the parameters: If a parameter is
left blank, then the default value will be used. A carriage return must follow the label header.
The value of measurement for many of the header elements is the dot. There are 154 dots per inch
across the print head (6 dots/mm). There is a maximum 640 dots in the X direction (width). Y
direction (length) is virtually unlimited.
Most of the header parameters can be supplied by auto-sizing the label stock (^D39 section 5.3.3).
Below is a list of the header element mnemonics and their default values:
HFM, LSX, LSY, WEB, GAP, DPS, LCB, AGD, SPG, OFX, OFY
0, 640, 443, 10, 10, 35, 0, 1, 352, 0, 0
Label Header Parameters of a 4" X 3" Label
Figure 6
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Refer to Figure 6 for a visual representation of most header parameters.
The following is a description of each header element:
HFM NUMBER OF FIELDS IN LAYOUT
This parameter is used to specify the number of fields in the layout. If more fields are defined
than what is specified for HFM, the extras will be ignored. To prevent software confusion, do
not set the HFM parameter to a number higher than the number of fields defined.
LSX LABEL SIZE X DIRECTION
Specifies the width of the label in dots. For example: A 3" wide label would have an LSX of
3 x 154 = 462 dots. (154 dots = 1 inch)
LSY LABEL SIZE Y DIRECTION
Specifies the height of the label in dots.
WEB WEB SIZE
The width, measured in dots, of the webbing that is found on the left side of the label.
GAP GAP SIZE
The height, measured in dots, of the gap between labels. Auto-sizing (See section 5.3.3) will
define this value.
DPS PRINT SPEED
The speed the printer actually prints a label. The printer will slow down in a dense area of
the label, if needed, to prevent the label from being garbled. If the printer must slow down in
an area, reducing the print speed will produce a better quality label.
The labels per minute a particular format will print can be calculated by the equation below:
IPS x 60 seconds
Labels per Minute = --------------- Label Height+Gap
The printer's default print speed is 2.1 inches per second (DSP value =34). To speed it up
or slow it down, the following DPS parameters can be inserted into the label header. Please
note that certain conditions such as large supply rolls, narrow label stock and tag/peel mode
may require slower print speeds (about 2"/sec.) in order to acheive reliable label feed.
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See Table 3 for a list of print speeds, DPS values, and inches per second.higher value
slows the printer down and a smaller value speeds it up.
Print Speed
DPS MM/SEC INCHES PER
SECOND
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
32
33
34
35
36
37
38
39
40
76.8
74.2
71.7
69.1
66.6
64.0
61.4
58.9
56.3
53.8
51.2
48.6
46.1
43.5
41.0
38.4
3.0
2.9
2.8
2.7
2.6
2.5
2.4
2.3
2.2
2.1
2.0
1.9
1.8
1.7
1.6
1.5
Table 4
INCHES PER
MINUTE
180
174
168
162
156
150
144
138
132
126
120
114
108
102
96
90
LCB LABEL CONTROL BYTE
The label control number defines the type of label stock that is used.
Continuous Stock: If set to a value of 2, the printer will not activate the gap detector
circuit. After all fields are printed, the printer will advance the extra distance in the SPG
header element.
Normal Stock (leading edge): If defaulted (value of 0), the printer will detect the trailing
edge of the label (the beginning of the gap).
Black Line Stock: If set to a value of 1, the printer will detect the leading edge of a black
line.
Blow Hole Stock (Slot-Cut): Use the default value (0) and set software dip switch #4
(^D24) for blow hole stock (see section 5.3).
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AGD NUMBER OF STEPS TO ACTIVATE GAP DETECTOR
The number of steps (dots) from the front edge of the label before the gap detector
circuitry is activated. This value is usually defaulted. It is not defaulted when using stock
that is smaller than 2.3 inches, the distance between the gap detector and the dot row, or
on larger labels, when skipping over pre-print, gaps, or paper flutter that may cause the
gap detector to trigger incorrectly. There is a long equation to manually calculate this
value for small labels, but auto-sizing (^D39) the label will produce this value accurately
and quickly.
SPG NUMBER OF STEPS PAST GAP
The steps (dots) to move the label after detection of a label gap. This facilitates using
very small label stock - less than 2.3 inches (the distance between the dot row and the
gap detector). Use auto-sizing (^A39) to quickly evaluate this parameter for small stock.
It may also be necessary to adjust this value if using special stock: For example, if using
black line stock with a perforation that is not on the black line. SPG would need to be
manipulated so that the printer can print the label between the perforations, yet still trigger
on the black line. In this case SPG would be calculated as the distance from the black
line to the perforation.
OFX X DIRECTION OFFSET
Equally moves all of the fields to the right. Useful for centering a label format on different
label stock. For example: Transferring a small label layout to a larger label stock. (Note:
This command consumes software time and may decrease the maximum print speed.)
OFY Y DIRECTION OFFSET
Equally moves all of the fields up on the label. Also useful for adjusting a label format to a
different stock. (Note: This command consumes software time and may decrease the
maximum print speed.)
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