DTC400/DTC300/DTC300M Card Printer
Service Manual (Rev. 1.3)
Part Number: L000533
RESTRICTED USE ONLY Fargo Electronics, Inc.
ii
DTC400/DTC300/DTC300M Card Printer Service Manual (Rev. 1.3), property of Fargo
Electronics, Incorporated
Copyright 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006 by Fargo Electronics, Incorporated. All rights reserved.
Printed in the United States of America. Exclusive permission is granted to authorized
resellers of Fargo products to reproduce and distribute this copyrighted document to
authorized Fargo customers, who have signed a “no disclosure agreement” regarding the
restricted, proprietary use of said document.
The revision number for this document will be updated to reflect changes, corrections,
updates and enhancements to this document.
Revision Control
Number
Revision 1.3 1 March 2005 DTC400/DTC300/DTC300M Card Printer Service
Revision 1.2 1 October 2004 Same document title
Revision 1.1 1 September 2004 Same document title
Revision 1.0 1 July 2004 Same document title
Date Document Title
Manual (Rev. 1.3)
These reference documents were thoroughly reviewed to provide Fargo with professional
and international standards, requirements, guidelines and models for our technical, training
and user documentation. At all times, the Copyright Protection Notice for each document was
adhered to within our Fargo documentation process. This reference to other documents does
not imply that Fargo is an ISO-certified company at this time.
ANSI/ISO/ASQ Q9001-2000 American National Standard
, (sub-title) Quality Management
Systems - Requirements (published by the American Society of Quality, Quality Press, P.O.
Box 3005, Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53201-3005)
The ASQ ISO 9000:2000 Handbook
(editors, Charles A. Cianfrani, Joseph J. Tsiakals and
John E. West; Second Edition; published by the American Society of Quality, Quality Press,
600 N. Plankinton Avenue, Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53203)
Juran's Quality Handbook
(editors, Joseph M. Juran and A. Blanton Godfrey; Fifth Edition,
McGraw-Hill)
Any questions regarding changes, corrections, updates or enhancements to this document
should be forwarded to:
How to use the manual _______________________________________________________________ 1-1
Safety Messages (review carefully)______________________________________________________ 1-2
DTC400/DTC300/DTC300M Card Printer Overview _______________________________________ 1-3
Reviewing the DTC400/DTC300/DTC300M Block Diagram _______________________________ 1-3
Reviewing the DTC400/DTC300/DTC300M Sequence of Operations ________________________ 1-4
Reviewing the DTC400/DTC300/DTC300M Boot up Sequence_____________________________ 1-7
Print Notification Application _______________________________________________________ 3-1
Security Imaging Application________________________________________________________ 3-1
Print Diagnostics Application________________________________________________________ 3-1
Supplies e-Ordering Application _____________________________________________________ 3-1
Password Control Application _______________________________________________________ 3-1
Print Security Suite – Main Window __________________________________________________ 3-2
SecureMark Media ________________________________________________________________ 3-2
Section 4: Setup and Installation Procedures ___________________________________ 4-1
Table of Contents ___________________________________________________________________ 4-1
Printer Setup and Installation __________________________________________________________ 4-3
Choosing A Good Location _________________________________________________________ 4-3
About Moisture Condensation _______________________________________________________ 4-3
Printer Setup and Installation ___________________________________ Error! Bookmark not defined.
Choosing A Good Location __________________________________ Error! Bookmark not defined.
About Moisture Condensation ________________________________ Error! Bookmark not defined.
Unpacking and Inspection __________________________________________________________ 4-4
Reviewing the Printer (front view)____________________________________________________ 4-4
Reviewing the Printer (front view; Cartridge being installed) _______________________________ 4-5
Reviewing the LCD (top-front part of Printer)___________________________________________ 4-5
Connecting the Printer power________________________________________________________ 4-6
Installing the Print Ribbon Cartridge __________________________________________________ 4-7
DTC400/DTC300/DTC300M Card Printer Service Manual (Rev. 1.3)
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iv
Installing Blank Cards into the Card Hopper ___________________________________________ 4-10
Lowering the Card Output Hopper ___________________________________________________ 4-13
Installing the Printer Driver ________________________________________________________ 4-26
Printing a Test Print Image_________________________________________________________ 4-39
Printer Transport ___________________________________________________________________ 4-41
Moving the Printer to another location ________________________________________________ 4-41
Section 5: General Troubleshooting __________________________________________5-1
Resolving the Communication Errors__________________________________________________ 5-4
Print Process Errors__________________________________________________________________ 5-6
Resolving a Card Not Fed Error (Cards will not feed off the Hopper)_________________________ 5-6
Resolving a Card Not Fed Error (Two (2) or more card feed at the same time)__________________ 5-9
Resolving a Ribbon RFID Error (Ribbon RFID Antenna is Corrupted) ______________________ 5-11
Resolving a Ribbon RFID Error (Ribbon RFID Sensor is Corrupted) ________________________ 5-13
Resolving the Mag Verify Error_____________________________________________________ 5-14
Resolving the No Mag Installed Error ________________________________________________ 5-17
Resolving a Ribbon Sensor Error (Ribbon Miscue) ______________________________________ 5-19
Resolving a Ribbon Break Jam Error _________________________________________________ 5-21
Resolving a Ribbon Out Error ______________________________________________________ 5-23
Resolving a No Ribbon Installed Error________________________________________________ 5-24
Resolving a Invalid Ribbon Error____________________________________________________ 5-26
Resolving a Wrong Ribbon Error____________________________________________________ 5-28
Resolving a Card Jam Error ________________________________________________________ 5-30
Resolving a Headlift Motor or Sensor Error____________________________________________ 5-32
Resolving the Cover Open Error Message _____________________________________________ 5-33
Resolving the Blank Output issues___________________________________________________ 5-35
Resolving the No Flipper Table Module problem _______________________________________ 5-38
Resolving the Flipper Jam Error_____________________________________________________ 5-39
Resolving the Pixel Failure problems_________________________________________________ 5-41
Resolving the Card Surface Debris problems___________________________________________ 5-42
Resolving the Incorrect Image Darkness problems ______________________________________ 5-43
Resolving Ribbon Wrinkle problems _________________________________________________ 5-45
Resolving the Excessive Resin Printing problems _______________________________________ 5-47
Resolving the Incomplete Resin Printing problems ______________________________________ 5-49
Resolving the Image Placement problems _____________________________________________ 5-50
Resolving the Poor Image Quality problems ___________________________________________ 5-53
Running the Self Test _______________________________________________________________ 5-54
Running the Standard Self Test Print _________________________________________________ 5-55
Running the Magnetic Self Test (HiCo Only) __________________________________________ 5-56
Using the Card tab (DTC400/DTC300/DTC300M) _________________________________________ 6-9
Adjusting the Card Size Option ______________________________________________________ 6-9
Adjusting the Orientation Option ____________________________________________________ 6-10
Selecting the number of copies______________________________________________________ 6-11
Using the Diagnostics button under the Card tab ________________________________________ 6-12
Using the Clean Printer Option______________________________________________________ 6-13
Using the Test Print button_________________________________________________________ 6-15
Using the About button____________________________________________________________ 6-16
Using the Device Options tab (DTC400/DTC300) _________________________________________ 6-17
Reviewing the Device Options tab (DTC400) __________________________________________ 6-17
Reviewing the Device Options tab (DTC300) __________________________________________ 6-18
Adjusting the Ribbon Type option ___________________________________________________ 6-19
Selecting the Auto Ribbon Select option ______________________________________________ 6-20
Adjusting the Color Matching option _________________________________________________ 6-21
Adjusting for the Resin Dither ______________________________________________________ 6-22
Using the Print Both Sides option____________________________________________________ 6-23
Using the Split 1 Set of Ribbon Panels option __________________________________________ 6-24
Using the Print Back Side First option ________________________________________________ 6-25
Using the Print Back Side Only option________________________________________________ 6-26
Using the Rotate Front 180 Degrees or Rotate Back 180 Degrees options ____________________ 6-27
Using the Disable Printing option____________________________________________________ 6-28
Using the Device Options tab (DTC300M)_______________________________________________ 6-29
Reviewing the Device Options tab (DTC300M) ________________________________________ 6-29
Adjusting the Ribbon Type option (DTC300M) ________________________________________ 6-30
Selecting the Auto Ribbon Select option (DTC300M)____________________________________ 6-31
Adjusting for the Resin Dither (DTC300M)____________________________________________ 6-32
Using the Resin Heat, Front (K) option (DTC300M)_____________________________________ 6-33
Using the Resin Heat, Back (K) option (DTC300M) _____________________________________ 6-34
Using the Overlay Heat (O) option (DTC300M) ________________________________________ 6-35
Using the Print Both Sides option (DTC300M) _________________________________________ 6-36
Using the Print Back Side First option ________________________________________________ 6-37
Using the Print Back Side Only option________________________________________________ 6-38
Using the Rotate Front 180 Degrees or Rotate Back 180 Degrees options ____________________ 6-39
Using the Disable Printing option____________________________________________________ 6-40
Using the Image Color tab (DTC400/DTC300) ___________________________________________ 6-41
Using the Resin Heat (K) option (Front and Back) ______________________________________ 6-42
Using the Overlay Heat (O) option___________________________________________________ 6-43
Using the Color Matching option and Default button_____________________________________ 6-44
Using the Calibrate tab (DTC400/DTC300/DTC300M)_____________________________________ 6-45
Using the Image Position Controls___________________________________________________ 6-46
Using the Sensors button __________________________________________________________ 6-48
Using the Settings button __________________________________________________________ 6-49
Using the Magnetic Encoding tab (DTC400/DTC300/DTC300M) ____________________________ 6-50
Using the Magnetic Track Selection radio buttons_______________________________________ 6-51
Using the Magnetic Track Options radio buttons________________________________________ 6-53
Using the Bit Density radio buttons __________________________________________________ 6-54
Using the Character Size radio buttons________________________________________________ 6-55
Reviewing the Enable MLE Support checkbox _________________________________________ 6-56
Using the ASCII Offset radio buttons_________________________________________________ 6-57
Using the LRC Generation radio buttons ______________________________________________ 6-58
Using the Character Parity radio buttons ______________________________________________ 6-58
Using the Shift Data Left checkbox __________________________________________________ 6-59
DTC400/DTC300/DTC300M Card Printer Service Manual (Rev. 1.3)
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vi
Reviewing the ISO Track Locations__________________________________________________ 6-60
Sending the Track Information______________________________________________________ 6-61
Entering the Track Information _____________________________________________________ 6-61
Reviewing Tracks 1, 2 and 3 (in table format) __________________________________________ 6-62
Reviewing the Track Data Note _____________________________________________________ 6-62
Reviewing the ASCII Code and Character Table ________________________________________ 6-63
Using the Overlay / Print Area tab (DTC400/DTC300/DTC300M) ____________________________ 6-64
Enabling the Frontside and Backside options___________________________________________ 6-65
Enabling the Frontside option (Overlay / Print Area)_____________________________________ 6-66
Enabling the Backside option (Overlay / Print Area)_____________________________________ 6-67
Using the Overlay / Print Area dropdown menu ________________________________________ 6-68
Using the Overlay / Print Area______________________________________________________ 6-70
Using the Defined Area Option _____________________________________________________ 6-72
Using Security Options (Visual Security Solutions) (Frontside option only)___________________ 6-77
Selecting Orientation - Landscape under Card tab_______________________________________ 6-78
Selecting the Visual Security Solutions dropdown menu (A to D) __________________________ 6-79
Selecting Orientation - Portrait under Card tab _________________________________________ 6-80
Selecting the Visual Security Solutions dropdown menu (E to H)___________________________ 6-81
Selecting the VeriMark radio button (Frontside option only)_______________________________ 6-82
Selecting the HoloMark radio button (Frontside option only) ______________________________ 6-83
Reviewing the Custom VeriMark Card (Custom Graphic in a 2D foil) _______________________ 6-84
Reviewing the Custom HoloMark Card (Custom Graphic in a 2D foil) ______________________ 6-85
Using the K Panel Resin tab (DTC400/DTC300) __________________________________________ 6-86
Enabling the Frontside and Backside options___________________________________________ 6-87
Enabling the Frontside option (K Panel Resin) _________________________________________ 6-88
Enabling the Backside option (K Panel Resin)__________________________________________ 6-89
Selecting from the Print All Black With K Panel options (Front and Back options) _____________ 6-90
Selecting the Full Card option (Front and Back options) __________________________________ 6-91
Selecting the Defined Area(s) option (Front and Back options)_____________________________ 6-92
Selecting the Undefined Area(s) option (Front and Back options)___________________________ 6-93
Selecting the Defined Area(s) function (Front and Back options) ___________________________ 6-94
Selecting the Print YMC under K and Print K Only options ______________________________ 6-101
Using the Printer Supplies tab (DTC400/DTC300/DTC300M) ______________________________ 6-102
Reviewing the Ribbon Information _________________________________________________ 6-103
Reviewing the Ribbon Level Indicator_______________________________________________ 6-104
Using the Printer Calibration Utility (DTC400/DTC300/DTC300M) _________________________ 6-105
Using the Image Darkness Option __________________________________________________ 6-106
Using the Print Top of Form Option_________________________________________________ 6-107
Using the Print End of Form Option_________________________________________________ 6-108
Using the Print Left of Form Option ________________________________________________ 6-109
Using the Magnetic Encoder Voltage Offset Option ____________________________________ 6-110
Adjusting the Hi-Co Voltage Offset _________________________________________________ 6-111
Adjusting the Lo-Co Voltage Offset_________________________________________________ 6-112
Using the Mag Top of Form Option_________________________________________________ 6-113
Using the Ribbon Tension Option __________________________________________________ 6-115
Using the LCD Contrast Option ____________________________________________________ 6-115
Using the Flipper Home Offset Option_______________________________________________ 6-116
Using the Flipper Center Offset Option ______________________________________________ 6-116
Using the Flipper Smart Angle Offset Option _________________________________________ 6-117
Table of Contents ___________________________________________________________________ 7-1
Safety Messages (review carefully)______________________________________________________ 7-2
DTC400/DTC300/DTC300M Card Printer/Encoders Cleaning Kit (Part Number 085976)___________ 7-3
Supplies (included with the Cleaning Kit) ______________________________________________ 7-3
Cleaning the Printhead _______________________________________________________________ 7-4
DTC400/DTC300/DTC300M Card Printer Service Manual (Rev. 1.3)
RESTRICTED USE ONLY Fargo Electronics, Inc.
vii
Cleaning the Platen and the Card Feed Rollers _____________________________________________ 7-5
Cleaning the Printer’s Interior __________________________________________________________ 7-8
Cleaning the Printer’s Exterior _________________________________________________________ 7-8
Section 8: Parts Replacement ________________________________________________ 8-1
Table of Contents ___________________________________________________________________ 8-1
Safety Messages (review carefully)______________________________________________________ 8-4
Reviewing DTC400/DTC300/DTC300M Parts Replacement Table __________________________ 8-5
Reviewing the Main Print Board Connections __________________________________________ 8-22
Reviewing the Power/USB Board Connections _________________________________________ 8-22
Cover, Door and Tray Removal _______________________________________________________ 8-23
Replacing the Rear Cover (D900066) ________________________________________________ 8-23
Replacing the Left End Cap (D900064) _______________________________________________ 8-25
Replacing the Right End Cap (D900065-01 and –02) ____________________________________ 8-28
Replacing the Input Door Assembly (D900148) ________________________________________ 8-30
Replacing the Output Door Assembly (D900092) _______________________________________ 8-31
Replacing the Input Tray (D900097) _________________________________________________ 8-33
Replacing the Printhead Access Cover (D900029) ______________________________________ 8-35
Replacing the Magnetic Module Door (D900107) _______________________________________ 8-37
Replacing the Top Cover Assembly (includes Print Circuit Board)__________________________ 8-39
Replacing the Front Cover (D900072-03 DTC300M, D900072-02 DTC300, D900072-01 DTC400)8-42
Replacing the Baseplate (D900000)__________________________________________________ 8-44
Replacing the Clean Roller Plate (D900102) ___________________________________________ 8-50
Replacing the Ribbon Motor Supply Assembly (D900121), O-Ring Drive Belt (140212), Encoder
(A000126) Sensor and Motor (D840980)______________________________________________ 8-53
Board, Interface and Printhead Replacements_____________________________________________ 8-57
Replacing the Power/Communication Board (A000368) __________________________________ 8-57
Replacing the Printhead Assembly (D900023)__________________________________________ 8-59
Motor and Magnetic Head Replacements ________________________________________________ 8-62
Replacing the Headlift Motor Assembly (D900085) _____________________________________ 8-63
Replacing the Input Feed Motor Assembly (D900084) ___________________________________ 8-67
Replacing the Stepper Motor Assembly (D900087)______________________________________ 8-70
Replacing the Ribbon Take-up Motor (D900086) _______________________________________ 8-72
Replacing the Magnetic Head Assembly (D900050) _____________________________________ 8-75
Replacing the Ribbon LED Sensor Assembly (A000374 and D900138)______________________ 8-77
Replacing the RFID Sensor Assembly (A000365), Ribbon Encoder Wheel (810492), Encoder Pulley
(D900106) and Ribbon Supply Hub (D900090)_________________________________________ 8-79
Replacing the Headlift Sensor Assembly (D900113)_____________________________________ 8-83
Roller, Cable and Fan Replacement ____________________________________________________ 8-85
Replacing the Platen Roller (D900041) _______________________________________________ 8-85
Replacing the Platen Roller (D900041) (continued)______________________________________ 8-87
Replacing the Card Cleaning or Feed Roller (D900040) (left of Platen) and the Card Drive Gear
(810266) _______________________________________________________________________ 8-88
Replacing the Input Pusher (D900104) _______________________________________________ 8-91
Replacing the Card Feed or Exit Roller (D900042) and the Card Drive Gear (810266) __________ 8-93
Replacing the Pinch Roller (D900098)________________________________________________ 8-96
Replacing the Cleaning Roller Lever (D900051) ________________________________________ 8-99
Replacing the Printhead Cable Assembly (D900035) ___________________________________ 8-102
Replacing the Fan Assembly (D900033) _____________________________________________ 8-104
Replacing the Stepper Motor Idler Pulley (D840888) and the Platen Roller Drive Gear (D900047) 8-106
Replacing the Stepper Motor Idler Pulley Shaft Assembly (D900089) and the Stepper Motor Drive Belt
(F000094)_____________________________________________________________________ 8-108
Safety Messages (review carefully)_____________________________________________________ 10-1
Sensor and Motor __________________________________________________________________ 10-2
Reviewing the Sensor Location and Voltages __________________________________________ 10-2
Reviewing the Motor Voltages (when active) __________________________________________ 10-2
Table of Contents __________________________________________________________________ 11-1
Using the Diagnostic Tool Utility ______________________________________________________ 11-2
Selecting from the Printer Selection menu_____________________________________________ 11-2
Reviewing customized Diagnostic Utility tabs for your Printer_____________________________ 11-3
Using the Diagnostic Utility tabs ______________________________________________________ 11-4
Selecting the Print Spooler tab in the Diagnostics Utility _________________________________ 11-4
Selecting the Firmware Updates tab in the Diagnostics Utility _____________________________ 11-9
Downloading Firmware Updates ___________________________________________________ 11-10
Selecting the Firmware File _______________________________________________________ 11-10
Placing the Printer in the Upgrade Mode _____________________________________________ 11-11
Sending the Firmware File ________________________________________________________ 11-12
Selecting the Mechanics tab in the Diagnostics Utility __________________________________ 11-13
Selecting the Self Tests tab in the Diagnostics Utility ___________________________________ 11-24
Selecting the Card Samples tab in the Diagnostics Utility ________________________________ 11-25
Selecting the Magnetic Encoding tab in the Diagnostics Utility ___________________________ 11-26
Selecting the Help button in the Diagnostics Utility ____________________________________ 11-27
Selecting the About button in the Diagnostics Utility ___________________________________ 11-28
Selecting the Exit button in the Diagnostics Utility _____________________________________ 11-29
Downloading Firmware (continued)_________________________________________________ 12-14
Placing the Printer in the Firmware Upgrade Mode _______________________________________ 12-17
Sending the Firmware File __________________________________________________________ 12-19
Section 13: Fargo Technical Support ________________________________________13-1
Contacting Fargo Technical Support____________________________________________________ 13-1
Reading the Serial Numbers on a Fargo Printer ___________________________________________ 13-2
Finding out when a Fargo Card Printer was manufactured ________________________________ 13-2
Reviewing Example No. 1: Serial Number 80453289____________________________________ 13-2
Reviewing Example No. 2: Serial Number A1280224 ___________________________________ 13-2
Section 14: Reviewing the Spare Parts List ____________________________________ 14-1
Reviewing the DTC400/DTC300/DTC300M Spare Parts List _____________________________ 14-1
Section 15: Glossary of Terms ______________________________________________15-1
DTC400/DTC300/DTC300M Card Printer Service Manual (Rev. 1.3)
Section 1: Introduction
How to use the manual
The DTC400/DTC300/DTC300M Card Printer Service Manual (Rev. 1.3) is, in fact, the
troubleshooting and service manual for the entire card Printer. The manual is designed to
provide Installers and Technicians with quick, efficient lookup of related procedures,
components and terms. The manual can be used effectively either in soft or hard copy,
depending on the preference of the Installer or Technician.
Manual Description
Sequence of Operations,
Glossary of Terms and
Technical/Functional
Specifications (hyper-linked)
Table of Contents (hyperlinked)
Troubleshooting,
Replacement, Removal,
Diagnostic and Navigation
Procedures (in hyper-linked
Sections)
Cross-Referencing (hyperlinked)
Comprehensive Index
(hyper-linked)
You can go directly to the Sequence of Operations,
Glossary of Terms, Technical Specifications and
Functional Specifications to learn how to use the
processes, procedures, functions and windows for the
card Printer within concise, correlative tables.
You can use the automated Table of Contents to quickly
locate, for example, an error message, a procedure, the
index or an appendix.
You can go directly to Specifications, General
Troubleshooting, Printer Adjustments, Parts Replacement,
Printer Packing, Board Level Diagnostics, LCD On-Line
Menu Navigation and Firmware Updates to find
troubleshooting, removal and replacement procedures.
The section titles are always labeled according to their
function for consistent usage.
You can use the cross-referencing links to quickly locate,
for example, an error message or a procedure.
You can use the COMPREHENSIVE INDEX to quickly
locate information on the card Printer, relating to a
specification, a procedural step, a window or screen, a
component, a term, a qualifier or a related feature to this
Printer.
RESTRICTED USE ONLY Fargo Electronics, Inc.
1-2
Safety Messages (review carefully)
Symbol Critical Instructions for Safety purposes
Danger: Failure to follow these installation guidelines can result in death or
serious injury.
Information that raises potential safety issues is indicated by a warning
symbol (as shown to the left).
•To prevent personal injury, refer to the following safety messages
before performing an operation preceded by this symbol.
•To prevent personal injury, always remove the power cord prior to
DTC400/DTC300/DTC300M Card Printer Service Manual (Rev. 1.3)
RESTRICTED USE ONLY Fargo Electronics, Inc.
1-4
Reviewing the DTC400/DTC300/DTC300M Sequence of Operations
The following sequence describes a full color print job with magnetic encoding.
Step
Process
1The File information is received from the PC
2Printer checks the installed Ribbon type stored in memory against the Ribbon
type command that was sent from the Printer.
a. If Ribbon type does not match, the media light will begin flashing.
3The Card Input Motor and Print Stepper Motor engage.
4The Card Feed Sensor detects leading edge of card and disengages the card
input Motor.
Continued on the next page
DTC400/DTC300/DTC300M Card Printer Service Manual (Rev. 1.3)
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1-5
Reviewing the DTC400/DTC300/DTC300M Sequence of Operations (continued)
StepProcess
StepProcess
5The Print Ribbon Drive engages.
6The Print Ribbon Sensor looks for the color transition from Yellow to Magenta.
Print Ribbon Encoder detects number of revolutions required to use an entire color
panel.
7The Print Stepper Motor engages.
8The Card Feed Sensor detects trailing edge of card.
9The Print Stepper Motor queues card to the middle of the platen Roller. All Stop
10 The Print Headlift Motor engages.
11 The Print Headlift Sensor detects closed state.
12 The Print Headlift Motor disengages.
13 The Print Stepper Motor engages.
14 The Print Cover Sensor checks for a closed state.
15 The Ribbon Drive Motor engages.
16 The Image data is burned by the Printhead until image data is depleted. All Stop.
17 The Thermistor engages Printhead Cooling Fan to maintain proper operating
temperature.
18 The Headlift Motor engages.
19 The Print Headlift Sensor detects an open state.
20 The Print Headlift Motor disengages.
21 The Print Stepper Motor engages.
22 The Print Ribbon Drive engages.
Continued on the next page
DTC400/DTC300/DTC300M Card Printer Service Manual (Rev. 1.3)
RESTRICTED USE ONLY Fargo Electronics, Inc.
1-6
Reviewing the DTC400/DTC300/DTC300M Sequence of Operations (continued)
StepProcess
23 The Card Feed Stepper Motor engages to queue card for magnetic encoding.
24 The Encoding data is written to the card.
25 The Magnetic Encoder verifies while the Stepper reverses the card.
26 After Ribbon advances a few encoder clicks, assume Ribbon free of card. All Stop.
27 Repeat steps 9 through 23 for the appropriate number of color/overlay panels.
28 The Card is ejected from the singled-sided Printer.
OR
The Card Feed Stepper engages to queue the card for the Flipper Table for the
dual-sided Printer.
29 All Stop.
DTC400/DTC300/DTC300M Card Printer Service Manual (Rev. 1.3)
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1-7
Reviewing the DTC400/DTC300/DTC300MBoot up Sequence
Step Process
1On Power up, the Printer checks the current state of the Card Feed Sensor and
the Headlift Sensor.
2If the Headlift Sensor is found to be open, the Headlift Motor will turn until a
closed state is seen.
3If the Card Feed Sensor is found to be blocked, the Card Feed Stepper will
engage to eject the card.
DTC400/DTC300/DTC300M Card Printer Service Manual (Rev. 1.3)
RESTRICTED USE ONLY Fargo Electronics, Inc.
2-1
Section 2: Specifications
The purpose of this section is to provide the User with specific information on the
Regulatory Compliances, Agency Listings, Technical Specifications and Functional
Specifications for the DTC400/DTC300/DTC300M Card Printer Service Manual (Rev. 1.3).
DTC400/DTC300/DTC300M Card Printer Service Manual (Rev. 1.3)
RESTRICTED USE ONLY Fargo Electronics, Inc.
2-2
Regulatory Compliances
Term Description
CSA The Printer manufacturer has been authorized by UL to represent
the Card Printer as CSA Certified under CSA Standard 22.2.
File Number: E145118
FCC The Card Printer complies with the requirements in Part 15 of the
FCC rules for a Class B digital device. (Note: These
requirements are designed to provide reasonable protection
against harmful interference in a residential installation.)
If equipment operation in a residential area causes unacceptable
interference to radio and TV reception, the operator is required to
take whatever steps are necessary to correct the interference.
ITS-EMC The Card Printer has been tested and complies with EN55022
Class B: 1995 and EN61000-3-2, EN61000-3-3 and
EN55024:1998 standards for EMI emissions.
(Note: Based on the above testing, the Printer manufacturer
certifies that the Card Printer complies with all current EMC
directives of the European Community and has placed the CE
mark on the Card Printer.)
UL-GS The Card Printer has been tested and complies with EN 60950-
1:2001 and bears the UL-GS mark.
License Number: 1176
UL The Card Printer is listed under UL IEC 60950-1 (2001)
INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY EQUIPMENT.
File Number: E145118, Volume 1, Section 22
DTC400/DTC300/DTC300M Card Printer Service Manual (Rev. 1.3)
RESTRICTED USE ONLY Fargo Electronics, Inc.
2-3
Agency Listings
Term Description
EMC Standards CE, FCC, CRC c1374, BSMI, ITS (EN 55022 Class B:1998, FCC
Class B, EN 55024: 1998).
Safety
Standards
UL IEC 60950-1 (2001), CSA 22.2 No. 60950 and UL-GS (EN 609501:2001).
Technical Specifications
Type Description
Accepted
Standard
Card Sizes
Accepted
Card
Thickness
Accepted
Card Types
Agency
Listings
CR-80 (3.375"L x 2.125"W / 85.6mmL x 54mmW)
20 mil and 30 mil (.030" / .76mm)
PVC or polyester cards with polished PVC finish; monochrome resin
required for straight polyester
Safety: UL 1950, CSA C2.2 and TüV-GS (IEC-950) Emissions: FCC
Class A, CRC c1374, Class A and TüV-EMC (IEC-801 -2, -3, -4; CISPR
22, Class B), CE, BSMI
Barcodes Code 39, Code 128 B & C with and without check digit (available with
embedded font and barcode option)
•2 of 5
•UPC-A
•EAN 13
•PDF-417 2D barcode and other symbologies (available via Windows
Driver)
Continued on the next page
DTC400/DTC300/DTC300M Card Printer Service Manual (Rev. 1.3)
RESTRICTED USE ONLY Fargo Electronics, Inc.
2-4
Technical Specifications (continued)
Type Description
Card Input
100 cards (30 mil)
Hopper
Capacity
Colors
DTC400/DTC300: Up to 16.7 million (DTC300M): Monochrome
Dimensions See the Size and Weight information in this same table.
Humidity 20% to 80% non-condensing
Interface
•LEDs
•LCD display
•Softkey buttons (key ON/OFF button operation)
•Two-way/bi-directional communications
oPC-based error/status messages
Memory 2MB RAM
Operating
65° to 80° F / 18° to 27° C
Temperature
Print Area CR-80 edge-to-edge
Printer
Windows 98SE, Me/2000/XP
Drivers
Print Method
•Dye-Sublimation/Resin Thermal Transfer
•Resin Thermal Transfer
DTC400/DTC300/DTC300M Card Printer Service Manual (Rev. 1.3)
Continued on the next page
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2-5
Technical Specifications (continued)
Type Description
Print Speed Print Speeds**
• 7 seconds per card / 514 cards per hour (K)* (DTC300M)
• 12 seconds per card / 300 cards per hour (KO)*
• 27 seconds per card / 133 cards per hour (YMCKO)*
• 35 seconds per card / 102 cards per hour (YMCKOK)*
• 35 seconds per card / 102 cards per hour (YMCFKO)*
*Indicates the Ribbon type and the number of Ribbon panels printed
where Y=Yellow, M=Magenta, C=Cyan, K=Resin Black, O=Overlay,
F=Flourescent
**Print speed indicates an approximate batch print speed and is
measured from the time a card feeds into the printer to the time it ejects
from the printer.
Print speeds do not include encoding time or the time needed for the PC
to process the image. Process time is dependent on the size of the file,
the CPU, amount of RAM and the amount of available resources at the
time of the print.
Resolution 300 dpi (11.8 dots/mm)
Supply
100-240 VAC, .6-1.3 A
Voltage
Supply
50 Hz/60 Hz
Frequency
System
Requirements
IBM-PC or compatible; Windows 98SE, Me, 2000 and XP; Pentium™
class 233 MHz computer with 64 MB of RAM or higher, 200 MB free hard
disk space or higher, USB 1.1
Weight and
Size
•Single-sided (weight): 8 lbs. / 3.65 kg
•Single-sided (size): 7.90"H x 13.62"W x 8.14"D / 200mmH x
346mmW x 207mmD
•Dual-sided (weight): 12 lbs. / 5.45 kg
•Dual-sided (size): 7.9"H x 18.28"W x 8.14"D / 200mmH x 465mmW
x 207mmD
DTC400/DTC300/DTC300M Card Printer Service Manual (Rev. 1.3)
VeriMarkTM Cards are a low cost, customized 2-D holographic foil application, that is made
in two steps.
•The first step is to emboss a base foil 1.9 cm (L) x 1.3 cm (H) onto the surface of a
blank white card.
•The second step is debossing a custom made dye into the surface of the base foil -
leaving a customized image, logo or text provided by the customer.
•Two separate color foils are used to contrast the impression.
End Users will be able to choose between 8 different card placements (4 - landscape) and
(4-portrait) where the VeriMarkTM can be located. When its time to print through the Driver,
the End User will select the location on their organizations card design around which no
printing and overlay will be placed.
Custom HoloMarkTM Cards
A Custom HoloMark TM Card is a three-dimensional holographic image transferred to
metal foil and embossed to blank cards. The image is customer specific and the program
mirrors our holographic laminates program with a couple exceptions.
Visual Security - Card Stock Part Numbers
All Visual Security Cards will be offered on the following Fargo Card Stocks only:
•P/NNo. 81754 Ultra Card
•P/NNo. 81762 Ultra Card III with hi-coercivity magnetic stripe
•P/NNo. 81763 Ultra Card III
Visual Security - Fargo Certified Overlaminates (Special Order in
50 quantity minimum)
•Part No. 82255: PolyGuard 1.0 mil for HoloMarkTM and VeriMarkTM Cards, Clear
•Part No. 82256: PolyGuard 1.0 mil for HoloMarkTM and VeriMarkTM Cards, High
Resolution Globe design hologram with "Secure" micro-text
Visual Security Card Stock - Tolerances
•Tolerance of base foil placement will equal +/- .010" from the nearest edges of the card
•Tolerance of layered foil will equal +/- .010"
DTC400/DTC300/DTC300M Card Printer Service Manual (Rev. 1.3)
RESTRICTED USE ONLY Fargo Electronics, Inc.
2-7
VeriMarkTM - Application Specifications
VeriMarkTM foils will cover a dimensional area of 1.9 cm length x 1.3 cm height. The
exclusive areas are as follows:
•VeriMarkTM Card customers will be able to choose 1 of 8 pre-defined placements
(corners) via Printer Driver (4 positions) Landscape and (4 Positions) Portrait mode.
•VeriMarkTM foil placement will not interfere with card punch slots .
•Foil color base is silver; debossed impression is gold foil.
•VeriMarkTM foil placement will be located 0.4 cm from the edges of the card except for
the top two locations on portrait orientation cards (positions E & F). The foil will be
located 0.9 cm from the top of the card and 0.4 cm from the sides of the card.
HoloMarkTM and Custom HoloMarkTM - Application Specifications
HoloMarkTM and Custom HoloMarkTM foils will cover a dimensional area of 1.5 cm x 1.5
cm. The exclusive areas are as follows:
•HoloMarkTM and Custom HoloMarkTM card end-users will be able to choose 1 of 8
pre-defined placements (corners) via Printer Driver (4 positions) Landscape and (4
positions) Portrait mode.
•HoloMarkTM foil placement will not interfere with card punch slots.
•Foil Color options will be silver or gold.
•Outside edge placement of Foil impression options on card will be 0.4 cm from edge of
card.
•HoloMarkTM foil placement options will be at all four corners of card located 0.4 cm
from edge of card.
DTC400/DTC300/DTC300M Card Printer Service Manual (Rev. 1.3)
RESTRICTED USE ONLY Fargo Electronics, Inc.
2-8
Functional Specifications
This Card Printer utilizes two different, yet closely related printing technologies to achieve
its remarkable direct-to-card print quality for dye-sublimation and resin thermal transfer.
The Card Printer will print from any IBM-PC® or compatible running Windows® 98SE, Me,
Windows 2000 or Windows XP.
The following describes how each of these technologies works:
Function Description
DyeSublimation
Resin
Thermal
Transfer
Dye-Sublimation is the print method the DTC400/DTC300/DTC300M uses
to produce smooth, continuous-tone images that look truly photographic.
(Note: This process uses a dye-based Ribbon roll that is partitioned by a
number of consecutive color panels.)
The panels are grouped in a repeating series of these three process colors
along the entire length of the Print Ribbon: yellow, magenta and cyan or
YMC.
The Printer always prints the yellow panel first, followed by the magenta
panel and the cyan panel. (Note: As the Print Ribbon passes beneath the
Printhead, hundreds of thermal elements within the Printhead heat the
dyes on the Ribbon. When these dyes are heated, they diffuse into the
surface of the card. A separate pass is made for each of the three color
panels on the Ribbon.)
By combining the colors of each panel and by varying the heat used to
transfer these colors, it is possible to print up to 16.7 million different
shades of color. (Note: This blends one color smoothly into the next,
producing photo-quality images with absolutely no dot pattern.)
Resin Thermal Transfer is the print method the Printer uses to print sharp
black text and crisp bar codes, which can be read by both infrared and
visible-light bar code scanners.
•Used to print ultra-fast, one-color ID cards on the
DTC400/DTC300/DTC300M. (Note: Like dye-sublimation, this process
uses the same thermal Printhead to transfer color to a card from a
resin-only Print Ribbon or the resin black (K) panel of a full color Print
Ribbon.)
•Solid dots of resin-based ink are transferred and fused to the surface of
the card. (Note: This produces durable, saturated printing.)
DTC400/DTC300/DTC300M Card Printer Service Manual (Rev. 1.3)
RESTRICTED USE ONLY Fargo Electronics, Inc.
2-9
Printer Components: Front Cover to USB Port
Components Description
Front Cover Opens to allow access to the Ribbon Cartridge. (Note: This cover must
be closed in order for the Printer to begin printing.)
Printhead
The component of the Printer that actually does the printing. (Note: This
component is fragile and must not be bumped or touched with anything
other than a cleaning swab.)
Cancel buttonThe Cancel button turns the Printer ON and OFF. (Note: It also
serves to cancel the current print job and reset the Printer for the next
print job.)
If a card is left within the Printer after a print job is canceled, it will
automatically be ejected when the Printer is turned back ON.
Pause button The Pause button is used to pause the Printer during normal operation
and also to resume operation after an error condition is cleared. (Note:
In general, as the icon above this button indicates, errors are related to
either the Ribbon or the cards. If an error occurs, the Pause LED will
flash.)
Card
Cleaning
Automatically cleans cards for higher print quality. (Note: Clean the
Card Cleaning Roller as needed.)
Roller
Card Input
Load blank cards into this Hopper.
Hopper
Power Port Connect to the included power cord.
USB Port Connect to a Windows PC with a USB cable.
DTC400/DTC300/DTC300M Card Printer Service Manual (Rev. 1.3)
RESTRICTED USE ONLY Fargo Electronics, Inc.
2-10
Printer Components: Print Ribbons
The Card Printer utilizes both dye-sublimation and/or resin thermal transfer methods to
print images directly onto blank cards. Since the dye-sublimation and the resin thermal
transfer print methods each provide their own unique benefits, Print Ribbons are available
in resin-only, dye-sublimation-only and combination dye-sublimation/resin versions.
To make it easier to remember which Print Ribbons are which, a letter code has been
developed to indicate the type of Ribbon panels found on each Ribbon. This letter code is
as follows:
= Dye-Sublimation Yellow Panel
= Dye-Sublimation Magenta Panel
= Dye-Sublimation Cyan Panel
= Resin Black Panel
= Clear Protective Overlay Panel
= Ultra Violet Flourenscing Panel
DTC400/DTC300/DTC300M Card Printer Service Manual (Rev. 1.3)
RESTRICTED USE ONLY Fargo Electronics, Inc.
2-11
Printer Components: Resin-Only Print Ribbons
Resin-only Print Ribbons consist of a continuous roll of a single resin color. No protective
overlay panel (O) is provided since resin images do not require the protection of such an
overlay. The following resin-only Ribbon types are available for use with both
DTC400/DTC300/DTC300M:
Type Description
Standard Resin Black
(K) (provides 1,000
prints)
Premium Resin Black
(K) (provides 1,000
prints)
Colored Resin
(provides 1,000 prints)
Metallic Resin
(provides 500 prints)
This Ribbon provides high resin durability ideal for most
general-purpose monochrome ID card applications. Resin black
bar codes are readable by both infrared and visible-light bar
codes scanners.
This Ribbon provides maximum resin durability ideal for
applications such as access control where cards are repeatedly
swiped through a Magnetic Stripe reader. Resin black bar codes
are readable by both infrared and visible-light bar codes
scanners.
(Note: Using a Premium Resin Black Ribbon will provide better
photo realistic output.)
Several colored resin Ribbons are available in a variety of colors
for customizing or color-coding resin-only ID cards.
Metallic resin Ribbons are available for printing resin images
with a unique metallic sheen.
DTC400/DTC300/DTC300M Card Printer Service Manual (Rev. 1.3)
RESTRICTED USE ONLY Fargo Electronics, Inc.
2-12
Printer Components: Dye-Sublimation Print Ribbons
Note that the Printer requires both specialized and authorized Print Ribbons in order to
print and function properly.
Step Procedure
1Do not run the cards with a contaminated, dull or uneven surface through the
Printer.
Caution: Printing onto such cards will ultimately lead to poor print
quality and will greatly reduce the life of the Printhead.
2Always store the card stock in its original packaging or in a clean, dust-free
container.
3
Do not print onto cards that have been dropped or soiled. (Note: Printhead
damage caused by contaminated or poor quality cards will automatically void the
Printhead's factory warranty.)
4If printing onto cards with a pre-punched slot, do not print over the area of the
card with the punched slot. (Note: To avoid this area when printing, use the
options in the Overlay / Print Area tab to omit printing in this area or punch the
slot after the card has printed.)
DTC400/DTC300/DTC300M Card Printer Service Manual (Rev. 1.3)
The Dye-Sublimation/resin Print Ribbon combines the yellow (Y),
magenta (M) and cyan (C) dye-sublimation panels with a resin black (K)
panel.
By combining both types of Ribbon panels, this Ribbon can be used to
print full-color, photo-quality images with the dye-sublimation panels
along with sharp, black text and bar codes with the resin black panel.
A clear overlay panel (O) is also included on most Ribbons to protect the
dye-sublimation images. Dye-Sublimation images must have an overlay
panel applied to them or they will quickly begin to wear or fade.
Full-Color
(YMCKO)
(provides 250
prints)
This Ribbon is used to print full-color photo ID cards along with resin
black text and bar codes. Both infrared and visible-light bar code
scanners can read bar codes printed with resin black.
•An overlay panel (O) is included to protect the full-color dye-
sublimation printing.
YMCKOK The designation of colored Ribbon by the Panels of color in the order in
which they are printed: Yellow (Y), Magenta (M), Cyan (C), Black (K),
Overlay (O), Black (K) (used for backside, black only printing).
YMCFKO The designation of colored Ribbon by the Panels of color in the order in
which they are printed: Yellow (Y), Magenta (M), Cyan (C), Flourescent
(F), Black (K), Overlay (O), (used for backside, black only printing).
DTC400/DTC300/DTC300M Card Printer Service Manual (Rev. 1.3)
RESTRICTED USE ONLY Fargo Electronics, Inc.
2-14
Printer Components: Blank Cards
Type Description
Card Size The Card Printer accepts standard CR-80 sized and 20 mil. cards (3.370"L x
2.125"W / 85.6mmL x 54mmW) with a thickness of 30 mil (.030"/.762mm).
Card
Design
Card
Surface
UltraCard
Stock
The Printer will print onto any card with a clean, level and polished PVC
surface.
Although the Printer is equipped with card cleaning Rollers, it is very
important to always print onto cards specifically designed for direct-to-card
dye-sublimation printing.
Suitable cards must have a polished PVC surface free of fingerprints, dust or
any other types of embedded contaminants. In addition, cards must have a
completely smooth, level surface in order for the Printer to achieve consistent
color coverage.
Certain types of Proximity cards have an uneven surface that will inhibit
consistent color transfer.
•Certain types of smart card chips are raised slightly above the cards
surface which also results in poor color transfer.
Due to the importance of using high-quality blank cards, a factory-approved
card stock called UltraCard™ is available and recommended for best results.
•UltraCard stock has a glossy PVC laminate on top and bottom and is
optically inspected to provide the cleanest, most scratch and debris-
reduced cards possible.
•Two types of these cards are available: UltraCard and UltraCard III.
UltraCard stock has a PVC core and offers medium card durability.
UltraCard III stock has a 40% polyester core and offers high durability.
•Both types of UltraCards produce printed images with a glossy, photo-
quality finish.
DTC400/DTC300/DTC300M Card Printer Service Manual (Rev. 1.3)
The Flipper Table Module Assembly (D900200) is an automated Flipping Module that
allows the Printer to print on the frontside and backside of each card.
Display: Flipper Table Module Assembly
Here are references within this document.
•See the Installing the Flipper Table Module Assembly (D900200)
•See the Flipper Table Module Assembly Problems
procedures.
procedure.
•See the Print Both Sides option in the Using the Device Options tab
(DTC400/DTC300) section.
•See the Front and Back radio buttons in the Using the Overlay / Print Area tab
(DTC400/DTC300/DTC300M) section.
•See the Front and Back radio buttons in the Using the K Panel Resin tab
(DTC400/DTC300) section.
•See the DTC400/DTC300/DTC300M Card Printer Service Manual for the replacement
procedures for this Printer.
DTC400/DTC300/DTC300M Card Printer Service Manual (Rev. 1.3)
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