HP (Hewlett-Packard) DMX 400, DMX 430 User Manual

DMX



400/430

Operator’s Manual

HP PCL-4, and HP Laser Jet II are Trademarks of Hewlett Packard Corporation. CG Triumvirate is a trademark of Agfa Corporation. CG Times, based upon Times New Roman under license from The Monotype

Corporation. plc, is a product of Agfa Corporation. DMX, SEAQ, and PC Batch are trademarks of Datamax Barcode Products

Corporation.

As an Energy Star Partner, Datamax Corporation has determined that this product

meets the Energy Star guidelines for energy efficiency.

Firmware (Software) Agreement: The enclosed Firmware (Software) resident

in the EPROM’s is owned by Licensor or its suppliers and is licensed for used only on a single printer in the user’s Trade or Business. The User agrees not

to, and not to authorize or permit any other person or party to, duplicate or copy the EPROM’s or the information contained in the EPROM’s.

The firmware (Software) is protected by applicable copyright laws and Licensor retains all rights not expressly granted. In no event will Licensor or its suppliers be liable for any damages or loss, including direct, incidental, economic, special, or consequential damages, arising out of the use or inability to use the Firmware (Software).

Information in this document is subject to change without notice and does not

represent a commitment on the part of Datamax Barcode Products Corporation. No part of this manual may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, for any purpose other than the purchaser's personal use, without the expressed written permission of Datamax Corporation.

7500 Flying Cloud Drive • Suite 655 • Eden Prairie, Minnesota 55344

(612) 946-0026

Part Number: 88-2190-01

Revision: A2

Agency Compliance and Approvals:

UL: UL1950 Information Technology Equipment CSA: C22.2 No. 950-M89 TUV: EN60950 VDE: Class B Vfg. 243/1991

1. Nur für Gebrauch innerhalb eines Gebäudes geeignet.

2. Bei Gefahr, Kabel aus der Steckdose herausziehen

3. Falls kein Kabel mitgeliefert wurde, bitte Folgendes bei der Anschaffung eines Kabels beachten:

Für 230 Volt (Europa): Benützen Sie ein Kabel, das mit "HAR" markiert ist, bestehend mindestens aus einem H05VV-F Kabel, das mindestens 0,75 Quadratmillimeter Drahtdurchmesser hat; sowie eine IEC320 Steckdose und einen für das Land geeigneten Stecker, 6A, 250 Volt.

1. This unit is intended for indoor use only.

2. Disconnect power supply cord in case of emergency.

3. When power supply cord is not provided; for proper power

supply cord selection please see below:

For 230 Volt Operation (Europe): Use a cord set, marked "HAR," consisting of a min H05VV-F cord which has a minimum 0.75 square mm diameter conductors, provided with an IEC 320 receptacle and a male plug for the country of installation rated 6A, 250V

FCC: This device complies with Part 15 of FCC rules.

Note: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the

limits for a Class A digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference when the equipment is operated in a commercial environment. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy, and if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions in this manual, may cause interference to radio communications. Operation of this equipment in a residential area is likely to cause harmful interference in which case the user will be required to correct the interference at his own expense.

Important Safety Instructions

Your Barcode Printer has been designed to give you many years of safe, reliable service. As with all electrical equipment, there are a few basic precautions you should take to avoid getting hurt or damaging the Printer.

• Carefully read the installation and operating instructions

provided with your Printer.

• Read and follow all warning instruction labels on the Printer

itself.

• Place the Printer on a flat, firm, solid surface.

• To protect your Printer from overheating, make sure all

openings on the Printer are not blocked.

• Do not place the Printer on or near a heat source, (i.e., a radiator

or heat register).

• Do not use your Printer near water, or spill liquid of any kind

into it.

• Be certain that your power source matches the rating listed on

the back of the Printer. If you are unsure, check with your dealer or with your local power company.

• Do not place the power cord where it will be walked on. If the

power cord becomes damaged or frayed replace it immediately.

• Do not insert anything into the ventilation slots or openings on

the Printer.

• Only qualified, trained service technicians should attempt to

repair your Printer.

♦ Contents

♦ Getting Started

1.0 Introduction.........................................................1

1.1 Unpacking and Inspection....................................1

1.2 Supplies Necessary to Print..................................2

1.3 Location of Parts on your Printer .........................2

1.4 Tear-off Assembly Installation.............................4

1.5 Using the Printer’s Control Panel..........................5

1.6 Using Print Media.................................................8

1.6.1 Label Loading Instructions ......................9

1.6.2 Adjusting Printhead Pressure ................10

1.7 Ribbon Loading.................................................12

1.7.1 Ribbon Loading Instructions ................12

1.8 Using the Printer’s Options.................................13

1.8.1 Available Modules ................................13

1.8.2 Cutter ....................................................14

1.8.3 Peel and Present Mechanism .................14

♦ Printing Labels

2.0 Checking Voltage Selection................................15

2.1 Power-up Self-Test............................................15

2.2 Interfacing to the Printer.....................................18

2.3 Sample Installation.............................................19

2.4 Switch Settings...................................................21

2.4.1 Setting the Baud Rate ............................22

2.4.1 Other Switches ......................................23

♦ Creating Labels Using Internal Batch Software

3.0 Introduction.......................................................25

3.1 The Printer used with a LINK CRT....................26

3.2 Formatting and Printing Labels...........................29

3.3 Create/Modify Label Screen ..............................34

3.4 Print Label Screen ............................................47

3.4.1 Printing a Label from Print Label Screen 47

3.5 System Maintenance Screen ..............................49

(Continued)

3.6 Quick Reference Listing .....................................51

3.6.1 Create/Modify Label Commands ..........51

3.6.2 Print Parameters (ALT-P)......................52

3.6.3 Special Keys .........................................52

♦ Printing Labels

4.0 Introduction........................................................53

4.1 Programming Commands....................................53

4.2 Programming Examples.......................................59

♦ Troubleshooting

5.0 Introduction........................................................61

5.1 Controlling Print Quality.....................................62

5.2 Aligning the Printhead.........................................63

5.2.1 Direct-Thermal Stock ..........................63

5.2.2 Tag Stock or Stiff Media......................63

5.2.3 Mechanical Adjustments.......................64

5.3 Printhead Alignment Procedure...........................65

5.3.1 Label Stock Tracking Adjustment .........65

5.3.2 Ribbon Feed and Tracking Adjustments65

5.3.3 Fine Printhead Adjustment....................67

5.4 Adjusting Printhead Pressure and Support..........67

5.5 Troubleshooting..................................................68

♦ Maintenance

6.0 Cleaning the Printer.............................................73

6.1 Cleaning the Printhead ........................................74

(Continued)

♦ Appendix A

ASCII Control Code Chart........................................A-1

♦ Appendix B

Switch Settings and Cable Interfacing.......................B-1

♦ Appendix C

Available Fonts and Barcodes...................................C-1

♦ Appendix D

Error Codes ..............................................................D-1

♦ Appendix E

Cable Listings ...........................................................E-1

♦ Appendix F

Specifications............................................................F-1

♦ Appendix G

Warranty Information...............................................G-1

iii

♦ Getting Started

1.0 Introduction

The DMX 400/430 Label Printer, hereafter referred to as the "Printer", incorporates high-performance/low cost direct thermal and optional thermal-transfer label printing capabilities. The combination of powerful capabilities, easy-to-use features, a contemporary look, and affordable pricing set a new standard for direct-thermal and thermal-transfer label printers in retail, office and industrial applications.This manual provides all the information necessary for the daily operation of your printer.

To create and print labels refer to the instructions included with the software you have chosen or if you wish to write a custom program, visit our website at http//www.datamaxcorp.com for a copy of the Programmer’s Manual (part number 88-2051-01).

1.1 Unpacking and Inspection

Inspect the shipping container(s) for damage, if damage is evident contact the carrier to specify the nature and extent of the damage.

Remove the Printer from the packaging material and check the contents of the package. In addition to this manual, the following items should be included:

• label printer

• front tear bar assembly

• special or additional items purchased.

DMX 400/430 Operator’s Manual 1

Getting Started

2 DMX 400/430 Operator’s Manual

Getting Started

1.2 Supplies Necessary to Print Labels

In order for the Printer to generate labels you will need the necessary software and media. There are many different types of media and software packages available, therefore it is a good idea to contact your local reseller on which software and media is best suited for your needs.

1.3 Location of Parts on your Printer

The following illustrations show the major components of your Printer. Figure 1-1 is the front view of the Printer, Figure 1-2 is the rear view of the Printer, and Figure 1-3 shows the mechanism detail.

In this manual we will refer to the components and connectors depicted in these illustrations.

Figure 1-1 Front View

DMX 400/430 Operator’s Manual 3

Getting Started

Figure 1-2 Rear View

Figure 1-3 Mechanism Detail

4 DMX 400/430 Operator’s Manual

Getting Started

1.4 Tear-off Assembly Installation

1. Open the cover.

2. Disengage the Printhead by rotating the Head-Lift Lever counter-clockwise to the ‘up’ position.

3. Fit the Tear-off Assembly to the slots below the drive roller and push it down until it snaps into place.

4. Engage the Printhead by rotating the Head-Lift Lever clockwise, locking into the ‘down’ position.

Figure 1-4 Tear-off Assembly Installation

DMX 400/430 Operator’s Manual 5

Getting Started

1.5 Using the Printer’s Control Panel

The Printer has three operator-accessible buttons, three indicator lights (LEDs), one switch and one POT, (see Figure 1-5). A brief description of the buttons, lights, switch and POT are listed in this section.

Figure 1-5 Buttons and Lights

Power Light: The power light is turned on after the power button

on the rear of the Printer is activated.

6 DMX 400/430 Operator’s Manual

Getting Started

Pause Button: This button allows the operator to stop printing a

run of labels and then complete the job by pressing the button again. Activation of the button will:

• Stop the print mechanism when the label

printing is complete.

• Turn on the pause light.

• Stop the label counter, but maintain the

count balance.

• Hold all data in memory.

Pressing the button a second time will:

• Restart the Printer.

• Print the balance of labels on the counter

unless interrupted.

• Turn ‘off’ the pause light.

Pause Light: The pause light will turn on if any of the

following occurs:

• The pause button is pressed

• A print job is canceled with the stop/cancel

button.

• A fault occurs with the cutter or rewind

option.

Stop/Cancel Button:This button allows the operator to stop and cancel

a run of labels in the process of being produced and continue on to the next run in the Printer’s buffer.

Feed Button: Pressing this button causes the paper to

automatically advance to the first print position of the next label. On a new size label, 0 - 2 labels may feed before registration occurs.

DMX 400/430 Operator’s Manual 7

Getting Started

Paper/Ribbon This light is activated when: Light: • No label and/or ribbon is detected.

• The Internal Rewinder (if installed) is not

rotating, (i.e., maximum rewind capacity has been reached).

Ribbon For direct-thermal printing, (no ribbon), slide the Switch: switch to the ‘off’ position. For thermal-transfer

printing, (ribbon installed), slide the switch to the ‘on’ position.

Darkness POT: This POT is used to fine adjust the print darkness

due to variations in different medias and printheads.

8 DMX 400/430 Operator’s Manual

Getting Started

1.6 Using Print Media

Installation

The Printer is designed for easy label stock and ribbon installation. A diagram located under the cover of the Printer shows the feed path for print media. Simply lift the cover of the Printer from the right-hand side for installation instructions.

Figure 1-6 Label Loading Diagram

Labels

The Printer uses labels up to 4.65" (118 mm) wide. The maximum diameter of a roll of labels used in the Printer is 8" (203 mm). If a label is narrower than 3.5" (89 mm) then the Printhead must be adjusted. Please refer to Section 5.4, “Adjusting Printhead Pressure and Support,” for more information.

DMX 400/430 Operator’s Manual 9

Getting Started

1.6.1 Label Loading Instructions

1. Disengage the Printhead by rotating the Head-Lift Lever

counter-clockwise to the ‘up’ position.

2. Slide the Media Guide to the outer edge and rotate it to the

‘down’ position.

3. Slide the Retainer to the outer edge of the Supply Mount.

4. Place the label roll on the Supply Mount and slide the

Retainer firmly against it.

5. Insert the label stock as shown in Figure 1-6.

6. Rotate the Media Guide ‘up’ and slide it to the edge of the

media.

7. Engage the Printhead by rotating the Head-Lift Lever

clockwise and locking in the ‘down’ position.

8. Set the Media Width Adjustment Cam according to the media

width, (see Table 1-1).

Cam Setting Media Width

1 Up to 1 " 2 Greater than 1", Up to 2" 3 Greater than 2", Up to 3" 4 Greater than 3", Up to 4.1"

Table 1-1 Media Width Cam Settings

10 DMX 400/430 Operator’s Manual

Getting Started

1.6.2 Adjusting Printhead Pressure

1. Disengage the printhead by rotating the Head-Lift Lever

counter-clockwise to the ‘up’ position.

2. Extend the Media Width Adjustment Cam outward from its

mounting bracket until the notch on the cam clears the notch on the mounting bracket.

3. With the cam in the extended position, rotate it counter-

clockwise or clockwise to the desired width setting. The numbered notch on the top right corner of the cam identifies the media width setting. (Figure 1-7 shows the cam being changed from the four position to the one position).

4. When the cam is set to the desired media width setting,

return it to its rest position. Make sure that the bracket détente is fully seated in the cams notch.

5. Engage the Printhead by rotating the Head-Lift Lever

clockwise to the down position.

Figure 1-7 Adjusting Printhead Pressure

DMX 400/430 Operator’s Manual 11

Getting Started

If the media is not being sensed, try adjusting the label sensor position by turning the adjustment knob for the movable sensor. The gauge behind and below the Printhead can be viewed for making this adjustment. If the label’s edge is not detected within 12" (305 mm) of feeding, the Printer will stop and the paper/ribbon light will remain on. In this case, check the threading of the media around the bottom of the upper and lower Media Guides.

If the paper only feeds forward about 1-inch (26 mm) each time you press the feed button, and does not seem to be stopping on a label edge, the ribbon switch, (shown in Figure 1-5) was probably turned on without thermal-transfer ribbon being installed. Slide this switch toward the front of the Printer for direct-thermal printing. In addition this condition can occur if the media is improperly routed.

12 DMX 400/430 Operator’s Manual

Getting Started

1.7 Ribbon Loading

In thermal-transfer mode, ribbons must be attached to the Take-up Hub. The ribbon can be wound directly on to the hub and held with a clasp, or a used ribbon core can be placed on the hub.

1.7.1 Ribbon Loading Instructions

1. Disengage the Printhead by rotating the Head-Lift Lever counterclockwise to the ‘up’ position.

2. Slide the Ribbon on to the Ribbon Supply Hub. Route the ribbon, (see Figure 1-8), and attach the ribbon to the Ribbon Take-up Hub.

3. Engage the Printhead by rotating the Head-Lift Lever clockwise and locking it in the ‘down’ position.

Figure 1-8 Ribbon Loading

DMX 400/430 Operator’s Manual 13

Getting Started

1.8 Using the Printer’s Options

1.8.1 Available Modules

The Printer uses Memory modules to expand its built-in capabilities, primarily for the use of storing graphic images and bitmaps of smooth fonts. The Printer has one module slot located on the left side for use with memory module memory cartridges.

Font ROM Modules

Font ROM modules contain additional fonts that extend the capabilities of the internal fonts. Each font ROM module comes with documentation detailing the type and sizes available on the module and the font number of each size used in label formatting. Font ROM modules are programmed at the factory and cannot be modified later for any other purpose.

256K and 512K RAM Modules

RAM modules are the most flexible module option for the Printer. They provide temporary storage of data used in label-format printing. Each module contains 256K of data storage for fonts, graphic images, or label formats.

An additional feature of the 512K RAM module is that the Printer will use a part of its memory to extend the Printer’s bit-mapped label area from: 400: 16" (406 mm) to 28" (711 mm), 430: 16" (406mm) to 22" (558mm).

14 DMX 400/430 Operator’s Manual

Getting Started

256K Flash EEPROM Module

Flash EEPROM modules provide the same features of RAM modules with the added benefit of virtually permanent storage. A write protect button on the Flash EEPROM module can protect data stored on the cartridge from being overwritten or erased.

1.8.2 Cutter

The Printer can be ordered with an optional cutter and tray for cutting tags and labels, or the option can be installed at a later date. This option can be easily attached to the Printer and once installed can be enabled by turning ‘on’ switch 8 located on the back of your Printer.

1.8.3 Peel and Present Mechanism

The Present Sensor allows the Printer to be configured for ‘one up’ printing. With the sensor installed and enabled, the Printer will not print the next label in its internal buffer until the last label has been removed from the Printer.

DMX 400/430 Operator’s Manual 15

♦ Setting Up Your Printer

2.0 Checking Voltage Selection

The standard Printer is configured for 115 VAC ± 10% singlephase 50/60 Hz with a properly-grounded outlet. A small sticker next to the power cord connection indicates the power requirements.

For international markets, there is a 230 VAC version available. If you are uncertain about the configuration of your Printer, or the outlet you are connecting to, check with a qualified service technician to verify the installation before connecting power.

2.1 Power Up Self-Test

Once labels are installed in the Printer as described in Section 1.6, a Self-Test should be performed. The Printer will power up in the Self-Test Mode when the feed button is pressed as the Printer is being turned on. Initial power up will take approximately 7 seconds. The Printer should be loaded with 4.25" (108 mm) wide stock whenever this test is conducted. The Self-Test prints across the entire width of the Printhead. Expect a brief hesitation of up to 15 seconds before the Self-Test begins to print.

DMX 400/430 Operator’s Manual 16

Setting Up Your Printer

If a label’s edge is not detected within 12" (305 mm) of stock, the Printer will stop feeding labels, (if this occurs, refer to Section 1.6 and reload the media). If a label edge is detected, the Printer will begin to print the Self-Test pattern, see Figure 2-1 or 2-2 (depending on the Printer model) for an example of the Self-Test Label). After the test pattern has successfully printed, the Printer must be turned ‘off’ and then turned ‘on’ again to reset the Printer.

TUE JANUARY 25, 1997 Ø9:29 Ø25 VER: DAØ1 - Ø1.Ø1 12/25/93

ROM CHECKSUM U15 FFFF 47-2014-01A ROM CHECKSUM U19 FFFF 47-2015-01A MCU CHECKSUM U32 GOOD 46-22ØØ-Ø1C MCU INT RAM CHECKS GOOD SERIAL PORT BAUD IS 96ØØ MCU EXT RAM CHECKS GOOD

TRANSFER SWITCH IS OFF SETUP SW-A 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 OFF OFF OFF OFF OFF OFF OFF OFF SETUP SW-B 1 2 3 4 OFF OFF OFF OFF

ANALOG INPUT VALUES: PAPER :229 EDGE: 173 REFL : 195 TEMP : Ø62 24VOLT : 198 POT :133 TOFA: 153 RIBN : Ø27 RWND : 013

SYSTEM RAM CHECKS GOOD MODULE CHECKSUM: 7E8B

INCH COUNTER DATE SET: ØØ/ØØ/ØØ TOTAL LABEL LENGTH IN INCHES: 44

Figure 2-1 DMX 400 Test Label

DMX 400/430 Operator’s Manual 17

Setting Up Your Printer

TUE JANUARY 25, 1997 Ø9:29 Ø25 VER: DCØ1 - Ø1.Ø1 12/25/93

ROM CHECKSUM U12 56B2 47-2Ø25-Ø1A ROM CHECKSUM U8 1Ø26 47-2Ø26-Ø1A SYSTEM RAM CHECKS GOOD SERIAL PORT BAUD RATE IS 96ØØ

TRANSFER SWITCH I S ON SETUP SW-A 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

OFF OFF OFF OFF OFF OFF OFF OFF

SETUP SW-B 1 2 3 4

OFF OFF OFF OFF

ANALOG INPUT VALUES: PAPER :241 EDGE: 178 REFL : 194 TEMP: Ø61 24VLT: ØØØ POT :Ø78 TOFA: 151 RIBN : ØØ8 RWND: Ø1Ø

INCH COUNTER DATE SET: ØØ/ØØ/ØØ TOTAL LABEL LENGTH IN INCHES: 674144

Figure 2-2 DMX 430 Test Label

18 DMX 400/430 Operator’s Manual

Setting Up Your Printer

2.2 Interfacing to the Printer

Depending on your application, the Printer can be set up in different ways. Table 2-1 lists the interface cables that should be used for each situation. If your application is not listed below, refer to Appendix E which contains interface cable information necessary to connect the Printer to virtually any ASCII device.

Part Number Description

556000 Printer to CRT Terminal (DB25P)

RS-232C

556001 Printer to PC 9 Pin (DB9S) RS-

232C

556002 Printer to PC 25 Pin (DB25S) RS-

232C

899516 Printer to PC Parallel Port

(DB25P)

Table 2-1 Interface Cables

For most applications, the interface between the Printer and host device will be RS-232C. The cable necessary to connect the Printer to the host will be either a straight cable or a null-modem cable. This cable connects the DB-25 connector labeled ‘Serial Port’ on the back of the Printer to the serial data connector on the host device.

The pin configuration of the Printer for most descriptions of the RS232C interface on a DB-25 connector is DTE (Data Terminal Equipment). Pin 2 is transmit, pin 3 is receive and pin 7 is ground.

The Printer supports both Xon/Xoff and CTS/DTR handshaking. Whenever the Printer is interfaced in a mode that does not use the CTS/DTR pins, a jumper should be placed on the PC side of the cable between pins 4 and 5 (CTS/RTS) to bypass the operation of those control lines. A custom cable must be obtained for this purpose.

DMX 400/430 Operator’s Manual 19

Setting Up Your Printer

For connection to most host systems, Xon/Xoff handshaking reduces the number of wires necessary in the interface cable. For interfacing RS-422 devices, the Xon/Xoff handshake is the only appropriate method.

2.3 Sample Installations

In this section, four typical installations are reviewed, CRT terminal, PC, minicomputer, and mainframe computer. Interface cable listings for similar installations are listed in Appendix E.

CRT Connection

A typical application for a CRT-based system is generating and printing labels that are stored on an optional Flash Module. First, connect the Printer to the CRT with the cable number 556000 and turn on switch 7 at the rear of the Printer. Next, plug the Module into the slot on the side of the Printer to store label formats on the Module. For a detailed explanation of the operation of this configuration, refer to Chapter 3, ‘Creating Labels Using Internal Batch Software’.

PC Connection

A cable should be selected (refer to Table 2-1), and connected to a PC via a RS-232C port. It is recommended that you use a RS232C port to allow for two-way communication with the Printer. The RS-232C communications port can be connected with one of two possible configurations: a 9 pin cable (part number

556001) or a 25 pin cable (part number 556002).

Note: DB25S (socket/female) connectors on most PCs

are normally parallel ports; DB25P and DB9P (pin/male) are normally serial ports.

20 DMX 400/430 Operator’s Manual

Setting Up Your Printer

If your Printer is controlled by a third-party software package, please refer to the operator’s manual supplied with the software package for operating instructions. For detailed explanations of the Printer’s commands and label format structure, refer to the Programmer's Manual.

A typical application for a PC-based system is printing labels for manufacturing production in a batch mode. In these applications, a data-base of part numbers, descriptions, warehouse locations, and shipping weight information may be obtained through the PC. Through an entry screen, the operator selects the type and quantity of labels to be printed. The PC sends the data via serial cables to the Printer and the operator receives the labels requested.

Minicomputer Connection

Connecting the Printer to most minicomputers is similar to connecting to a PC. Most minicomputers made by Digital Equipment, Hewlett Packard, Unisys, etc., have ASCII RS-232C serial ports similar to PCs. Interfacing to IBM systems sometimes requires a protocol converter. The cable you select for connecting the Printer to a minicomputer will vary depending on the type of computer system you have. Interface cable listings in Appendix E describe a straight serial cable and a null modem cable. One of these two cables should work on your system.

Non-ASCII Device Connection

The Printer uses the standard ASCII for conversion of byte patterns to characters. The standard port for receiving data expects asynchronous ASCII serial data. If your host system uses an interface other than ASCII character-based RS-232C, you will need an interface converter. Some hosts, such as IBM mainframe equipment, do not use the ASCII standard for data encoding, rather many IBM machines use EBCDIC.

DMX 400/430 Operator’s Manual 21

Setting Up Your Printer

To connect the Printer to EBCDIC devices, or devices with any other data encoding standard, a protocol converter must be used. A protocol converter translates the bit patterns of one standard to the bit patterns of another standard. Some protocol converters are also interface converters, combining two functions into one box. Many of these products are available from the manufacturer of your computer equipment or your local reseller. Please note that additional commands may be needed to control the protocol converter you select for your data interface.

2.4 Switch Settings

There are eight switches located on the back of the Printer as shown in Figure 2-3. The function of the switches is to control communications and are explained on the following pages.

Figure 2-3 Switch Settings

22 DMX 400/430 Operator’s Manual

Setting Up Your Printer

2.4.1 Setting the Baud Rate

For all modes of operation, you must set the baud rate of the interface. On the back of the Printer, you will find a single eightposition DIP Switch, positions 1, 2, and 3 control the setting of the baud rate.

The following table provides the position of the three switches and the corresponding baud rate that can be obtained by each setting.

Baud 9600 4800 2400 1200 600 300 9600 Test

SW-1 off off off off on on on SW-2 off off on on off off on SW-3 off on off on off on on

Table 2-2 Baud Rate

The Printer can accept 7- or 8-bit data, while ignoring parity. It also requires at least one stop bit. This configuration assures the highest degree of compatibility with most serial devices, even if the data format arrangement of the host cannot be modified. Switch SW-4, located on the back of the Printer, selects the word length.

SW-4 Data Bits Parity Stop Bits

on 7 none 2

off 8 none 1

Table 2-3 Word Length

Note: It will be necessary to select the 8-bit mode if you want

to access the foreign language characters. These characters are available in fonts 1 through 6 and 9.

DMX 400/430 Operator’s Manual 23

Setting Up Your Printer

2.4.2 Other Switches

Switch SW-5: Controls the label edge offset, when the switch is on,

the label edge offset will default to 0250. When the switch is off, the label edge offset will default to 0220. Prodigy-compatible switch.

Switch SW-6: Present Sensor Option. When the Present Sensor

option is added, the Printer can be configured for ‘one up’ printing. With the sensor installed and enabled, the Printer will not print the next label until the last label printed has been removed from the Printer.

Switch SW-7: Enables the Internal Batch Software Program. This

program is explained in Chapter 3. There is a software command that will perform the same option as this switch  <STX> g Command.

Switch SW-8: Controls the optional Cutter.

SW-5 Prodigy Compatibility On Prodigy Off Allegro SW-6 Present Sensor Option On Enabled Off Disabled SW-7 Internal Batch Software On Enabled Off Disabled SW-8 Cutter On Enabled Off Disabled

Table 2-4 Switches

24 DMX 400/430 Operator’s Manual

Setting Up Your Printer

DMX 400/430 Operator’s Manual 25

♦ Creating Labels Using Internal Batch

Software

3.0 Introduction

The Printer can be used in any one of three different operating modes: RS-232C to a host computer; a PC with a compatible software package or; LINK MC2 CRT with Internal Batch Software. This chapter focuses on the Printer's internal labeling software program.

The program uses two screens for creating/modifying labels and printing labels. A system maintenance screen is included for printing test labels, copying and formatting memory modules, and performing several other functions.

Internal batch modules can store up to 200 label formats per Flash Module and each can hold up to 128K of memory shared between label formats and graphic images (pictures). You can purchase as many internal batch modules as you need for your applications as they essentially provide you with unlimited memory capacity.

DMX 400/430 Operator’s Manual 26

Creating Labels Using Internal Batach Software

3.1 The Printer Used With a LINK CRT

The following steps are required before you can begin to format and print labels with the Printer.

1. Connect Cables

Verify that the LINK CRT and the Printer’s main power switches are ‘off’. Connect the LINK CRT terminal to the Printer with the supplied cable. Plug in the supplied power cords for the Printer and the LINK CRT terminal.

Note: The Printer connects to the LINK MAIN port, not

the LINK parallel port.

2. Check LINK CRT Settings

The LINK CRT is shipped ready for use with the Printer and the settings are pre-set and should be changed only when necessary. If the terminal's settings have been changed since shipment from the factory, follow the terminal's set-up procedure to reset all default values (see Table 3-1). The Printer will set all remaining parameters; however, these settings are not saved in the CRT's RAM. To save them, follow the CRT's "save changes" routine after normal operation is established.

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Function Settings Function Settings

Handshake: none F1 CTRL W Mode: FDX F2 CTRL X Data Bits: 8 F3 CTRL Y Stop Bits: 1 F4 CTRL Z Parity: none F5 ALT S Baud Rate: 9600 F6 ALT P Keys: US F7 ALT I Blk End: US/CR F8 ALT X Auto NL: on F9 ALT F CR: CR Compatible: LINK MC 2

Table 3-1 LINK CRT Settings

3. Select Stand-Alone Labeling Software Mode

The Printer is shipped in the RS-232C mode for use with PCs. To use the CRT, turn DIP Switch S1-7 to the ‘on’ position and insert the 256K Flash Module into the Printer before turning the power on. Plug the module into the module slot as described in Section 1.8. Ensure that the lettering is facing toward the front of the Printer. When the Printer is turned on it will recognize that the module has been formatted as an Internal Batch Software Module and will run the Internal Batch Program. If the Module has not been formatted, the following screen will appear:

BATCH SYSTEM INITIALIZATION

INSERT Flash MEMORY MODULE AND PRESS: I: INITIALIZE NEW MODULE. ENTER: ENTER BATCH SYSTEM. Esc: EXIT TO RS-232C MODE.

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To format the module hit "I" and the following screen will appear:

MODULE MEMORY TEST AND FORMAT WARNING !! MODULE DATA WILL BE LOST !! PLUG IN MODULE. PRESS ENTER (Esc TO CANCEL)

Hit "Enter" to begin formatting the module, the following screen will appear:

MODULE MEMORY TEST AND FORMAT WARNING !! MODULE DATA WILL BE LOST !! MODULE UNDER TEST PLEASE WAIT !!

ppppppppvvvvvvvv

MODULE MEMORY IS GOOD PRESS ENTER TO TEST ANOTHER "Esc TO EXIT"

once the module has been formatted, hit "Esc" to enter the Internal Batch Mode.

Note: Use a small screwdriver to turn the module's write protect

switch to the ‘off’ position. Label formats cannot be sent to the module if the switch is in the ‘on’ position. To prevent accidental changes or modifications to formats, turn the write protect switch back to the ‘on’ position.

4. Verify Setup, Power Up, and Load Media

Check that all connections are made and that DIP Switch S1 is correctly configured. Turn on the CRT and Printer power switches. Press the F1 key on the CRT several times. The create/modify label screen and print label screen should toggle back and forth. If this does not happen, re-check the CRT settings, check the interface cable. If the screens still do not appear, contact your local representative. If the Module has not been formatted for Internal Batch, the set up screen will appear until you hit the I option. If steps 1-4 have been successfully completed, load the Printer with media.

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3.2 Formatting and Printing Labels

Formatting labels is designed to be a 3-process procedure that involves the following steps:

• Selecting an operating screen.

• Specifying where on the label to place text and/or barcodes.

• Printing the actual labels.

Available Fonts and Barcodes

All available character font sizes, barcodes, multiplication parameters, and resulting character sizes are illustrated and explained in Appendix C. Each font and bar code has a name associated with it for use in the create/modify label screen. Alphanumeric fonts are 0 through 9, bar codes with humanreadable interpretation lines are uppercase A through R, except P (Postnet). Bar codes without human-readable interpretation lines are lowercase a through r, all fonts and bar codes can be magnified in height and width.

Menu Screens

The following three menu screens are available in the Printer's internal labeling software program:

• Create/modify label

• Print Label

• System Maintenance

Function Keys

Nine function keys labeled F1 to F9 are used in the labelformatting process. Some functions can also be controlled by the ALT keys. To use the ALT functions, press and hold the ALT key at the same time as you press another key. The ALT functions and the function keys include the following functions:

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F1 or Esc: Toggles between the print and create/modify label

screens. F1 can be used only in the label name position of the create/modify or print screens.

F2 (list): Displays a library listing of every label format and/or

graphic image loaded in the current memory module. F2 can be used only when the prompt is in the label name position of the create/modify or print screens.

F3 (Copy): Used in the create/modify label screen only. Enter a new

label name, then press the F3 key. The message below will appear.

LABEL NAME:________________

NEW LABEL NAME:__________________

Enter the name of an existing label already in memory and press the ‘Enter” key. A new label will be created with the same data as the source label, which allows immediate editing of the new label format. The F3 Copy feature will also copy the current field to the next field when the cursor is at the farthest left position of the create/modify label screen.

F4 (Kill): Used in the create/modify label screen only. Enter an

existing label name, followed by the F4 key. The message "Remove Label? (Y/N)" will appear. Answer yes or no with the Y or N key. If Y, the label is permanently removed from the memory module if the write protect switch is ‘off’. When creating or modifying a label format, the F4 (kill feature) also deletes a single format line one at a time. Move the cursor to the farthest left position of the screen, then press F4. The current line will be deleted.

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F5 and ALT-S: Calls up the system maintenance screen. All system

maintenance functions are described in Section 3.5.

F6 and ALT-P: While in the far left position of the

create/modify label screen or the sample: position of the print label screen, press ALT-P to bring up the print parameters window. It will look like this:

PRINT ADJUSTMENTS

HEAT FACTOR: 10 PRINT SPEED: G SLEW SPEED: K DOT PATTERN: 1 X 1 LABEL ADVANCE: 02.20 FORM EDGE OFFSET: 02.20 ROW OFFSET: 00.00 COLUMN OFFSET: 00.00 COUNT BY: 01 MAX. LABEL WIDTH: 04.10 MAX. LABEL LENGTH: 12.00 CONTINUOUS FORMS: NO ACTIVE BUFFERS (1/2) 01 CUT BY (# PER CUT): 0001 SENSOR TYPE: EDGE

Figure 3-1 ALT-P Screen

Use the arrow keys to move from one position to the next. Key in any values that need to be changed. Press the Esc key to exit the window. A description of each print parameter along with default values and valid settings are listed in Table 3-2.

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Description Default Range

Heat Factor 10 0 to 20 Print Speed G C-G

Slew Speed K C-K Dot Pattern Wide 1 1 or 2 Dot Pattern High 1 1 to 3 Label Advance

220 Form Edge Offset + 20 (Back Feed) Form Edge Offset 220 050 to 999 Row Offset 000 000 to 999 Column Offset 000 000 to 410 Update Count on 01 01 to 99 Max. Label Width 410 050 to 410 Max. Label Length 1200 0500 to 9999 Active Buffers 1 1 or 2 Cut By Amount 0001 0001 to 9999 Edge/Reflective E E or R

Table 3-2 Print Parameters

If ALT-P parameters are changed while in the create/modify label screen, the changes are saved with the label format. If they are changed in the print label screen, they are not saved and will affect only the current print job. Changing parameters in the print label screen is useful when testing a new label to determine optimum print parameter settings for that particular format.

F7 and ALT-I: This function is used in the create/modify label

screen to insert a new field description line between existing field description lines on the screen. It is especially useful when the repeat function is used and other lines on the screen are already below the field to be repeated.

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F8 and ALT-X: May be pressed while the cursor is located at the

ROT field of the create/modify label screen. It will cause the print screen to show a pre-set quantity of 1 for the purposes of printing a test label.

F9 and ALT-F: Feeds one label at a time from the print label screen.

It operates the same way as the front panel feed switch. This function is useful when loading new media to register the photoelectric sensor.

Other Important Keys

Several other keys are used in the editing and printing steps and are described below.

Return: Enters an answer for the prompt and moves the

cursor to the next position if the answer is acceptable.

Arrow Keys: Used to move the cursor left , right, up, and down in

the create/modify and print screens. Up and down arrows in the create screen are restricted to the ROT position.

ESC: Ends the formatting for a particular label and

returns the cursor to the top of the screen. The Esc key allows the F1 key to be used to switch screens. It is also used to exit ALT-S and ALT-P screens.

Backspace: Erases one character.

Home: Deletes the current field and moves the cursor to the

beginning of that field.

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3.3 Create/Modify Label Screen

This section describes how to create a new label. Before beginning, a good tool to have on hand is a ruler marked in tenths of an inch because all the label format print positions are specified in tenths and hundredths of an inch. The procedure for creating a new label is as follows:

1. Power up the CRT terminal with the switch on the front of

the unit. Turn the Printer on with the power switch located in the back of the Printer. The CRT screen will look like this:

PRINT LABEL

MODULE NAME: ________________

LABEL NAME: ________________

QUANTITY: ________________

Figure 3-2 Print Label Screen Header

Press the F1 key, and the screen will look like this:

CREATE/MODIFY LABEL

MODULE NAME: ________________ LABEL NAME: ________________

ROT FNT XW XH BH ROW COL TYPE DATA/PROMPT

-- --- -- -- -- -- -- --- -- ------

Figure 3-3 Create/Modify Label Screen Header

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2. The software’s two operating screens are create/modify label

and print label. All data is entered into fields. A field is a set of information

such as a product name, address, bar code, number, etc., that is specified on individual lines on the CRT screen. Because fields are independent of each other, it is possible and sometimes desirable, to place two or more fields on the same horizontal or vertical measurement. Be careful not to print one field over another.

Notice in the upper left-hand corner of the screen that the current field number is displayed. This program can accommodate up to 200 fields per format. Use the return key or the arrow keys to move the cursor around within the 200 fields, one field at a time. A sample label format is illustrated in Figure 3-4. To create a label, press the F1 key to return to the create/modify label screen. The cursor will be in the label name position.

CREATE/MODIFY LABEL MODULE NAME: ________________

LABEL NAME: ________________

ROT FNT XW XH BH ROW COL TYPE DATA/PROMPT

--- --- -- -- ---- ---- ---- ----- --------------1 2 2 2 0.00 03.70 00.20 D NYLON INSULATED TOGGLE SWITCH 1 X 1 1 0.00 03.60 00.10 D B370040003003 1 6 2 2 0.00 00.30 00.20 D DA100-PB-B 1 X 1 1 0.00 00.20 00.15 D L400080 1 Y 1 1 0.00 01.50 02.85 D SW5 1 a 6 2 0.40 01.35 00.15 D DA100 PB B 1 1 2 2 0.00 01.20 00.65 D DA100 PB B 1 3 1 1 0.00 03.20 00.20 D SWITCH ACTION 1 1 2 2 0.00 03.00 00.20 D SPST on-None-OFF 1 3 1 1 0.00 02.70 00.20 D TERMINALS 1 1 2 2 0.00 02.50 00.20 D SOLDER/SPADE 1 3 1 1 0.00 02.20 00.20 D RATING 1 1 2 2 0.00 02.00 00.20 D @ 10 AMPS, 125VAC 1 X 1 1 0.00 01.90 00.10 D B200160003003 1 X 1 1 0.00 02.40 00.13 D L194003 1 X 1 1 0.00 02.90 00.13 D L194003 1 0 1 1 0.00 00.00 00.15 D DMX 400/430 LABEL PRINTER

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Figure 3-4 Sample Label Format

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3. Enter an alphanumeric name of up to 16 characters for this

label, followed by the return key. The message "New Label Format?" appears, answer Y or N. If yes, the cursor moves to the ROT position. If the cursor does not move past the new label format position, the memory module 's write protect switch is ‘on’; turn it ‘off’ to continue.

4. The Printer can print fonts, bar codes, and graphics at 0, 90,

180, or 270 degree rotations. Valid responses to the ROT prompt include:

1 = 0 degrees 2 = 90 degrees 3 = 180 degrees 4 = 270 degrees

5. In the FNT position, enter the type of font you want to print.

This can be an alphanumeric font or a bar code. Enter one of the following:

• An alphanumeric font type, followed by the return key.

Choices are 0 through 8. See Appendix C for examples of each available font type and for the actual printed size of the various fonts using different multiplication factors.

• An alphanumeric CG Triumvirate font type, followed

by the return key; the only choice is 9, (see Appendix C for examples of each available font type). The point size is selected in the bar code height field. Values are 001 through 010.

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• A bar code, followed by the return key. Choices are

uppercase A through R, except for P (Postnet). For bar codes that include the human-readable interpretation line, or lowercase a through r for bar codes without human-readable lines, see Appendix C for examples of each available bar code.

• X is a special font choice that is not actually a font. The

X font selects box and line drawing. Later, in the data/prompt position, the format for lines or boxes must be entered .

• Y is another special font choice that is not actually a

font. The Y font selects a graphic image that has already been loaded into the memory module. If this font is selected, enter the name of the graphic image in the data/prompt position. This name must be uppercase characters when printing an image.

If any letter or number is entered in the FNT position other than those specified above, the ‘Invalid Font Type’ message will appear.

You will need to re-enter the data. After entering the desired font and pressing the return key, the cursor will move to the XW position.

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6. The XW and XH positions are used to magnify widths and

heights of fonts, and to change the wide/narrow ratio of bar codes.

• If you wish to magnify the width of a font, valid

responses are 1 through 9 and A through O. The default value is 1 for fonts.

• If you wish to magnify the width of a bar code, valid

responses are 1 through 9 and A through K. The default is 3 for ratio-based bar codes, 2 for fonts Q & R and 1 for all other bar code fields. If the pixel width is 1, the result will be a 5 mil wide bar. If the pixel width is 2, the result will be a 10 mil wide bar. Pixel sizes by label format are specified in the print Parameters screen.

• Enter the desired XW dimension and press the return

key. The cursor will move to the XH position.

7. Enter the desired XH dimension. The default value for fonts is

1. The default value for element bar codes such as UPC or code 128 is 1. For ratio-based bar codes, the default value is 1.

• If you wish to magnify the height of a font, valid

responses are 1 through 9 and A through O. The default value is 1 for fonts.

• If you wish to magnify the width of a bar code, valid

responses are 1 through 9 and A through K. The default is 3 for ratio-based bar codes, 2 for fonts Q & R and 1 for all other bar code fields. If the pixel width is 1, the result will be a 5 mil narrow bar. If the pixel width is 2, the result will be a 10 mil narrow bar. Pixel sizes by label format are specified in the Print Parameters Screen.

• Enter the desired XH dimension and press the return

key. The cursor will move to the bar height (BH) position.

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8. In the BH position, a 3-digit number defines the printed bar

height for the field or defines a smooth font.

• For UPC/EAN bar codes, the default value is 0.80" (20

mm). For all other bar code fields, the default value is

0.40" (10 mm). For all alphanumeric fonts, the value is set at 0.00" (0 mm). Enter the desired bar height and press the return key. The cursor will move to the Row position.

• When a 9 is in the FNT position it designates a smooth

font. The actual point size is determined by a smooth font value in the BH position. The font ranges are listed in Table 3-3 below:

Smooth Font Valid BH

Ranges

Internal CG

001 to 010

Triumvirate

Table 3-3 Smooth Font Information

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9. The 4-digit Row Field tells the Printer "how far up" on the label

to print the data. The default value is 00.00 and the maximum number cannot exceed the maximum label length set in the print parameters window. Use the bottom left corner as the starting point for row and column.

For the desired vertical placement of your field, enter a number not more than four digits followed by the return key. If the measurement entered is acceptable, the cursor will move to the COL position. If the measurement selected is too large for the given space or the capability of the Printer, the ‘Number Out Of Range’ message will appear.

Data will need to be re-entered. When specifying measurements, always measure to the bottom of the field. For example, if using font 6, the measurement will be to the bottom of the alphanumeric letters. If using a bar code, the measurement will be to the bottom of the bar code’s human-readable line. If the bar code being printed does not have a human-readable line, measure to the bottom of the bars.

When rotating a bar code or alphanumeric field, the row measurement is specified as the amount of space from the starting point of the label to the top of the field.

10. The 4-digit column number tells the Printer ‘how far over’ from

the left edge of the label that data is to be printed. Enter a number no longer than four digits in this field, then press the return key. If the measurement is acceptable, the cursor will move to the type position. If the measurement is too large for the given space or the capability of the Printer, the ‘Number Out of Range’ error message will appear and data will need to be reentered. The cursor will then move to the type position.

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11. The type position tells the Printer how the data/prompt position

is to be used. There are six options.

• The most common type is ‘D’ for data, this tells the

Printer that fixed data will be entered in this field. In other words, any alpha and/or numeric characters entered in the data/prompt position will be printed on the label exactly as entered on the screen. After pressing the ‘D’ key, the cursor will move to the data/prompt position. Enter the data to be printed on the label and press the return key.

Type D is specified when using special font X for lines, boxes and illustrations. It is also specified when using special font Y for graphics. The graphic name must be entered with up to 16 upper case characters.

• Press the ‘P’ key to signify " that this is a prompt." Any

data typed in the data/prompt position will reappear on the print label screen . This allows a label format to be set up ahead of time, but with the ability to change variable information every time that format is printed.

For example, if you are printing inventory labels, information like the company name, date, and factory location is in the same position on every label. However, the stock number for the part may change approximately every 100 labels. You could set up the stock number field as a prompt by entering in the phrase ‘Enter Stock Number’ in the data/prompt position. Every time you select that format in the print label screen , the phrase ‘Enter Stock Number’ appears and you would enter desired stock number for that label run.

• Enter one of the following symbols to signify a

consecutive number or alpha character:

+ for numeric increment

- for numeric decrement > for alpha increment < for alpha decrement

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If any of these symbols are entered in the type position, the printing will either increment or decrement numbers or letters in the label position specified earlier in this field. Information entered in the data/prompt field in the next step will tell the Printer the increment value being used. When viewing the print label screen , it will ask ‘Initial Increment?’ or ‘Initial Decrement?’ The number entered at this time will increment or decrement each time a label is printed. The number of labels to be printed with the same number before an increment or decrement occurs can be set with the ALT-P command as described earlier. The default value is 1.

• Press the ‘C’ Key to signify a comment. Any data

entered in the data/prompt position will appear on the print label screen as a comment. This function is a useful way to give the operator special instructions, such as how to load a particular type of media for the labels to be printed. Comment fields do not affect the printing of the label.

• Press the ‘R’ Key to request a repeat of the previous

field's data.

• Press the ‘T’ Key to print the time and date.

After entering any one of the above choices, the cursor will move to the data/prompt position.

12. In the data/prompt position, there are six options:

If ‘D’ was selected in the preceding step, enter the desired data. The Printer automatically computes how many characters there are room for on the label width specified in your ALT-P label width and/or label length settings. If there is not enough room specified in the Row and/or Column measurements, a ‘Not Enough Room For Field Data’ error message will appear.

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Some of the data will need to be re-entered. Use the DEL key, home key or arrow keys to change any information. If the Printer does not allow you to enter as many characters as you need, try backing up with the arrow keys and change the font size.

For special font X, enter the required information as explained in the following examples:

Lines: Lhhhvvv

L: “L” specifies line drawing hhh: horizontal width of line vvv: vertical height of line

Lines: lhhhhvvvv

l: “l” specifies line drawing hhhh: horizontal width of line vvvv: vertical height of line

Note: Reverse printing is accomplished by

printing a very high, or wide solid line. Text placed at the same coordinates (inside the line) is reversed with white letters on a black background.

Boxes: Bhhhvvvbbbsss

B: "B" specifies box drawing hhh: horizontal width of box vvv: vertical height of box bbb: thickness of bottom and top box edge sss: thickness of sides of box

Boxes: bhhhhvvvvbbbbssss

b: specifies box drawing hhhh: horizontal width of box vvvv : vertical height of box bbbb: thickness of bottom and top box edges ssss: thickness of sides of box

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For special font Y, enter the name of the graphic image you want to call from the memory module for printing at this field position. You can enter up to 16 uppercase characters.

• Enter the desired prompt information. The field allows up to

44 characters to be entered.

• Enter the desired consecutive number fill character and

increment value. This field has the format xnn with the following parameters:

x: Fill character. It can be any character, including a

space. For example, if * is entered, all insignificant characters will be filled with "*".

nn: Increment value desired. If 01 is entered, it will

increment by ones (i.e. 1, 2, 3 etc.). nn can be any value up to 99.

An entry of 02 will print like this:

02 04 06 08 10

Once in the print label screen, the operator is prompted for an initial increment or decrement value. The value entered is the starting value for that particular run of labels. As a separate function, an increment every "x" number of labels can be set in the print parameters screen (ALT-P).

• For comment fields, enter the data you wish to have

appear on the print screen in the data/prompt field.

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• For repeat fields, enter the data in the data/prompt field

just as if the field were a type D Field. Place a ^ character in the data string at the place you wish to insert the data from the previous field into this field.

• For the time and date to be printed on the label, enter

the data as shown in the following example:

Time and date string data is selected by using characters A through Z, and a through f as shown in Table 3-4 in order to retrieve data from the Printer's internal clock.

w W W W m m M M M M M M M M M d

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P

d y y y y h h H H n n a a j j j

Q R S T U V W X Y Z a b c d e f

Table 3-4 Time and Date Information Format

w = Day number; 1 = Monday W.. = Day of the week name mm = 2 digit month M.. = Month name dd = 2 digit day yyyy = 4 digit year hh = 2 digit hour in 24 hour format HH = 2 digit hour in 12 hour format nn = 2 digit minutes aa = AM or PM for 12 hour format jjj = 3 digit Julian date

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In the following example the proper matching characters are sent to the Printer that request the day of week and date to be printed. This command causes the Printer to enter date formatting mode. Spaces and punctuation appear as shown in the example.

Sample: BCD GHI PQ, RSTU <CR> Prints: TUE DEC 27, 1997

After entering the desired data, prompt, comment, or consecutive number information, press the return key. The cursor will move to the next line on the screen for another field of information.

• Enter additional fields of information as desired. To print a

sample label, press the ALT-X key and the print screen will appear with a quantity of 0001. Press ‘Enter’ again and a sample label will be printed. The create/modify label screen will return.

After all fields are completed, press the Esc key from any field in the ROT column. This brings the cursor back to the label name position.

• To print a quantity of the label you defined, press the F1 key.

The print label screen appears. See the next section for information on the print label screen .

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3.4 Print Label Screen

The print label screen is used to print labels that have been formatted and/or modified in the create/modify label screen. From the create/modify label screen, press the F1 key to toggle to the print label screen . The screen should look like this:

PRINT LABEL

MODULE NAME: ______________

LABEL NAME: ________________

QUANTITY: _______________

Figure 3-5 Print Label Screen

3.4.1 Printing a label from the ‘Print Label Screen ’

1. Enter the label name you want to print and press the return key.

The cursor will move to the quantity position. If the Printer does not find the label name you entered, you will receive an error message and will need to re-enter the label name. When in the label name position, you can use the F2 key (LIST) to list all of the names available in the currently installed memory module.

2. Enter a number, not more than four digits long, to indicate the

quantity of labels you wish to print and press the return key. The maximum number of labels per run is 9999.

3. Depending on how the label is set up, the cursor may move to

the initial increment or initial decrement position if a consecutive number or letter was specified as a data type. Or, the cursor may move to a prompting position if a P was specified as a data type. Enter the starting number or the prompt information, followed by the return key, for each consecutive number or prompt. After this information is entered, the cursor will move to the sample position.

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4. In the sample position, there are two choices:

a. Print a sample label to check data placement by pressing

the Y key for yes. A sample label will print and the cursor will return to the sample position. At this point, you can proceed to step b or you can stop the run by pressing the up arrow key to move the cursor back to the label name position. Press the F1 key to re-edit your format in the create/modify label screen.

b. If you do not need a sample, press the N key for ‘no’, or

use the return key. The number of labels you requested will be printed. After the print job request is sent to the Printer, the cursor will move back to the label name position. Additional print jobs can now be sent to the Printer or you can return to the create/modify label screen.

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3.5 System Maintenance Screen

The third screen, system maintenance, is used to format and copy memory modules, print test labels, and perform several other maintenance functions.

To access the screen in the label name position of the create/modify label screen or print label screen , use ALT-S. The screen will look like this:

SYSTEM MAINTENANCE

1) TEST AND FORMAT MODULE.

2) COPY MODULE.

3) METRIC ? NO.

4) PRINT TEST LABEL.

5) SYSTEM TEST LABEL.

6) EDIT MODULE NAME.

7) RESET PRINTER.

8) EXIT TO RS-232C SYSTEM.

9) PACK MODULE DATA. ENTER NUMBER: ________

Figure 3-6 System Maintenance Menu

To exit the screen, press the Esc key. All system maintenance screen choices are explained below:

Test and Format Module: Used to format or reformat the memory of

a Flash Module. Tests the memory module to see that it properly functions, and that it is capable of erasing and loading data.

This test destroys all existing memory module data! Follow the prompts to perform the test.

Warning

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Copy Module: Copies graphic images and/or label

formats from one memory module to another. Be certain that the write protect switch is ‘on’ for the source module and ‘off’ for the destination module.

Metric: Each time the number 3 is pressed, the

screen will toggle between metric ‘No’ and metric ‘Yes’.

Print Test Label: Prints a Printhead Test Label and is used

as a relative gauge of Printhead condition and wear.

System Test Label: Lists all current Printer settings and

checks both ROM and RAM. Prints a Printhead test label after the system test.

Edit Module Name: This will allow you to change the name of

the module.

Reset Printer: This is the same as the <SOH #>

command in the standard printer mode. If switch 7 is on then the internal batch will take over.

Exit To RS-232C System: This is the same as turning Switch 7 ‘off’

and resetting the Printer. You can use the <STX g> command to enter the Internal Batch without using switch 7 in the rear of the Printer.

Pack Module Data: All the label formats are stored in a 256K

flash module; therefore, only the entire module can be cleared. For this reason, the data will occasionally need to be packed from time to time when the memory becomes low.

52 DMX 400/430 Operator’s Manual

Creating Labels Using Internal Batach Software

3.6 Quick Reference Listing

The following pages list the valid commands for the Printer's Internal Batch Labeling Software Program.

3.6.1 Create/Modify Label Commands

Command Valid Inputs

ROT 1,2,3 and 4 FNT Fonts: 0 through 8, smooth font 9

Human Readable Bar Codes: Uppercase A through R, except P (Postnet) non-human readable bar codes,

lowercase a through r X = Boxes and Lines Y = Graphics

XW 1 through 9 and A through O XH 1 through 9 and A through O BH 0.00 to 9.99 ROW 00.00 to 99.99 COL 00.00 to 04.10 TYPE D = Data, P = Prompt, C = Comment, R = Repeat,

T = Time and Date +,-, <,> = Consecutive Numbering and Alpha

DMX 400/430 Operator’s Manual 53

Creating Labels Using Internal Batch Software

3.6.2 Print Parameters (ALT-P)

Description Default Range

Heat Factor 10 0 to 20 Print Speed DMX400 DMX 430 Slew Speed DMX 400 DMX 430 Dot Pattern Wide 1 1 or 2 Dot Pattern High 1 1 to 3 Form Edge Offset 220 050 to 999 Form Advance (Back Feed)

Row Offset 000 000 to 999 Column Offset 000 000 to 410 Update Count on 01 01 to 99 Max. Label Width 410 050 to 410 Max. Label Length 1200 0500 to 9999 Cut By Amount 0001 0001 to 9999 Sensor Type E E or R

G G

K K

220

C-G C-K

C-N C-K

Form Edge Offset

+ 20

3.6.3 Special Keys

Key Function

F1 Esc Switch F2 List F3 Copy F4 Kill F5 ALT-S System Maintenance F6 ALT-P Print Parameters Screen F7 ALT-I Insert Format Line F8 ALT-X Print sample Label F9 ALT-F Feed a Label Esc End Key Home Erase Current Line

54 DMX 400/430 Operator’s Manual

♦ Printing Labels

4.0 Introduction

Labels can be generated using RS-232C or parallel communications to a host computer or a PC with a compatible labeling software package. This chapter explains some of the basic programming commands that are required when writing programs to generate label formats. A programmer's manual can be obtained by mailing or faxing the request card located in the back of this manual.

4.1 Programming Commands

In order to be ready for a command sequence, the Printer must first receive a special character called an “attention getter,” this character informs the Printer that it is about to receive a command and the type of command it will be. Immediate Commands, System-Level Commands, and Font-Loading Commands each have their own attention getter. The attention getter character is followed by a command character that tells the Printer what action to take.

ASCII

Char.

SOH 1 01 Ctrl A Immediate

STX 2 02 Ctrl B System-Level

ESC 27 1B Ctrl [ Font-Loading

Table 4-1 Attention Getters

DMX 400/430 Operator’s Manual 55

Decimal

Value

HEX

Value

DOS

Prompt

Attention Getter For

Commands

Printing Labels

When the Printer receives an Immediate Command it will cease whatever it is doing and perform that command. Commands of all types must be in this sequence:

1. Attention Getter

2. Command Character

3. Parameters that must be entered by the user (if any).

Command Character

Must Enter

Parameters

Printer

Responds

Command

# N Y Reset

A N Y Send ASCII status

string B N N Toggle pause C N N Cancel

D N N SOH shutdown

E N Y Send batch quantity F N Y Send status byte

Table 4-2 Immediate Commands

56 DMX 400/430 Operator’s Manual

Printing Labels

The System-Level Commands are used to create formats, load and store graphic information, and control the Printer. Table 4-3 provides a brief description and format of each System-Level Command Character.

Char Description Format

A Set time and date Format: AwmmddyyyyhhMMjjj

16 digits total.

w mm dd yyyy hh MM jjj

a Enable feedback characters Returns 30 after each label and 31 after each

batch of labels

B Get Printer time and date

information c Set continuous paper length cnnnn = length of paper to feed per label d Set Printer to double buffer

mode

E Set quantity for stored label Ennnn = Set Quantity for stored label

e Select edge sensor Used for "see through" media sensing

F Form feed Feeds one label at a time

f Set form stop position

(Backfeed) G Print last label format

I Input graphics data block

"See Programmer's Manual

for format"

i Download scalable font

J Set pause for each label k Test RS-232 Port Y=ok Sends character "Y" to RS-232 port L Enter Label Formatting

Mode

M Set maximum label length Mnnnn = 4 digits (default) Maximum 12 inches

Print time and date to port

Used to print a label while a second is formatting

in memory

Set distance to peel (tear off) position fnnn =

3 digits from sensor

A bank designation, an optional word length modifier, a format designation, and up to a 16character string to identify the stored image data

= 1 digit week, 1 is Monday = 2 digits for month = 2 digits for day = 4 digits for year = 2 digits for hour (24 hr ft) = 2 digits for minutes = 3 digits for Julian I.D. value

Table 4-3 System-Level Commands

DMX 400/430 Operator’s Manual 57

Printing Labels

Char Description Format

m Set metric flag, enter metric mode All references set to metric until reset

n Clear metric flag, return to inch mode All references set to inch mode

O Form edge offset (start of print

position) o Cycle cutter P Enter character dump mode p Controlled pause

Q Clear all memory modules

q Clear module qx = Module I.D. (Uppercase)

r Select reflective sensor Used for "black-strip" media sensing,

S Slew (feed) speed Sx x = C -I (2 -5 ips) 400

s Set up for one print buffer Set for 1 dot buffer processing. Use for

T Printhead dot pattern test label

t Test RAM memory module

(Must be in Test Mode) U Label format field replacement V Software switch settings Vn n = 4-Label Present, 2-Internal

v Firmware version information Sends version string to Host

W Request memory module information Wx x = F-font, G-graphic, L-label

w Test FLASH module memory Takes about 90 seconds X Set default module bank Xa a - A = Memory Module A Y Output sensor values Dumps sensor values status to

Z Print internal information and dot

pattern

Onnnn = 4 digits, in/100 or mm/10

(e.g. continuous tags, butt-cut labels. Stripe must be printed on back side of media)

Sx x = C -K (2 -6 ips) 430

full length dot buffer processing.

a bbbK ‘Module Good’ bbb = 256 or 512, for size of module

Batch, 1-Cutter Enable

RS-232 port

Table 4-3 System-Level Commands (Continued)

58 DMX 400/430 Operator’s Manual

Printing Labels

A STX L Command switches the Printer from the System Level to the Label-Formatting Mode. All command characters after STX L are interpreted as Label-Formatting Commands until the LabelFormatting Mode is terminated with the Command Character E. All Label -Formatting Commands are terminated with hex value 0D.

CC Description Format

Set cut by amount (4 digits)

The cutter function will perform a cutting

action after the number of labels specified

A Set format attribute An n=1-XOR, 2-Transparent,

C Set column offset amount Cnnnn nnnn= in/100 or mm/10 c Set cut by amount (2 digits) cnn nn = 2 cut amount D Set height and width dot size h = Horiz. dot size; can be 1 or 2

E Terminate field generation and print label G Place data in global register H Enter heat setting

(The amount of heat applied per dot row,

can be used to help control print quality)

m Set metric mode The Printer must be reset in order

M Set mirror image mode

('Mirror Images' current formatted label)

P Print speed Px x = C-G (2 - 4 ips) 400

p Set label backup speed px x x = C-G (2-4ips) 400

Q Enter quantity of labels to print Qnnnn nnnn = quantity R Set row offset amount Rnnnn nnnn = in/100 or mm/10 r Recall stored label format rnn...n nn...n Label name of up

S Slew (feed) speed Sx x = C -I (2 -5 ips) 400

s Store label format in module

T Set field data line terminator Tnn nn = 2 digit ASCII Hex

U Make previous field a string replace field

:nnnn nnnn = 4 digits of labels printed

before cut. Default = 0001

3-Opaque, 5-Inverse

v = Vert. dot size; can be 1,2, or 3

(0.005" steps) Default is “D22”

Hnn nn = 2 digits. 1 - 20 10 is nominal and default

to return to standard measure

'M' must be re-sent to cancel. * *Will not mirror polygons.

Px x = C-K (2 - 6 ips) 430

C-I (2-5 ips) 430

to 16 char. terminated by CR

Sx x = C -K (2 -6 ips) 430 sann...n a - destination module

A Memory Module A nn...n - label name (16 char. max)

00 - FF

Table 4-4 Label-Formatting Commands

DMX 400/430 Operator’s Manual 59

Printing Labels

CC Description Format

X Terminate label formatting mode

z orZZero (0) conversion to "O"

eliminates slash (/)

+ Make last field entered increment numeric +pii Make last entered field

incrementing

p = Zero fill character ii = Data added to field

- Make last field entered decrement numeric -pii Make last entered field decrementing

p = Zero fill character ii = Data subtracted from field

> Make last field entered increment

alphanumeric

< Make last field entered decrement

alphanumeric

^ Set count by amount ^nn Set count by amount

>pii Make last entered field incrementing 0 - Z

p = Zero fill character ii = Data added to field

<pii Make last entered field decrementing 0 - Z

p = Zero fill character ii = Data subtracted from field

nn = 2 digits

Skip # of labels before updating

count fields and time fields

Table 4-4 Label-Formatting Commands (Continued)

There are two special commands used by the Printer, the STX S, (Recall Global Data), and the STX T (print date and time) commands. Unlike the other Label-Formatting Commands, which follow the STX L Command, these special commands are entered directly into the data field.

Character Description

<STX>S Recall global data and place in field <STX>T Print time and date

Table 4-5 Special Label-Formatting Commands

60 DMX 400/430 Operator’s Manual

Printing Labels

The commands used for bit mapped font loading are usually generated by font-creation software. However, the Assign Font ID Number command must be sent to the Printer before the font file. Font-Loading Commands are listed in Table 4-6.

CC P PR Description

*c###D N N Assign Font ID Number

### = ID Number 100 to 999 )s#W Y N Font Descriptor *c#E N N Character Code

# = ASCII Value of Character (s#W Y N Character Download Data

# = Bytes of Bit-mapped Data

Table 4-6 Font-Loading Commands

CC = Command Character P = Must Supply Parameters? (Y/N) PR = Printer Responds? (Y/N)

4.2 Programming Examples

H07 <CR> D11 <CR> 19110080100002510K OHM 1/4 WATT <CR> 1a6210000000050590PCS <CR> E

10K OHM 1/4 WATT

Figure 4-1 Sample Label

DMX 400/430 Operator’s Manual 61

Printing Labels

The example shown below prints out a Code 3 of 9 bar code with a wide to narrow bar ratio of 3:1 and can be used to print any of the bar codes shown in Appendix C by altering the example's fields.

<STX>L<CR> D11<CR> 1A93040001501000123456789<CR> 121100000000100Barcode A<CR> E

<STX>L Syntax L on line 1 is used to enter the label formatting mode.

Figure 4-2 Example line 3

Figure 4-3 Example line 4

62 DMX 400/430 Operator’s Manual

♦ Troubleshooting

5.0 Introduction

This chapter provides general guidelines to help maintain the print quality when using media other than the recommended 5 mil stock. It also provides basic ideas to help identify common installation and communication interfacing problems. If there is any doubt about your ability to perform the procedures outlined in this chapter, contact a qualified service technician before making any adjustments.

DMX 400/430 Operator’s Manual 63

Troubleshooting

5.1 Controlling Print Quality

The Printer provides maximum flexibility by offering both directthermal and thermal-transfer printing capabilities. To support these printing options, the Printer has a flexible set of printing controls.

The amount of heat applied to the Printhead and the location of the Printhead to the label media have the most effect on the images printed on the labels. The Printer provides print quality adjustments, but limits them to prevent the Printer from printing an image that could be damaging to the Printhead. For example, low cost directthermal stocks have high reaction temperatures therefore it takes a great deal of heat to make clear images on this type of paper. The Printer has two ways to compensate for this: first set the burn time to a higher value by using the H Label-Formatting Command. This causes more heat to be transferred into the media, and consequently generates a darker image; second, adjust the Printhead position. The Printer has been factory set to maintain good print quality on the majority of media. However, when using media other than the recommended 4 mil thick stock the Printhead position, ribbon, and media tracking may require slight adjustment to maintain its print quality. If poor print quality is apparent, follow the procedures outlined in Sections 5.3 and 5.5.

64 DMX 400/430 Operator’s Manual

Troubleshooting

5.2 Aligning the Printhead

Components used for Printhead alignment are illustrated in Figure 5-1.

Figure 5-1 Printhead Alignment

5.2.1 Direct-Thermal Stock

For best results when using direct-thermal label stock, turn the head adjustment screws 1/4 turn clockwise to move the Printhead

0.006" (0.15 mm) back on the roller. When the Printhead is aligned with thermal-transfer stock the Printhead is forward on the roller so that the ribbon will separate from the label while the wax ink is still liquid ensuring good print quality. With directthermal stock, the Printhead burn line needs to be further back on the roller where there is more contact with the roller. This causes heat to transfer to the paper more efficiently.

5.2.2 Tag Stock or Stiff Media

The Printer is adjusted at the factory using 5 mil thick label stock. If heavier tag stock is used, the Printhead may need to be adjusted forward.

DMX 400/430 Operator’s Manual 65

Troubleshooting

5.2.3 Mechanical Adjustments

The Printhead is precisely positioned on mount plate locating pins that are adjusted at the factory. Once adjusted, the locating pins will ensure correct alignment of all future replacement heads. It should not be necessary to realign each new Printhead; however, an alignment procedure is required if the Printhead Mount Assembly has been removed or disassembled.

The horizontal placement of the Printhead is adjusted by turning the right and left head-adjustment screws that correspond to the right and left sides of the Printhead. Turning the screws 1/2 turn counter-clockwise will move the Printhead 0.012" (0.305 mm) forward. Likewise, a 1/2 turn clockwise will move the Printhead back 0.012" (0.305 mm). Therefore, only a small adjustment of even a 1/4 turn will cause a big difference in print quality.

Do not turn the head-adjustment screws more than 2 complete turns in either direction.

Caution

Damage to the Head Mount Assembly will result if the adjustment screws are turned too far.

The alignment procedure and the sequence that should be followed is described in section 5.3. This procedure should correct poor print quality; however, all adjustments must be performed with label stock that is at least 4" (102 mm) wide. If the final media used is different, then make the specific adjustments necessary after the standard adjustments are completed.

66 DMX 400/430 Operator’s Manual

Troubleshooting

5.3 Printhead Alignment Procedure

Depending on the degree of alignment necessary to your Printhead, one or perhaps all of the steps mentioned below may need to be completed.

5.3.1 Label Stock Tracking Adjustment

To ensure that the stock feeds straight use a full roll of 4" (102 mm) or 4.25" (108 mm) wide stock and complete the following steps:

1. Rotate the Media Guide ‘down’ and install the stock, keep the Media Guide in the down position.

2. Press the feed switch to feed the labels until the stock begins to track at a stable position.

3. Rotate the Media Guide to the ‘up’ position and slide the Media Guide in or out until the inside edge of the stock is gently resting against the inner Media Guide.

5.3.2 Ribbon Feed and Tracking Adjustments

Complete the following steps to adjust the ribbon feed and tracking.

Turn the power switch ‘on’ and use full width paper and ribbon for this adjustment. Install a thermal-transfer ribbon/ media in the Printer and secure the ribbon to the Ribbon Take-up Hub in a counter-clockwise direction (see Chapter 1, Figure 1-8).

1. Press the feed switch several times to normalize the feeding of the ribbon and media. Check the ribbon for rippling as it travels from the Ribbon Supply Hub and goes under the Printhead assembly. If rippling occurs, follow the procedures outlined in steps 2 through 6.

DMX 400/430 Operator’s Manual 67

Troubleshooting

2. To adjust the Ribbon Shield (see Figure 5-2), temporarily move the ribbon and loosen the screw located on the left end of the Head-Support Plate, (do not remove the screw). This end of the shield can be adjusted up or down in order to even out the ribbon tension across the full width of the ribbon.

Note: The mount screws that secure the Ribbon

Shield also secure the Head-Support Plate. When loosening these screws, be aware that both the shield and the plate may be affected.

3. Position the shield so that there is no rippling in the ribbon as it travels from the Ribbon Supply Hub. The ribbon should also be adjusted so that the tension is even across the entire width of the ribbon.

4. Once the Ribbon Shield is properly positioned, tighten the left screw that supports the Ribbon Shield to the Printhead Mount Assembly. Re-check the ribbon travel to make certain that the ribbon tension is even across the entire width of the ribbon.

5. Feed three or four labels and observe the ribbon as it travels from the Ribbon Supply Hub.

6. Feed the ribbon and paper out the front of the Printer together and check the ribbon for drifting. If the ribbon overlaps one edge of the paper stock, the ribbon and paper are not following the same path. In this case, the paper tracking may need to be readjusted. If there is no ribbon overlap, then continue.

68 DMX 400/430 Operator’s Manual

Troubleshooting

5.3.3 Fine Printhead Alignment

Print a few rotated bars and inspect the print quality. With a 1/16" (1.59 mm) hex key, turn the left and right headadjustment screws counter-clockwise approximately 1/4 −1/2 turn until the desired print quality is achieved. Finally, turn the left head-adjustment screw 1/4 turn counter-clockwise.

5.4 Adjusting Printhead Pressure and Support

The Head-Support Plate supports the outer end of the Printhead when narrow media is used. Without this support, the Printhead would bear down on the drive roller, causing diminished print quality and premature wear. The Head-Support Plate needs to be engaged only when the media width is less than 3.5" (89 mm).

The Printer's Printhead support requires adjustment if media widths of 3.5" (89 mm) or less are used. To make this adjustment complete the following steps:

1. Loosen the two mount screws that fasten the Head to the Support Plate, leaving the screw only slightly snug.

2. Load the media and engage the Printhead by rotating the Head-Lift Lever to the ‘down’ position.

3. Turn the adjustment screw clockwise until the Support Plate moves down and contact the Bearing Plate underneath.

4. Tighten the two mount screws to secure the Support Plate.

Note: The mount screws that secure the Head-Support Plate

also secure the Ribbon Shield. When loosening these screws, be aware that both the plate and the shield may move.

DMX 400/430 Operator’s Manual 69

Troubleshooting

Figure 5-2 Printhead Mount Assembly

5.5 Troubleshooting

Occasionally, situations occur that require some troubleshooting skill. Possible problem situations and potential solutions are listed in this section. While not every situation is addressed, you may find some of these tips helpful. After the corrective action is taken press the feed switch to clear the alarm. Contact a qualified service technician for problems that persist or are not covered in this section.

70 DMX 400/430 Operator’s Manual

Troubleshooting

Unacceptable print quality

• The Printhead may be dirty, clean the Printhead, (see

Section 6.1).

• The Printhead temperature is too high. Use your application

software control to adjust the burn time and/or heat setting.

• Incorrect ribbon/paper combination being used. Be sure to

use the correct ribbon type.

The Printer does not print or prints several labels at once

• The labels are incorrectly loaded, see the loading

instructions on the inside cover of the Printer, or Section

1.6.1.

• The Media Sensor may be out of adjustment.

• The Media Sensor or Media Sensor Circuitry may be

defective, call for service.

Erratic printing

• The Printer is in the test mode. Reset the Printer via

software, or simultaneously press the cancel and pause switches, or turn the Printer ‘off’ and then ‘on’ again.

• The Printer is set for 8-data bits but the transmitting device

is set for 7- data bits (or vice versa). Check the current data bits setting from the operators panel.

DMX 400/430 Operator’s Manual 71

The ribbon does not advance

• The ribbon is installed incorrectly. Make sure that the dull

side (side with ink) is facing the paper.

• A bad ribbon/paper combination is resulting in an

insufficient amount of friction between paper and ribbon. Ensure that the correct type of ribbon is being used.

Skips every other label

• The label is formatted too close to the top edge of the form.

Leave white space equal to 8-dot rows at the top of the label, approx. .02" (.5 mm).

• Check operation of the Top-of-Form Sensor.

Unable to print in rotation 4

Troubleshooting

• The characters are formatted outside the dimensions of the

label. Check that the row/column values provide enough room for the height of the characters or bar code to be printed.

Prints light on the right side of the label

• The Printhead is adjusted for thick media or cardstock.

• The Printhead is not properly aligned, call for service.

72 DMX 400/430 Operator’s Manual

Troubleshooting

Printer fails to turn on

• A fuse may be blown, call for service.

• Faulty AC cord.

• A bad power switch may exist on the Printer, call for

service.

• A faulty AC wall outlet.

Label advances 1-2 inches before a fault indication

• The ribbon is installed incorrectly. Make sure that the dull

side (side with ink) is facing the paper.

• The labels are installed incorrectly.

• A bad ribbon/paper is resulting in an insufficient amount of

friction between paper and ribbon. Ensure that the correct type of ribbon is being used.

Label advances 12 inches before a fault indication

• The labels are installed incorrectly.

• A hardware problem may exist, call for service.

• The Media Sensor may be out of adjustment.

• The Media Sensor, or Media Sensor Circuitry may be

defective, call for service.

DMX 400/430 Operator’s Manual 73

Troubleshooting

74 DMX 400/430 Operator’s Manual

♦ Maintenance

6.0 Cleaning the Printer

Interior and Exterior

• Interior During normal operation dust particles from label

stock can build up inside the Printer. To prevent build-up, use a soft bristle brush or vacuum cleaner as needed.

• Exterior The exterior surface can be cleaned using a general

purpose cleaner and a damp soft cloth or sponge. Do not use abrasive cleansers or solvents.

Drive Roller

Print quality may be affected if the drive roller becomes contaminated with grit, label adhesive, or ink. To clean the Drive Roller complete the following steps:

1. Remove the Tear-Bar Assembly, see Figure 1-4.

2. Turn the Head-Lift Lever to raise the Printhead to the ‘up’ position.

3. Dampen a clean, soft cloth with Isopropyl Alcohol and wipe off any debris from the Drive Roller.

Note: If the Drive Roller contains excessive build-up that is

unable to be removed using Isopropyl Alcohol you can try acetone; however, this should be used sparingly.

DMX 400/430 Operator’s Manual 75

Maintenance

6.1 Cleaning the Printhead

The Printhead should be cleaned on an ‘as needed’ basis. To determine when to clean the Printhead look for characters or bar codes that appear light or faded, or labels that contain spots or light streaks. Once you notice these signs follow the steps below to clean the Printhead.

1. Turn off the power and unplug the Printer.

2. Raise the cover and turn the Head-Lift Lever to the ‘up’ position.

3. Dampen a cotton swab with isopropyl alcohol and insert into the Printhead as shown below. Gently rub the underside of the Printhead with the moistened swab.

Figure 6-2 Cleaning the Printhead

76 DMX 400/430 Operator’s Manual

Appendix A

ASCII Control Code Chart

Char Dec Hex Char Dec Hex Char Dec Hex Char Dec Hex

NUL 0 00 32 20 @ 64 40 ` 96 60 SOH 1 01 ! 33 21 A 65 41 a 97 61 STX 2 02 Ò 34 22 B 66 42 b 98 62 EXT 3 03 # 35 23 C 67 43 c 99 63 EOT 4 04 $ 36 24 D 68 44 d 100 64 ENQ 5 05 % 37 25 E 69 45 e 101 65 ACK 6 06 & 38 26 F 70 46 f 102 66 BEL 7 07 Ô 39 27 G 71 47 g 103 67 BS 8 08 ( 40 28 H 72 48 h 104 68 HT 9 09 ) 41 29 I 73 49 i 105 69 LF 10 0A * 42 2A J 74 4A j 106 6A VT 11 0B + 43 2B K 75 4B k 107 6B FF 12 0C , 44 2C L 76 4C l 108 6C CR 13 0D - 45 2D M 77 4D m 109 6D SO 14 0E . 46 2E N 78 4E n 110 6E SI 15 0F / 47 2F O 79 4F o 111 6F DLE 16 10 0 48 30 P 80 50 p 112 70 DC1 17 11 1 49 31 Q 81 51 q 113 71 DC2 18 12 2 50 32 R 82 52 r 114 72 DC3 19 13 3 51 33 S 83 53 s 115 73 DC4 20 14 4 52 34 T 84 54 t 116 74 NAK 21 15 5 53 35 U 85 55 u 117 75 SYN 22 16 6 54 36 V 86 56 v 118 76 ETB 23 17 7 55 37 W 87 57 w 119 77 CAN 24 18 8 56 38 X 88 58 x 120 78 EM 25 19 9 57 39 Y 89 59 y 121 79 SUB 26 1A : 58 3A Z 90 5A z 122 7A ESC 27 1B ; 59 3B [ 91 5B { 123 7B FS 28 1C < 60 3C \ 92 5C | 124 7C GS 29 1D = 61 3D ] 93 5D } 125 7D RS 30 1E > 62 3E ^ 94 5E ~ 126 7E US 31 1F ? 63 3F _ 95 5F 127 7F

DMX 400/430 Operator’s Manual A-1

ASCII Control Chart

Char Dec Hex Char Dec Hex Char Dec Hex Char Dec Hex Ç 128 80 á 160 A0 192 C0 Ó 224 E0 ü 129 81 í 161 A1 193 C1 ß 225 E1 é 130 82 ó 162 A2 194 C2 Ô 226 E2 â 131 83 ú 163 A3 195 C3 Ò 227 E3 ä 132 84 ñ 164 A4 196 C4 õ 228 E4 à 133 85 Ñ 165 A5 197 C5 Õ 229 E5 å 134 86 ª 166 A6 ã 198 C6 µ 230 E6 ç 135 87 ° 167 A7 Ã 199 C7 þ 231 E7 ê 136 88 ¿ 168 A8 200 C8 Þ 232 E8 ë 137 89 ® 169 A9 201 C9 Ú 233 E9 è 138 8A 170 AA 202 CA Û 234 EA ï 139 8B 1/2 171 AB 203 CB Ù 235 EB î 140 8C 1/4 172 AC 204 CC ý 236 EC ì 141 8D ¡ 173 AD 205 CD Ý 237 ED Ä 142 8E 174 AE 206 CE 238 EE Å 143 8F ¯ 175 AF 207 CF 239 EF É 144 90 176 B0 ð 208 D0 240 F0 æ 145 91 177 B1 Ð 209 D1 ± 241 F1 Æ 146 92 ² 178 B2 Ê 210 D2 242 F2 ô 147 93 ³ 179 B3 Ë 211 D3 3/4 243 F3 ö 148 94 ´ 180 B4 È 212 D4 244 F4 ò 149 95 Á 181 B5 213 D5 245 F5 û 150 96 Â 182 B6 Í 214 D6 ÷ 246 F6 ù 151 97 À 183 B7 Î 215 D7 ¸ 247 F7 ÿ 152 98 © 184 B8 Ï 216 D8 º 248 F8 Ö 153 99 ¹ 185 B9 217 D9 ¨ 249 F9 Ü 154 9A 186 BA 218 DA · 250 FA ø 155 9B » 187 BB 219 DB 251 FB £ 156 9C 188 BC 220 DC 252 FC Ø 157 9D ¢ 189 BD 221 DD 253 FD x 158 9E ¥ 190 BE Ì 222 DE 254 FE ƒ 159 9F 191 BF 223 DF 255 FF

A-2 DMX 400/430 Operator’s Manual

Appendix B

Switch Settings and Cable Interfacing

Baud 9600 4800 2400 1200 600 300 9600

SW-1 off off off off on on on SW-2 off off on on off off on SW-3 off on off on off on on

Table B-1 Baud Rate

SW-4 Data Bits Parity Stop Bits

on 7 None 2 off 8 None 1

Table B-2 Word Length

SW-5 Prodigy Compatible On Prodigy Off Allegro SW-6 Present Sensor On Enabled Off Disabled SW-7 Internal Batch Software On Enabled Off Disabled SW-8 Cutter On Enabled Off Disabled

Test

Table B-3 Options

DMX400/430 Operator’s Manual B-1

Switch Settings and Cable Interfacing

Printer Cabling and Interfacing:

When the Printer receives data from any host system, it will not properly function with an incorrectly wired cable. Proper wiring diagrams can be found in Appendix E. Table B-1 contains a list of the signals that if correctly wired to the host system will cause the Printer to operate properly.

Signal Pin TX 2 RX 3 BUSY 20 Ground 7 Jumper 4 to 5 Shield 1

Table B-1 I/O Port Wiring

When the Printer is turned on, it will default to pre-determined interfacing parameters. The default values are in Table B-2.

Parameter Default Value BAUD 9600 Data Bits 8 Parity None Stop Bits 1

Table B-2 Printer Default Communication Parameters

Altering the switch positions of Dip Switch S1 on the back of the Printer will configure the Printer for different applications. Chapter 2, Section 2.4 shows the switch positions and the configurations supported by each setting.

B-2 DMX400/430 Operator’s Manual

Appendix C

Available Fonts and Barcodes

All character fonts and barcodes available with the Printer are described in this section. Each font and barcode has a name associated with it for use in programming. Human-readable fonts have numeric names while barcode fonts have alpha names. Uppercase alpha names will print barcodes with human readable interpretations. Lowercase alpha names will print barcodes only.

Fonts

Fonts 0 through 8 use the slash zero (Ø) conventions for distinguishing between the zero and the alphabetic O. The slash can be removed with the label formatting command Z. These fonts are non-proportional (monospaced) fonts; all of the characters take up the same amount of space when printed.

The Triumvirate font number 9 is a proportional font; each character will take up a different amount of space when printed.

DMX400/430 Operator’s Manual C-1

Available Fonts and Barcodes

Font Valid ASCII Characters 0 32-127 1 32-168, 171, 172, 225 2 32-168, 171, 172, 225 3 32, 35-38, 40-58, 65-90, 128, 142-144, 146, 153, 154,

4 32, 35-38, 40-58, 65-90, 128, 142-144, 146, 153, 154,

5 32, 35-38, 40-58, 65-90, 128, 142-144, 146, 153, 154,

6 32, 35-38, 40-58, 65-90, 128, 142-144, 146, 153, 154,

7 32-126 8 32, 48-57, 60, 62, 67, 69, 78, 83, 84, 88, 90 9 32-126, 128-169, 171-173, 181-184, 189, 190, 198, 199, 208-216, 222,

156, 157, 165, 168, 225

224-237, 241, 243, 246-250

Table C-1 Valid Human-Readable Font ASCII Characters

The tables below lists the font sizes. The numbers indicate the number of dots.

DMX400

FONT HEIGHT WIDTH SPACING

Font 0 7 5 1 Font 1 13 7 2 Font 2 18 10 2 Font 3 27 14 2 Font 4 36 18 3 Font 5 52 18 3 Font 6 64 32 4 Font 7 32 15 5 Font 8 28 15 5

DMX430

FONT HEIGHT WIDTH SPACING

Font 0 10 7 1 Font 1 18 10 3 Font 2 27 14 3 Font 3 27 20 3 Font 4 39 28 4 Font 5 52 26 4 Font 6 64 49 6 Font 7 32 22 7 Font 8 28 22 7

C-2 DMX400/430 Operator’s Manual

Available Fonts and Barcodes

Font 0 96-character alphanumeric, upper and lower case.

Font 2 138-character alphanumeric, upper and lower case.

Font 4 62-character alphanumeric, uppercase.

Font 1 145-character upper and lower case alphanumeric w/ descenders and ascenders.

Font 3 62-character alphanumeric, uppercase.

Font 5 62-character alphanumeric, uppercase.

DMX400/430 Operator’s Manual C-3

Available Fonts and Barcodes

Font 6 62-character alphanumeric, uppercase.

Font 7 OCR-A, size I. Font 8 OCR-B, size III.

C-4 DMX400/430 Operator’s Manual

Available Fonts and Barcodes

Font 9. Internal Triumvirate font. Point sizes are selected by the number in the bar code height

field. Fonts 4 and 5 are only available on the 430.

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Available Fonts and Barcodes

Barcodes

Font Length Cksum Valid ASCII Characters Bar widths

A Varies No 32, 36, 37, 42, 43, 45-57, 65-902:1 - 3:1

B 11 Yes 48-57 Numeric only.

Option V used in the

6th & 7th position C 6 Yes 48-57 Numeric only 2:1 - 4:1 D Varies No 48-57 Numeric only 2:1 - 3:1 E Varies M-103 32-127 2:1 - 4:1 F 12 Yes 48-57 Numeric only.

Option V used in the

7th & 8th position G 7 Yes 48-57 Numeric only 2:1 - 4:1 H Varies M-43 32, 36-39, 42, 43, 45-57, 65-902:1 - 3:1

I Varies No 36, 43, 45-58, 65-68 2:1 - 3:1 J Varies M-10 48-57 Numeric only 2:1 - 3:1 K Up to14M-10 48-57 Numeric only.

Option + is Last Character

for Second M-11 Checksum L 13 M-10 48-57 Numeric only 2:1 - 3:1 M 2 Yes 48-57 Numeric only 2:1 - 4:1 N 5 Yes 48-57 Numeric only 2:1 - 4:1 O Varies No 35-38, 42-58, 65-90, 97-122 2:1 - 4:1 P Varies Yes 48-57 Numeric only Same as Fonts Q 19 Yes 48-57 Numeric only 2:1 - 4:1 R 18 Yes 48-57 Numeric only 2:1 - 4:1 S 34 + Yes 48-57 Numeric only 2:1 - 4:1 T Varies Yes Alpha numeric 2:1 - 4:1 U 84 Yes Alpha numeric N/A z Varies Yes All Any Ratio

2:1 - 4:1

2:1 - 3:1

Table C-3 Barcode Characteristics

Uppercase Barcode identifiers (I.D's) have corresponding lowercase I.D's that when selected suppress printing of associated humanreadable text.

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Available Fonts and Barcodes

Barcode A Code 3 of 9 Barcode B UPC-A

Barcode C UPC-E Barcode D Interleaved 2 of 5

Barcode E Code 128 Barcode F EAN-13

Barcode G EAN-8 Barcode H Health Industry

Barcode (HBIC)

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Available Fonts and Barcodes

Barcode I Codabar Barcode J Interleaved 2 of 5

w/modulo 10 checksum

Barcode K Plessey Barcode L Interleaved 2 of 5

w/modulo 10 checksum and shipping bearer bars

Barcode M 2 Digit UPC addendum

Barcode N 5 Digit UPC

addendum

Barcode O Code 93 Barcode p Postnet

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Available Fonts and Barcodes

Barcode Q UCC/EAN Code 128

Barcode S. UCC/EAN Code 128 Random Weight

Barcode R UCC/EAN Code 128 KMART NON EDI

Barcode T. Telepen

Barcode u. UPS MaxiCode Barcode z. PDF-417

DMX400/430 Operator’s Manual C-9

HP (Hewlett-Packard) DMX 400, DMX 430 User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual