iSys V8.5 User Manual

V8.5 Thermal Plotter

User Guide

V8.5e Rev 2.2.2002

This document is copyrighted by The Imaging Systems Group Inc.,

2000. No part of this publication may be reproduced, transmitted, transcribed, or stored in a retrieval system of any kind without prior written permission of The Imaging Systems Group Inc.

TRADEMARKS

Centronics is a U.S. registered trademark of Centronics Data Computer Corporation.

Versatec is a registered trademark of Versatec Corporation.

DISCLAIMER

The Imaging Systems Group Inc. makes no warranties as to the accuracy, validity or fitness for use of the contents of this manual. The Imaging Systems Group Inc. reserves the right to revise the information in this manual at any time without notice.

HAFTUNGSAUSSCHLUSS

Imaging Systems Group Inc. übernimmt keinerlei Garantie hinsichtlich der Genauigkeit, Gültigkeit und Anwendbarkeit dieses Handbuches. Imaging Systems Group Inc . behält sich das Recht v or , die in diesem Handbuch enthaltenen Informationen jederzeit ohne vorherige Ankündigung zu ändern.

V8.5e Rev 2.2.2002

ATTENTION: The V8.5e plotter generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instruction manual, may cause interference to radio communications. It has been designed to comply with the requirements for Class A computing devices pursuant to Sub-part J of Part 15 of FCC Rules, which are designed to provide reasonable protection against such interference when operated in a commercial environment. Operation of this equipment in a residential area is likely to cause interference in which case, the user, at his own expense, will be required to take whatever measures may be required to correct the interference.

ACHTUNG: Der V8.5e Plotter erzeugt, verwendet und verbreitet Hochfrequenzenergie und kann daher, im Falle, dass er nicht gemäß dem Benutzerhandbuch installiert und benutzt wird, zu Störungen im Hochfrequenz Kommunikationsverkehr führen. Er wurde gemäß den Anforderungen für Rechnergeräte der Klasse A konstruiert und erfüllt Unterabsatz J des Teils 15 der FCC Vorschriften, die dazu gedacht sind, einen angemessenen Schutz bei Einsatz dieser Geräte in einer gewerblichen Umgebung zu sichern. Ein Einsatz dieser Geräte in Wohngebieten wird wahrscheinlich Störungen verursachen, im welchem Falle der Benutzer auf eigene Kosten die notwendigen Maßnahmen ergreifen muß, die erforderlich sind, um solche Störungen zu vermeiden.

iii

V8.5e Rev 2.2.2002

Caution! – must be observed to avoid loss or damage to your

equipment.

Important: - must be observed to avoid operational impairment.

Do not proceed past any of the above notices, until you have fully understood the implications.

Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) USA – This equipment generates and radiates radio frequency energy and if not installed and used in accordance with the instruction manual, may cause interference to radio communications. It has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A computing device pursuant to Subpart B of Part 15 of FCC rules, which are designed to provide reasonable protection against such interference when operated in a commercial environment. Operation of this equipment in a residential area is likely to cause interference in which case the user at his own expense will be required to take whatever measures may be required to correct the interfer ence. Shielded cables should be used with this unit to ensure compliance with the Class A limits.

Europe – This digital equipment fulfils the requirements for radiation emission according to limit B of EN55022/A1 May 1998, and the requirements for immunity according to EN55024 1998 residential, commercial, and light industry (Compliance is not valid for unshielded network and printer cables).

Vorsicht! – Muss befolgt werden, um Totalverlust oder Beschädigung

des Gerätes zu vermeiden.

Wichtig: - Muss befolgt werden, um Beeinträchtigungen beim Betrieb

zu vermeiden.

V8.5e Rev 2.2.2002

Bitte verfahren Sie erst dann weiter, wenn Sie die Bedeutung der vorstehenden Hinweise vollständig verstanden haben.

Elektromagnetische Kompatibilität (EMC) USA – Dieses Gerät erzeugt und verbr eitet Hochfrequenzenergie und kann daher , so fern es nicht gemäß dem Benutzerhandbuch installiert und benutzt wird, zu Störungen im Hochfrequenz-K ommunikationsverkehr führ en. Es wurde gemäß den Einschränkungen für R echnergeräte der Klasse A konstruiert und erfüllt Unterabsatz J des Teils 15 der FCC Vor schriften, die dazu gedacht sind, einen angemessenen Schutz bei Einsatz dieser Geräte in einer gewerblichen Umgebung zu sichern. Ein Einsatz dieser Geräte in Wohngebieten wird wahrscheinlich Störungen verursachen, im welchem Falle der Benutzer auf eigene Kosten die notwendigen Maßnahmen ergreifen muss, die erforderlich sind, um solche Störungen zu beheben. Um die Einhaltung der Klasse-AEinschränkungen zu gewährleisten, sollte das Gerät mit geschirmten Kabeln verwendet werden.

Europa – Dieses digitale Gerät entspricht den Anforderungen für Strahlungsemissionen gemäß EN55022/A1 Klasse B vom Mai 1998, sowie die Anforderungen für Störsicherheit gemäß EN55024 1998 für den häuslichen, gewerblichen und leichtindustriellen Gebrauch (Konformität gilt nicht für ungeschirmte Netz- und Druckerkabel).

V8.5e Rev 2.2.2002

LIMITATION OF LIABILITY

The Imaging Systems Group’s total liability to the purchaser, or to any third party, for damages from any and all causes whatsoever, regardless of the form of action, whether in contract or in tort, including negligence, and an y infringement of proprietary right s or any misappropriation or unlawful use of any proprietary rights or property of any third party shall, in the aggregate, be limited to purchase price actually paid by the purchaser for the product relating to the damages. The limitation of liability provisions of this agreement reflect an informed voluntary allocation of the risks (known and unknown) that may exist in connection with the provisions of the goods and services provided hereunder by The Imaging Systems Group Inc., and that such voluntary risk allocation represents a fundamental part of the agreement reached between The Imaging Systems Group Inc. and the purchaser.

The Imaging Systems Group Inc. shall not be liable for any special, direct or indirect, incidental, consequential, exemplary, punitive or any similar or other damages of any nature suffered by the purchaser whatsoever including, without limitation, loss of use or lack of availability of the purchaser facilities, including its computer resources and any stored dat a, loss of pr ofits or r ev enue , or other commercial loss, or any claim for contribution or indemnity in respect of any claims against the purchaser, regardless of whether The Imaging Systems Group Inc. has been advised of the possibility of such damages.

The Imaging Systems Group Inc. 911 28th Street N.E. Calgary, Alberta T2A-7X1 Canada Phone 1-866-415-4797 Fax: (403) 204-1971 e-mail: josh_wood@isys-group.com http://www.isys-group.com

V8.5e Rev 2.2.2002

Contents

1. INTRODUCTION ........................... 1-1

1.1 GENERAL DESCRIPTION .................... 1-1

1.2 MEDIA DESCRIPTION ...................... 1-1

1.3 ABOUT THIS MANUAL ..................... 1-2

2. SPECIFICATIONS .......................... 2-1

2.1 FUNCTIONAL ........................... 2-1

Operation .............................. 2-1

Media ................................. 2-3

Thermal printhead ........................ 2-3

Transport .............................. 2-4

2.2 ELECTRICAL ............................ 2-4

Interface ............................... 2-4

Power consumption ....................... 2-4

Power requirements ....................... 2-4

2.3 PHYSICAL .............................. 2-5

Dimensions ............................. 2-5

Weight ................................ 2-5

2.4 ENVIRONMENTAL ........................ 2-5

Temperature ............................ 2-5

Other ................................. 2-5

3. INSTALLATION ............................ 3-1

3.1 UNPACKING ............................ 3-1

3.2 MOUNTING AND POSITIONING .............. 3-2

3.3 INTERFACE SETUP ........................ 3-3

3.4 MEDIA INSTALLATION ..................... 3-3

Installing rolled paper ..................... 3-4

Installing fan-fold paper .................... 3-8

Installing and using film .................... 3-8

Installing rolled film ....................... 3-9

vii

V8.5e Rev 2.2.2002

4. OPERATION .............................. 4-1

4.1 POWER SUPPLY PRECAUTIONS ............... 4-1

4.2 USING THE CONTROL PANEL ................. 4-2

4.3 CONTROL PANEL FUNCTIONS AND SETTINGS ..... 4-5

Changing function settings .................. 4-5

Default Settings .......................... 4-6

Test plot ............................... 4-6

Contrast ............................... 4-6

Speed ................................. 4-7

Media ................................. 4-8

Scaling ................................ 4-9

Emulation (vertical resolution) .............. 4-10

Form feed length ........................ 4-10

Bytes per scan .......................... 4-12

Grayscale media table number .............. 4-13

Setup headers for programming the V8.5e ...... 4-13

4.4 ERROR MESSAGES ....................... 4-16

5. THEORY OF OPERATION ..................... 5-1

5.1 INTRODUCTION .......................... 5-1

5.2 PLOTTER FUNCTIONS AND FEATURES .......... 5-1

Power supplies ........................... 5-1

Stepper motor ........................... 5-3

5.3 INTERFACE ............................. 5-3

Interface timing and signals ................. 5-3

Data rates .............................. 5-6

Scan width ............................. 5-7

Vertical resolution ........................ 5-7

Scaling ................................ 5-7

Print mode ............................. 5-8

5.4 THERMAL PRINTHEAD ..................... 5-9

Automatic Head Temperature Feedback ......... 5-9

Film media ............................ 5-10

viii

V8.5e Rev 2.2.2002

5.5 MEDIA SENSORS ........................ 5-10

6. MAINTENANCE ............................ 6-1

6.1 MAINTENANCE GUIDELINES ................. 6-2

6.2 REGULAR MAINTENANCE ................... 6-3

Cleaning the thermal printhead ............... 6-4

Cleaning the platen roller ................... 6-5

Replacing the fuse ........................ 6-6

7. TROUBLESHOOTING ........................ 7-1

7.1 INTRODUCTION .......................... 7-1

7.2 PROBLEMS ............................. 7-2

Plotter does not plot ...................... 7-2

Plot has vertical white stripes ................ 7-3

Plot is blotchy or faded ..................... 7-4

Plot contrast is weak ...................... 7-5

Plot has black vertical lines .................. 7-6

Plot is wrong length ....................... 7-7

Paper is wrinkling or tearing along one edge ..... 7-7

Plotter has no power ...................... 7-8

Plotter display is functioning but motor ......... 7-8

Can’t make changes to control panel settings ..... 7-8

Plot output speed is erratic .................. 7-9

Burning smell during plot, or “blooming” ....... 7-10

Form feed stops before desired length ......... 7-11

Form feed does not stop at top-of-form marks ... 7-11

Plot is skewed or unreadable ................ 7-12

8. WARRANTY .............................. 8-1

APPENDICES

A. ASCII TABLES ............................. A-1

V8.5e Rev 2.2.2002

B. INTERFACE CONNECTOR PIN ASSIGNMENT ....... B-1

C. CENTRONICS INTERFACE BOARD ............... C-1

1-1V8.5e Rev 2.2.2002

INTRODUCTION

1.1 GENERAL DESCRIPTION

The Imaging Systems Group’s V8.5e Thermal Plotter is a high-speed plotter suitable for o ffice or field use. It s small size and lightweight, yet rugged construction makes it durable in mobile situations. The V8.5e uses direct thermal plotting technology , so it requires no liquid or powdered ink.

Interface parameter settings and other menu functions can be accessed from either the front panel or the host computer. It is capable of printing at four speeds; 1.0, 2.0, 3.0, and 4.0 inches per second.

The V8.5e thermal plotter contains a completely new method of plotting rasterized data. Each scan of data plotted can contain as many as 64 independent intensity levels (gray scales). The thermal print head (TPH) in the V8.5e is made up of 1728 thermal heater nibs, and each one of these nibs can be heated to a different energy level, producing a dot on the thermal media of varying intensity . This type o f plotting can produce high-resolution images containing many shades o f gr ay.

The V8.5e prints in both raster and character modes, and contains a 96-character ASCII set. It interfaces with Versatec and optionally Centronics data interfaces.

1.2 MEDIA DESCRIPTION

The V8.5e uses rolled or fan-folded thermal paper or rolled film. Media width is 8.75, and 9.0 inches. The V8.5e accommodates regular thermal paper, papers with a protective top coating, as w ell as certain types of film media. Call your Imaging Systems Group product representative for media recommendations.

INTRODUCTION

1-2 V8.5e Rev 2.2.2002

An optional fan-fold paper guide and feeder trays (which attach to the back of the plotter , and below the rackmount plotter) are a vailable from The Imaging Systems Group which stabilizes the paper for smooth intake of fanfold papers. These options are useful in field situations or where vibration is a problem.

1.3 ABOUT THIS MANUAL

Please read this manual before using the plotter, in particular the Installation and Operation Chapter s, and the “Regular Maintenance” section in the Maintenance Chapter.

P ay special attention to warnings, cautions and notes . The following conventions are used in this manual:

CAUTION: Indicates possible equipment damage unless procedure is followedcorrectly.

NOTE: Indicates a general rule for a procedure, or an exception to a rule.

This symbol indicates an area of possible concern due to static discharge into the circuitry. When this symbol appears in the manual, please observe proper static precautions to minimize damage to the circuitry.

VORSICHT: Verweist auf die Gefahr der Beschädigung des Gerätes, falls die Vorschriften nicht genau befolgt werden.

Dieses Symbol warnt davor, dass es in diesen Bereichen möglicherweise zu statischen Entladungen an den Schaltkreisen kommen kann. Wenn dieses Symbol im Handbuch erscheint, sind die entsprechenden Vorsichtsmaßnahmen zu treffen, um eine Beschädigung der Schaltkreise so weit wie möglich zu vermeiden.

WICHTIGER HINWEIS: Verweist auf allgemeine Verfahrensvorschriften oder eine Ausnahme zu einer Vorschrift.

2-1V8.5e Rev 2.2.2002

SPECIFICATIONS

2.1 FUNCTIONAL

Operation

Command panel Front mounted.

LED display . Three push buttons. Online/Offline, Dat a and error LED’ s .

Command modes Bimodal Plotting mode.

Grayscale mode . Printing mode.

F eatures Bimodal (black and white) plotting.

Grayscale plotting. Plot speed up to 4.0 inches per second. Microprocessor controlled. Automatic head temperature feedback

P anel settings ~ On-line , off-line.

~ Test plot, test print. * Contrast C1, C2, C3, C4, C5, C6, C7, C8. * Plot speed select 1”, 2”, 3”, 4” per second. * Media select LP, HP, LF , HF. ~ Scaling (positive and negative) S0, S1, S2, S3, S4, S5, S6, S7, S8, S9, SA, SB, SC, SD, SE. ~ V ertical emulation. P0, n0 for 200 dots per inch vertical

emulation. P3, n3 for 203 dots per inch

vertical emulation. P selects positive scaling, n selects negative scaling.

SPECIFICATIONS

2- 2 V8.5e Rev 2.2.2002

~ F orm feed adjust F2, F4, F8, tF, PF - selects

formfeed of 2, 4, 8 inches, Top of Form sensing, and programable past top of form respectively.

~ Bytes per scan b1, b2 - selects 216 and 264

bytes per scan respectiv ely.

~ Grayscale levels per scan g1, g2, g3, g4 -

selects 8, 16, 32, and 64 levels of gray levels per scan respectively.

# Grayscale media calibration table number

t1, t2.

Settings marked with (*) are used exclusively with bi-modal plotting. Settings marked with (#) are used exclusively with grayscale plotting. Settings marked with (~) are used with both bi-modal and grayscale plotting.

Plot speeds P aper 1.0, 2.0, 3 .0, and 4.0 inches per second

in bimodal (black and white) plotting mode. Film: 1.0 inch per second. Grayscale: dependent upon the number of levels of grayscale selected.

Condition detection Media out.

Top of form. Head temperature. 24 volt error detection.

SPECIFICATIONS

2-3V8.5e Rev 2.2.2002

Media

Types Thermal sensitive paper or film.

Rolled paper with 7/16 inch spool core. Rolled film. Fan-folded paper (optional).

Width 8.75 inch rolled paper or film media.

8.75, 9.0 inch fan fold paper media.

Maximum length Rolled media: 100 feet with thick paper, 150

feet with thin paper. Maximum diameter 2.5 inches. Fan-fold: unlimited maximum.

Fan-fold guides Optional, for fan-fold paper. Adjustable for

8.75 inch and 9.0 inch media.

F eeder tray s Optional, for fan-f old paper.

Thermal printhead

Type Linear array. Resolution 203 dots per inch (8 dots per milimeter). Dots per scan 1728 (metric) maximum. Bytes per scan 2 16 bytes maximum. Image width 8.5 inches.

SPECIFICATIONS

2- 4 V8.5e Rev 2.2.2002

Transport

Stepper motor Micro-step. Stepping resolution 0.004 millimeter.

6400 micro-steps per inch of media. 32 micro-steps per scan line .

2.2 ELECTRICAL

Interface

Type Parallel, 8 kB buffer Compatibility Versatec Greensheet

Centronics parallel (optional) External SCSI

Data cable Optional

Power consumption

Idle mode 110 Watt minimum. Plot or print mode 315 Watt maximum

Power requirements

Voltag e Auto selectable input 100 Volts AC @ 60

Hertz Or 240 Volts AC @ 50 Hertz

Current 3 Amps maximum @ 110 Volts

1.5 Amps nominal @ 220 Volts

Fuse 250 Volts / 5 Amps

SPECIFICATIONS

2-5V8.5e Rev 2.2.2002

2.3 PHYSICAL

Dimensions

Rackmount Desktop Height 3.5 inches 3.5 inches Width 19 inches 15 inches Depth 12.5 inches 12.5 inches

Weight

Net 23 pounds 22 pounds

2.4 ENVIRONMENTAL

Temperature

Operating range 32º to 122º Fahrenheit (0º to 50º Celcius) Storage range 14º to 158º Fahrenheit (-10º to 7 0º Celcius)

Other

Operating humidity 5% to 95 non-condensing Certification FCC Class “A” certified for electromagnetic

interference

3-1V8.5e Rev 2.1.2001

INSTALLATION

3.1 UNPACKING

Although shipments are thoroughly checked for completeness by The Imaging Systems Group Inc., confirm that your plotter has the following:

1. Power cord

2. Sample Roll o f paper

3. Two spindle hubs

4. Rackmount spacer s

Confirm that any specified options are present, such as a data cable or fan-fold guide.

AC Power Cord

Manual & W arranty Card

Head Cleaning Pen

Plotter

Rail

Spacers

Spindle with Spacer disks

Thumb

Screw

Kit

INSTALLATION

3-2 V8.5e Rev 2.2.2002

Inspect the plotter and components for any damage that may have occurred during shipment. Report any damage to the carrier of the shipment, and to your Imaging Systems Group Inc. product representitive.

Keep the box and packaging for future shipping, in the event of servicing or upgrading issues. This product must be returned to our factory in the original or proper packaging material. Damage caused during return shipping or due to improper packaging will not be covered by The Imaging Systems Group Inc. During shipping or storage, place a length of thermal paper between the printhead and roller. This prevents damage caused by the two components sticking together.

3.2 MOUNTING AND POSITIONING

Keep the V8.5e away from direct heat sources, including sunlight. Do not block the vents on the sides of the plotter.

CAUTION: Make sure the thumbscrews are secured before operation. This is particularly important in mobile situations. Damage to the plotter or rack components could result if the plotter becomes unstable.

VORSICHT: Versichern Sie sich vor dem Betrieb des Gerätes, dass die Flügelschrauben festgestellt sind. Das ist besonders in beweglichen Konstellationen wichtig. Sollte der Plotter instabil werden, kann dies zu Schäden am Plotter oder am Gestell führen.

INSTALLATION

3-3V8.5e Rev 2.2.2002

3.3 INTERFACE SETUP

Plug the power cord into a grounded AC outlet only. Avoid sharing an outlet that is also powering other noise-generating equipment.

The V8.5e comes equipped with a V ersatec short line TTL (transist or to transistor logic) interf ace. This interface can be used for dat a cable lengths up to 50 feet.

An optional long line interface (differential) can be used for data cable lengths up to 700 feet.

F or optional Centronics interface setup, see Appendix C. An external SCSI (Small Computer System Interf ace) is also available.

Please contact your Imaging Systems Group Inc. product representitive for further information.

3.4 MEDIA INSTALLATION

CAUTION: Do not attempt to plot or form feed without the print

medium installed. This may damage the print head and will void the warranty.

VORSICHT: Versuchen Sie bitte nicht, einen Druckvorgang oder Papiervorschub zu starten, wenn sich kein Druckmedium im Plotter befindet. Dies kann zu einer Beschädigung des Druckkopfes und zum Verlust der Garantie führen.

INSTALLATION

3-4 V8.5e Rev 2.2.2002

Installing rolled paper

The V8.5e plotter comes with a sample roll of thermal sensitiv e paper . To install rolled paper:

1. Loosen the rackmount thumbscrews and pull the plotter forward on the rails.

2. Release the lid assembly b y gr asping underneath the black latch bar and pulling it upwards (Figure 3-5). Open the plotter lid by lifting the guide straight upwards.

3. Remove the fan-fold guide by grasping the two stainless steel rails and lifting it straight upwards.

4. Place the spindle hubs onto each end of the roll of media with the spacer on the left hand side spindle.

5. Orient the roll so that the paper feeds off of the top of the roll.

6. Place the roll in the plotter so that the pins on the spindle hubs snap into the slots on the spindle blocks.

7. Guide the paper over the blue platen roller and under the black cutter bar as shown in Figure 3-3.

8. Figure 3-4 shows roll paper installed. When installing any media, ensure that the coated side of the media is on top.

INSTALLATION

3-5V8.5e Rev 2.2.2002

Figure 3-1

Control Panel

Power

Latch

Figure 3-2 Back Panel

AC receptacle Screws

AC Power & Fuse Back Panel Screws Data port

INSTALLATION

3-6 V8.5e Rev 2.2.2002

Figure 3-3. Roll paper and film path

Roll

Figure 3-4 Roll paper installed

INSTALLATION

3-7V8.5e Rev 2.2.2002

Latch Bar

Figure 3-5 Opening the plotter Lid

INSTALLATION

3-8 V8.5e Rev 2.2.2002

Installing fan-fold paper

1. Loosen the rackmount thumbscrews and pull the plotter forward on the rails.

2. Release the lid assembly b y gr asping underneath the black latch bar and pulling it upwards (Figure 3-5). Open the plotter lid by lifting it straight upwards.

3. Remove paper roll and insert the fanfold guide over the spindle blocks (see Figure 3-6).

4. Feed the paper thr ough the slot in the back or bottom of the plotter depending on which fan-fold paper tray is being used.

5. If using rear load fan-fold paper, feed the media under the rear fan-fold guide bar and over the front fan-fold guide bar. Figure 3-4. If using bottom loaded fan-fold paper, feed the media over the rear fan-fold guide bar and over the front fan-fold guide bar.

6. Guide the paper over the blue platen roller and under the black cutter bar as shown in Figures 3-3 and 3-4.

7. When installing any media, ensure that the coated side of the media is on top and the TOF mark is on the bottom right side.

Installing and using film

Note that the plotter operates at 1.0 inch per second when using film. Install roll film as you would paper, ensuring that the coated side is on top.

Note that the cutter bar is designed for paper media only. Use a sharp knife or scissors to cut film media.

INSTALLATION

3-9V8.5e Rev 2.2.2002

CAUTION: Before plotting or testing on any print media, make sure that the media setting is correct. Incorrect settings may result in damage to the printhead and warranty. The media may also be damaged.

VORSICHT: Bevor Sie mit dem Plotten oder Testdrucken auf einem Druckmedium beginnen, versichern Sie sich, dass die Einstellungen für das Druckmedium korrekt sind. Falsche Einstellungen können zu einer Beschädigung des Druckkopfes und zum Verlust der Garantie führen. Außerdem kann hierdurch auch das Druckmedium beschädigt werden.

Installing rolled film

1. Loosen the rackmount thumbscrews and pull the plotter forward on the rails.

2. Release the lid assembly b y gr asping underneath the black latch bar and pulling it upwards (Figure 3-5). Open the plotter lid by lifting it straight upwards.

2. Remove the fan-fold guide by grasping the two stainless steel rails and lifting it straight upwards.

3. Place the spindle hubs onto each end of the roll of film with the spacer on the left hand side spindle.

4. Orient the roll so that the film feeds off of the top of the roll.

5. Place the roll in the plotter so that the pins on the spindle hubs snap into the slots on the spindle blocks.

6. Guide the film over the blue platen roller and under the black cutter bar as shown in Figure 3-3.

INSTALLATION

3-10 V8.5e Rev 2.2.2002

Figure 3-6 Spindle blocks

Spindle blocks (1 per side)

Figure 3- 7. Fanfold guide path

4-1V8.5e Rev 2.2.2002

OPERATION

4.1 POWER SUPPLY PRECAUTIONS

Turn off the power switch on the plotter before doing any of the following:

1. Unplugging the plotter

2. Cleaning the printhead

CAUTION: Take care not to discharge static into the plotter. This may cause damage to the integrated circuits or other electronic components. Use an approved method of static dissipation to revent component damage.

VORSICHT: Vermeiden Sie statische Entladung am Plotter. Dies könnte zu Schäden an den integrierten Schaltkreisen und anderen elektronischen Bauteilen führen. Verwenden Sie ein anerkanntes Verfahren zu Ableitung der statischen Energie, um Geräteschäden zu vermeiden.

OPERATION

4-2 V8.5e Rev 2.2.2002

Figure 4-1. Control panel

The control panel is shown in Figure 4-1. It consists of an LED display, two condition lights, and three buttons.

Button 1

Button 2

Button 3

4.2 USING THE CONTROL PANEL

To turn the plotter on, press the main power switch at the front of the plotter . The LED display “moves in cir cular motion” during bootup, followed by the ONLINE LED illuminating. When the ONLINE LED is on, the plotter is ready to receive data from the host. Changes to the plotter have to be made in offline mode.

OPERATION

4-3V8.5e Rev 2.2.2002

nottuB noitcnuF

.WORRAPU.1

enilffO/enilnO

.sedomENILFFOdnaENILNOneewtebselggoT

ebylnonacsgnitteslenaplortnocotsegnahC

busnoitcnufstceleS.edomENILFFOniedam

sseccaunemretfas'unem

.WORRANWOD.2

ecnavdA/deeFmroF

dnagnisserP.ylnoedomENILFFOniskroW

.htgnelteserpehtotdeefmrofasesuacgnisaeler

.repapsecnavdayllaunamgnidlohdnagnisserP

.sseccaunemretfas'unembusnoitcnufstceleS

evaS/uneM.3

ybedomENILFFOniunemnoitcnufstceleS

ottsrifmorfsignillorcS.tsilehthguorhtgnillorcs

yalpsidlitnugnidlohdnagnisserP.ylnotsal

:sehsalf

.sgnittesunemsevas

Table 4-1. Control panel button functions

Table 4-1 shows the control panel button functions. The up and down arrows access function sub-menu settings after the menu is accessed using the menu button.

OPERATION

4-4 V8.5e Rev 2.2.2002

tseTPt

tolP

tsartnoC deepS aideM gnilacS

lacitreV

noitalumE

htgneLFF

repsetyB

nacs

elacsyerG

aidem

elbat

sserP

/WORRA MROF DEEF

sseccaot

etavitcA(

ybtsettolP

gnisserp

UNEM

)nottub

8C 7C 6C 5C 4C 3C 2C

4 3 2

FH FL PH

ES DS CS bS AS 9S 8S 7S 6S 5S 4S 3S 2S

0n 3n 0P

FP Ft 8f 4f

4g 3g 2g 1g 2b2t

tluafeD

eulaV

evitcanI1C1PL0S3P2f1b1t

Table 4-2.Control panel settings and organization

OPERATION

4-5V8.5e Rev 2.2.2002

Changing function settings

For easy reference in this section, the buttons are referred to as numbers 1, 2, and 3, from top to bottom. (See Table 4-1 for button labels and functions.)

1. Press Button 1 to turn the plotter offline. Settings can only be changed while the plotter is offline . The gr een ONLINE st atus light turns off and the display will show: —— indicating offline status.

2. Press Button 3 to scroll through the menus.

3. For each menu item, press Button 1 or 2 (up or down arrows) until the desired setting (or sub menu item) is shown in the display for that menu.

4. Save the setting by pressing and holding Button 3 (MENU/SAVE) Display shows:

NOTE: Press and hold the MENU/SAVE button immediately after the desired function setting is displayed. Advancing through the menu without doing so will not save your changes.

5. The display will then show the o ffline displa y: ——. Repeat steps 2 through 4 for each function setting.

6. Press button 1 t o return to ONLINE mode. Display will be blank and online LED will be illuminated.

4.3 CONTROL PANEL FUNCTIONS AND SETTINGS

See Table 4-2 for default settings and organization.

OPERATION

4-6 V8.5e Rev 2.2.2002

Default Settings

To restore the default settings of the plotter, press and hold the menu button (button 3) while powering the plotter on. The display will briefly show “dF” during the boot up sequence , indicating that the default menu items have been loaded.

Test plot

This function produces approximately six inches of plot in a checkerboard and dither pattern in Bimodal mode. Generating a test plot while the plotter is set to grayscale mode will result in a grayscale plot corresponding to the number of gray levels selected at the time. This enables the user t o verify that the plotter is creating a plot image, feeding the paper correctly, and that contrast levels and media settings are acceptable . The test plot will use the current menu settings to generate the image.

1. Press Button 1 to put the plotter into OFFLINE mode.

2. Press Button 3 once. “tP” is displayed.

3. Press and hold Button 3 until the display flashes: The test plot will be generated.

Contrast

The contrast function adjusts the density of the output. Settings range from C 1 to C 8. Settings are relative values: C 1 is the lightest, C 4 is normal, C 8 the darkest.

After performing a test plot or plot job, determine if the contrast is acceptable. If the output is extremely dark, very faint, or irregular, first check that the media setting is correct (see “Media” section of this chapter).

OPERATION

4-7V8.5e Rev 2.2.2002

If the contrast needs further adjusting, change the contrast setting by starting at the lowest value, adjust the contrast upwards one value at a time, testing after each adjustment. This is particularly important when using lightweight papers or papers with unknown specifications.

CAUTION: Thermal plotting technology involves high temperatures. Incorrect media or contrast settings can damage the printhead or other components and void the warranty. Media damage can also occur.

VORSICHT: Bei der thermischen Plottertechnologie entstehen hohe Temperaturen. Ungeeignete Medien oder falsche Kontrasteinstellungen können den Druckkopf oder andere Bauteile beschädigen und zu Verlust der Garantie führen. Auch können Beschädigungen an den Medien entstehen.

Speed

The speed function adjusts the speed of the plot output. There are four output plot speed settings in the V8.5e: 1.0, 2.0, 3.0, and 4.0 inches per second. The default setting is 1.0 inch per second which produces the highest quality output.

If the plot speed is erratic, or if output quality is unacceptable, lowering the plot speed will r esult in an improv ed plot quality . Such problems may arise when data enters the plotter at a slower rate than the plot speed setting. Lowering the output plotting speed enables the plotter to match a lower input data rate and produces a smoother output plot.

When the media setting is film (LF or HF), the plotter speed defaults to 1 inch per second. When Grayscale mode is enabled, plot speed is dependent upon the level of grayscale selected.

OPERATION

4-8 V8.5e Rev 2.2.2002

is set to film or grayscale mode the printhead’s requirement for strobe times is raised. This requires a slower plot speed in order to maintain the high quality level of the V8.5e. Note: there are two preprogrammed media tables for grayscale plotting. These calibration tables can be changed for different medias by uploading new tables which can be provided by The Imaging Systems Group Inc. for virtually any approved thermal media. These tables are custom tuned to provide maximum grayscale performance on a selected media. These tables can be uploaded to the V8.5e, where they are stored in non-volitile memory until overwritten. Tables are uploaded two at a time overwriting the factory default tables stor ed in T1 and T2.

Media

The media function adjusts the time that the printhead is turned on (strobe time) to create an image on the media based upon the media type selected. The default setting is light paper. When the plotter

CAUTION: Thermal plotting technology involves high temperatures. Incorrect media or contrast settings can damage the printhead or other components and void the warranty. Media damage can also occur.

OPERATION

4-9V8.5e Rev 2.2.2002

Scaling

The scaling function stretches or shrinks the plot over a 36-inch length of plot with settings being S0 through SE. The default setting is (S2). To determine if scaling is needed, plot a job of a known length and measure it. Adjustments can be made to the scaling in increments of + or - 1/16-inch over 36 inches of plot. S0 = no scale,

SE = +/- 14/16” over 36 inches of plot.

Note: Positive or negative scaling is selected through the Emulation

menu setting.

OPERATION

4-10 V8.5e Rev 2.2.2002

Emulation (vertical resolution)

The emulation function adjusts the vertical resolution of the plot (along the media length). The settings are P0, n0, P3, and n3. P0 and n0 are used with 200 scans/inch of plot data. The default setting (P3) is 203 scans per inch (equal to 203 dots per inch- dpi). P3 and n3 are used for 203 scans/inch of plot data. P and n stand for P ositive and negative scaling for the scaling menu. If n is selected, the scaling factors are from no scale to -14/16” over 36” of output plot. If P is selected, the scaling factors are from no scale to +14/ 16” over 36” of plot.

Note that the horizontal resolution is determined by the printhead dot density, which is 203 dpi. The plotter can emulate 200 dpi vertical resolution (E0 and n0 settings), to match the rastered host data (for Imperial units).

Form feed length

The form feed length function adjusts the distance that the media is advanced in off-line mode and when a remote function is sent. To form feed media, put the plotter in offline mode and press the FORMFEED/ADVANCE button without holding.

Menu settings are: F2, F4, F8, tF,PF. F2, F4, F8 cause 2”, 4”, or 8” of media to be advanced upon a formfeed. If a T OF mark is detected before the f ormfeed is completed the plotter will stop upon detecting the mark, or to what the PF setting is.

tF results in the plotter advancing up to 18” while detecting for the Top of Form mark on fan fold media. The top-of-form setting (tF) allows the plotter to detect top-of-form marks. These marks signal the plotter to stop the form feed at a consistent distance from the perforated edge of the paper.

OPERATION

4-11V8.5e Rev 2.2.2002

PF - Progr ammable advance past Top of Form- This featur e allows the V8.5e to line up with the beginning of pages when a media whose TOF marks do not meet the V8.5e specifications.

NOTE: iSys recommends only the use of approved media in the V8.5e which has been qualified to increase plotter life and produce higher quality plots.

Once the PF feature is selected in the menu, the V8.5e will detect the media TOF mark and continue to advance the media by the amount programmed when a formfeed or end of transmission is commanded.

This feature is enabled by setting the formfeed menu to “PF” The advance range is from 01 hex --- 10 scans (approx 0.05”)

ff hex --- 2550 scans (approx 12.5”)

in increments of 10 scans for each hex number. Once the menu has been set to “PF”, the amount of advance past

TOF which has been programmed into the V8.5e will be used until it is changed. The default value is 23 Hex.

To program the amount of advance past TOF, send header:

98 XY 0A (where XY is the hex# o f groups of 10 scans).

If the V8.5e accepts the setup string, the display will flash

OPERATION

4-12 V8.5e Rev 2.2.2002

Bytes per scan

The SCANWD TH function adjusts the scan width of the plot, defined in bytes per line . The default scan width is b1 (2 16 b ytes per scan).

Menu settings are: b1, b2, g1, g2, g3, and g4.

b1 — 2 16 bytes/scan (bimodal). b2 — 264 bytes/scan (bimodal). g1 — 8 gray levels per scan, 1728 bytes/scan maximum. g2 — 16 gray levels per scan, 1728 bytes/scan maximum. g3 — 32 gray levels per scan, 1728 bytes/scan maximum. g4 — 64 gray levels per scan, 1728 bytes/scan maximum.

Unless you are using RLTER (remote line terminate) commands, the plotter scan width must be set to the same byte count as the rastered data from the host. Setting the scan width higher than the byte count of the raster data does not create a wider plot. Setting the scan width incorrectly results in skewed output as the data “wraps” and finishes the scan on the next line . This condition is identifiable on the plot in Figure 7-8.

The V8.5e contains a new method of plotting raster data. Each scan of data plotted can contain as many as 64 independent intensity levels (gray scales). The thermal print head (TPH) in the V8.5e is made up of 1728 thermal heater nibs, and each one of these nibs can be heated to a different energy level, producing a dot on the thermal media of varying intensity. This type of plotting can produce high-resolution images containing many shades of gray.

Change the scan width settings by pressing the up or down arrows in the bytes/scan sub-menu.

Press and hold Button 3 until the display flashes:

OPERATION

4-13V8.5e Rev 2.2.2002

Grayscale media table number

t1 - media calibration table for media 1. t2 - media calibration table for media 2.

These tables have preset values for imaging on two different medias while in gray scale mode. These medias can be changed for differ ent medias by uploading new tables.

Setup headers for programming the V8.5e

NOTE: The V8.5E must be in PRINT mode for the setup

header string to work. Numeric values shown below are hexadecimal, not ASCII.

NOTE: All menu functions can be remotely configured by

sending a setup header string from the host to the V8.5E through the interface. The programmable advance past TOF can be programmed in a similar

fashion.

NOTE: Sending a 00 hex in any of the setup string positions

listed below allows the menu item to remain

unchanged. The format is as follows: Byte 1: escape code =99

Byte 2: contrast C1=11 Lightest

C2=12 C3=13 C4=14 C5=15 C6=16 C7=17 C8=18 Darkest No Change=00

OPERATION

4-14 V8.5e Rev 2.2.2002

Byte 3: speed 1”=21 1.0 inches/sec

2”=22 2.0 inches/sec 3”=23 3.0 inches/sec 4”=24 4.0 inches/sec No Change=00

Byte 4: media LP=31 Light Paper

HP=3 2 Heavy Paper LF=33 Light Film HF=34 Heavy Film No Change=00

Byte 5: scaling S0=41 No Scale

S1=42 S2=43 S3=44 S4=45 S5=46 S6=47 +/- 1/16” S7=48 increments over 36” of S8=49 plot up to +/- 14/16” S9=4A SA=4B Sb=4C SC=4D Sd=4E SE=4F No Change=00

OPERATION

4-15V8.5e Rev 2.2.2002

Byte 6: emulation P0=51 200 scans/inch vertical

with positive

scaling

n0=52 200 scans/inch vertical

with negative

scaling

P3=53 203 scans/inch vertical

with positive

scaling

n3=54 203 scans/inch vertical

with negative

scaling

No Change=00

Byte 7: formfeed F2=61

F4=62 F8=63 tF=64 Stops on TOF Mark PF=65 Programmable

advance past TOF mark

No Change=00

Byte 8: bytes/scan b1=71 (216 bytes/scan)

b2=72 (264 bytes/scan) g1=73 8 level grayscale g2=74 16 level grayscale g3=75 32 level grayscale g4=76 64 level grayscale No Change=00

Byte 9: grayscale t1=81 (media type 1)

media table t2=82 (media type 2)

No Change=00

OPERATION

4-16 V8.5e Rev 2.2.2002

Byte 10: line feed 0A

Example: To set the plotter to: contrast=C3

speed=1.0 ips media=LP scaling=S2 emulation=P3 formfeed=F2 bytes/scan=b1 grayscale media table=t1

Then send header: 99 13 21 31 43 53 61 71 81 0A

If the V8.5E accepts the setup string, the display will flash

If there are any errors in the string, such as an out of range value on one of the numbers, or any other errors in the string format, the plotter will not accept the string, no reconfiguration will t ake place , and the error LED will flash twice.

4.4 ERROR MESSAGES

1. Media Out Error: The plotter will display a small square, flashing

segments and the error LED will flash. To fix this error, reload media into the potter. Plotter must be put back online to continue plotting.

2. Hot Head Error: The plotter will display Ht and the error LED will flash. The plotter will display this error until the thermal printhead cools to a temperature that is safe to plot again.

3. 24 Volts Error: The plotter will display 24 and the error LED will flash. If this error occurs, the 24 volt power supply may be faulty. Please contact your product representative.

4. Thermistor Error: The plotter will display tH and the error LED will flash. If the error occurs, the thermal printhead may be faulty. Please contact your product representative.

OPERATION

4-17V8.5e Rev 2.2.2002

4.4 FEHLERMELDUNGEN

1. Medien leer: Am Plotter erscheint eine kleine quadratische

blinkende Anzeige und die Fehleranzeige blinkt. Zur Behebung dieses Fehler muss neues Aufzeichnungsmaterial geladen werden. Der Plotter muss erneut online geschaltet werden, um den PlottingVorgang fortzuführen.

2. Druckkopfüberhitzung: Am Plotter erscheint Ht und die Fehleranzeige blinkt. Die Anzeige bleibt solange bestehen, bis der Druckkopf auf eine Temperatur abgekühlt ist, bei der wieder gefahrlos geplottet werden kann.

3. 24 Volt Fehler: Am Plotter erscheint 24 und die Fehleranzeige blinkt. Wenn dieser Fehler auftritt ist möglicherweise die 24-VSpannungsversorgung defekt. In diesem Fall nehmen Sie mit ihrem zuständigen Vertragspartner Kontakt auf.

4. Thermistor Fehler: Am Plotter erscheint tH und die Fehleranzeige blinkt. In diesem Fall ist möglicherweise der thermische Druckkopf defekt. Nehmen Sie bitte mit ihrem zuständigen Vertragspartner Kontakt auf.

5 - 1V8.5e Rev 2.2.2002

THEORY OF OPERATION

5.1 INTRODUCTION

The V8.5e plotter uses thermal technology to convert data from the host computer into plotted output. Host data enters the plotter main logic circuitry via the data port, and passes through the interface to the data buffer on the main logic board. Control and status signals enter the main logic board at the same time as the parallel data. The microcontroller converts the data from parallel to serial and sends the serial data to the printhead. One horizontal line or scan, consisting of a single row of dots, is plotted. The stepper motor advances the paper for the next scan. This cycle repeats until the plotted or printed image is finished.

5.2 PLOTTER FUNCTIONS AND FEATURES

Power supplies

The logic circuitry and printhead of the plotter are powered by a 5 Volt DC output power supply. The thermal printhead and stepper motor are powered by a 24 Volt, 10 Amp DC power supply. Both power supplies feature an auto-switchable input, which adapts to different voltage or frequency inputs.

THEORY OF OPERATION

5 - 2 V8.5e Rev 2.2.2002

8-bit Parallel Data

Data Input

Interface

Data

Buffer

Non-

volitile

RAM

24 V C Power

Supply

Motor

5 V DC

Power

Supply

Micro controller

Character generator

ROM (print mode)

Sensor Pod

Parallel

to serial

Thermal

Printhead

Input

Decoder

REM REM REM

REM REM

MODE

T emperature Feedback

Figure 5-1. Functional block diagram

THEORY OF OPERATION

5 -3V8.5e Rev 2.2.2002

Stepper motor

The V8.5e uses a bipolar, two-phase stepper motor. The motor is micro-step driven, requiring 200 full steps for one rotation of the motor shaft. There are 32 micro-steps per full step. Thus the motor makes 6400 micro-steps for each rotation.

5.3 INTERFACE

The data interface may be short line or, optionally, long line (see “Interface setup” in Chapter 3, Installation for details.) The plotter is compatible with either the Versatec Greensheet or (optionally) the Centronics interface (see Appendix A). Table 5-1 shows the active level for the plotter status signals.

Table 5-1 Status Signals

Interface timing and signals

The ready signal indicates the plotter’s readiness to accept data. When READY is low, the plotter can accept one byte of data. This byte must be accompanied by a PICLK (data str obe) pulse. Table 5-2 shows the timing relationship f or maximum data transfer .

langiS

cinomenM

langiS

emaN

evitcA

leveL

noitarepO

NILNOenilnOwoL

rettolpehtsetacidnilevelwoL

enilnodnanoderewopsi

PAPONrepapoNhgiH

nirepaponsierehtsetacidI

tonsidilehtro,rettolpeht

.dehctaldnadesolcylreporp

THEORY OF OPERATION

5 - 4 V8.5e Rev 2.2.2002

langiS

-nommehN

langiS

emaN

evitcA

leveL

noitarepO

-1DNI

8DNI

atadtupnIhgiH

lellarapetybrofseniltupnI

deinapmoccaebtsuMatad

KLCIPayb

KLCIP

tupnilellaraP

kcolc

hgiH

tneserpetybatadasebotS

ehtotni8DNI-1DNIno

muminiM.refffubtupni

eslupSn003

YDAERydaerrettolPwoL

sirettolpsnaemlevelwoL

atadtxeneviecerotydaer

.noitcnufetomerroetyb

rettolpsetacidnilevelhgiH

tpeccatonlliwdnaysubsi

.snoitcnufetomerroatad

Table 5-2 Data Transfer

Note that the plotter goes busy after receiving each byte . The plotter goes busy for longer periods during the execution of remote functions, when the input buffer is full, or when an error occurs.

Table 5-3 shows the timing relationships for the remote functions. When the input buffer receives the number of bytes necessary to plot a full scan, a write cycle is automatically initiated, causing the buffer contents to be imaged on the medium.

THEORY OF OPERATION

5 -5V8.5e Rev 2.2.2002

Table 5-3. Remote function signals

langiS

cinomenM

emaNlangiS

langiS

leveL

noitarepO

RAELCraelcetomeRwoL.reffubtupniehtsraelC

TESERteseRetomeRwoL

sezilaitini-erdnarettolpehtsteseR

.detressasilangisehtelihwcigollla

siteserelihwhgihsniamerydaeR

.detressa

RETLR

eniletomeR

etanimret

woL

yltnerrucatadreffubehtsetanimreT

ylsuoiverpllasesuac,dedaolgnieb

,ecneuqesnituptuoebotataddedaol

tsujatadreffubehtstuptuoneht

sihT.ecneuqesnidetanimret

deviecerfiderongisidnammoc

sahnacsllufaretfayeltaidemmi

.detanimretyllacitamotuaneeb

DEFFR

mrofetomeR

deef

woL

RTOER

dneetomeR

noissimsnart

woL

yltnerrucatadreffubehtsetanimreT

ylsuoiverpllasesuac,dedaolgnieb

nituptuoebotatadreffubdedaol

reffubehtstuptuoneht,ecneuqes

.ecneuqesnidetanimrettsujatad

.decnavdanehtsirepaP

THEORY OF OPERATION

5 - 6 V8.5e Rev 2.2.2002

Data rates

The plotter accommodates a wide range of data rates. The speed of the plotter can be set to 1.0, 2.0, 3.0, 4.0 inches per second. To achieve a consistent plot rate at a certain speed setting requires minimum data rates. If data rates are inconsistent, and lower than these minimum rates, that plot speed will not be sustained. Table 5-4 shows the minimum data rates at the four speed settings.

tolpfodeepS etaratadmuminiM

dnocesrephcni0.1ces/BK44

dnocesrepsehcni0.2ces/BK88

dnocesrepsehcni0.3ces/BK231

dnocesrepsehcni0.4ces/BK671

Table 5-4. Minimum data rates

As with all thermal plotters, slower speeds produce the highest quality output. Plotting at a speed too high for the data may result in the deterioration of fine details. Stops and starts caused by inconsistent data rates may also result in a lower quality output.

THEORY OF OPERATION

5 -7V8.5e Rev 2.2.2002

Scan width

Scan width settings sent from host software can specify the number of bytes o f data that will be plotted on a line . The maximum setting that data can be rastered to is 264 bytes per scan.

NOTE: The thermal head holds a maximum of 216 bytes of data. When the plotter is set to 264 bytes per scan, the first 216 bytes of data from the host are loaded into the thermal head to be plotted and the last 48 are discarded.

For rastered data less than the current byte count setting on the plotter, the scan may be terminated at any byte count by a RLTER command. If a RLTER command is asserted, the scan is terminated and the plot continues on the next line.

Vertical resolution

The vertical resolution of the plot can be changed from the default value of 203 dpi (n3or P3) to 200 dpi (n0 or P0, also known as Imperial unit setting). See “Emulation”, in Chapter 4, Operation, for information on control panel settings.

The plotter emulates the 200 dpi resolution by stretching the plot length. This is accomplished by inserting micro-steps at regular intervals, so that 200 scans cover one inch of plot.

Scaling

The scaling function either stretches or shrinks the plot by removing or adding a micro-step at a set interval. A djustments can be made to the scaling in increments of +/- 1/16” over 36” of plot length. The interval is determined by the scaling setting on the control panel. See “Scaling” in Operation, Chapter 4, P age 4-9, f or information on control panel settings.

THEORY OF OPERATION

5 - 8 V8.5e Rev 2.2.2002

Print mode

When the host asserts the PRINT mode signal, the plotter can generate ASCII character s. T able 5-5 sho ws the timing relationships for print mode signals.

Table 5-5. Mode signals

ASCII characters are produced as plot patterns on a 16 x 20 dot matrix through the use of a Character Generator ROM. When one complete print line of ASCII-coded data is received, the data is converted into plot patterns. Each character line is executed over 20 plot scans.

langiS

cinomenM

emaNlangiS

evitcA

leveL

noitarepO

TNIRPedoMtnirPhgiH

tolprotnirprehtiestceleS

,hgihsilangisnehW.edom

.edomtnirpnisirettolp

PPS

suoenatlumiS

edomtolp/tnirp

woLdesutoN

THEORY OF OPERATION

5 -9V8.5e Rev 2.2.2002

5.4 THERMAL PRINTHEAD

The thermal printhead is comprised of a row of 1728 heater elements (nibs). Each bit within a scan addresses an individual nib. Plot patterns are generated one scan at a time , each scan consisting of a horizontal row of dots. A nib produces a dot if the corresponding scan bit in the buffer is a logic level “1”. Nibs in the printhead are heated, causing a thermo-chemical reaction with the coating on the media. The intensity or period for which the nib is heated is called the burn strobe.

Automatic Head Temperature Feedback

The thermal printhead rises in temperature as it plots images on paper, thus, less energy is required to activate each nib as the plot proceeds to create an image of the same intensity. A thermistor embedded in the head measures the head temperature and provides feedback information to the main logic board. The main logic board decreases the burn strobe accordingly to keep the contrast of the plotted image consistent as the plot proceeds.

If the printhead temperature reaches 60º C, the Automatic Head Temperature Feedback circuit stops the plotter in order to let the head cool down. The control panel display reads hot (Ht) and the error light flashes. When the thermistor measures that the printhead temperature has cooled to 45º C, the plot resumes with no loss of data.

THEORY OF OPERATION

5 - 10 V8.5e Rev 2.2.2002

Film media

When the plotter is set to film mode , the strobe length is increased to accommodate the thicker media. The plot speed is set to

1.0 inch per second to allow the longer strobe length and to maintain plot quality .

5.5 MEDIA SENSORS

The top-of-form (also known as the “I-mark”) sensor and the media sensor are contained on a media sensor board .

The top-of-form sensor consists of a focused infrared beam and receptor that reacts to black top-of-form marks. The receptor sends a “stop form feed” command to the logic circuitry if a mark stops the beam from reflecting back into the receptor.

The paper sensor consists of an unfocused infrared beam and receptor. If the receptor receives enough r eflected light, the receptor sends no command. If the reflected light is below the required level the receptor sends a “media out” command to the logic circuitry and plotting stops. The “no media” indicator is displayed on the control panel.

6-1V8.5e Rev 2.2.2002

NOTE: Do not attempt to repair or modify any component of the V8.5e. If a component fails, it may be replaced free of charge in accordance with the warranty procedures in this manual. Attempting unauthorized repairs or modifications will void the warranty and invalidate safety approvals.

WARNING: There are voltage hazards inherent in the printhead power supply and AC input wiring. Take reasonable precautions to avoid electrical shock. Never service any electrical component of the V8.5e while the power cord is connected. Severe electrical shock may result.

CAUTION: Take care not to discharge static into the plotter. This may cause damage to integrated circuits or other electronic components. Dissipate static by wearing a static disipating wrist strap, before using tools on the plotter or touching internal components.

WICHTIGER HINWEIS: Versuchen Sie nicht, irgendwelche Bauteile des V8.5e zu reparieren oder zu modifizieren. Falls ein Bauteil versagt, kann es gemäß den in diesem Handbuch enthaltenen Garantiebedingungen kostenfrei ersetzt werden. Bei nicht genehmigten Reparaturen oder Modifizierungen erlischt der Garantieanspruch und Sicherheitszertifikate werden ungültig.

WARNUNG: Am Druckkopf und am Wechselstromanschluss bestehen gefährliche Spannungen. Lassen Sie angemessene Vorsicht walten, um Stromschläge zu vermeiden. Ziehen Sie den Netzstecker, bevor Sie an irgendwelchen elektrischen Bauteilen des V8.5e arbeiten. Andernfalls kann es zu erheblichen Stromschlägen kommen.

VORSICHT: Vermeiden Sie statische Entladung am Plotter. Dies kann Schäden an den integrierten Schaltkreisen und anderen elektronischen Bauteilen verursachen. Leiten Sie statische Elektrizität ab, indem Sie ein Antistatik-Armband anlegen, bevor Sie am Plotter mit Werkzeugen hantieren oder interne Bauteile berühren.

MAINTENANCE

6 -2 V8.5e Rev 2.2.2002

This symbol indicates an area of possible concern due to static discharge into the circuitry. When you see this symbol in the manual, please observe proper static precautions to minimize damage to the circuitry.

6.1 MAINTENANCE GUIDELINES

In order to minimize the complexity of troubleshooting and repairs, the V8.5e plotter is composed, wherever possible, of fieldreplaceable units (FR Us). The Imaging Systems Gr oup Inc. does not recommend troubleshooting at a component level, but rather to the level of these FRUs. This chapter and the troubleshooting chapter of this manual follows this approach, resulting in faster and easier repairs. R eplacing or repairing FR Us, rather than smaller components, minimizes downtime and simplifies procedures.

Use caution while troubleshooting the V8.5e. Turn the power off and unplug the power cord to prevent electrical shock.

Seien Sie bei der Fehlerbehebung am V8.5e vorsichtig. Schalten Sie den Strom ab und ziehen Sie den Netzstecker, um Stromschläge zu vermeiden.

MAINTENANCE

6 - 3V8.5e Rev 2.2.2002

6.2 REGULAR MAINTENANCE

The V8.5e thermal plotter is engineered to require minimal prev entative maintenance . If the thermal printhead and platen roller are cleaned regularly, and the plotter is kept free of debris, extra maintenance should rarely be required.

This minimal preventative maintenance is the customers responsibility . Damage to the plotter that has in The Imaging Sy stem Group’s opinion resulted from neglect or misuse will not be covered under warranty.

CAUTION: No parts of the V8.5e require lubrication. All bearings are sealed and self-lubricating. These bearings must be replaced in pairs if one fails by authorized repair depot.

VORSICHT: Kein Teil des V8.5e erfordert Schmierung. Alle Kugellager sind geschlossen und selbstschmierend. Diese Lager dürfen nur paarweise durch eine autorisierte Servicewerkstatt ausgetauscht werden, falls eines defekt wird.

MAINTENANCE

6 -4 V8.5e Rev 2.2.2002

Cleaning the thermal printhead

After prolonged use , the thermal printhead picks up fibr es fr om the media passing under it. These fine fibres collect and compact on portions of the printhead, blocking the contact it makes with the paper during a plot and causing faded patches . Poor contact betw een the printhead and paper may also cause the affected heating elements (nibs) to fail prematurely because of improper heat dissipation to the paper.

Clean the printhead every time you install a new roll of paper or film.

1. Turn the plotter power off.

Figure 6-1

Print Head

MAINTENANCE

6 - 5V8.5e Rev 2.2.2002

2. Moisten (do not soak) a soft, lint-free cloth or cotton swab with 99% pure isopropyl alcohol. Rub gently along the length of the printhead, removing any buildup of residue on the printhead.

3. Allow the alcohol to e vaporate completely before using the plotter .

CAUTION: Do not touch the printhead with your fingers or other objects. Skin oil will contaminate the printhead, which diminishes plot quality and shortens the life span of the printhead.

VORSICHT: Den Druckkopf nicht mit den Fingern oder irgendwelchen Gegenständen berühren. Fett oder Öl verschmutzt den Druckkopf, wodurch die Druckqualität vermindert und die Lebensdauer des Druckkopfes verkürzt wird.

Cleaning the platen roller

After prolonged use , the platen roller picks up fibr es from the paper passing above it. These fine fibres collect and compact on portions of the platen roller , cr eating bumps. The uneven surf ace of the roller may cause the printhead to contact the passing paper unevenly, producing a blotchy or faded plot.

Clean the platen roller when it appears dirty , or after appr oximately three rolls of paper or film have been plotted.

Lightly wipe the roller with a soft, lint-free cloth moistened in 99% pure isopropyl alcohol, turning the roller as necessary to remove paper fragments and dust.

MAINTENANCE

6 -6 V8.5e Rev 2.2.2002

Replacing the fuse

The fuse is located in a clip next to the AC receptacle. Figure 3-2.

1. Unplug the power cable fr om the AC receptacle.

2. Insert a small screwdriver into the slot on the fuse clip to release it from the AC receptacle .

3. Remo ve the fuse from the clip. R eplace the fuse and insert the clip.

WARNING: Replace only with a fuse of identical specifications. Other fuses may cause a fire hazard. See Chapter 2, Specifications, for fuse specifications.

WARNUNG: Beim Auswechseln der Sicherungen nur solche mit gleicher Spezifikation verwenden. Andere Sicherungen können Brände verursachen. Siehe Kapitel 2, Spezifikationen, hinsichtlich der Spezifikation der Sicherungen.

WARNING: Consistent damage to the plotter AC fuse indicates a serious problem and should be repaired immediately. Contact your authorized service center.

WARNUNG: Andauernder Ausfall der Wechselstromsicherung des Plotters verweist auf ein ernstes Problem, das sofort behoben werden sollte. Nehmen Sie Kontakt mit ihrer autorisierten Servicewerkstatt auf.

7-1V8.5e Rev 2.2.2002

TROUBLESHOOTING

7.1 INTRODUCTION

This chapter provides a list of problems that may be encountered with the V8.5e, and gives possible causes and solutions for these problems.

T o use this chapter , locate the pr oblem from the list. Follo w the steps in order, referring to Chapter 6, Maintenance, where necessary.

TROUBLESHOOTING

7-2 V8.5e Rev 2.2.2002

7.2 PROBLEMS

Plotter does not plot

Possible causes: Plotter has no paper or film

Lid is not securely closed Thermal printhead is overheated Latch pins need adjustment

Solutions:

1. Check the media supply. Install more media if necessary as described in Chapter 3, Installation.

2. Check that the media is installed correctly and the plotter lid is securely closed. The top of the lid should be flush with the top of the side panels.

3. If plotting has stopped in mid-task, the printhead may be overheated.

Do not intervene . The plotter will resume plotting fr om where it left off with no loss of dat a when the printhead has cooled sufficiently.

When the printhead temperature reaches 60ºC, the plotter stops and asserts a “busy” signal to the host. Plotting resumes when the head temperature has cooled to 45ºC. This prevents printhead damage caused by overheating.

4. If the lid does not close securely, or if the head pressure is too low, contact your authorized service center.

TROUBLESHOOTING

7-3V8.5e Rev 2.2.2002

Plot has vertical white stripes

Figure 7-3 . Plot with vertical white stripes

Possible causes: Lid is not securely closed

The printhead is dirty Some printhead nibs are burnt out

Solutions:

1. Check that the media is installed correctly and the plotter lid is securely closed. The top of the lid should be flush with the top of the side panels.

2. Clean the printhead as described in Chapter 6, page 6-3.

3. The thermal printhead has one or more burnt out nibs so it must be replaced. Contact your authorized service center.

TROUBLESHOOTING

7-4 V8.5e Rev 2.2.2002

Plot is blotchy or faded

Figure 7-4 . Blotchy or faded plot This problem originates from inconsistent printhead pressure across

the platen roller during plotting. Possible causes: Lid is not securely closed

Latch pins need adjustment

Solutions:

1. Check that the media is installed correctly and the plotter lid is securely closed. The top of the lid should be flush with the top of the side panels.

2. If the plot is fading on one side, test by pressing down on that side of the lid while the plotter is plotting. If this helps, the latch pin needs to be adjusted on that side . Contact y our authoriz ed service center.

TROUBLESHOOTING

7-5V8.5e Rev 2.2.2002

Plot contrast is weak

Possible causes: Lid is not securely closed

Latch pins need adjustment Media setting is incorrect Contrast setting is too low 24 V power supply is malfunctioning

Solutions:

1. Check that the media is installed correctly and the plotter lid is securely closed. The top of the lid should be flush with the top of the side panels.

2. If the lid does not close securely, or if the head pressure is too low, contact your authorized service center.

3. Check that the media setting is correct. See Chapter 4, page 4-8.

4. Adjust the contr ast setting as described in Chapter 4, page 4-6.

TROUBLESHOOTING

7-6 V8.5e Rev 2.2.2002

Plot has black vertical lines

Figure 7-6 . Plot with black vertical lines

Possible Cause: One or more bits in each byte going to the

plotter are “stuck high”.

Solution:

1. If your plotted output from the host shows these lines, run a test

plot. If the lines are not present on the test plot, the problem originates with the host data. Check the interface data cable from the host and replace it if neccesary.

TROUBLESHOOTING

7-7V8.5e Rev 2.2.2002

Plot is wrong length

If you suspect that a plot is the wrong length, plot a job of a known length and measure it.

Possible causes: Paper is not moving freely

Scaling is incorrectly applied Vertical emulation is incorrectly applied

Solutions:

1. Check the media feed path. Ensure that the paper is installed correctly and that the paper feed is not obstructed.

2. Adjust or reset the scaling setting as described in Chapter 4, Operation.

3. Determine if your data requires vertical emulation and adjust the vertical resolution setting appropriately. See “Emulation” in Chapter 4, Page 4-10.

Paper is wrinkling or tearing along one edge

Possible causes: Paper feed is misaligned

P aper is incorrectly inst alled Lid is not securely closed Latch pins need adjustment

Solutions:

1. Ensure that paper is correctly aligned while feeding. If using fanfold paper, you may wish to leave the paper in the bo x.

2. Check that the paper is installed correctly (see “Media Installation” in Chapter 3, Installation) and the plotter lid is securely closed. The top of the lid should be flush with the top of the side panels.

TROUBLESHOOTING

7-8 V8.5e Rev 2.2.2002

3. If the lid does not close securely, or if the head pressure is too low, contact your authorized service center.

Plotter has no power

Possible Cause: If the plotter is plugged in to a functioning

outlet, then the AC fuse has blown.

Solution:

1. Replace the fuse as described in Chapter 6.

Plotter display is functioning but motor does not function

Possible Cause: Either the 5 V or 24 V power supply is

malfunctioning.

Solution:

1. Contact your authorized service center.

Can’t make changes to control panel settings

Possible Cause: Plotter is in ONLINE mode.

Solution:

1. Press the ON/OFFLINE button.

TROUBLESHOOTING

7-9V8.5e Rev 2.2.2002

Plot output speed is erratic

Possible Cause: Plotter speed is set too high. This is most likely

to occur on the HIGH setting. Lowering the plot speed enables the plotter to match the rate of data and produces a more steady output.

Solution:

1. Lower the plot speed setting on the control panel as described in Chapter 4, P age 4-7.

TROUBLESHOOTING

7-10 V8.5e Rev 2.2.2002

Figure 7-7 . “Blooming” plot

Possible Cause:Media setting is incorrect. The thermal

printhead operating temperature is too high and is burning the media.

Solution:

1. Change the media setting on the control panel as described in Chapter 4. If unsure of the media specifications , start at the L T P APER setting and then increase the setting, testing plot output after each change.

CAUTION: Thermal plotting technology involves high temperatures. Incorrect media or contrast settings can damage the printhead or other components and void the warranty. Media damage can also occur.

Burning smell during plot, or “blooming” present on output

TROUBLESHOOTING

7-11V8.5e Rev 2.2.2002

Form feed stops before desired length

Possible Cause: The form feed length is too short. The form

feed stops before the paper sensor can read the “top of form” mark.

Solution:

1. Adjust the FFLENGTH setting on the control panel as described in Chapter 4, Page 4-10.

Form feed does not stop at top-of-form marks

Possible Cause: The top-of-form sensor is not reading the

marks.

Solution:

1. Contact your authoriz ed service center.

TROUBLESHOOTING

7-12 V8.5e Rev 2.2.2002

Plot is skewed or unreadable

Figure 7-8 . Skewed plot

Possible Cause: The scan width is incorrect.

Solution:

1. Adjust the scan width (b yte count) in y our host so ftw ar e to 216 bytes or less.

8-1

V8.5e Rev 2.2.2002

The Imaging Systems Group Inc. (iSys) warrants our V8.5e plotters to be free from defects in materials and workmanship as follows:

· Labour and parts are warranted for a period of one (1) year

from the date of purchase.

· This warranty applies only to products purchased from an

authorized dealer or agent, and extends only to the original retailer purchaser.

· This warranty only covers defects arising under normal usage

within the duty cycles per specifications, and does not cover malfunction or failures r esulting from misuse, abuse or neglect.

· Consumable accessories are not included in this warranty.

· iSys will extend to customers during the warranty period a Hot

Swap Program to further expedite warranty repair.

Hot Swap warranty is one (1) year for the V8.5e Thermal Plotter. During the warranty period, iSys will exchange the plotter within 24 Hours (North America ONLY) free of charge to the customer. Included with the thermal plotter will be an RMA Kit, which will include all of the paper work needed to ship the defective plotter back to iSys, at our expense. Hot Swap warranty is based on availability. After the warranty has expir ed on the V8.5e Thermal Plotter , the same service will be available at an established monthly rate . Please call us for det ails and pricing.

WARRANTY

8-2 V8.5e Rev 2.2.2002

TERMS and CONDITIONS of Hot Swap and Post Hot Swap

a) The product MUST be returned in the original or proper packing material including any anti-static packaging. Any products damaged in shipping due to inadequate packing will not be accepted by iSys. The return must arrive at iSys within 14 days from receipt of the RMA Kit. If these policies are violated, the customer will be responsible for payment of the purchase price on the product.

b) W arranty from the manufactur er and warranty from iSy s will be null and void if it is discovered that the product is not functional due to neglect or unauthorized personnel tampering with the hardware.

A-1V8.5e Rev 2.2.2002

APPENDIX

ASCII TABLES

MSN: Most significant nibble LSN: Least significant nibble

Table A-1. Normal ASCII character set

Table A-2. ASCII control code character set

NSL

NSM 0123456 7 89ABCDEF

2!"#$%&'()*+,-./ 30123456789:;<=>? 4@ABCDEFGHIJKLMNO 5PQRSTUVWXYZ[\]^6`abcdefghijklmno

7pqrstuvwxyz{I}~

NSL

NSM 01 234 567 89ABCDEF

0TOEFLFFRC

B-1V8.5e Rev 2.2.2002

APPENDIX

INTERFACE CONNECTOR PIN ASSIGNMENT

Table B-1. Versatec cable pin outs (straight through)

niPlangiS niPnruteR emaNlangiS cinomenM

102)BSL(1tiBtupnI1DNI 2122tiBtupnI2DNI 3223tiBtupnI3DNI 4324tiBtupnI4DNI 5425tiBtupnI5DNI 6526tiBtupnI6DNI 7627tiBtupnI7DNI

872)BSM(8tiBtupnI8DNI 982raelCRAELC

0192kcolCtupnIlellaraPKLCIP 1103ydaeRYDAER

2113tnirPTNIRP 31detcennoCtoNCN

4133tnirP/tolPsuoenatlumiSPPS

5143teseRetomeRTESER 6153deeFmroFetomeRDEFFR 7163timsnarTfodnEetomeRRT0ER 8173etanimreTeniLetomeRRETLR 9173repaPoNPAPON

2373enilnONILNO

B-2

V8.5e Rev 2.2.2002

INTERFACE CONNECTOR PIN ASSIGNMENT

niP langiS niP langiS

1EBORTS41TXFA

20ATAD51RORRE

31ATAD61TESER

42ATAD71NITCLS

53ATAD81DNG

64ATAD91DNG

75ATAD02DNG

86ATAD12DNG

97ATAD22DNG

01KCA32DNG

11YSUB42DNG

21EP52DNG

31TUOTCLS

Table B-2. Centronics cable pin outs (straight through)

C - 1

V8.5e Rev 2.2.2002

APPENDIX

CENTRONICS INTERFACE BOARD

The new Centronics adapter (rev1-2) implements some improvements over the previous (rev1-1) adapter card. These include:

a) Rev 1-2 cards will accept either o f the two data transfer

methods described below automatically; no switches or jumpers required.

b) Reliable data transfers using up to 40 ft length of

shielded cable.

c ) Rev 1-1 adapter cards exhibit inconsistent data transfer

with newer generation PC.’s equipped with high speed integrated Centronics parallel ports.

The following are two transfer formats that can be used with the optional V8.5E Centronics parallel adapter:

1.) Standard transfer format To place the V8.5E Centronics adapter in raster mode, the

following 3 bytes (hex) must be sent to the Centronics adapter card:

1B, 2A, 00

Once these 3 bytes are sent, rastered plot data can be sent to the plotter as follows:

V8.5E bytes/scan menu setting bytes/scan raster data

b1 21 6 b2 264 g1-g4 1728

C - 2

V8.5e Rev 2.2.2002

C E N T R O N I C S I N T E R F A C E B O A R D

Once the V8.5E Centronics adapter is set to raster mode it will remain in raster mode until the init line of the host Centronics port is pulsed or the plotter power is cycled. This will return the adapter to print mode.

2.) Enhanced transfer format For more flexibility, a 6 byte header can be sent before

each scan of rastered data. This header allows variable bytes/scan plotting. The Centronics adapter also returns to print mode at the end of every scan using this transfer method. This allows the five 1B, 4X commands or the standard ASCII control codes listed below in section 3 to be used during plotting. The format of the 6 byte header is:

1B 2A 72 XX YY 01 where XX = high byte of the

number of bytes/scan YY = low byte of the number of bytes/scan

Example: To send a plot that is rastered to 200 bytes/

scan, send the following 6 byte header be-

fore each and every scan of 200 bytes: 1B 2A 72 00 C8 01 00C8 hex = 200 decimal for a plot consisting of 1728 bytes/scan, send 1B 2A 72 06 C0 01 06C0 hex = 1728 decimal The valid number of bytes that can be sent to the V8.5E

using this transfer method is as follows: V8.5E bytes/scan menu settingvalid number of bytes/scan

raster data (XX YY)

C E N T R O N I C S I N T E R F A C E B O A R D

C - 3

V8.5e Rev 2.2.2002

Specifying XX YY at values greater than those indicated will cause the V8.5E to terminate scans incorrectly.

3.) 1B 4X and control characters Other commands that can be sent to the V8.5E Centronics

adapter: 1B 41 remote clear

1B 42 remote line terminate 1B 43 remote end of transmission 1B 44 remote form feed 1B 45 remote reset 1B 50 ZZ sends blank scans to plotter from ZZ = 01

hex to FF hex

NO TE: These commands must be sent when the plotter is in print mode. The commands will be ignor ed and interpreted as raster dat a if the y ar e sent at an y other time.

The V8.5E plotter also obeys standard control characters which must be sent when the plotter is in print mode:

04 end of transmission 0A line feed 0C form feed

NO TE: print mode on the V8.5E means that all b ytes that ar e received by the plotter are interpreted as ASCII characters and printed at 108 characters/line.

iSys V8.5 User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual