Intermec 3240 User Guide

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User’s Manual

P/N 063015-003

3240 Bar Code Label Printer

Norand Mobile Systems Division

Intermec Corporation 6001 36th Avenue West P.O. Box 4280 Everett, WA 98203-9280

U.S. technical and service support: 1-800-755-5505 U.S. media supplies ordering information: 1-800-227-9947

Canadian technical and service support: 1-800-688-7043 Canadian media supplies ordering information: 1-800-268-6936

Outside U.S. and Canada: Contact your local Intermec service supplier. The information contained herein is proprietary and is provided solely for the purpose of allowing

customers to operate and/or service Intermec manufactured equipment and is not to be released, reproduced, or used for any other purpose without written permission of Intermec.

Information and specifications in this manual are subject to change without notice.  1997 by Intermec Corporation

Print, PrintSet, Virtual Wedge, and CrossBar are either trademarks or registered trademarks of Intermec Corporation.

Novell is a registered trademark of Novell, Inc. Kimdura is a registered trademark of Kimberly Clark. Kapton is a registered trademark of Dupont. Speedo, Dutch, and Swiss are registered trademarks of Bitstream Inc. The name Centronics is wholly owned by GENICOM Corporation. IBM is a registered trademark of International Business Machines Corporation. Throughout this manual, trademarked names may be used. Rather than put a trademark ( or ®)

symbol in every occurrence of a trademarked name, we state that we are using the names only in an editorial fashion, and to the benefit of the trademark owner, with no intention of infringement.

Manual Change Record

This page records the changes to this manual, which was originally released as version 001.

Version Date Description of Change

002 10/96 These two addenda were added:

• Self-strip addendum Part No. 064196-001

• Top of form addendum Part No. 064522-001

Other minor corrections and changes were made throughout the manual.

003 11/97 Removed Chapters 5 and 6, which pertained to IPL commands. This

information is now contained in the IPL Programming Reference Manual.

Contents

Before You Begin xi

Warranty Information xi Safety Summary xi Warnings and Cautions xii About This Manual xiii

Getting Started

Unpacking the 3240 Printer 1-3

Checking the Order for Completeness 1-4 Reporting Damage or Defects 1-4

Getting to Know Your 3240 Printer 1-5

Preparing the Printer for Installation 1-7

Plugging In the Printer 1-7 Opening the Printer 1-8 Loading a Roll of Media 1-9 Printing the Hardware Configuration Test Label 1-12

What the Hardware Configuration Test Label Tells You 1-13 If the Hardware Configuration Test Label Does Not Print 1-13

Connecting the Printer to Your System 1-13

Connecting the 3240 to a PC 1-14

Connecting the Printer to a PC Serial Port 1-14

Connecting the Printer to a PC Parallel Port 1-15 Connecting the 3240 to a Network 1-15 Connecting the 3240 to an AS/400 1-16 Connecting the 3240 to a Mainframe 1-16

Configuring the Serial Port 1-17

Verifying Printer Communications With Your System 1-19

Operating the Printer

Learning How to Operate the Printer 2-3

Understanding the Front Panel 2-3

Using the Front Panel LEDs 2-4 Using the Front Panel LEDs for Troubleshooting 2-4

3240 Bar Code Label Printer Users Manual

Using the Feed/Pause Button 2-5

Loading Media Into the Printer 2-6

Loading Media for Fanfold Printing 2-6 Loading Media for Self-Strip Printing 2-8

Loading Thermal Transfer Ribbon 2-11

Setting the Media Sensitivity Number 2-13

Setting the Media Sensitivity Number for Intermec Media and Ribbon 2-14 Setting the Media Sensitivity Number for Other Media and Ribbon 2-15

Communicating With the Printer 2-17

Using the PrintSet Software 2-17 Using Third-Party Software 2-17 Using the Intermec Printer Language (IPL) Commands 2-17 Printing a Test Label 2-18 Using a Different Platform Than a PC 2-19

Maintaining the Printer

Inspecting the Printer 3-3

Cleaning the Printer 3-3

Maintenance Schedule 3-4

Cleaning the Printhead 3-6 Cleaning the Printer Covers 3-7 Cleaning the Rollers and the Tear Bar 3-8 Cleaning the Media Guides and Media Path 3-10 Cleaning the Label Sensors 3-12

Troubleshooting

Troubleshooting Checklist 4-3

Printer Operation Problems 4-3

Print Quality Problems 4-5

Communications Problems 4-7

Preventing Data Loss 4-8

Optimizing and Maintaining Print Quality 4-9

Selecting the Correct Media 4-9 Setting the Print Speed 4-10 Selecting the Correct Media Sensitivity Number 4-10 Selecting the Correct Bar Code Orientation 4-10 Adjusting the Print Darkness 4-11 Adjusting the Printer for Self-Strip Printing 4-12 Using Precision Print Technology to Print High Registration Labels 4-13

Correcting the Lateral Position of the Label Image 4-13

Accurately Detecting the Start of a Label 4-15

Correcting Uneven Print Quality 4-17

Fine-Tuning the Top of Form Position 4-19

Performing Advanced Procedures

Contents

Using the Printer Memory Efficiently 5-3

How Is the 3240 RAM Used? 5-3 Making the Most of Your RAM 5-4

Maximizing Throughput 5-5

What Is an Image Band? 5-5 How the Image Bands Command Works 5-6 Optimizing Print Speed and Image Band Setting 5-6 Reimaging Modified Fields 5-7 Optimizing Image Bands for Batch Printing 5-7

Using Test and Service Mode 5-8

Printing Test Labels 5-10 Using Data Line Print 5-10 Performing Selective Transfer 5-11 Using Memory Reset 5-12

Changing Configuration Commands in Test and Service Mode 5-13

Setting the Number of Dot Increments 5-14 Adjusting the Label Rest Point 5-15 Setting Emulation Mode 5-17

Replacing an 86XX, 4100, or 3400 Printer With a 3240 Printer 5-19

Differences Between 86XX Printers and 86XX Emulation 5-19

No BEL Status Response 5-19

Prints Erroneous Labels 5-20

Limited User-Defined Protocol 5-20

Added Auto-Transmit 3 and SI Configuration Commands 5-22

Increased Storage Capacity 5-22

Features Not Implemented 5-22

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3240 Bar Code Label Printer Users Manual

Differences Between the 3240 Printer and the 4100 Printer 5-23

DIP Switches 5-23 Communications 5-23 Entering Test and Service Mode 5-23 No Cutter 5-23 Front Panel 5-24 RAM Differences 5-24

Differences Between the 3400 Printer and the 3240 Printer 5-24

Printhead Size 5-24 Fonts 5-25 DPI Emulation Modes 5-25

Printer Reference

3240 Printer Specifications A-3

Factory Default Settings A-6

Communications Protocol Characters A-7

Configuration Parameters Upload A-8

Printer Functional Boundaries A-9

Printer Options A-11

Bar Code Symbologies A-13

International Character Sets A-16

Extended Character Sets A-19

DIP Switch Settings A-24

Full ASCII Chart A-25

Cabling and Communications

viii

Communications Reference B-3

Interface Cables and Connectors B-11

Connecting the Printer to a Network or Modem B-15

Contents

Glossary

Index

Before You Begin

This section introduces you to standard warranty provisions, safety precautions, warnings and cautions, document formatting conventions, and sources of additional product information. A documentation roadmap is also provided to guide you in finding the appropriate information.

Warranty Information

To receive a copy of the standard warranty provision for this product, contact your local Intermec sales organization. In the U.S. call 1-800-755-5505, and in Canada call 1-800-688-7043. Otherwise, refer to the Worldwide Sales & Service list that came with this manual for the address and telephone number of your Intermec sales organization.

Safety Summary

Your safety is extremely important. Read and follow all warnings and cautions in this book before handling and operating Intermec equipment. You can be seriously injured, and equipment and data can be damaged if you do not follow the safety warnings and cautions.

Before You Begin

Do not repair or adjust alone

under any circumstances. Someone capable of providing first aid must always be present for your safety.

First aid

injury. Never neglect an injury, no matter how slight it seems.

Resuscitation

breathing. Any delay could result in death. To work on or near high voltage, you should be familiar with approved industrial first aid methods.

Energized equipment

by a responsible authority. Energized electrical equipment is dangerous. Electrical shock from energized equipment can cause death. If you must perform authorized emergency work on energized equipment, be sure that you comply strictly with approved safety regulations.

Always obtain first aid or medical attention immediately after an

Begin resuscitation immediately if someone is injured and stops

Never work on energized equipment unless authorized

Do not repair or adjust energized equipment alone

3240 Bar Code Label Printer Users Manual

Warnings and Cautions

The warnings and cautions in this manual use the following format.

Warning

A warning alerts you of an operating procedure, practice, condition, or statement that must be strictly observed to avoid death or serious injury to the persons working on the equipment.

Avertissement

Un avertissement vous avertit d’une procédure de fonctionnement, d’une méthode, d’un état ou d’un rapport qui doit être strictement respecté pour éviter l’occurrence de mort ou de blessures graves aux personnes manupulant l’équipement.

Caution

A caution alerts you to an operating procedure, practice, condition, or statement that must be strictly observed to prevent equipment damage or destruction, or corruption or loss of data.

Conseil

Une précaution vous avertit d’une procédure de fonctionnement, d’une méthode, d’un état ou d’un rapport qui doit être strictement respecté pour empêcher l’endommagement ou la destruction de l’équipement, ou l’altération ou la perte de données.

xii

Before You Begin

About This Manual

This manual contains all of the information necessary to install, operate, configure, design labels, troubleshoot, and maintain the printer.

This manual was written for analysts and programmers who operate, program, and connect the printer to a network or system. A basic understanding of DOS, programming, and data communications is necessary.

What You Will Find in This Manual

This table summarizes the information in each chapter of this manual:

For information on Refer to

Installing the printer Chapter 1, “Getting Started.” Tells you how to plug in the

printer, load a small roll of media, configure the printer, and print a configuration test label.

Operating the printer Chapter 2, “Operating the Printer.” Explains the printer

front panel, tells you how to load media for fanfold and self-strip applications, how to load ribbon, and how to test for communications.

Routine maintenance Chapter 3, “Maintaining the Printer.” Tells you how to

maintain the printer.

Troubleshooting Chapter 4, “Troubleshooting.” Instructs you on how to

clear error messages and troubleshoot programming or configuration problems. It also tells you how to control print quality.

Advanced procedures Chapter 5, “Performing Advanced Procedures.” Tells you

how to perform advanced procedures on the 3240 printer such as decreasing processing time.

Printer specifications Appendix A, “Printer Reference.” Contains operating

specifications, extended character sets, and reference tables.

Cabling and communication protocols

Appendix B, “Cabling and Communications.” Provides information on correct cables and communication protocols for your system.

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3240 Bar Code Label Printer Users Manual

Terms and Conventions

The following special terms and conventions occur throughout the manual. Refer to the glossary for a complete list of terms.

Terms

“Printer” or “3240” refer to the 3240 bar code label printer. “Media” is the label stock on which the printer prints labels. “Host” refers to a personal computer or other computer that communicates

with the printer.

Conventions

The following conventions are used throughout this manual for operating procedures and descriptions of the printer.

• Feed/Pause refers to the Feed/Pause button on the printer front panel.

• Downloaded commands appear in the order that you enter them into the

printer with the following conventions:

Convention Description

< > Angle brackets < > enclose mnemonic representations of ASCII control

characters. For example, <ETX> represents the ASCII “End of Text” control character.

[

] Italic text within brackets represents optional data.

data

Ctrl Bold text represents a key on your keypad. For example, Ctrl

represents the Ctrl key.

Ctrl-C When two keys are joined with a dash, press them simultaneously. For

example, if you see the command Ctrl-C, press the two keys at the same time.

E3;F3

Type all characters that appear in the Courier font by pressing an individual key on the keypad.

xiv

Before You Begin

Other Intermec Manuals

The following manuals provide additional information about printing labels with your bar code printer.

Manual Intermec Part No.

Data Communications Reference Manual IPL Programming Reference Manual 066396 The Bar Code Book 3240 Bar Code Label Printer Getting Started Guide 9154 Multi-Drop Line Controller System Manual 9161B Installation Manual 9180 Network Controller User’s Manual RF System User’s Manual

by Roger C. Palmer 051241

044737

063257 048517 049572 054292 053574

Getting Started

This chapter introduces the 3240 printer and explains how to get your new printer up and running for the first time.

Unpacking the 3240 Printer

Remove the accessories, packing material, and the printer from the shipping container. Set the printer on a clean, stable, flat surface and remove the packing material. Save the shipping container and packing materials in case you need to move or ship your printer.

Contents of the 3240 Printer Package

Getting Started

3240 Printer

AC power cord

Power

Alert

Empty/Pause

Feed/Pause

Intermec

3240

Ribbon core

Intermec

Media Roll

Getting

Started

Guide

3240 Bar Code Label Printer

3240U.001

1-3

3240 Bar Code Label Printer Users Manual

Checking the Order for Completeness

Verify the contents of the shipping container against the list below and the figure on the previous page. If any parts are missing, please contact your local Intermec representative.

•

3240 printer

•

AC power cord

•

Ribbon core

• 3240 Label Printer Getting Started Guide

•

Media roll (a 50-foot direct thermal media roll)

Reporting Damage or Defects

Intermec thoroughly tests and inspects your 3240 before shipping it from the factory. If you receive any items damaged, please take the following steps to correct the problem.

•

Take photographs if necessary.

•

Contact the transport carrier.

Note: The customer is responsible for all damage claims against the carrier. See the “Intermec Terms of Sale” printed on your sales invoice.

1-4

Getting to Know Your 3240 Printer

Features of the 3240 printer include:

• Support for direct thermal and thermal transfer printing applications.

Chapters 1 and 2 instruct you on how to load both types of media.

• An internal self-strip with integral liner takeup. See Chapter 2, “Operating

the Printer,” for more information.

• Precision Print technology that produces high registration labels. See

Chapter 4, “Troubleshooting,” for more information.

• Minimal supervision and maintenance. Use the following figures to familiarize yourself with the 3240 printer.

Front View

Getting Started

Media window

Power on LED

Alert LED

Empty/Pause LED

Feed/Pause button

3240 Printer

Power

Alert

Empty/Pause

Feed/Pause

Intermec

3240

Media access door

Media cover

3240U.002

1-5

3240 Bar Code Label Printer Users Manual

Back View

Darkness adjust control

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

Fanfold media access slot

DIP switches

Optional I/O board port

Serial communications port

ON/OFF switch

AC power cord receptacle

3240U.003

Several options are available for use with the 3240 printer. See Appendix A, “Printer Reference,” for complete descriptions of these options.

1-6

Preparing the Printer for Installation

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

Serial communications port

ON/OFF switch

AC power cord receptacle

DIP switches

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

OFF

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

OFF

Factory

Default Settings

3240U.004

Before connecting your 3240 to your data collection system, you need to:

• plug in your printer.

• open the printer and load media.

• print a configuration test label.

Plugging In the Printer

The back of the 3240 printer contains the AC power cord receptacle, the serial communications port, the (I/O) switch, and two banks of DIP switches.

To plug in the printer

1. Turn the switch to the off (O) position.

2. Make sure you set the DIP switches to their factory default settings.

Top Bank Bottom Bank

For a description of the DIP switch settings, see “Configuring the Serial Port” later in this chapter.

Set switch 1 on. Set switches 2 through 8 off.

Set switches 1 through 8 off.

Getting Started

3. Plug the AC power cord into the receptacle at the back of the printer.

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3240 Bar Code Label Printer Users Manual

4. Plug the other end of the power cord into a grounded wall outlet or surge protector.

5. Set the ON/OFF switch to the on (|) position. The Power On LED lights, the Empty/Pause LED flashes, and the printer (platen roller) advances. The Empty/Pause LED stays lit because you have not loaded media yet.

Opening the Printer

You need to open the printer every time you load media or perform maintenance procedures.

To open the printer

1. Place the fingers of your right hand between the two notches on the lower edge of the media cover (the media cover release) and pull the bottom of the media cover away from the base of the printer.

2. Grasp the front of the media cover with your left hand and lift the front of the media cover upward to release it from the printer frame.

3. Lift the media cover away from the top of the printer.

Power

Alert

Empty/Pause

Feed/Pause

IntermecIntermec

3240

Media cover release (between the two notches)

Media cover

3240U.005

1-8

Getting Started

Loading a Roll of Media

In straight-through printing, you load a roll of media on the supply roll post and feed it straight through the printer mechanism and out the front of the printer. As the 3240 prints individual labels, you can remove them from the roll by pulling them down across the tear bar. Use the small roll of media that came with the printer to perform this procedure.

Note: This procedure covers how to load media for straight-through print mode using a roll of direct thermal or thermal transfer label media. The default setting for the printer is direct thermal mode.

Note: Attached to the media bag is a small label with a three-digit sensitivity number printed on it. Make sure you save this label. You need this information to set the correct media sensitivity number. See “Setting the Media Sensitivity Number” in Chapter 2 for more information.

To load the media

1. Open the printer.

2. Raise the printhead by rotating the head lift lever clockwise to release it.

3. Turn the supply roll retainer counterclockwise to release it and slide it to the outer end of the supply roll post. Turn it clockwise to lock it in place.

Note: You do not need to perform this step when replenishing media of the same width.

4. Lift the media brake up and slide it towards the front of the printer until it reaches its resting position.

5. Place the media roll on the supply roll post and position it firmly against the inside wall of the printer.

6. Lift up on the media brake, slide it toward the back of the printer, and lower it onto the media roll.

7. Turn the supply roll retainer counterclockwise and slide it up to the edge of the media roll. Turn the supply roll retainer clockwise to secure.

Note: If you are using a narrow roll of media (less than 1 inch), insert the media support between the roll of media and the supply roll retainer before you secure it in place.

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3240 Bar Code Label Printer Users Manual

Loading Media Into the 3240 Printer

Media

Media backing

Tear bar

Printhead

Label gap sensor

Head lift lever

Edge guide

Lateral printhead adjust

Lower media guide

Upper media guide

➤

Media brake

3240U.006

8. Unscrew the edge guide and slide it all the way to the outer edge of the lower media guide. Screw it in place.

Media support

Media roll

Supply roll post

Supply roll retainer

Note: If you are replacing the empty media roll with a new roll of the same width, you do not need to adjust the edge guide or the supply roll retainer.

9. Pull down on the lower media guide to allow access to the media path.

10. Unroll several inches of media and insert it between the two media guides and out the front of the printer. Release the lower media guide.

11. If you are using thermal transfer media, you need to load ribbon now. For help, see “Loading Thermal Transfer Ribbon” in Chapter 2.

12. Rotate the head lift lever counterclockwise until it locks in place.

13. Press the Feed/Pause button until the printer feeds out approximately 6 inches of media.

14. Unscrew the edge guide and slide it inward until it touches the edge of the media. Screw it in place.

Note: Adjust the label gap sensor if you are using narrow media (less than 1 inch wide). For help, see “Accurately Detecting the Start of a Label” in Chapter 4.

1-10

Getting Started

15. If you are loading continuous media or mark label stock, use PrintSet, your third-party software or the printer command set to tell the printer what kind of media you are using.

16. Press Feed/Pause to advance several inches of media through the printer and out the label opening in the front cover. Your printer is now ready to print labels.

Note: Refer to the label located on the inside of the media cover for directions on loading media. For your convenience, you may want to refer to it when loading media in the future.

Note: If you are loading narrow media (1 inch or less) you need to adjust the bias adjust screw to achieve the highest print quality. For help, see “Correcting Uneven Print Quality,” in Chapter 4.

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3240 Bar Code Label Printer Users Manual

Printing the Hardware Configuration Test Label

Now that you have loaded media in the printer, you are ready to print the hardware configuration test label. Use this label for reference when installing your 3240 printer and for verifying proper printer operation.

To print the hardware configuration test label

1. Turn the ON/OFF switch to the off position.

2. Press and hold the Feed/Pause button while turning the printer power on. The Alert and Empty/Pause LEDs blink during the printer self-test.

3. Release the Feed/Pause button when the media starts moving. The printer feeds out one or two blank labels (to verify the label length) and then prints the hardware configuration test label.

4. Turn the printer power off and then on to enter Print mode.

Note: For the entire hardware configuration label to print out, you must use media that is at least 2.6 inches wide.

3240 Hardware Configuration Test Label

3240 Hardware Configuration

Memory Installed

Storage RAM

Image RAM

Flash RAM

Mileage

Inches Processed Inches Burned

Printhead

Width Dot Size

Burn Pot Setting Hardware Options

I/O Option Internal Option External Option

Firmware Checksum

ROM0 (U9) : CDE3 ROM1 (U8): 0A1E

Program : 063103 VERSION: 0.9

: 128 kilobytes : 375 kilobytes : none

: 36 : 12

: 1024 dots : 2.5 mil : 231

: none : none : Self Strip

3240U.007

1-12

What the Hardware Configuration Test Label Tells You

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

Serial communications port

3240U.011

Optional I/O board port

The hardware test label provides statistics on:

• the amount of installed memory.

• the amount of media printed.

• the printhead configuration.

• the program and version numbers.

If the Hardware Configuration Test Label Does Not Print

If you are unable to print a hardware configuration test label, please refer to Chapter 4, “Troubleshooting,” for help.

Connecting the Printer to Your System

You can connect your 3240 printer to a PC, a local area network, an AS/400 (or other midrange), or a mainframe. This section tells you how to connect your printer to any of these systems.

Getting Started

This illustration shows you where to connect your system to the printer. You can use either of these two ports on the back of the printer:

• Serial communications port

• Optional I/O board port (if you have an adapter card installed)

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3240 Bar Code Label Printer Users Manual

Connecting the 3240 to a PC

You can connect the 3240 to either a serial port or parallel port (if you have the option installed) on your PC. You must provide the correct cables for connecting the printer. Refer to the following instructions for cable information. Contact your Intermec representative for ordering assistance if you do not have the appropriate cables.

Connecting the Printer to a PC Serial Port

To connect the 3240 to your PC serial port, you need a shielded EIA RS-232, RS422, or RS-485 electrical interface with a 25-pin D-style subminiature connector. It must have pins on the printer end and an appropriate serial port connector on the other end.

Use the following table to determine the correct Intermec cable for your application.

For Connecting To Use Intermec Cable Part Number

IBM PC AT 048693 (25-pin printer to 9-pin serial port straight-through) IBM PC XT 048668 (25-pin printer to 25-pin serial port null modem)

To connect your printer to a PC serial port

1. Turn the ON/OFF switch to the off position.

2. Plug the 25-pin connector into the serial communications port on the back of the 3240 printer.

3. Plug the other end of the cable into a serial COM port on the PC.

4. If necessary, change the PC serial port configuration to match your printer. The default configuration settings for the 3240 printer are:

• 9600 baud

• even parity

• 7 bit word length

• XON/XOFF no status response protocol

• device address A

• direct thermal media

See “Configuring the Serial Port” later in this chapter for more information.

1-14

Getting Started

Connecting the Printer to a PC Parallel Port

If you are using a parallel port to communicate with the printer, you need:

• a Centronics interface adapter installed in the printer.

• a parallel cable to run between the printer and the PC.

If you did not have the parallel interface installed at the factory, you can install the field installable option (Intermec Part No. 056830) in the optional I/O board port of your printer. You can purchase a parallel cable from Intermec (Part No.

051211) or from your local computer store.

To connect your printer to a PC parallel port

1. Turn the ON/OFF switch to the off position.

2. Plug the Centronics cable connector into the interface adapter port on the back of the 3240 printer.

3. Plug the other end of the cable into a parallel port on the PC.

Connecting the 3240 to a Network

You can connect the 3240 printer to Novell NetWare networks, Token Ring networks, or TCP/IP networks. To connect the 3240 printer to a network, you must have:

• a Centronics parallel interface installed in your printer.

• a network interface adapter (for example, Ethernet).

If you did not have the interface installed at the factory, you can install the field installable option (Intermec Part No. 056830) in the optional I/O board port of your printer.

The network interface adapter (for example, Ethernet) connects to the Centronics parallel interface on the back of the printer. Your network must be able to use XON/XOFF (hardware handshake) protocol. Refer to your network documentation for more information.

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3240 Bar Code Label Printer Users Manual

Connecting the 3240 to an AS/400

To connect a 3240 printer directly to an AS/400 or midrange system, you need:

• a twinax adapter card.

• a twinaxial cable equivalent to IBM part number 7362267 or 7362062.

The maximum cable length for the twinax interface is 5000 feet (1525 meters).

If you did not have the twinax card installed at the factory, you can install the field installable option (Intermec Part No. 056835) in the optional I/O board port of your printer.

For help on cabling and communications, see the manual that comes with the twinax adapter card.

Note: If you are using a midrange computer other than the AS/400, refer to your system documentation for information on cabling and setting up communications.

Connecting the 3240 to a Mainframe

To connect a 3240 printer directly to an IBM mainframe, you need:

• a coax adapter card.

• a coaxial cable equivalent to IBM part number 2577672 or 1833108.

The maximum cable length allowed is 4920 feet (1500 meters). See the IBM specification Installation and Assembly of Coaxial Cable and Accessories, part number GA27-2805-4, for further information.

If you did not have the coax card installed at the factory, you can install the field installable option (Intermec Part No. 056836) in the optional I/O board port of your printer.

For help on cabling and communications, see the manual that comes with your coax adapter card.

1-16

Configuring the Serial Port

You need to configure the serial port of the 3240 printer to match the configuration of your PC or network controlling device. If the printer’s default settings do not match, use the DIP switch settings table to configure the serial port.

In addition to the familiar parameters that you need to configure (such as baud rate and parity), you also need to set the protocol and device address. The protocol is the type of network you use to connect the printer, the host, and the rest of the data collection system. Intermec protocol includes Standard, Polling Mode D, and Multi-Drop protocol. You need to assign a unique device address for each device connected to the Multi-Drop protocol.

To configure the printer serial port

1. Use the DIP Switch Settings table to locate the DIP switches you need to change to correctly configure the serial port.

2. Use a small straight-slot screwdriver to set the appropriate DIP switches on or off.

Getting Started

For example, if you want to change the media type to thermal transfer, set DIP switch 8 on the bottom bank of switches to the ON position.

3. Turn the printer power off and then on for the configuration changes to take effect.

Note: Ignore Multi-Drop switches if you are not using a Multi-Drop network.

1-17

3240 Bar Code Label Printer Users Manual

DIP Switch Settings

O = OFF 1 = ON

Baud Rate Selection

Number of Data Bits

19,200 9,600

4,800 2,400

1,200 reserved reserved reserved

Parity Selection

Even

Odd None None

7 Bit 8 Bit

Reserved

Default settings are noted with an

Top Bank Switch Number

OFF

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

Bottom Bank Switch Number

OFF

O = OFF 1 = ON

Multi-Drop Address Selection

O 1

Protocol Selection

XON/XOFF

Intermec Protocols

XON/XOFF Selection

No Status Response

With Status Response

DT/TTR

Direct Thermal

Thermal Transfer

Default settings are noted with an

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

B C D E F G H

J K L M N O P Q R S T U V

X Y Z

O 1 O 1 O 1 O 1 O 1 O 1 O 1 O 1 O 1 O 1 O 1 O 1 O 1 O 1 O 1 O 1

O 1

3240U.008

1-18

Getting Started

Verifying Printer Communications With Your System

After connecting the printer to your system, you need to test communications. The easiest way to test communications is to set the printer to Data Line Print mode, which is part of Test and Service mode, and send a character string down from your system.

If you have just printed a configuration test label, you are already in Data Line Print mode. Start the following procedure with Step 4.

Note: Make sure that your cabling is correct. See Appendix B, “Cabling and Communications,” for more information. If your cabling is not correct, you may receive a write fault error.

To verify communications with your system

1. Turn the ON/OFF switch to the off position.

2. Press and hold the Feed/Pause button while you turn the ON/OFF switch to the on position. The printer prints out the hardware configuration test label.

3. Release the Feed/Pause button. You are now in Data Line Print mode.

4. Transmit at least four characters from your system. At this point the printer does not attempt to interpret any printer

commands, but simply prints each character with its hexadecimal equivalent underneath.

5. To enter normal Print mode, turn the printer power off and then on again.

If this procedure does not work, make sure that the DIP switches match the serial port configuration of the system. Make sure you have the printer cable securely plugged into the correct port of your system.

1-19

Operating the Printer

Use this chapter to understand how to use the printer front panel, load fanfold media and media for self-strip printing, set the media sensitivity number, and communicate with the printer.

Learning How to Operate the Printer

To operate the printer, you need to understand:

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Operating the Printer

Front panel

button performs various tasks.

Loading media and ribbon

ribbon, and the procedure for using the self-strip option.

Media sensitivity numbers Communicating with the printer

information from the host to the printer and from the printer to the host.

LEDs help you monitor the status of the printer. The Feed/Pause

Explains how to load fanfold media, thermal transfer

Optimizes print quality and print speed.

Understanding the Front Panel

On the front panel of the 3240 printer, you will find one button and three light emitting diodes (LEDs).

Power

Alert

Empty/Pause

Explains different methods for transferring

Feed/Pause

3240U.015

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3240 Bar Code Label Printer Users Manual

Using the Front Panel LEDs

You use the front panel LEDs to monitor the status of the printer:

Green LED

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Power

LED State Indication

Power

Off On

Power off Power on

Orange LED

Yellow LED

Using the Front Panel LEDs for Troubleshooting

Over-temperature

stops. Do not try to troubleshoot or adjust the printer−just allow it enough time to cool down and it will resume operation on its own.

Media or system faults

printer is experiencing a media or system fault. See Chapter 4, “Troubleshooting,” for information on correcting the problem.

Alert

Empty/Pause

Feed/Pause

3240U.016

Alert

Empty/Pause

Off Flashing On

Printing or idle Over-temperature System fault

Printing or idle Paused Media fault

If the printer overheats, the Alert LED flashes and the printer

If the Empty/Pause or the Alert LED remains on, your

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Operating the Printer

Using the Feed/Pause Button

The Feed/Pause button, located on the front panel of the 3240 printer, performs several functions depending on the mode of the printer.

The Printer Is You Want To What to Do

Idle Feed out one label or a

minimum specified amount of media.

Continuously feed media.

Take the printer offline. Press the Feed/Pause button

Printing Pause the printer. Press and release the Feed/Pause

Cancel the current print job.

Powered on for the first time

Print the hardware configuration label.

Press and release the Feed/Pause button.

Press and hold the Feed/Pause button. When you release the button, the media stops feeding.

twice. Press the button again to bring the printer online.

button. Press and release the button again to resume printing.

Press and hold the Feed/Pause button until the printer stops printing.

Press and hold the Feed/Pause button. See “Printing the Hardware Configuration Test Label” in Chapter 1 for more information.

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3240 Bar Code Label Printer Users Manual

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Loading Media Into the Printer

You can load media into the 3240 printer in three different ways:

•

Fanfold printing

•

Self-strip printing with roll media

•

Straight-through printing with roll media (see Chapter 1)

You can load media with the printer power turned on or off. The following procedures for loading media assume that the ON/OFF switch is turned on.

Loading Media for Fanfold Printing

For fanfold printing, you place a stack of fanfold media at the rear of the printer and feed it into the printer through the fanfold media access slot.

Note:

The top of the stack of media has a three-digit sensitivity number printed on it. You need this information to set the correct media sensitivity number. Refer to “Setting the Media Sensitivity Number” later in this chapter for more information.

To load media for fanfold printing

1. Open the printer.

2. Rotate the head lift lever clockwise to release the printhead.

3. Turn the supply roll retainer counterclockwise and slide it to the outer end

of the supply roll post. Turn it clockwise to lock it in place.

4. Lift the media brake up and slide it toward the front of the printer until it

reaches its resting position.

5. Place the box of fanfold media slightly lower than the slot in the printer

back cover and line it up with the label path through the printer.

6. Unscrew the edge guide and slide it to the outer edge of the lower media

guide and screw it in place.

7. Pull down on the lower media guide to allow access to the media path.

8. Insert the fanfold media through the printer mechanism as shown in the

illustration. Release the lower media guide.

9. Lift up on the media brake, slide it toward the back of the printer, and

lower it onto the media.

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Loading Fanfold Media for Straight Through Printing

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Operating the Printer

Media brake

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

➤

Media access slot

Fanfold media

3240U.017

Head lift lever

Edge guide

Lateral printhead knob

➤

Lower media guide

Guide plate

Supply roll post

➤

Supply roll retainer

➤

10. Slide the supply roll retainer up to the edge of the fanfold media and turn the supply roll retainer clockwise until it locks firmly in place.

11. Rotate the head lift lever counterclockwise until it locks.

12. Press the Feed/Pause button until the printer feeds out approximately 6 inches of media.

13. Unscrew the edge guide and slide it inward until it just touches the edge of the media. Screw it in place.

14. Replace the media cover. The printer is now ready to print the configuration test label.

Note:

If the yellow Empty/Pause LED does not go out, reload the media and try

again.

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3240 Bar Code Label Printer Users Manual

Loading Media for Self-Strip Printing

Use self-strip printing in applications where you want to apply labels to a surface immediately. After printing a label, the printer prints out the label with the backing removed. The rewinder hub collects the backing after passing over the self-strip assist roller. The rewinder hub can hold the backing from an entire roll of media.

Note:

Attached to the media roll is a small label with a three-digit sensitivity number printed on it. Make sure you save this label. You need this information to set the correct media sensitivity number. Refer to “Setting the Media Sensitivity Number” later in this chapter for more information.

Note:

If you lift the printhead while printing with self-strip, you may not receive the best performance from the Precision Print technology. If you must lift the printhead, remove accumulated liner from the takeup hub before resuming print.

To load self-strip media

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1. Open the printer.

2. Raise the printhead by rotating the head lift lever clockwise to release it.

3. Turn the supply roll retainer counterclockwise to release it and slide it to

the outer end of the supply roll post. Turn it clockwise to lock it in place.

4. Lift the media brake up and slide it toward the front of the printer until it

reaches its resting position.

5. Place the media roll on the supply roll post and position it firmly against

the inside wall of the printer.

6. Lift up on the media brake, slide it toward the back of the printer, and

lower it onto the media roll.

7. Turn the supply roll retainer counterclockwise and slide it up to the edge of

the media roll. Turn the supply roll retainer clockwise to secure.

Note:

If you are using a narrow roll of media (less than 1 inch), insert the media

support between the roll of media and the supply roll retainer before securing it.

8. Unscrew the edge guide and slide it to the outer edge of the lower media

guide. Screw it in place.

9. Pull down on the lower media guide to allow access to the media path.

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Note:

If you are replacing the empty media roll with a new roll of the same width,

you do not need to adjust the edge guide.

10. Unroll several inches of media and insert it between the media guides and out the front of the printer. Release the lower media guide.

Loading Media for Self-Strip Printing

Head lift lever

Lateral printhead knob

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Media Brake

➤

Operating the Printer

Media support

Supply roll retainer

Media roll

Supply roll post

3240U.018

Media liner

Media access door

Power

Alert

Empty/Pause

Feed/Pause

Intermec

3240

Self-strip assist roller

➤

Tear bar

➤

Rewinder hub

Printhead

➤

Upper media guide

Lower media guide

Rewinder clasp

11. Pull out 10 to 12 inches of media and remove the exposed labels from the media liner.

12. Open the media access door and thread the media liner under the self-strip assist roller and over the rewinder hub in a clockwise direction.

13. Remove the rewinder clasp from the rewinder hub and wind approximately 2 inches of media liner over the rewinder hub.

14. Secure the media by snapping the rewinder clasp onto the rewinder hub. Turn the rewinder hub clockwise to remove all slack from the media liner between the tear bar and the rewinder hub.

15. Close the media access door.

16. Use your third-party software or the printer command set to enable selfstrip and the label taken sensor. A DOS example follows this procedure.

Note

: See “Adjusting the Printer for Self-Strip Printing,” in Chapter 4 for

information on how to position the label taken sensor.

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3240 Bar Code Label Printer Users Manual

17. Press Feed/Pause to advance a label through the printer. Remove the exposed label from the front of the printer.

18. Unscrew the edge guide and slide it inward until it just touches the edge of the media. Screw it in place.

Note:

Adjust the label gap sensor if you are using narrow media (less than 1 inch

wide). See “Accurately Detecting the Start of a Label” in Chapter 4.

19. Replace the printer cover. The printer is now ready to print labels.

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Loading Thermal Transfer Ribbon

If you plan to use thermal transfer media, you must install a thermal transfer ribbon (TTR) to print in thermal transfer mode.

Note:

Save the plastic bag that your ribbon comes in. Attached to the ribbon bag is a small label with a three-digit sensitivity number printed on it. You need this information to set the correct media sensitivity number. Refer to “Setting the Media Sensitivity Number” later in this chapter for more information.

To load thermal transfer ribbon

1. Make sure the printhead is in the raised position. If not, turn the head lift

lever clockwise until it releases the printhead.

2. Place the empty ribbon core that comes with the printer onto the ribbon

rewind hub.

3. Detach the leader from the new thermal transfer ribbon roll and unwind the

end of the ribbon approximately 8 inches. The edge of the ribbon has a leader (with an adhesive strip on the leader edge) to guide the ribbon through the printhead mechanism.

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Operating the Printer

4. Slide the roll of thermal transfer ribbon onto the ribbon supply hub with the

ribbon roll winding clockwise.

5. Route the ribbon leader through the printer mechanism as shown in the

following illustration.

Note:

Make sure that the ribbon goes over the label gap sensor PCB located on the top of the upper media guide. If the ribbon becomes caught on the PCB, it can cause the ribbon to wrinkle.

6. Attach the leader from the new thermal transfer ribbon roll to the empty ribbon core using the adhesive strip on the leader edge.

Note:

Make sure the ribbon runs above the upper media guide. The shiny side of

the ribbon must come in contact with the printhead.

7. Wind the ribbon rewind hub clockwise until the ribbon runs smoothly through the printhead mechanism.

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3240 Bar Code Label Printer Users Manual

Loading Thermal Transfer Ribbon

Thermal transfer ribbon

(The thermal transfer ribbon

is adhered to the empty

ribbon hub with an adhesive

strip on the leader edge.)

Alert

Empty/Pause

Feed/Pause

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Empty ribbon core

Power

IntermecIntermec

3240

Ribbon supply hub

Upper media guide

Ribbon rewind hub

Head lift lever

TTR assist roller

Printhead

3240U.019

8. Engage the printhead by rotating the head lift lever counterclockwise until it locks.

9. To enable thermal transfer printing, set DIP switch 8 on the bottom bank of switches to the on position. For help, see “Configuring the Serial Port” in Chapter 1.

10. Press the Feed/Pause button to advance the ribbon through the printer. The printer is now ready to print.

Note:

When replacing the thermal transfer ribbon roll in the future, use the empty

ribbon supply core as the new rewinder core.

2-12

Setting the Media Sensitivity Number

Media sensitivity is important because you use it to optimize print quality and print speed. The three-digit sensitivity number specifies the amount of heat required by the printhead to image a label. The amount of heat that each roll of media or ribbon requires is unique due to different chemistries and manufacturing processes.

Intermec has developed heating schedules (the amount of heat required to image a label) to produce the highest possible print quality for Intermec media and ribbon combinations on Intermec printers. You will find a small label with a three-digit sensitivity number attached to the packaging of each Intermec media and ribbon product. Use this three-digit number to optimize print quality and print speed on the 3240 printer. You can only achieve the best print quality on the 3240 printer by using Intermec ribbon and media products.

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Operating the Printer

SENSITIVITY NUMBER

420

3240U.020

The 3240 default setting for direct thermal media sensitivity is 420. For thermal transfer media, the default setting is 567. Use the packaging that you saved, when loading media and ribbon, to determine the correct sensitivity number. Use your third-party software or the printer command set to set the media sensitivity number. For help on how to set the media sensitivity number, see the DOS example in the next section. If you want to see the current sensitivity setting of your 3240, print out a software configuration label.

To print a software configuration label

1. Turn off the printer.

2. Press and hold the Feed/Pause button while turning the printer on. The printer prints out a hardware configuration label and then enters Data

Line Print mode.

3. Set the DIP switches to print out the software test label.

Top Bank Bottom Bank

4. Hold the Feed/Pause button down for 1 second. The printer prints out the software configuration label.

5. Exit Test and Service mode by turning the printer power off and then on.

Set switches 1 through 6 and 8 off. Set switch 7 on.

Set switches 1 through 8 off.

6. Return the DIP switches to their original settings.

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3240 Bar Code Label Printer Users Manual

Setting the Media Sensitivity Number for Intermec Media

and Ribbon

The sensitivity number on each roll of thermal transfer media or ribbon has an asterisk (*) in place of one of the digits. To optimize the sensitivity number for thermal transfer media, you combine the digits as in this example.

Media or Ribbon Sensitivity Rating Description

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Thermal Transfer Media

Thermal Transfer Ribbon

56* The asterisk reserves the third

digit to identify the ribbon’s sensitivity number.

5*7 The asterisk reserves the second

digit to identify the media’s sensitivity number.

567 Optimum Sensitivity Rating

To set the sensitivity rating for direct thermal media, use the three-digit sensitivity rating located on the roll of media or listed in the Direct Thermal Media Sensitivity Settings table on the following page.

To change the media sensitivity number with PrintSet

1. Start the PrintSet applications

2. Click the Paper type button:

3. In the Print Quality Setup dialog box, enter your three-digit number in the Media Sensitivity Number field.

2-14

4. Click OK.

Setting the Media Sensitivity Number for Other Media and

Ribbon

If you are not using Intermec media and ribbon, or you misplaced your packaging with the three-digit sensitivity number label on it, you can set the approximate sensitivity rating. The first column of the Direct Thermal and Thermal Transfer Media and ribbon tables list the approximate sensitivity settings. To achieve acceptable print quality, enter the three-digit media sensitivity number (for example, 800).

If you are unsure of how to set the media sensitivity rating, start with the highest setting, which provides the lowest energy (800 for thermal transfer and 700 for direct thermal), and work your way down until you achieve the best print quality.

Direct Thermal Media Sensitivity Settings

Approximate Sensitivity Ratings

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Sensitivity

Setting Direct Thermal Media

Operating the Printer

700 Series High Sensitivity

400 Series Medium Sensitivity

100 Series Low Sensitivity

720 Duratherm Lightning Plus

480 Duratherm Lightning IR-2 460 European IR 450 Duratherm Lightning-1 440 European Thermal 420 Duratherm Lightning-2

170 European Tag 170 European Reinforced 160 Duratherm II Tag 140 European Top 130 Duratherm II

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3240 Bar Code Label Printer Users Manual

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Thermal Transfer Media and Ribbon Sensitivity Settings

Sensitivity

Approximate Sensitivity Ratings

Setting Direct Thermal Media

800 Series High Sensitivity (Paper)

600 Series Medium Sensitivity (Plastic)

500 Series Medium Sensitivity (Paper)

300 Series Low Sensitivity (Plastic)

864 European Uncoated/Standard

687 Duratran TTR Polyimide (Valeron)/Premium

633 European Polyethelene/Premium 627 Duratran Kimdura/Premium

567 Duratran II/Premium 527 Duratran II Tag-5 mil/Premium 527 Duratran II Tag-7 mil/Premium 513 European Board Tag/Premium 513 European Coated/Premium

369 Super Premium Kimdura/Super Premium 2 369 Super Premium Polyimide/Super Premium 2 366 Super Premium Kimdura/ Super Premium 1 366 Super Premium Polyimide/Super Premium 1

200 Series Low Sensitivity (Plastic)

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222 Glossy Polyimide (Kapton)/Super Premium 3 226 Glossy Polyimide (Kapton)/Super Premium 1 236 Matte Polyimide (Kapton)/Super Premium 1 238 Matte Polyimide (Kapton)/Super Premium 4

Communicating With the Printer

You are now ready to print labels by downloading data from the host to the 3240 printer. information from the host to any connected peripheral device, such as the 3240 printer. When you transfer data from your printer to the host, you are performing a process called

You can use several methods to download information in your data collection system. The next sections describe different ways to communicate with the printer.

Downloading

Using the PrintSet Software

Use the PrintSet application software to easily configure your printer from your PC. You can upload the current configuration settings, modify them, and then download them to the 3240 printer. PrintSet also lets you:

•

download graphics and fonts (including TrueType).

is the universal term used to describe the transfer of

uploading

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Operating the Printer

•

print test labels.

•

allocate memory.

•

download configuration files.

For help using PrintSet, refer to the online help portion of the application software.

Using Third-Party Software

You can use third-party software to set many of the printer parameters. You can configure the parameters that your software does not set by using the printer command set or the configuration DIP switches.

Use your third-party software to create label formats and convert graphics into a user-defined character (UDC) format that the 3240 printer can interpret. Refer to your third-party documentation and the for more information.

IPL Programming Reference Manual

Using the Intermec Printer Language (IPL) Commands

You can also create labels by downloading formats (designs) and data you create with IPL commands. You can use the printer to perform any function or activate any feature of the 3240 printer except for those features or functions that you set with the DIP switches.

Note

: For help using IPL commands, see the

IPL Programming Reference Manual

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3240 Bar Code Label Printer Users Manual

Printing a Test Label

If you would like to test your communications by downloading a label, follow the example below. Use the PrintSet application software to send a test label to the printer.

To print the test label

1. Start PrintSet on your PC.

2. From the Options menu, click Test Print.

3. Select the Test Label option button.

4. Select either the Test or the Bar Code option button. If you select to print text, you can choose a font in the Select Printer Font list

box. If you select to print a bar code, you can choose a symbology in the Select

Symbologies list box.

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5. Click on the Print button. Your 3240 printer prints out a test label. For example, if you chose to print a bar code with the Code 39 symbology,

your printer prints out a label similar to the test label below:

*0123456789*

•*0123456789*

3240U.021

2-18

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Operating the Printer

Using a Different Platform Than a PC

If you are operating your 3240 printer from a platform not discussed in this manual, it is important to keep several things in mind:

•

The 3240 is an ASCII printer.

•

You must configure the 3240 printer to match the settings of your platform to ensure proper communications.

•

You must download data correctly structured for the commands. Refer to the

IPL Programming Reference Manual

•

Ensure that the cable you are using to communicate with the printer has the correct pin-outs. Use the cable schematics in Appendix B for reference.

for more information.

2-19

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Maintaining the Printer

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*1233**1233*

This chapter contains cleaning procedures and a schedule detailing how often to perform maintenance procedures. Even though the design of the 3240 printer enables it to withstand harsh environments, you must clean it on a regular basis to keep it running at its highest performance level. It is very important to perform the maintenance procedures if you expose the printer to dirt or debris. For information on maintenance procedures such as replacing media or ribbon, see Chapter 1, Getting Started, and Chapter 2, Operating the Printer.

Inspecting the Printer

Inspect the printer and the rest of your data collection system equipment on a regular basis. Your inspection should include the following:

•

Make sure you have properly grounded the printer.

•

Inspect the work environment. Large electric motors, welders, and switching equipment can affect printer performance. See Appendix B, “Cabling and Communications,” for guidelines on appropriate environments.

•

Keep the printer away from liquids.

•

Check the data collection network regularly for loose wires or poorly installed connections. Be sure to replace corroded wires.

Cleaning the Printer

To clean the printer safely and effectively, use the following items:

•

Isopropyl alcohol

•

Cotton swabs

•

Clean lint-free cloth

•

Vacuum cleaner

•

Soapy water/mild detergent

The following procedures explain how to access the printer parts and clean them without causing any harm to the printer or yourself.

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3240 Bar Code Label Printer Users Manual

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Maintenance Schedule

Clean your printer regularly to maintain the quality of your labels and extend the life of your printer. This table contains suggestions for cleaning the printer. Use the illustration to locate the parts you need to clean.

Printer Component Maintenance Period

Printhead Inspect after every roll of media. Clean after

Printer Cover Clean as necessary.

Drive Roller Thermal Transfer Ribbon (TTR)

Assist Roller Self-Strip Roller Supply Roll Roller Tear Bar

roll (or 6,000 inches) of media or more

ever often if necessary.

Clean after ever are usin after ever stock or continuous media, you may want to clean after ever necessar that are harsh or dusty.

hi-tack adhesive, you must clean

. Clean more often in environments

five rolls of media. If you

roll of media. If you are using ta

five rolls of media or as

Media Path Edge Guide Upper Media Guide Lower Media Guide Label Gap Sensor Label Taken Sensor Pinch Roller

3-4

Maintaining the Printer

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*1233**1233*

Locating the Printer Parts You Need to Maintain

TTR assist roller

Power

Alert

Empty/Pause

Label taken sensor

Feed/Pause

Intermec

3240

Supply roll post

Supply roll retainer

Upper media guide

Lower media guide

Label

Pinch roller

Self-strip assist roller

Drive roller

Printhead

Tear bar

gap sensor

3240U.030

Warning

Switch off the printer power and remove the power cord before cleaning any part of the printer.

Avertissement

Mettez l’imprimante hors tension et débranchez le câble d’alimentation avant de nettoyer une parte de l’imprimante.

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Cleaning the Printhead

In order for the printhead to provide good print quality, it must maintain close contact with the media. Therefore, cleaning media debris from the printhead is very important. You should clean the printhead after every roll (or 6,000 inches) of media or more often if necessary.

Caution

Do not use sharp objects such as knives or screwdrivers to scrape the printhead clean. Cleaning with sharp objects will damage the printhead. Clean with only a cotton swab, or a clean, lint-free cloth or tissue damp with isopropyl alcohol.

Conseil

N’utilisez pas d’objets pointus tels que couteaux ou tournevis pour nettoyer la tête d’imprimante. Nettoyer avec des objets pointus endommagera la tête d’imprimante. Nettoyez-la seulement avec de la ouate ou avec un linge propre et libre de peluches, humecté avec de l’alcool d’isopropyl.

To clean the printhead

1. Turn the ON/OFF switch to the off position and remove the power cord.

2. Remove the media cover.

3. Disengage the printhead by rotating the head lift lever clockwise until the printhead releases. This action raises the printhead so that you can clean it.

4. Remove the media and ribbon if necessary.

5. Use a cotton swab moistened with alcohol to remove any dirt, adhesive, or debris from the print surface on the bottom of the printhead.

6. Wait 5 to 10 seconds for the print surface to dry. Replace the media and ribbon.

7. Engage the printhead by rotating the head lift lever counter clockwise until it locks in place.

8. If you are finished cleaning, replace the media cover.

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Maintaining the Printer

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Cleaning the Printhead

Power

Alert

Empty/Pause

Feed/Pause

IntermecIntermec

3240

Head lift lever

Printhead

3240U.031

Cleaning the Printer Covers

Clean the 3240 printer covers with a general purpose cleaner (soapy water/mild detergent). Do not use abrasive cleansers or solvents. Be sure to clean the transparent panel on the media cover so that the media supply inside the printer is visible when you close the cover.

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Cleaning the Rollers and the Tear Bar

Cleaning the rollers and the tear bar preserves print quality by ensuring close contact between the media and the printhead.

To clean the rollers and tear bar

1. Turn the ON/OFF switch to the off position and remove the power cord.

2. Remove the media cover.

3. Rotate the head lift lever clockwise to release the printhead.

4. Remove media and ribbon (if necessary).

5. Clean the rollers by using a cloth moistened with isopropyl alcohol. Move the cloth over the rollers in a side-to-side motion as shown. Make sure to rotate the rollers so you can clean all areas.

Note:

surface.

6. Clean both sides of the tear bar with a cloth dampened with isopropyl alcohol. Remove all traces of dust, paper, and adhesive.

Rotate the TTR assist roller toward you to clean the entire drive roller

7. Replace the media and ribbon.

8. Engage the printhead by turning the head lift lever counterclockwise until the printhead locks.

9. If you are finished cleaning, replace the media cover.

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Maintaining the Printer

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Cleaning the Rollers and Tear Bar

TTR assist roller

Power

Alert

Empty/Pause

Feed/Pause

IntermecIntermec

3240

Supply roll roller

Tear bar

Head lift lever

Drive roller

3240U.032

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Cleaning the Media Guides and Media Path

You should clean the media guides and media path regularly to keep debris off the media surface and printhead where irregularities can spoil print quality or damage the printhead. Cleaning the guides also prevents the media from skewing or improperly tracking as it travels through the media path, which can result in smeared images and print off the side of the label. Always clean the media guides immediately after a label jam in the printer.

To clean the media guides and media path

1. Turn the ON/OFF switch to the off position and remove the power cord.

2. Remove the media cover.

3. Remove the media and ribbon (if necessary).

4. Pull down on the lower media guide to open up the media path.

5. Clean the lower media guide by using a lint-free cloth moistened with isopropyl alcohol as shown in the following figure.

Note:

The lower media guide is spring loaded and you must hold it open to clean.

6. Use the cloth moistened with isopropyl alcohol to clean the upper media guide. Be sure to remove all traces of debris.

7. Remove all traces of dust, paper, and adhesive from the media path with a soft bristle brush or vacuum.

8. Clean the flat surfaces of the media path (including the edge guide) with a lint-free cloth and isopropyl alcohol.

9. Release the lower media guide.

10. Replace the media cover.

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Maintaining the Printer

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*1233**1233*

Cleaning the Media Path and Media Guides

Power

Alert

Empty/Pause

Feed/Pause

IntermecIntermec

3240

Upper media guide

Lower media guide

Media path

3240U.033

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Cleaning the Label Sensors

There are two label sensors on the 3240 printer that require regular cleaning: the label taken sensor and the label gap sensor.

To clean the label sensors

1. Turn the ON/OFF switch to the off position and remove the power cord.

2. Remove the media cover.

3. Disengage the printhead by rotating the head lift lever clockwise until the printhead releases.

4. Remove the media and ribbon (if necessary).

5. Clean the label taken sensor with a cotton swab moistened with isopropyl alcohol. Refer to the illustration.

6. Pull down on the lower media guide to expose the label gap sensor. Using a cleaning brush or vacuum, remove all debris and dust from the label gap sensor.

Note:

printer for better access. Make sure you return the label gap sensor to its original position when you finish cleaning.

You may want to slide the label gap sensor toward the outboard edge of the

7. Clean the label gap sensor with a cotton swab and alcohol.

8. Replace the media and ribbon.

9. Engage the printhead by rotating the head lift lever counterclockwise until it locks in place.

10. Replace the media cover.

3-12

Maintaining the Printer

FG 9pt Italic

Cleaning the Label Sensors

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Cotton swab

Drive roller

Label taken sensor

Upper media guide

(underside)

Label gap sensor

Cleaning brush

Lower media guide

3240U.037

3-13

FG 9pt Italic

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Troubleshooting

*1233**1233*

ghly

This chapter provides some hints for troubleshooting error messages that the printer sends to the host and problems you may experience with the printer.

Troubleshooting Checklist

You may have printer operation, print quality, or printer communications problems at some time during the life of your printer. It is easy to fix most of the errors and consequently not delay operation of the printer for very long.

To troubleshoot your printer

1. First try cleaning the printer components and checking all of the connections. See Chapter 3, “Maintaining the Printer,” for details.

2. If cleaning the printer and checking the connections does not solve the problem, use the following tables to locate the symptom. Follow the solution in the table to fix your problem.

If you receive an error message, refer to the IPL Programming Reference Manual for a complete list of error messages and their solutions.

Troubleshooting

If the problem persists, contact your Intermec customer service representative. In the U.S. call 1-800-755-5505, and in Canada call 1-800-688-7043. If you are an international customer, contact your local Intermec representative.

Printer Operation Problems

If your printer is not operating correctly, try locating the problem in the table below:

Symptom Possible Causes Solution

No power or loss of power.

Labels stop feedin through the printer.

You have damaged or disconnected the AC power cable.

Printer circuit breaker tripped. Turn the printer off and then back on

Printer is out of media. Load new media. See Chapter 1, “Gettin

You have loaded the label stock incorrectly.

Make sure you have plugged the power cable into both the printer and an outlet or power strip. Replace the cable if damaged.

again.

Started,” or Chapter 2, “Operating the Printer.”

Check the media path. See Chapter 1, “Gettin ”Operating the Printer.”

Started,” or Chapter 2,

Media is stickin path.

to the paper

Clean any extraneous material from the paper path and clean it thorou Chapter 3, “Maintaining the Printer.”

. See

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Printer Operation Problems (continued)

You have set the printer for continuous label stock.

Printer slows down. You have set the ima

print speed incorrectly. Printer has aborted and reset the

print speed and image bands.

The Alert LED flashes and printing stops.

Media fault. The printhead is up. Make sure the printhead is down. The

Labels stick to media access door or fail to strip.

Printhead has overheated. Leave printer alone until it has time to cool

Sensor type set incorrectly. Confi

You have incorrectl media.

The self-strip roller is dirt the pinch roller is not contactin the strip roller.

e bands or

loaded the

Use PrintSet to check the configuration

s. If the settings are incorrect, use

settin PrintSet to change the settings.

Use PrintSet to change the image bands or print speed settings.

Use PrintSet to chan print speed settings.

down. It will resume printing on its own.

head lift lever should be strai down. Press the Feed/Pause button to resume printing.

ure the printer for the correct

sensor. Does this mean that I mi

printer configured for self-strip? What

m sensor? You can enable self-strip from PrintSet.

Try reloading the media. For help, see “Loading a Roll of Media,” in Chapter 1.

Clean the self-strip roller. See Chapter 3, “Maintaining the Printer.”

e the image bands or

ht up and

ht have

The stepper motor stalls while printin that is less than 2.7 inches wide.

Test confi do not print.

media

uration labels

You did not properl bias adjust screw.

You have incorrectly loaded media.

You have confi for self-strip media.

Media fault. Remove media from under the label taken

adjust the

ured the printer

Adjust the bias adjust screw to the optimum printin “Correctin chapter.

Try reloading the media. For help, see “Loading a Roll of Media,” in Chapter 1.

Set the printer to the default configuration

the DIP switches. For help, see

usin “Plugging In the Printer,” in Chapter 1.

sensor.

position. See

Uneven Print Quality” in this

4-4

*1233**1233*

Print Quality Problems

If your labels are not being printed properly, check the following table to locate the symptom and correct the problem.

Symptom Possible Causes Solution

Troubleshooting

Blotches printing on labels.

Printing is too light or too dark.

Dirty printhead. Clean the printhead. For help, see “Cleaning

the Printhead,” in Chapter 3.

Dirty media path or rollers. Clean the media path. For help, see “Cleaning

the Media Guides and Media Path,” in Chapter

Poor quality label or ribbon stock.

You have set the darkness adjust control incorrectly.

Poor quality label or ribbon stock.

Dirty printhead. Clean the printhead. For help, see “Cleaning

You set the sensitivity command incorrectly.

Use only Intermec label and ribbon stock to ensure superior print quality and product performance.

Adjust the knob to achieve the best print quality. See “Adjusting the Print Darkness” in this chapter.

Use only Intermec label and ribbon stock to ensure superior print quality and product performance.

the Printhead,” in Chapter 3. Change sensitivity setting to match the type of

media you are using (for help, see “Setting the Media Sensitivity Number,” in Chapter 2). If you set the sensitivity setting correctly, try changing the dark adjust command.

Printing not aligned on label.

Labels are not stopping at the right point for removal.

Print speed exceeds the capability of the media.

Printer is misfeeding media. Make sure you have correctly installed the

Label stock has moved in the media path.

You have not set the label rest point command correctly.

Lower your print speed or use Intermec media recommended for your print speed.

media. For help, see “Loading a Roll of Media,” in Chapter 1.

Adjust the lateral printhead knob. See “Correcting the Lateral Position of the Label Image” later in this chapter.

Adjust the label rest point. For help, see your PrintSet online help or the

Reference Manual

IPL Programming

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3240 Bar Code Label Printer Users Manual

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Print Quality Problems (continued)

Symptom Possible Causes Solution

Labels not stoppin at right point (continued).

Print qualit poor.

You have set the printer for continuous label stock.

Incorrect media sensitivity setting. Change sensitivity setting to match the type of

Print speed exceeds the capabilit of the media.

Printhead, platen roller, or label path is dirty.

Dirty media. Keep media in a bag until you need it. The darkness of label print is too

light or too dark.

Uneven print contrast (density). Ad

Set the printer to thermal transfer or direct thermal label stock. See “Loading a Roll of Media” in Chapter 1.

media correctly, try changing the dark adjust command. For help, see help, the IPL Programming Reference Manual, or “Optimizin in this chapter.

Lower media recommended for your print speed.

Clean printhead, platen roller, and label path as described in Chapter 3, “Maintainin Printer.”

Ad “Ad chapter.

Uneven Print Quality” in this chapter.

ou are using. If you set the sensitivit

our PrintSet online

and Maintaining Print Quality”

our print speed or use Intermec

the

ust the darkness adjust control. See

usting the Print Darkness” in this

ust the bias adjust screw. See “Correctin

You are usin ribbon stock to print labels.

Ribbon wrinkling. Check to make sure that

Ribbon installed upside down. For help, see “Loadin

Direct thermal/thermal transfer switch set in the wrong position.

You have severel printhead or platen roller.

Media ma platen roller, causin to compress.

incorrect label or

worn the

be slipping against the

the printin

Use only Intermec label and ribbon stock to ensure superior print qualit performance.

ribbon correctl Thermal Transfer Ribbon,” in Chapter 2. Set the bias ad Uneven Print Quality” in this chapter.

Ribbon” in Chapter 2. Set the switch for the t

. For help, see “Loading a Roll of

usin Media,” in Chapter 1.

Replace the platen roller or printhead.

Switch to approved media or clean the printhead and platen roller as described in Chapter 3, “Maintaining the Printer.”

. For help, see “Loadin

ust screw. See “Correctin

Thermal Transfer

and product

ou installed the

pe of media you are

4-6

*1233**1233*

Print Quality Problems (continued)

Symptom Possible Causes Solution

Troubleshooting

The printer skips labels randoml intermittent error.

The printer is not waitin remove a label to print another.

Top of form shifts in self- strip mode after you lift the printhead.

Labels stop strippin while in self-strip mode.

or sends an

until you

The label correct position.

The label format extends be the label length.

You have not correctl the label taken sensor over the media path.

The tension has chan liner.

There is to much liner accumulated on the rewinder hub.

ap sensor is not in the

Communications Problems

ond

positioned

ed on the

Properly position the label gap sensor. For help, see “Accuratel a Label” in this chapter.

Edit the format to ensure that the text fits on the label.

Make sure that you position the label taken sensor over the media path. See “Ad the Printer for Self-Strip Printing” in this chapter.

Remove the accumulated liner from the rewinder hub. For help, see “Loadin Media for Self-strip Printing” in Chapter 2.

Remove the accumulated liner from rewinder hub. For help, see “Loadin Media for Self-strip Printing” in Chapter 2.

Detecting the Start of

ustin

If your printer is not receiving downloaded data, try these solutions.

Symptom Possible Causes Solution

Printer does not communicate with the host.

You have not configured the serial port correctly.

Dama

ed or incorrect I/O cable. Check the connections at both ends or

Make sure the printer’s serial port settings match those of the host.

replace the cable. See Appendix B for cable information.

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3240 Bar Code Label Printer Users Manual

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Preventing Data Loss

Several problems can cause data loss or communication problems on the 3240 printer. Data loss can result in printing errors or missing field data.

The 3240 printer is a serial ASCII device. It communicates with the host through an ASCII serial communications I/O port. Hardware handshaking involves the use of a hardware wire. Software handshaking involves a two-way datalink between the devices. The two devices communicate with each other without losing data through the use of handshaking. The printer sends both forms of handshaking simultaneously when the printer’s input buffer is full. Any loss of data can cause printing errors or missing data.

Hardware handshaking uses pins 11 or 20 of the RS-232 interface to control data flow. When the printer is using Intermec Standard protocol, it holds pins 11 and 20 high when the printer is ready to receive data. The printer holds the pins low when the printer is in one of the following conditions:

•

Buffer full

•

Ribbon fault

•

No label stock

•

Label at strip pin

The 3240 printer uses XON/XOFF protocol for software handshaking. When the input buffer is full, the printer transmits an XOFF character. This character alerts the host to the fact that the printer buffer is full and cannot receive any more data. When the printer is ready to receive more data, it sends the XON character.

To check for communications problems

1. Check the cabling from the printer to the host system.

2. Check the communications interfacing of the devices connected to the printer.

3. Check the printer for proper electrical operation of the I/O port.

4. Ensure that the host system is not overrunning the printer input buffers.

5. Ensure that the data string being sent to the printer contains the correct information.

4-8

*1233**1233*

Optimizing and Maintaining Print Quality

Intermec designed and configured the 3240 printer to provide the best possible print quality for both direct thermal and thermal transfer media. However, there are many factors that you need to take into account before you can achieve maximum print quality for your own application. The following sections address these factors:

• Selecting the correct media.

• Setting the print speed.

• Selecting the correct media sensitivity number.

• Selecting the correct bar code orientation.

• Adjusting the print darkness.

• Adjusting the printer for self-strip printing.

• Using Precision Print technology to print high registration labels.

Troubleshooting

Selecting the Correct Media

Media selection is one of the most important decisions you can make concerning print quality. The 3240 printer supports a wide selection of both direct thermal and thermal transfer media. To achieve optimum performance in your application, you must evaluate requirements such as print speed and environmental conditions.

It is important that you select the proper media when printing at higher speeds. Using good quality media reduces the occurrence of images that fade or bleed. If you want to print quality labels at higher print speeds, you must select media with low reaction or release imaging temperatures. Printing at lower speeds produces the highest quality labels. However, it is ultimately up to you and your Intermec Applications Analyst to decide the proper media for your application.

Please consult your Intermec Applications Analyst to ensure the selection of the proper media for your individual application. Refer to “Setting the Media Sensitivity Number,” in Chapter 2 for a complete list of available media.

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3240 Bar Code Label Printer Users Manual

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Setting the Print Speed

The print speed you select affects the printed image. Therefore, it is important to select the proper media when printing at higher speeds. You can produce the highest quality labels at lower speeds. You can achieve optimal print quality for most direct thermal media at speeds below 3.0 ips.

To print labels as quickly as possible, you must adjust the print speed in conjunction with the number of image bands. The print speed and image band settings determine the rate at which the printer processes the images of your labels. This image processing rate in turn affects the speed of the entire printing process. See “Maximizing Throughput” in Chapter 5 for more information.

To achieve optimal print quality at speeds greater than 3.0 ips, you may need to fine-tune the printer (or select thermal transfer media). At higher speeds, it is important to properly set the sensitivity number and the dark adjust. If necessary, further adjustment of controls such as the bias adjust screw can improve print quality.

Selecting the Correct Media Sensitivity Number

Intermec prints a three-digit sensitivity number on each roll or box to specify a heating schedule optimized for print speed and print history. Each print element on the 3240 printer heats individually and various types of media require different temperatures. Therefore, each heating schedule is unique due to different media chemistries and manufacturing processes. Intermec developed these heating schedules to produce the highest possible print quality for bar codes.

Before you load media into the printer, check to see that the sensitivity number for the media matches the number set in the printer. This improves the print quality and sets the darkness to an appropriate level. The 3240 default setting for direct thermal media sensitivity is 420. For thermal transfer media, the default setting is 567. For information on setting the media sensitivity, see “Setting the Media Sensitivity Number” in Chapter 2.

Selecting the Correct Bar Code Orientation

You can alter the format to improve print quality and print speed. At high speeds, you can produce the best quality bar codes by using the drag orientation (printing parallel to paper motion). For more information on formats, please see the IPL Programming Reference Manual. See the Glossary for an explanation of drag and picket bar code orientations.

4-10

*1233**1233*

Troubleshooting

Adjusting the Print Darkness

Use the darkness adjust control in combination with the Print Darkness adjustment in PrintSet to fine-tune the darkness of print on your labels. The fine adjustments compensate for variations in the media (“lot to lot”), the printhead, or the printer. Set the darkness adjust control after you enter the media sensitivity number.

To adjust the print darkness

1. Locate the darkness adjust control on the back of the printer.

2. Use a small straight-slot screwdriver to adjust the print darkness.

• To increase the print darkness, turn the darkness adjust control clockwise.

• To decrease the print darkness, turn the control counterclockwise.

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

Turn the darkness adjust control clockwise for darker print

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

Darkness adjust control

Turn the darkness adjust control counterclockwise for lighter print

Screwdriver

3240U.040

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3240 Bar Code Label Printer Users Manual

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Adjusting the Printer for Self-Strip Printing

If your 3240 printer is continuing to print labels even when there is a label waiting for removal at the tear bar, you may need to adjust the label taken sensor. The label taken sensor detects whether there is a label present at the tear bar. The printer uses this sensor to determine when you remove a stripped label and when it can print the next label. You can only use this sensor with the self-strip option.

Note: It is only necessary to adjust the label taken sensor when using very narrow labels (less than 0.5 inch).

To position the label taken sensor

1. Slide the label taken sensor up to 3/8 inch from the inboard edge of the media path.

2. Align the label taken sensor over the straight edge of the label at the tear bar.

For narrow label stock, you may want to position the label taken sensor in the middle of the label. The following illustration shows how to position the label taken sensor for narrow label stock.

Label taken sensor

Label

Backing

Tear bar

3240U.034

4-12

*1233**1233*

Troubleshooting

Using Precision Print Technology to Print High Registration

Labels

The 3240 printer uses Precision Print technology to perform high registration printing. High registration printing means that the printer tracks the movement of media and automatically adjusts to ensure accurate horizontal (top of form) placement of an image on the label. Use the Precision Print technology and the adjustable features of the printer to ensure high registration printing by:

• correcting the lateral position of the label image.

• accurately detecting the start of a label.

• correcting uneven print quality.

• fine-tuning the top of form position.

Correcting the Lateral Position of the Label Image

If your label image is no longer printing in the middle of your label, you may need to adjust the lateral position of the printhead. Use the lateral printhead knob to compensate for lateral movement of media in the media path or variations in a roll of media. You can move the printhead 0.10 inch in either direction.

Note: Do not raise the printhead before attempting to adjust the lateral position of the printhead.

To adjust the lateral printhead knob

1. Remove the media cover.

2. Gradually turn the lateral printhead knob while printing and observe how the image is moving on the label.

• Turn the knob clockwise to move the printhead toward the inboard

edge of the media path.

• Turn the knob counterclockwise to move the printhead toward the outer

edge of the media path.

3. Adjust the lateral printhead knob until the image prints exactly where you want it to on the label.

In the first part of the following illustration, the label image starts out printing too close to the outside edge of the label. By turning the lateral printhead knob clockwise, the label image moves closer to the inside edge of the label. In the lower part of the illustration, the label image prints exactly where you want it to, in the center of the label.

4. Replace the media cover.

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3240 Bar Code Label Printer Users Manual

*NARR

Lateral printhead knob

3240U.036

Printhead

Lateral printhead knob

Printhead

*NARR

Front view

*1233**1233*

Adjusting the Lateral Printhead Knob

4-14

*1233**1233*

Troubleshooting

Accurately Detecting the Start of a Label

If you experience problems such as the printer skipping labels or the printer stopping and the yellow LED flashing, you may need to adjust the label gap sensor. You are most likely to experience any of these problems if you are using very narrow label stock and the label gap sensor is not in the correct position. You can adjust the label gap sensor from 0 to 1.0 inch from the inner edge of the printer.

Note: Intermec sets the label gap sensor to 0.5 inch from the inner edge of the printer at the factory. You should be able to leave it in this position for most labels wider than

1.0 inch.

To adjust the label gap sensor

1. Remove the media cover.

2. Turn the label gap sensor knob counterclockwise and slide the sensor all of the way to the inner edge of the lower media guide.

3. Tear off one of the labels from your roll of media and line it up with the 0 (zero) on the lower media guide.

4. Slide the label gap sensor knob to the position where the label gap sensor indicator is in the middle of the label. The label gap sensor indicator is the part of the label gap sensor knob that is visible from the top of the lower media guide.

Here are some guidelines for you to follow:

• If your labels are less than 1.0 inch wide, position the label gap sensor in

the middle of the label.

• If your labels are greater than 1.0 inch wide, position the label gap

sensor over the straight edge of the label.

• If your labels are round, position the label gap sensor over the middle of

the radius edge.

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3240 Bar Code Label Printer Users Manual

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Adjusting the Label Gap Sensor

Label gap sensor

Position label gap sensor indicator in the middle of the label

Top view

Label gap sensor knob

Lower media guide

Label gap sensor

Lower media guide

Label radius

Edge guide

3240U.035

5. Turn the label gap sensor knob clockwise to secure it in the new position.

6. Try printing a label to see if the printer is detecting the start of the label (top of form).

4-16

7. If the printer is still not detecting the top of form, slide the label gap sensor a little further toward the outer edge of the lower media guide.

8. Replace the media cover.

*1233**1233*

Troubleshooting

Correcting Uneven Print Quality

You may experience problems in print quality (ribbon wrinkling or light print on one side of your label) if the printhead is not making even contact with the label stock. This condition can happen with any size label stock, but is most common when using narrow label stock (1 inch or less). You need a straightslot screwdriver to turn the bias adjust screw.

To achieve the best print quality, adjust the bias adjust screw each time you use media of a different width.

Note: You must properly adjust the bias adjust screw to prevent premature printhead failure and excessive platen wear.

To adjust the bias adjust screw

1. Remove the media cover and locate the bias adjust screw.

Feed/Pause

Power

Alert

Empty/Pause

Intermec

Bias adjust screw

3240

3240G.041

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3240 Bar Code Label Printer Users Manual

*1233**1233*

2. To compensate for uneven print quality, turn the bias adjust screw as shown.

Adjusting the bias adjust causes the printhead to rest evenly on the drive roller and results in even print quality.

If printing is light on the right side of label, turn the bias adjust screw counterclockwise.

3. Replace the media cover.

If printing is light on the left side of label, turn the bias adjust screw clockwise.

3240U.042

4-18

*1233**1233*

Troubleshooting

Fine-Tuning the Top of Form Position

If your label format prints too close to the front or back edge of the label, you can fine-tune the position with the top of form (TOF) switch. The TOF switch controls the position of the format forward or backward along the length of the label.

This feature is especially important if you are printing small labels in self-strip mode because you can easily adjust for slight shifts in the label format without stopping the printer or sending down software commands.

Only use the TOF switch to fine-tune your label format position. This is important because the printer returns to your initial TOP setting when you:

• cycle printer power.

• lift the printhead.

Use the TOF switch to fine-tune the format position after you design the label. Use PrintSet or the IPL top of form command to control the initial TOF setting. For help on using the top of form command, see the PrintSet help or the IPL Programming Reference Manual.

The TOF switch is a small rocker switch located on the lower outboard plate of the printer.

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

3240M.021

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To move a label format backward with the TOF switch

Note: You will see the new format position on the second label you print after pressing the TOF switch.

You notice that your format is printing toward the from part of the label.

Label direction from printer

#123

1. Remove the media cover.

Note: Do not raise the printhead while adjusting the TOF position.

2. Press on the back part of the TOF switch. Each time you press the TOF switch, you move the label format backward .005 inch (1.27 mm).

3240A.003

#123

3240M.023

4-20

3. Press the TOF switch repeatedly until your format moves backward to the correct position on the label.

#123

3240M.025

*1233**1233*

Troubleshooting

To move a label format forward with the TOF switch

You notice that your format is printing toward the back part of the label.

Label direction from printer

#123

1. Remove the media cover.

Note: Do not raise the printhead while adjusting the TOF Position.

2. Press on the front part of the TOF switch. Each time you press the TOF switch, you move the label format forward .005 inch (.127 mm).

3240M.024

3. Press the TOF switch repeatedly until your format moves forward to the correct position on the label:

#123

3240M.026

#123

3240M.025

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QXJJHW

code39

helconital

Performing Advanced Procedures

QXJJHW

code39

helconital

Performing Advanced Procedures

This chapter explains how to:

Use the printer memory more efficiently.

••

Maximize throughput.

••

Use Test and Service mode.

••

Change configuration commands in Test and Service mode.

••

Using the Printer Memory Efficiently

To receive the best performance from your 3240 printer, you must understand how to use the printer RAM. The following sections help you determine the most efficient way to use your printer memory. It is important to remember that using a lot of available memory for storage reduces the amount of memory you can use for imaging. The end result is a decrease in printer performance.

How Is the 3240 RAM Used?

There is enough RAM in the printer to store several different label formats and still retain enough memory to store downloaded fonts, graphics, and data. Be careful of how you use your printer memory.

The 3240 printer uses static RAM for storing tables, pages, formats, fonts, and user-defined characters (UDCs). For a printer with 128K of static RAM installed, the default amount allocated for storage RAM is 60K. You can use any RAM not allocated for storage for imaging. Use PrintSet to adjust the amount of RAM allocated for storage purposes from 10K to 120K. If you require additional RAM, a 512K memory expansion option is available.

The printer supports the following parameters independent of the amount of static RAM installed or allocated by the printer:

•

Maximum number of formats: 20 (You can edit formats 1 to 99. You cannot edit default format 0.)

•

Fields per format: 200

•

Maximum data buffer size for a field: 3000

•

Maximum number of UDCs: 100

•

Maximum number of user-defined fonts: 16

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FG 8pt Italic

Making the Most of Your RAM

There are limits to the number of formats, fonts, graphics, or pages that you can store in the printer. You can define up to 16 fonts, but there may not be enough room depending on the amount of memory being used for other purposes. The more formats, graphics, and fonts you store, the less memory is available.

When you run into a memory usage problem, use PrintSet to see how much memory remains available. The printer uploads information on the amount of storage RAM allocated and the amount of allocated RAM that you are not using. The printer uses a comma to separate the two numbers. For example, the printer may send back the following: 120,10 (indicating that you have 120K allocated for storage and that you are not using 10K). If you find that it is necessary to increase your available memory, you can do one of the following:

•

Adjust the amount of RAM allocated for storage purposes using the PrintSet software.

A printer with 128K of static RAM installed can adjust the amount of RAM allocated for storage from 10K to 120K. For printers with expanded RAM (512K) installed, you can adjust the amount of storage RAM from 10K to 504K. If you set the amount of RAM to an amount too small to hold the existing formats, pages, fonts, and UDCs, the printer erases them.

•

Increase the amount of available memory by using the Memory Reset portion of the Test and Service menu. See “Using Memory Reset” later in this chapter for more information.

•

Delete any unneeded user-defined fonts, graphics, pages, or formats. For help, see the PrintSet software or the IPL Programming Reference Manual.

•

Purchase additional memory. Please contact your Intermec representative for information on purchasing additional memory for the 3240 printer.

5-4

Maximizing Throughput

To print labels as quickly as possible, you must adjust the print speed in conjunction with the number of image bands (one image band equals 1 inch of label). The print speed and image band settings determine the rate at which the printer processes the images of your labels. This rate in turn affects the throughput of the entire printing process.

The 3240 printer begins imaging the label when it receives the command to select a format. Since the 3240 printer starts imaging the label so early, the chance that the imaging process will be unable to keep up with the print speed decreases and throughput improves. However, if the number of image bands is too low, the imaging process is unable to keep up with the print speed. In this case, the printer stops printing and starts again at the lowest print speed with the maximum number of image bands. If you have set the image band command too high, the printer spends more time than necessary imaging and slows down label production.

Performing Advanced Procedures

What Is an Image Band?

Image bands are a section of memory where the printer draws a picture of a label format. We call this process imaging. Once the printer images the picture, the printer loads the picture from the image bands to the printhead for printing. Each image band is equal to 1 inch of length of the label format. The number of image bands you use may be less than the length of the label you are printing. The number of image bands (in inches) does not have to equal the length of the label since the printer recycles the image bands. Once the printer prints the contents of an image band, it can reuse the band to image the next section of the label.

Keep in mind that the more complex the label, the longer it will take to image each section, thus requiring a slower print speed. To use a higher print speed, use more image bands to allow more of the imaging process to complete before printing begins.

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How the Image Bands Command Works

The image bands command controls the amount of memory allotted to the imaging process. When you increase the image band adjustment to a higher number, you add more buffers to the imaging memory. By doing this, the printer images more of the label format before printing begins.

The minimum number of required image bands is dependent upon the print speed and the complexity of the label. Labels that contain numerous fields with different rotations, graphics, or combinations of any number of these formatting options may require a higher number of image bands.

To set the number of image bands, use PrintSet or the IPL command. For help, see the PrintSet online help or the IPL Programming Reference Manual.

Optimizing Print Speed and Image Band Setting

The maximum number of image bands available for use is 5 bands with 128K of static RAM or 7 bands with expanded RAM. The minimum number of image bands available is 2.

To optimize the number of image bands for your print speed

1. Set the image band setting to the lowest number (2).

2. Print a label at the desired speed. If the label prints, the image band setting is optimal. You do not need to

perform any more adjustments. If the number of image bands is too low, the printer aborts the label before

it completes printing and attempts to reprint the label at the slowest speed (2 ips) with the highest number of image bands (5). You need to continue with Step 3.

3. Return to the original print speed and increase the original number of image bands one at a time.

Continue to increase the number of image bands until the printer prints a label correctly.

If the printer still aborts and reprints at the highest image band setting, you may be trying to optimize at a print speed that is too high for your label format. Try optimizing the number of image bands at a lower print speed or add expansion RAM.

To print very complex labels at high speeds, you must allocate enough image bands to completely image the label before printing. Allocate one band for each inch of label length. By doing this, you can print at any speed. However, there may be a considerable delay between labels.

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Performing Advanced Procedures

Reimaging Modified Fields

You can now choose to reimage only the fields in a label format that you modify instead of reimaging the entire label format. If you are updating data in only a few simple fields, it may be faster to use the modified field reimaging command. However, you need to take into account the type of fields you will be reimaging. If you choose to reimage a field that takes longer to erase and reimage than it takes an entire label format to erase and reimage, you will not be increasing throughput. Erasing a field requires reimaging it with zeros, and erasing a label requires only clearing the RAM. When you use it correctly, this command parameter can greatly increase the throughput of your printer.

To use the modified field reimaging command

1. Make sure that you select enough image bands to allow the printer to retain the entire label image.

One image band is equal to 1 inch of label length and 50K of RAM.

2. Select the fields to reimage by using PrintSet. For more information on how to reimage modified fields, see the IPL Programming Reference Manual.

Optimizing Image Bands for Batch Printing

If you frequently print batches of identical labels (using the <US> command) or print a quantity of identical labels, you may want to optimize the number of image bands for batch printing. This optimization is especially helpful if you experience delays between the printing of each label.

To optimize the number of image bands for batch printing, you must select enough image memory to allow the printer to retain the entire label image. To optimize batch printing, select the number of image bands (1 band = 1 inch) to equal the label size. Therefore, if the printed image stops at a distance of 2 inches from the beginning of the label, you must select two image bands to prevent reimaging if the label is 3 inches long.

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Using Test and Service Mode

Use Test and Service mode on the 3240 printer to print test labels and provide printer hardware diagnostic information to the host.

Note: For all Test and Service tests, pressing the Feed/Pause button pauses the current test. Holding the Feed/Pause button aborts the current test and starts a new test.

To enter Test and Service mode

1. Turn the ON/OFF switch to the off position.

2. Press and hold the Feed/Pause button while turning the printer power on. The printer prints out a hardware configuration label and then enters Data

Line Print mode.

3. Set the DIP switches to the test or service function you wish to perform. See the following table for a list of the DIP switch settings.

4. Hold the Feed/Pause button down for 1 second. The test begins immediately.

5. If you wish to perform another function, change the DIP switch settings and press the Feed/Pause button.

The function the printer is currently executing terminates, and the printer performs the new function.

6. To exit Test and Service mode, turn the printer power off and then on again.

Note: Be sure to return all DIP switches to their original settings after completing the configuration tests and before powering the printer back on.

The printer remains in Test and Service mode until you turn the power off again and reset the DIP switches. The printer executes all functions as soon as you select them.

Use the information in the following table to set the DIP switches for the appropriate Test and Service mode function you want to perform.

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Intermec 3240 User Guide

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual