FARGO electronic Pro-L User Manual
Pro-L Card Printer Users Manual
Notices
The information in this document is subject to change without notice.
NO WARRANTY OF ANY KIND IS MADE WITH REGARD TO THIS MATERIAL,
INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF
MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE.
No liability is assumed for errors contained herein or for incidental damages in connection
with the furnishing, performance, or use of this material.
This document contains proprietary information which is protected by copyright. All rights
are reserved. No part of this document may be photocopied, reproduced, or translated into
another language without prior written consent.
Patent Pending
Trademark Acknowledgements
IBM is a registered trademark of International Business Machines Corporation. Windows is
a trademark of Microsoft Corporation. All other trademarks are the property of their
respective owners.
Printing History
Edition 1.0, 080100, P/N L000096
© Copyright 2000 All rights reserved.
iii
Pro-L Card Printer Users Manual
For Users in the United States:
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital
device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide
reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This
equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and
used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio
communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a
particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or
television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user
is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:
n Re-orient or relocate the receiving antenna.
n Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
n Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the
receiver is connected.
n Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
n Use of a shielded cable is required to comply with the Class A limits of Part 15 of the
FCC Rules.
You are cautioned that any changes or modifications not expressly approved in this manual
could void your authority to operate and/or obtain warranty service for this equipment.
For Users in Canada:
This digital apparatus does not exceed the Class B limits for radio noise for digital
apparatus set out on the Radio Interference Regulations of the Canadian Department of
Communications.
Le present appareil numerique nemet pas de bruits radioelectriques depassant les limites
applicables aux appareils numeriques de la class B prescrites dans le Reglement sur le
brouillage radioelectrique edicte par le ministere des Communications du Canada.
For Users in Taiwan:
iv
Table of Contents
Section 1: Introduction
A. How Your Card Printer Works........................................................1
B. Special Features.................................................................................2
Section 2: Safety Precautions ............................................................3
Section 3: Getting Started
A. Choosing a Good Location............................................................13
B. About Moisture Condensation .....................................................13
C. Unpacking and Inspection.............................................................14
D. Applying Power..............................................................................14
E. Identifying the Printer Features....................................................16
Section 4: Ribbons and Cards
A. About Ribbons.................................................................................19
B. Loading Ribbon into the Printer...................................................22
C. About Cards.....................................................................................24
D. Loading Cards into the Printer.....................................................24
E. Running the Self Test......................................................................26
Section 5: Card Laminating
A. About the Laminator......................................................................27
B. About Overlaminates .....................................................................28
C. Loading Overlaminate into the Printer .......................................28
Section 6: Using Your Card Printer
A. Connecting the Printer to Your Computer..................................31
B. Installing the Windows Printer Driver........................................32
C. Installing the 32-Bit Print Spooler for Windows 95/98.............34
D. Setting Up the Printer Driver........................................................36
E. Printing a Card................................................................................48
v
Pro-L Card Printer Users Manual
Section 7: Maintenance
A. Supplies Required...........................................................................50
B. Standard Printhead Cleaning........................................................51
C. Expanded Printhead Cleaning......................................................51
D. Cleaning the Printers Case...........................................................51
E. Cleaning the Inside of the Printer ................................................52
F. Clearing a Card Jam .......................................................................52
G. Clearing a Ribbon or Overlaminate Jam.....................................53
H. Cleaning the Card Feed Rollers....................................................53
I. Cleaning the Drive Roller..............................................................54
J. Maintaining the Cleaning Rollers.................................................55
Section 8: Mechanical Adjustments
A. Adjusting the Card Input Guides.................................................57
B. Adjusting the Internal Card Guides.............................................58
C. Adjusting the Card Separator Flap ..............................................59
D. Adjusting the Laminator................................................................62
Section 9: Troubleshooting
A. Interpreting LCD Display Messages............................................65
B. General Troubleshooting Suggestions .........................................77
Section 10: Technical Specifications ..................................................81
Appendix A: Magnetic Stripe Encoding Module
A. Magnetic Track Options .................................................................83
B. ISO Track Locations ........................................................................87
C. Sending Track Information............................................................87
Appendix B: Interfacing Information
A. Introduction.....................................................................................89
B. Centronics-Type Parallel Interface................................................89
Index ...............................................................................................................91
vi
Introduction
Thank You...
for choosing the Pro-L Card Printer. This printer has been designed to provide you
with stunning, photo-quality color output on a variety of different card sizes and
thicknesses. It offers many features which easily allow you to create full-color
photo ID cards complete with high resolution graphics, text, bar codes, and much
more.
A. HOW YOUR CARD PRINTER WORKS
Your card printer utilizes two different, yet closely related printing technologies to
achieve its remarkable, direct-to-card output dye-sublimation and resin thermal
transfer. The following describes how each of these technologies works:
Dye-Sublimation
Dye-sublimation is the process your printer uses to print smooth, continuous-tone
images that look truly photographic. This process uses a dye-based ribbon roll that
is partitioned by a number of consecutive color panels (see Section 4-A for more
ribbon information). The panels are grouped in a repeating series of the four
process colors yellow, magenta, cyan, and black along the entire length of the
ribbon. The printer always prints the yellow panel first, followed by the magenta
panel, the cyan panel, and finally the black panel.
1
As the ribbon and card pass simultaneously beneath the printhead, hundreds of
thermal elements within the printhead heat the dyes on the ribbon. When these
dyes are heated, they vaporize and diffuse into the surface of the card. By varying
the heat intensity of each thermal element within the printhead, it is possible for
each transferred dot of color to vary in hue, thus blending one color smoothly into
the next and producing photo-realistic images.
Section 1: Introduction 1
Pro-L Card Printer Users Manual
Resin Thermal Transfer
Resin Thermal Transfer is the process your printer uses to print sharp black text and
crisp bar codes which can be read by both infra-red and visible-light bar code
scanners. It is also the process used to print ultra-fast, one-color ID cards. Like dyesublimation, this process uses the same thermal printhead to transfer color from the
ribbon roll to the card. The difference, however, is that solid dots of color are
transferred in the form of a resin-based ink which fuses to the surface of the card
when heated. This produces very durable, single-color images. For more information
on resin ribbons, please refer to Section 4-A.
B. SPECIAL FEATURES
Your card printer has many distinct advantages over other card printers. Its 100 card
capacity card hopper allows for automatic card feeding which reduces the time and
personnel required to create a photo ID card. In addition, the printer offers:
n Automatic, dual-sided printing in full-color or monochrome
n Simultaneous dye-sublimation/resin thermal transfer printing capability for
printing continuous-tone photos and crisp, readable bar codes
n Optional SmartGuard Security Feature for controlling printing access
n Thermal Transfer Film or PolyGuard polyester chip overlaminate
capabilities
n Optional magnetic stripe or smart card encoding capabilities
n A fast print speed of 30 seconds per full-color card
n Fast, 32-bit print spooler for Windows 95/98
n Dual-sided card cleaning system
n Upgradable memory
n Optional color matching software
n Optional Ethernet network support
And best of all, operation of the printer is simple and straight forward. The printer
will print from any IBM-PC
95/98, or Windows NT. This means you can use the printer with virtually any
software package running under Windows without any special set-up or
configuration beyond the initial installation of the specific software driver and
interface cable.
®
or compatible running Windows 3.1x, Windows
To begin using your new printer, please refer to the remaining sections of this
manual in the order in which they appear. This Users Manual is your complete stepby-step guide to setting up and printing with your new card printer.
2 Section 1: Introduction
Safety Precautions
Before operating the unit, please read the following safety precautions carefully.
WARNINGS
CAUTION!
TO PREVENT FIRE OR SHOCK HAZARD, DO NOT EXPOSE THE UNIT
TO RAIN OR MOISTURE. TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK,
DO NOT REMOVE FRONT, TOP OR BACK PANELS. NO USERSERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE. REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED
SERVICE PERSONNEL.
n Operate the unit only on 100-240 VAC, 50/60 Hz. If you have any doubt as to
n Stop operation immediately if any liquid or solid object should fall into the
n Unplug the units power transformer from the wall outlet if you do not use the
n The unit is not disconnected from the main power source as long as the power
n Do not disassemble the cabinet. Refer servicing only to qualified personnel.
n Service personnel: parts of this device may be damaged if exposed to static
2
whether you have a unit with the correct voltage rating for your countrys
power supply, DO NOT attempt to use the unit. Contact your dealer or the
factory.
cabinet. Unplug the unit and have it checked by qualified service personnel.
unit for a long time. Disconnect the cord by grasping the plug. Never pull the
cord itself.
transformer is plugged into the wall outlet, even if the unit itself has been
turned off.
electrical discharges generated by various means, such as walking on a
carpeted floor. To avoid potential damage, always wear an appropriate
personal grounding device, such as a wrist strap (with integral resistor)
connected to an ESD ground. Or, at a minimum, make positive contact with the
bare metal chassis of the printer with your hand prior to touching any internal
electrical components.
Section 2: Safety Precautions 3
Pro-L Card Printer Users Manual
Sicherheitsmaßnahmen
Machen Sie sich vor Inbetriebnahme des Geräts mit den Sicherheitsmaßnahmen
gründlich vertraut.
SICHERHEITSHINWEISE
VORSICHT!
ZUR VERHÜTUNG VON FEUERGEFAHR ODER ELEKTRISCHEN
SCHLÄGEN DAS GERÄT VOR REGEN ODER FEUCHTIGKEIT
SCHÜTZEN. UM DIE GEFAHR VON STROMSCHLÄGEN ZU
VERHINDERN, OBERE, SEITLICHE UND HINTERE ABDECKUNG NICHT
ABNEHMEN. DAS GERÄT ENTHÄLT KEINE TEILE, DIE VOM BENUTZER
GEWARTET WERDEN KÖNNEN. WARTUNGSARBEITEN DÜRFEN NUR
VON QUALIFIZIERTEM FACHPERSONAL DURCHGEFÜHRT WERDEN.
n Das Gerät nur mit 100-240 V 50/60 Hz Wechselstrom betreiben. Wenn Sie nicht
sicher sind, ob Ihr Gerät mit der Spannung des örtlichen Stromnetzes arbeitet,
DAS GERÄT NICHT IN BETRIEB NEHMEN. Wenden Sie sich an Ihren
Händler oder den Hersteller des Geräts.
n Den Betrieb sofort unterbrechen, wenn ein Gegenstand in das Gehäuse gefallen
oder Flüssigkeit eingedrungen ist. Den Netzstecker ziehen und das Gerät von
qualifiziertem Wartungspersonal überprüfen lassen.
n Wenn das Gerät längere Zeit nicht verwendet wird, den Netzstecker des
Transformators ziehen. Immer am Stecker, nicht am Kabel ziehen.
n Solange der Transformator ans Netz angeschlossen ist, steht das Gerät unter
Spannung, auch wenn es ausgeschaltet ist.
n Keine Gehäuseteile abnehmen. Wartungsarbeiten nur von qualifiziertem
Fachpersonal durchführen lassen.
4 Section 2: Safety Precautions
Consignes de sécurité
Avant dutiliser lappareil, prière de lire attentivement les consignes de sécurité
suivantes.
AVERTISSEMENTS
ATTENTION !
POUR EVITER TOUT RISQUE DINCENDIE OU DELECTROCUTION, NE
PAS EXPOSER LAPPAREIL A LA PLUIE OU A LHUMIDITE. POUR EVITER
TOUTE DECHARGE ELECTRIQUE, NE PAS RETIRER LES PANNEAUX
AVANT, SUPERIEUR OU ARRIERE. NE PAS TENTER DE REPARER SOIMEME LES PIECES A LINTERIEUR DE LAPPAREIL. CONFIER
LENTRETIEN DE LAPPAREIL A UN PERSONNEL QUALIFIE.
n Faire fonctionner lappareil uniquement sur courant alternatif de 100/240 V, 50
ou 60 Hz. En cas de doute sur la compatibilité entre la tension nominale de
lappareil et le courant du pays dutilisation, NE PAS TENTER DUTILISER
LAPPAREIL. Contacter le revendeur ou lusine.
n Arrêter immédiatement le fonctionnement si un liquide ou un solide venait à
sinfiltrer à lintérieur de larmoire. Débrancher lappareil et le faire vérifier par
un personnel qualifié.
Pro-L Card Printer Users Manual
n Débrancher le transformateur de la prise murale si lon prévoit de ne pas
utiliser lappareil pendant un certain temps. Pour débrancher le cordon
dalimentation, tirer sur la prise. Ne jamais tirer sur le cordon.
n Lappareil sera connecté à la source dalimentation principale aussi longtemps
que le transformateur de tension restera branché sur la prise murale, même si
lappareil lui-même a été mis hors tension.
n Ne pas démonter lappareil. Confier lentretien de lappareil uniquement à un
personnel qualifié
Section 2: Safety Precautions 5
Pro-L Card Printer Users Manual
Precauciones de seguridad
Antes de operar la unidad, haga el favor de leer detenidamente las siguientes
precauciones de seguridad.
ADVERTENCIAS
¡PRECAUCION!
PARA EVITAR PELIGROS DE INCENDIO O CHOQUE ELECTRICO, NO
EXPONGA LA UNIDAD A LA LLUVIA NI A LA HUMEDAD. PARA
REDUCIR EL RIESGO DE CHOQUE ELECTRICO, NO QUITE LOS
PANELES FRONTALES, SUPERIORES, LATERALES NI DE FONDO. EL
INTERIOR NO TIENE PIEZAS REPARABLES POR EL USUARIO. PARA
SERVICIO DE REPARACION Y MANTENIMIENTO SOLICITE LA
ATENCION DE UN TECNICO DE SERVICIO AUTORIZADO.
n Opere la unidad sólo a 100-240 VAC, 50/60 Hz. Si no está seguro que la unidad
que tiene es compatible al voltaje de la corriente eléctrica de su país, NO
INTENTE USAR LA UNIDAD. Llame al representante de ventas o a la fábrica.
n Detenga la operación inmediatamente si algún líquido u objeto sólido cayera en
el armario. Desenchufe la unidad y hágala revisar por un técnico de servicio
autorizado.
n Desenchufe el transformador del tomacorriente si no va a usar la unidad por
un período de tiempo prolongado. Desenchufe el cordón jalando del enchufe.
Nunca jale del cordón mismo.
n La unidad no estará desconectada de la fuente de alimentación principal
mientras el transformador esté enchufado en el tomacorriente, incluso si la
unidad hubiese sido apagada.
n No desarme el armario. Para servicio de mantenimiento, solicite la atención de
un técnico autorizado.
6 Section 2: Safety Precautions
Pro-L Card Printer Users Manual
Precauzioni per la Sicurezza
Prima di dare inizio al funzionamento dellunità, siete pregati di leggere
attentamente le seguenti precauzioni di sicurezza.
AVVERTENZE
ATTENZIONE!
ONDE EVITARE IL PERICOLO DI INCENDIO O SCOSSA ELETTRICA,
NON ESPORRE LUNITÀ ALLA PIOGGIA OD UMIDITÀ. EVITARE DI
RIMUOVERE I PANNELLI ANTERIORE, SUPERIORE, O POSTERIORE
PER RIDURRE IL RISCHIO DI SCOSSA ELETTRICA. LA
MANUTENZIONE DELLE PARTI INTERNE DELLUNITÀ NON É DI
COMPETENZA DELLUTENTE. AI FINI DELLA RIPARAZIONE
RIVOLGERSI AL PERSONALE DI COMPETENZA.
n Negli Stati Uniti e Canada lunità funziona solo con alimentazione a 100-240
VAC, 50/60 Hz. Qualora non abbiate la certezza che il trasformatore e la spina
di cui disponete siano quelli adeguati allalimentazione erogata nel vostro
paese, NON USARE LUNITÀ. Rivolgersi piuttosto al rivenditore o la fabbrica
del luogo.
n Arrestare immediatamento il funzionamento dellunità qualora si verifichi un
versamento di liquido o la caduta di un oggetto solido allinterno del suo
alloggiamento.
n Staccare la spina del trasformatore dellunit à dalla presa a muro qualora non
ne prevediate lutilizzo per un protratto periodo di tempo. Disconnettere il
cordone elettrico afferrandone la spina, evitando sempre di tirare il cordone
stesso.
n Lalimentazione alla unità non è interrotta se la spina del trasformatore di
tensione rimane collegata alla presa a muro, anche quando lunit à stessa risulta
spenta.
n Non smontare la struttura dellalloggiamento. Le riparazioni sono competenza
soltanto di personale qualificato.
Section 2: Safety Precautions 7
Pro-L Card Printer Users Manual
Precauções de Segurança
Antes de operar esta unidade, leia cuidadosamente as seguintes precauções de
segurança.
ADVERTÊNCIAS
CUIDADO!
PARA EVITAR PERIGO DE CHOQUES ELÉTRICOS OU INCÊNDIO, NÃO
EXPONHA A UNIDADE À CHUVA OU UMIDADE. PARA REDUZIR O
RISCO DE CHOQUES ELÉTRICOS, NÃO REMOVA OS PAINÉIS
DIANTEIRO, SUPERIOR OU TRASEIRO. NENHUMA PEÇA NO
INTERIOR DESTA UNIDADE PODE SER CONSERTADA PELO USUÁRIO.
PEÇA ASSISTÊNCIA AO PESSOAL DE MANUTENÇÃO QUALIFICADO.
n Opere esta unidade somente em 100-240 VAC, 50/60 Hz. Se você não souber se
a sua unidade tem a voltagem correta para o sistema elétrico do seu pais, NÃO
TENTE USAR ESTA UNIDADE. Entre em contato com seu revendedor ou
com a fábrica.
n Pare imediatamente a operação se qualquer líquido ou objeto sólido cair em seu
gabinete. Desligue a unidade e mande examiná-la por pessoal qualificado.
n Desligue o transformador de força da unidade conectado à tomada de corrente
elétrica da parede se você não usar a unidade por um longo período de tempo.
Desconecte o fio segurando o plugue. Nunca puxe o próprio fio.
n A unidade não está desconectada da fonte de força principal enquanto o
transformador de força estiver ligado à tomada da parede, mesmo que a
própria unidade esteja desligada.
n Não desmonte o gabinete. Peça assistência somente ao pessoal qualificado.
8 Section 2: Safety Precautions
Pro-L Card Printer Users Manual
Section 2: Safety Precautions 9
Pro-L Card Printer Users Manual
10 Section 2: Safety Precautions
Pro-L Card Printer Users Manual
Section 2: Safety Precautions 11
Pro-L Card Printer Users Manual
12 Section 2: Safety Precautions
Getting Started
A. CHOOSING A GOOD LOCATION
Place the unit in a location with adequate air circulation to prevent internal heat
build up.
1. Use the dimensions specified in Section 10 as a guideline for the minimum
clearances to the unit.
NOTE:
Allow for adequate clearance above the unit to accommodate the height of the unit with its
cover open.
2. Do not install unit (a) near heat sources such as radiators or air ducts, or (b) in a
place subject to direct sun-light, excessive dust, mechanical vibration or shock.
3
B. ABOUT MOISTURE CONDENSATION
If the unit is brought directly from a cold to a warm location, or is placed in a very
damp room, moisture may condense inside the unit. Should this occur, print
quality may not be optimum. Leave the unit turned OFF in a warm, dry room for
several hours before using. This will allow the moisture to evaporate.
Section 3: Getting Started 13
Pro-L Card Printer Users Manual
C. UNPACKING AND INSPECTION
While unpacking your printer, inspect the carton to ensure that no damage has
occurred during shipping. Make sure that all supplied accessories are included
with your unit. The following items should be included with your printer:
n Printer
n Power Supply (see Section 3-D)
n Cleaning Roller Assembly (pre-installed)
n Software Installation CD (see Section 6)
n Warranty Statement and Registration Card
Save the carton and packing materials. They will come in handy when
transporting the unit.
D. APPLYING POWER
The power supply included with the printer is a universal power supply properly
configured for the power used in your country. To connect this power supply to the
printer, locate the appropriate power cord for your country and refer to the
following steps:
CAUTION!
1. Place the power cord into the power cord port of the power supply.
THE INCLUDED POWER SUPPLY IS DESIGNED FOR USE ONLY WITH THE
COLOR ID CARD PRINTER. IF YOU HAVE ANY DOUBTS ABOUT THE
PLUG CONFIGURATION OR THE VOLTAGE, DO NOT ATTEMPT TO USE
THE PRINTER. CONTACT YOUR AUTHORIZED RESELLER FOR
INFORMATION ON THE CORRECT POWER SUPPLY CONFIGURATION.
14 Section 3: Getting Started
Pro-L Card Printer Users Manual
2. Place the DC power plug end of the power supply cord into the printer s
Power Input Port.
Power Input Port
3. Place the AC power plug end of the power supply cord into an available wall
outlet.
Power is automatically applied to the printer when it is plugged in. Press the
On/Cancel button if you wish to turn the printer OFF. If the printer will not be
used for a long period of time, unplug the power supply cord from the wall outlet.
Section 3: Getting Started 15
Pro-L Card Printer Users Manual
E. IDENTIFYING THE PRINTER FEATURES
This illustration shows all of the features found on the front of your card printer.
Left Top Cover
Cover
Release
Buttons
Security
Card Slot
On/Cancel
Button
LCD Display
On LED Light
Ready LED Light
Right Top Cover
Card Hopper
Door
Pause/Resume
Button
LCD Display
The LCD display shows you the current status of the printer. Since the printers
printing and laminating functions work independently, the top line of the LCD
reports the status of the printing functions, while the bottom line reports the status of
the laminating functions.
When the printer is first powered ON, the printers startup screen will appear
displaying the current firmware version and the amount of installed printer
memory (4MB or 16MB). Once the printer has finished its startup system check, it
will then display Printer Ready and Lam Ready to indicate that the printer is ready
for operation. Lam Adjust Temp will display if the printers built-in laminator is
heating or cooling to its target temperature. During operation, the LCD will also
indicate the specific ribbon panel being printed, whether or not it is laminating,
and if any printing errors have occurred. For a complete list of possible LCD
prompts, see Section 9-A.
On LED Light
Indicates the printer power is either ON or OFF.
16 Section 3: Getting Started
Pro-L Card Printer Users Manual
Ready LED Light
When ON, this light indicates the printer is ready for operation. When OFF, this
light indicates the printer is either OFF or paused and will not operate. If this light
is flashing, a printer error has occurred. Refer to the printers LCD display for the
specific type of error that occurred. See also Section 9-A for a complete description
of all possible LCD error prompts.
On/Cancel Button
The On/Cancel button turns the printer power ON and OFF. It also serves to cancel
the current print job and reset the printer for the next print job if an unrecoverable
print error has occurred. 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. With
the Top Cover(s) open, this button can also be used to manually wind the feed
rollers forward. This is helpful when cleaning the printer or if clearing jammed
media.
Pause/Resume Button
The Pause/Resume button allows you to pause the printer at any time during
operation. Please note, however, that the printer will always finish its current task
before pausing. For example, if the Pause/Resume button is pressed in the middle
of printing the magenta ribbon panel, the printer will pause only after the entire
magenta panel has printed. The Ready LED Light will turn OFF when the printer is
paused and ON again when operation is resumed. With the Top Cover(s) open, this
button can also be used to manually wind the feed rollers backward. This is helpful
when cleaning the printer or if clearing jammed media.
Security Card Slot
This is the slot in which a SmartGuard Access Card is inserted if you are using the
printers optional SmartGuard Security Feature. This unique option prevents the
printer from operating unless a custom access card is inserted. It also allows you to
print custom SmartShield Security Images which glow under ultraviolet light.
If you have purchased the SmartGuard Security Feature, please refer to the
instructions included with it for information on how it is enabled and used. If you
have not purchased the SmartGuard feature, you DO NOT need to insert an access
card to begin operating your new printer.
Section 3: Getting Started 17
Pro-L Card Printer Users Manual
18 Section 3: Getting Started
Ribbons
Y
M
C
B
K
O
A. ABOUT RIBBONS
As described in Section 1-A, your card printer utilizes both dye-sublimation and
resin thermal transfer printing methods. 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 dyesublimation/resin versions.
To make it easier to remember which 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:
and Cards
4
= Dye-Sublimation Yellow Panel
= Dye-Sublimation Magenta Panel
= Dye-Sublimation Cyan Panel
= Dye-Sublimation Black Panel
= Resin Black Panel
= Clear Protective Overlay Panel
Section 4: Ribbons and Cards 19
Pro-L Card Printer Users Manual
K
K
B O
Y M C B O
Resin-Only Ribbons
Resin-only 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:
Standard Resin Black (K) This ribbon provides high resin durability ideal
(provides 1,000 prints) for most general purpose monochrome ID card
applications. Resin black bar codes are readable by
both infra-red and visible-light bar code scanners.
Colored Resin Several colored resin ribbons are available in
(provides 1,000 prints) a variety of colors for customizing or color coding
resin-only ID cards.
Premium Resin Black (K) This ribbon provides maximum resin durability
(provides 1,000 prints) 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
infra-red and visible-light bar code scanners.
Metallic Resin Metallic resin ribbons are available for printing
(provides 1,000 prints) resin images with a metallic sheen.
Scratch-Off Resin A scratch-off resin ribbon is available for printing
(provides 1,000 prints) over areas of a pre-printed card in order to hide
specific information such as a personal identification
number.
Dye-Sublimation-Only Ribbons
Dye-sublimation-only ribbons are available in either monochrome or full-color
versions. These ribbons consist of a series of dye-sublimation ribbon panels which
alternate with a clear protective overlay (O) panel. Dye-sublimation images must
have either an overlay panel or an overlaminate applied to them or they will quickly
begin to wear or fade. The following dye-sublimation-only ribbon types are available:
Dye-Sublimation Black (BO) This ribbon provides a dye-sublimation black
(provides 500 prints) panel (B) along with an overlay panel (O) and
is used to print smooth, photo-quality black
and white photo ID cards. Dye-sublimation
bar codes are readable only by visible-light
bar code scanners.
Full-Color (YMCBO) This ribbon allows you to print full-color
(provides 250 prints) photo ID cards. Since the black panel of this
ribbon is dye-sublimation black (B), bar codes
printed with this ribbon can only be read by
visible-light bar code scanners.
20 Section 4: Ribbons and Cards
Pro-L Card Printer Users Manual
Y M C K O
Y M C K K
Y M C K KO
Dye-Sublimation/Resin Ribbons
Dye-sublimation/resin ribbons combine the yellow (Y), magenta (M), and cyan (C)
dye-sublimation panels with one or two resin black (K) panels. By combining both
types of ribbon panels, these ribbons allow you 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(s). With most of these ribbons, a clear overlay panel (O)
is also included to protect the dye-sublimation images. Dye-sublimation images
must have either an overlay panel or an overlaminate applied to them, or they will
quickly begin to wear or fade. The following dye-sublimation/resin ribbon types
are available:
Full-Color (YMCKO) This ribbon allows you to print full-color
(provides 250 prints) photo ID cards along with resin black text and
bar codes. Bar codes printed with resin black
can be read by both infra-red and visible-light
bar code scanners.
Full-Color (YMCKOK) This ribbon is intended to be used for
(provides 250 prints) dual-sided printing. By supplying two resin
black panels, this ribbon lets you print fullcolor with resin black on one side and resin
black-only on the other, without wasting an
entirely new set of ribbon panels for the blackonly side. An overlay panel (O) is also
included to protect the side of the card with
full-color dye-sublimation printing. No
overlay is necessary for the resin black-only
side.
Full-Color (YMCKK) This ribbon is intended to be used for dual-
(provides 250 prints) sided printing. By supplying two resin black
panels, this ribbon lets you print full-color
with resin black on one side and resin blackonly on the other, without wasting an entirely
new set of ribbon panels for the black-only
side. Since no overlay panel is included, this
ribbon must be used in conjunction with the
printers overlaminate function. No
overlaminate is necessary for the resin blackonly side.
Section 4: Ribbons and Cards 21
Pro-L Card Printer Users Manual
IMPORTANT!
All color or monochrome dye-sublimation images MUST have either the ribbons
clear overlay panel or an overlaminate applied to them. If neither of these types of
protective layers are applied, your cards dye-sublimation image will quickly begin
to wear or fade. Cards printed solely with monochrome resin text, bar codes, or
images do not require any type of protective overlay or overlaminate.
To apply the ribbons clear overlay panel, select the Overlay option within the
printer driver setup window. To apply an overlaminate, select the Lamination
option. In most instances, when applying an overlaminate, the ribbons overlay
panel should not be applied. See Section 5 for further overlaminate information.
For more information on the printer drivers Overlay or Lamination options, refer
to Section 6-C.
Please note that the card printer requires specialized ribbons in order to function
properly. To order additional ribbons, contact your authorized reseller.
B. LOADING RIBBON INTO THE PRINTER
Follow these steps to load ribbon into the printer:
IMPORTANT!
Watches, rings, bracelets, and other jewelry can damage the printhead if
accidentally bumped against it. For best results, remove such items before
installing or removing ribbons. Also, DO NOT touch the glass substrate of the
printhead. Oil or dirt from your fingers can cause premature printhead wear. If
you do touch the printhead, clean it according to Section 7-B before attempting to
print.
1. Remove the ribbon from its packaging. Do not touch the colored portion of the
ribbon. Oil or dirt from your hands can impair print quality.
2. The supply end of the ribbon is the side with the fresh, unused ribbon on it.
The ribbon take-up is the other end.
3. Open the top-right cover of the printer by pressing its Cover Release Button.
Allow the cover to swing up and open.
22 Section 4: Ribbons and Cards
Supply
Take-up
Pro-L Card Printer Users Manual
4. With the cover open, place the supply end of the ribbon in between the two
black Ribbon Drive Hubs located on the far right-hand side of the printers
interior. Make certain that the ribbon is fed from underneath the ribbon roll.
HINT: The Ribbon Drive Hub nearest you, as you are looking into the printer
from the front, is spring loaded. Use the end of the ribbon supply core to push
in this Ribbon Drive Hub when inserting the ribbon.
Supply Ribbon
Take-up Ribbon
Drive Hubs
Ribbon
Sensor
Drive Hubs
5. Place the take-up end of the ribbon roll in between the two black Ribbon Drive
Hubs located about six inches (152mm) to the left of the ribbon supply Ribbon
Drive Hubs. Load the ribbon take-up end of the ribbon just as you loaded the
ribbon supply end in step 4. When loaded properly, the ribbon should feed
underneath both ends of the ribbon roll.
6. Close the cover. When you start to print, the Ribbon Drive Hubs will
automatically engage the ribbon core notches.
IMPORTANT!
Take-up Roll
Cleaning Roller Assembly
Do not reverse the ribbon. Damage may occur to the thermal printhead!
Section 4: Ribbons and Cards 23
Supply Roll
Pro-L Card Printer Users Manual
C. ABOUT CARDS
Your card printer accepts a variety of different card sizes and thicknesses and will
print onto any card with a clean, level, polished PVC surface (see Section 10 for
accepted card size specifications). 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.
Some types of Proximity cards, for example, have an uneven surface which will
inhibit consistent color transfer. Likewise, some smart card chips are raised slightly
above the cards surface which also results in poor color transfer. For information on
card brands suitable for direct-to-card dye-sublimation printing, contact your
authorized reseller.
IMPORTANT!
Never run cards with a contaminated, dull, or uneven surface through the printer.
Printing onto such cards will ultimately lead to poor print quality and will greatly
reduce the life of your printhead. In addition, always store your card stock in its
original packaging or in a clean, dust-free container. Do not print onto cards which
have been dropped or soiled. Printhead damage caused by contaminated or
poor quality cards will automatically void the printheads factory
warranty.
NOTE:
If printing onto smart cards, it is not recommended that you print over the area of the card
containing the smart card chip, as this could damage both the smart chip and the printhead.
For best results when printing onto smart cards, use cards with a recessed chip and select
either the Smart Card or Smart Chip card size option from within your printer driver
setup (see Section 6-D for printer driver information).
Likewise, if printing onto cards with a pre-punched slot, do not print over the area of the
card with the punched slot. To avoid this area when printing in portrait orientation, select
the Punch Offset card size option from within your printer driver setup. When selected,
this option allows the printer to print up to but not over the punched area of the card. This
option does not apply to pre-punched cards intended to be printed and worn in landscape
orientation. If you need to print over the entire area of a card in landscape orientation,
punch the slot after the card has printed.
D. LOADING CARDS INTO THE PRINTER
The printer will hold a maximum of 100 cards in its Card Hopper (based on a
standard CR-80 card size). The Printer automatically feeds each card and adjusts to
each cards particular size and thickness. Significantly larger or thicker cards,
however, may require slight printer adjustments for consistent printing. See
Section 8 for details on such adjustments. To load the cards into the printer, refer to
the following steps:
24 Section 4: Ribbons and Cards
Pro-L Card Printer Users Manual
1. Remove a stack of 100 or fewer cards from the card packaging. Do not touch
the area of the card where you intend to print. Oil or dirt from your hands can
impair print quality.
2. Open the Card Hopper Door located on the right-hand side of the printer s
exterior by grasping the top of the door and pulling down. Allow the door to
swing completely open.
Card Input Tray
Card Input Guides
Card Hopper Door
3. Insert the stack of cards into the printer by depressing the spring loaded Card
Input Tray and placing the cards between the Card Input Guides (see Section 8
for further Card Input Guide information). Always load cards with the top or
primary print side facing up. If inserting cards with a magnetic stripe, be sure
that the magnetic stripe is positioned downward and that the stripe is oriented
toward the rear of the printer. If inserting smart cards or cards with a pre-
punched slot, be sure the smart card chip is positioned upward and that the
chip or slotted end of the card is inserted first.
Card Input Tray
Section 4: Ribbons and Cards 25
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