Microcom 322M User Manual

MODEL 322M

DIRECT THERMAL PRINTER

OPERATOR’S MANUAL

PART NUMBER 880022-0106

Revised: August 18, 2005 CPC
© Copyright 2003 by Microcom Corporation, Lewis Center, Ohio – All rights reserved.
Printed in the United States of America

This Page Intentionally Left Blank

This Page Intentionally Left Blank

Proprietary Statement

This manual contains information proprietary to Microcom Corporation. This information is
intended solely for the use of parties operating and maintaining such equipment described
herein.

Product Enhancements

Microcom Corporation is committed to the continual improvement of performance and
quality in our products. For this reason, specifications are subject to change without notice.

Liability Disclaimer

Microcom Corporation makes every effort to assure that all information and specifications
contained in this manual are accurate; however, mistakes are sometimes made. Microcom
Corporation shall not be liable for any damages resulting in the use or misuse of this
product. The exclusion or limitation involving consequential or incidental damage does not
apply to all states; therefore limitation mentioned above may or may not apply.

FCC Compliance Statement

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A digital
device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC rules. These limits are designed to provide
reasonable protection against harmful interference when the equipment is operated in a
commercial environment. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency
energy, and if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions contained in this
manual, may cause harmful interference to radio communications.

®

HyperTerminal
Centronics

and HyperAccess® are trademarks of Hilgraeve Inc.

®

a registered trademark of Data Computer Corporation.

is

HP® and LaserJet II® are trademarks of Hewlett-Packard Company.
Arial® is a registered trademark of The Monotype Corporation.
TrueType® is a registered trademark of Apple Computer, Inc.
Microsoft®, Windows®, Windows NT® are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation.

®

Instapak

is a registered trademark of Sealed Air Corporation.
Other products and company names mentioned herein may be trademarks of their
respective owners.

Table of Contents

Introduction........................................................................................... 9

Chapter 1: Printer Specifications .................................................... 11

1.1 General Specifications................................................................................... 11

1.2 Printing Specifications...................................................................................11

1.3 Media Specifications......................................................................................11

Chapter 2: Features and Options .................................................... 13

2.1 Fonts 13

2.2 Graphics........................................................................................................13

2.3 Bar codes......................................................................................................13

2.4 Special Features...........................................................................................14

2.5 Options..........................................................................................................14

Chapter 3: Getting Started............................................................... 15

3.1 Unpacking and Inspection.............................................................................15

3.2 Connecting the Printer...................................................................................15

3.2.1 Printer Power...........................................................................................16

3.2.2 RS232 Serial Communication Interface...................................................16

3.2.3 Optional Cutter Interface .........................................................................16

3.3 Loading Media...............................................................................................16

3.4 Print Button and Status Indicator Light..........................................................17

3.4.1 Print Button..............................................................................................18

3.4.2 Status Indicator Light...............................................................................18

3.5 Printer Modes................................................................................................19

3.5.1 Idle Mode.................................................................................................19

3.5.2 Halted Mode............................................................................................19

3.5.3 Paused Mode ..........................................................................................19

3.5.4 Diagnostic Mode...................................................................................... 19

3.5.4.1 Entering Diagnostic Mode .................................................................19

3.5.4.2 Statistics Label ..................................................................................20

Chapter 4: Communication..............................................................21

322M Operator’s Manual i

4.1 RS-232D Serial............................................................................................. 21

4.1.1 RS-232 Printer Cables............................................................................22

Chapter 5: Designing Labels Using LDS .........................................23

5.1 Control Characters........................................................................................ 23

5.2 LDS Design Exercises..................................................................................23

5.2.1 PC Connection (Serial)...........................................................................23

5.2.2 Format Creation...................................................................................... 24

5.3 Label Design: An Overview .......................................................................... 25

5.4 Label Header................................................................................................ 26

5.4.1 HFM (Number of Fields in Layout).......................................................... 27

5.4.2 LSX (Label Size X) ................................................................................. 28

5.4.3 LSY (Label Size Y) ................................................................................. 28

5.4.4 WEB (Web Size)..................................................................................... 28

5.4.5 GAP (GAP Size) ..................................................................................... 28

5.4.6 DPS (Print Speed) .................................................................................. 28

5.4.7 LCB (Label Control Byte)........................................................................ 29

5.4.7.1 Die-Cut and Blow-Hole Media............................................................29

5.4.7.2 Black Line Media (Transmissive).......................................................29

5.4.7.3 Continuous Media..............................................................................30

5.4.7.4 Black Line Media (Reflective)............................................................30

5.4.8 AGD (Activate Gap Detector).................................................................. 30

5.4.9 SPG (Steps Past Gap)............................................................................ 30

5.4.10 OFX (Offset X Direction)......................................................................... 31

5.4.11 OFY (Offset Y Direction)......................................................................... 31

5.5 Sample Header............................................................................................. 31

5.6 Label Format Fields...................................................................................... 32

5.6.1 TSN (Text String Number)..................................................................... 32

5.6.2 XB (X Beginning Coordinate).................................................................. 32

5.6.3 YB (Y Beginning Coordinate).................................................................. 32

5.6.4 CC (Character Count)............................................................................. 32

5.6.5 TCI (Text Conversion Identifier).............................................................. 33

5.6.6 CGN (Character Generator Number)...................................................... 34

5.6.6.1 Embedded Fonts ...............................................................................34

ii 322M Operator’s Manual

5.6.6.2 Downloadable Fonts and Graphics....................................................34

5.6.6.3 Embedded Bar Codes.......................................................................34

5.6.7 FO (Field Orientation)..............................................................................36

5.6.8 FJ (Field Justification).............................................................................36

5.6.9 CMX (Character Multiplier X Direction)....................................................36

5.6.10 CMY (Character Multiplier Y Direction)....................................................37

5.6.11 CS (Character Spacing) ..........................................................................37

5.6.12 TSP (Text Starting Position)....................................................................37

5.6.13 ,,, (Reserved Spaces)............................................................................. 37

5.6.14 AN (Attribute Number).............................................................................37

5.7 Line Draw......................................................................................................37

5.7.1 TSN (Text String Number).......................................................................38

5.7.2 XB (X Beginning Coordinate) ..................................................................38

5.7.3 YB (Y Beginning Coordinate) ..................................................................38

5.7.4 ,, (CONSTANT FIELD)..........................................................................38

5.7.5 TCI (Text Conversion Identifier)..............................................................38

5.7.6 ,,,, (CONSTANT FIELDS).......................................................................38

5.7.7 XS (X Size)..............................................................................................38

5.7.8 YS (Y Size)..............................................................................................38

5.7.9 ,,,,, (CONSTANT FIELDS).......................................................................38

5.7.10 AN (Attribute Number)............................................................................. 39

5.7.11 Line Draw Sample...................................................................................39

5.8 Reverse Video...............................................................................................40

Chapter 6: Printer Commands......................................................... 41

6.1 Special Printer Control Codes.......................................................................41

6.2 Printer Enquires.............................................................................................42

6.3 Sending ^D Printer Commands.....................................................................43

6.3.1 Software DIP Switches and Non-Volatile Commands.............................43

6.3.2 Printing Commands.................................................................................48

6.3.3 Auto-sizing and Valid GAP Commands...................................................49

6.3.4 Serial Number Commands......................................................................50

6.3.5 Saving Format Commands......................................................................52

6.3.6 Dispensing Commands ...........................................................................54

322M Operator’s Manual iii

6.3.7 Text String Commands........................................................................... 57

Chapter 7: Downloadable Graphics.................................................59

7.1 Using the Graphic Conversion Utilities .........................................................59

7.1.1 PCX2MIC.exe Program.......................................................................... 59

7.1.2 BMP2MIC.exe Program.......................................................................... 59

7.2 Graphic Image Download Methods............................................................... 60

7.2.1 Compressed Binary Image (^D107)........................................................ 60

7.2.2 Uncompressed Image (^D104)............................................................... 61

7.3 Graphic Image Data Format......................................................................... 62

7.4 Downloadable Graphics Command Summary.............................................. 64

Chapter 8: Downloadable Fonts.......................................................65

8.1 Using the Font Conversion Utilities...............................................................65

8.1.1 SFP2MIC.exe Program........................................................................... 65

8.1.2 TTF2MIC.exe Program........................................................................... 65

8.2 Font Download Methods............................................................................... 66

8.2.1 Compressed Binary Image (^D107)........................................................ 66

8.2.2 Uncompressed Image (^D104)............................................................... 67

8.3 Font Structure...............................................................................................68

8.4 Downloadable Font Command Summary..................................................... 69

Chapter 9: Bar Codes........................................................................71

9.1 Types of Bar Codes...................................................................................... 71

9.1.1 Universal Product Code – Version A (UPC-A), TCI 12........................... 71

9.1.2 Universal Product Code – Version E (UPC-E), TCI 13........................... 71

9.1.3 Universal Product Code (UPC-E, send 6 digits), TCI 14......................... 72

9.1.4 Interleaved 2 of 5 (I2of5), TCI 15............................................................ 72

9.1.5 Code 3 of 9 (Code39), TCI 16................................................................. 73

9.1.6 European Article Numbering System 13 (EAN-13), TCI 20.................... 73

9.1.7 European Article Numbering System 8 (EAN-8), TCI 21........................ 73

9.1.8 Modified Plessey (MSI 1), TCI 24........................................................... 73

9.1.9 Modified Plessey (MSI 2), TCI 25........................................................... 73

9.1.10 Modified Plessey (MSI 3), TCI 26 ........................................................... 73

9.1.11 Postnet (ZIP+4), TCI 36.......................................................................... 74

iv 322M Operator’s Manual

9.1.12 Postnet (ZIP+6), TCI 37 ..........................................................................74

9.1.13 MaxiCode, TCI 38....................................................................................74

9.1.14 Code 128 (Automatic Compression), TCI 40...........................................77

9.1.15 Code 128 (Manual Compression), TCI 41...............................................77

9.1.16 Codabar (Rationalized), TCI 42...............................................................78

9.1.17 Code 93, TCI 43...................................................................................... 78

9.1.18 AS-10, TCI 44..........................................................................................78

9.1.19 PDF-417, TCI 46.....................................................................................79

9.1.20 UCC/EAN 128, TCI 50.............................................................................82

9.1.21 UCC/EAN Text Information, TCI 51.........................................................86

9.2 Bar Code Rotation.........................................................................................86

9.3 Bar Code Human Readable Text ..................................................................87

Chapter 10: Printer Maintenance...................................................... 89

10.1 Maintenance Schedule................................................................................89

10.2 Thermal Printer Card...................................................................................90

10.3 Internal Cleaning.........................................................................................92

10.4 Print head Maintenance...............................................................................93

10.5 Cleaning the Drive Roller...............................................................................94

10.6 Exterior Cleaning...........................................................................................94

10.7 Gap Detector Adjustment.............................................................................. 94

Chapter 11: Troubleshooting........................................................... 95

11.1 Troubleshooting Tips.....................................................................................95

Appendix A: Limited Warranty........................................................... 97

Appendix B: RMA Procedure.......................................................... 98

Appendix C: Quick Reference Command Summary........................ 99

Glossary............................................................................................ 107

Index..................................................................................................111

User Notes......................................................................................... 115

322M Operator’s Manual v

List of Tables

Table 1 General Specifications.......................................................................... 11

Table 2 Printing Specifications.......................................................................... 11

Table 3 Media Specifications............................................................................. 11

Table 4 Power Adapter Specifications............................................................... 16

Table 5 Print Button Description........................................................................ 18

Table 6 Status Indicator Light Description......................................................... 18

Table 7 RS-232 Cable Configurations............................................................... 21

Table 8 DPS Values.......................................................................................... 29

Table 9 TCI Values............................................................................................ 33

Table 10 CGN – Embedded Fonts...................................................................... 34

Table 11 CGN – Bar Code Symbologies............................................................. 35

Table 12 FO & FJ Character Starting Positions................................................... 36

Table 13 Enquiry Responses.............................................................................. 43

Table 14 UPC-E Zero Reduction Format............................................................ 72

Table 15 MaxiCode Control Code Equivalents.................................................... 76

Table 16 Code128 Special Function Access....................................................... 77

Table 17 PDF-417 Error Correction Level...........................................................80

Table 18 UCC/EAN Application Identifiers .......................................................... 85

Table 19 Human Readable/Extended Bars TCI’s................................................87

Table 20 Recommended Maintenance Schedule................................................ 89

vi 322M Operator’s Manual

List of Figures

Figure 1 322M Front Angled View.......................................................................viii

Figure 2 322M Rear Angled View........................................................................viii

Figure 3 Typical Printer Accessories...................................................................15

Figure 4 Connecting the Printer...........................................................................17

Figure 5 Print Button and Status Indicator Light..................................................17

Figure 6 Statistics Label......................................................................................20

Figure 7 HyperTerminal™ Window Example ......................................................24

Figure 8 3x3 Sample Label.................................................................................26

Figure 9 Header Elements ..................................................................................27

Figure 10 Line Draw Sample.................................................................................39

Figure 11 Reverse Video Sample..........................................................................40

Figure 12 ^D58 - File #2 Print Sample ..................................................................54

Figure 13 ^D58 - File#3 Print Sample ...................................................................54

Figure 14 ASCII-HEX Conversions .......................................................................62

Figure 15 Code 128 Subset Switching..................................................................78

Figure 16 PDF-417 Sample Format #1 .................................................................81

Figure 17 PDF-417 Sample Format #2 .................................................................81

Figure 18 Bar Code Rotations...............................................................................87

Figure 19 UPC-A Text/Extended Bars...................................................................88

Figure 20 Unlatching the Print head......................................................................91

Figure 21 Removal of Thermal Card.....................................................................91

Figure 22 Internal Cleaning...................................................................................92

Figure 23 Print head Thermal Elements................................................................93

322M Operator’s Manual vii

Figure 1 322M Front Angled View

Figure 2 322M Rear Angled View

viii 322M Operator’s Manual

Introduction

The Model 322M is a high performance Direct Thermal open frame printer that is

economically sized and priced to fit everyone’s budget. The extensive list of standard

features combined with an easy to operate and maintain design provides continuous and
reliable printing at true high volume throughput. The Model 322M comes equipped with a
high resolution (575 dots, 8-dots/mm) thermal printhead with a print width of 2.83”.

The resident Label Design Software (LDS) is a powerful and easy-to-use control language
that allows the creation of custom label formats. The software is ASCII text based and can
be interfaced to PC’s, mini-computers, main frames and other special purpose machines.
The LDS uses thermal dots as the unit of measure. All commands and parameters, unless
noted otherwise, should be entered using dots. The conversion values for the printer are 8

dots per millimeter, 203 dots per inch or 0.0049” per dot. For example: To enter the width

of a label that is 2” wide, the value entered would be 406 (2” X 203 = 406).

Among many other features, LDS supports downloadable graphics and fonts, serial
numbering, flexible character spacing, reverse video, resident fonts and many of the most
popular bar code symbologies. Bitmapped fonts, bar codes, and graphic images can be
multiplied in size in the X and Y directions while being printed in 0, 90, 180, and 270 degree
rotations. Graphic images and custom designed label formats can also be stored in the
printer’s memory for high-speed access and greater throughput performance.

The Model 322M is capable of printing on most types of labels, pre-print tickets, fax papers,
and tag stocks. The printer is also capable of detecting many registration marks such as:
media that contain die-cut, blow-hole, black-line sense marks and continuous rolled stock as
well. The printer also provides three different cutter types, which include a full guillotine,
full/partial guillotine and rotary cutter. These cutter options provide a means of cutting
media of varying thickness to handle even the most demanding applications.

Many printer applications use the same label format, but change the data on every label.
This is not a problem for the 322M printer. Data may be changed without downloading the
same fixed format or fixed data field, time after time. This, along with the available serial
communication speeds, increases data access time and productivity providing the user with
high performance for a low cost.

®

Contact Microcom Corporation regarding the availability of Windows
WYSIWYG (What You See Is What You Get) software packages that allow quick and easy
on-screen label designing.

drivers and

322M Operator’s Manual 9

10 322M Operator’s Manual

Chapter 1: Printer Specifications

1.1 General Specifications

Width 7.63” (194mm)
Height 4.0” (102mm)
Depth 3.63” (92mm)
Weight 3.5 lbs. (1.6 kg)
Electrical Universal +24 VDC
Current 3 Amps maximum
Temperature 40° F – 104° F (5° C – 40° C) Operating
Humidity 10% – 85%, non-condensing
SRAM Memory 512K bytes
Flash Memory 512K bytes
Agency Approvals CUL, CE, and complies with FCC Class A.
RS-232D Serial RS-232D, 9 pin D-Sub c onnector (DCE)

Flow Control: XON, XOFF, and CTS
Baud Rates: 110 to 115200
Parity: Odd, Even, and None
Data Bits: 7 or 8

Table 1 General Specifications

1.2 Printing Specifications

Print Type Direct Thermal
Print Resolution 203 DPI (8 dots/mm or 0.0049” per dot)
Maximum Print Speed 6”/sec. (152mm/sec.)

Maximum Print Width

Print Length 50” (1270mm) using standard memory

Table 2 Printing Specifications

1.3 Media Specifications

2.83 inches or 575 dots (72mm)

3.15” or 640 dots (80mm) – When used
with the Heavy Media Printing Option

Media Types
Maximum Media Thickness .006” (.15mm)

Maximum Media Width 3.5” (89mm)

Continuous, die-cut, preprinted and tag
stock either rolled or fanfold.

Table 3 Media Specifications

322M Operator’s Manual 11

12 322M Operator’s Manual

2.1 Fonts

 7 smooth bitmapped alpha-numeric fonts from 6pt to 14pt including OCR-A

and OCR-B.

 Converted HP LaserJet™ and/or TrueType® font capability.
 All bitmapped fonts expandable in height and width.
 Reverse image printing.
 Rotated: 0 º, 90 º, 180 º, and 270 º.

Chapter 2: Features and Options

2.2 Graphics

 Resident Lines feature.
 Storage of fonts, label formats and/or graphics in battery backed memory.
 Converted PCX and BMP images.
 Rotated: 0 º, 90 º, 180 º, and 270 º.

2.3 Bar codes

 One-dimensional: Code 39, Interleaved 2 of 5, Code 128 (A, B, C and Auto),

Code 93, Codabar, Modified Plessey, UPC-A, UPC-E, EAN 8, EAN 13,
UCC/EAN 128, and Postnet.

 Two-dimensional: PDF-417 and Maxicode.
 Rotated: 0 º, 90 º, 180 º, and 270 º.
 Expandable in height and width.

322M Operator’s Manual 13

Features and Options Chapter 2

2.4 Special Features

 High performance for a Low cost.
 Rotating head mechanism for easy print head cleaning.
 Adjustable media guides for easy label centering or custom fixed guide

brackets.

 Software controlled contrast adjustment.
 Detects label gap, blackline, and blowhole using reflective and

transmissive sensors.

 Field incrementing, decrementing and serialization.
 Downloadable fonts and graphics (with data compression).
 Internal statistical counters for inches and labels printed.
 Remote printer interrogation.
 Automatic detection for optional cutter types
 Two types of mounting methods for kiosk installation flexibility.

2.5 Options

 3” (76.2 mm) Full or Full/Partial Guillotine cutter available.
 3” (76.2 mm) Rotary cutter available.
 +24 VDC Universal Power Supply.
 User configurable sensor (Input 1).
 Label Present Sensor (LPS)
 Heavy Media Printing.
 Printed Media Presenter (PMP).
 Cleaning kit.

14 322M Operator’s Manual

Chapter 3: Getting Started

3.1 Unpacking and Inspection

The printer has been packaged to help reduce the damage that may occur during the
shipment of product.

Inspect the shipping container(s) for signs of damage. If damage is evident, contact the
shipping company immediately to file a damage claim.

After the printer is removed from the container(s), verify that all the parts purchased are
present and in good condition (see Figure 3).

The packaging material and shipping container(s) should be kept and used if the printer is to
be shipped. Additional shipping materials can be ordered by contacting the Microcom
Corporation Service Department.

Figure 3 Typical Printer Accessories

3.2 Connecting the Printer

Refer to Figure 4 for proper connections.

322M Operator’s Manual 15

Getting Started Chapter 3

3.2.1 Printer Power

Microcom Corporation offers a universal power adapter as an option for the Model 322M.
Any power adapter that conforms to the necessary specifications, listed below, may be
used. The printer requires a universal +24VDC power supply that operates in the 100-240
VAC; 50-60 Hertz range; 2 Amps. The power adapter should operate in an “output foldback

mode” during an overload situation rather than a shutdown and restart attempt; sometimes

referred to as a “Hiccup” mode. Contact your Microcom Corporation representative for any

questions regarding power adapter requirements and/or specifications.

AC Input: 100-240 VAC, 50/60HZ, 2A
DC Output: +24V @ 0.2 ~4.16A +/- 5%
Power Rating: 45 to 60 Watts
Overload Protection: Output Voltage Foldback Mode

Maximum Transient Load:
Printer Power Connector: Standard 2.5mm Barrel Jack

Table 4 Power Adapter Specifications

12 cycles @ 2.1ms rep. rate;
35A, 650µs pulse

Note: Verify that the power adapter jack is plugged into the printer before

plugging the power cord into an electrical outlet.

3.2.2 RS232 Serial Communication Interface

The 322M can be interfaced to PC’s, mini-computers, main frames, and special purpose
machines. This printer offers a standard serial RS-232D port. The factory serial port
configuration is set to 9600 bits per second, no parity, 8 data bits, and 1 stop bit with both
hardware and software flow control hand-shaking enabled. Refer to Chapter 4 for additional
information.

3.2.3 Optional Cutter Interface

The 322M also provides a connector on the rear panel for the optional cutter interface. Use
this connector (see Figure 4) when a cutter is installed on the printer. To prevent damage to
the printer and/or cutter, connect the cutter when the printer power is off.

3.3 Loading Media

The easy to release printhead makes loading media into the Model 322M printer an easy
process. Follow the instructions below to properly load the media.

1. Feed the media into the paper path (see Figure 4), located on the back of the printer,
until you feel resistance.

2. Push and hold the Print Button to feed the media through the printer.

3. Once the media exits the front of the printer, release the button.

16 322M Operator’s Manual

Chapter 3 Getting Started

Button

Media

Path

Cutter Option

Connector

Figure 4 Connecting the Printer

RS-232D

Serial Port

+24VDC

Power Jack

3.4 Print Button and Status Indicator Light

The print button and the status indicator light (see Figure 5) are used to identify and perform
many functions. This section provides a description to familiarize you with the basic function
of the button and light.

Indicator

Light

Print

Figure 5 Print Button and Status Indicator Light

322M Operator’s Manual 17

Getting Started Chapter 3

3.4.1 Print Button

Operation Description

Printing a label

Printer Pause

Feeding Labels

Press the print button while the printer is idle or paused will
reprint the last label or after a cold start, a power up label will
print.

Press the print button while the printer is printing will cause the
printer to enter the paused mode.
Note: Press the print button again to continue printing.

Hold the print button down while the printer is idle to feed labels.
The printer will continue feeding labels until the button is
released.

Table 5 Print Button Description

3.4.2 Status Indicator Light

Light Color Description

Solid Green.

Solid Red.

Solid Amber.

Flashing Red.

Indicates that the power is on and the printer is in a ready state.

Indicates an error has occurred. The printer will remain in this
state until the condition is removed. If an unexplained error
persists, contact your Service Representative.
Note: Refer to Chapter 11: Troubleshooting for helpful hints.

Indicates that the printer has been paused, or a tag/tear mode
has been enabled.

LED Flashes Red during a download indicates that the memory
operation was not successful.
Power Spike or low voltage on the AC line. The unit will remain
in this mode until the condition is removed and the printer power
is cycled.

Table 6 Status Indicator Light Description

18 322M Operator’s Manual

Chapter 3 Getting Started

3.5 Printer Modes

The printer has four primary modes of operation. The different types of modes have an
impact on how the rear panel print button and indicator lights are treated. This section is
intended to provide the user with an explanation of these different modes.

3.5.1 Idle Mode

Idle Mode is when the printer is not printing and has no pending activity. The indicator light
is green, which indicates that the printer is ready to receive label formats and/or commands.
The Print Button has a couple of different functions while in the Idle Mode. Pressing the
button will reprint the last label or the power-up label if the printer was recently turned on
and no formats were sent to the printer. Pressing and holding the button in, causes the
printer to feed labels until the button is released.

3.5.2 Halted Mode

Halted Mode is when the printer has stopped due to an error condition that needs to be
corrected. The indicator light will be solid red in color when the printer has entered the
Halted Mode. The printer will remain in this mode until the error has been corrected and
then cleared. Once the error has been cleared, the printer will attempt to execute the
previous format and/or commands.

3.5.3 Paused Mode

Paused Mode is when the printer has pending activity and has stopped, but is not in an
error condition. The indicator light is a solid amber color when the printer is in Paused
Mode. The printer enters this mode when the rear panel button is pressed while the printer
is printing. Pressing the button again causes the printer to resume. Another situation that
causes the printer to enter the Paused Mode is when a Dispense command (^D97 and/or
^D98) has been enabled and the label is present. See these commands for additional
information.

3.5.4 Diagnostic Mode

Diagnostic Mode temporarily powers up using factory default parameters while printing out

the printer’s current configuration on what is called the Status Label. This provides useful
information that can be used to help diagnose and troubleshoot problems. The printer will
use the factory default parameters until the printer has been reset using a soft reset or by
cycling power. The printer will then return to the previous configuration that was in use
before entering the Diagnostic Mode.

3.5.4.1 Entering Diagnostic Mode

To enter Diagnostic Mode, press and hold the rear panel button in while turning on the
printer. Release the button after three seconds and the printer will enter Diagnostic Mode
and print the Statistics label and print head test pattern.

322M Operator’s Manual 19

Getting Started Chapter 3

3.5.4.2 Statistics Label

The printer prints the statistics label once the printer enters the Diagnostics Mode. When
the statistics label is generated, the printer temporarily powers-up using factory default
parameters. The statistical and configuration information represents the previous setup of
the printer. The printer will return to the previous setup after a power cycle or upon
receiving a soft reset command (^D32).

The Printed Labels field represents the number of labels printed to date and can be reset by
the user. The Printed inches can also be reset by the user while the Total Inches field is set
at the factory and is not user adjustable. The Printed Labels and Printed Inches are reset
using the ^D29 command. Other useful information on the statistics label include the
printer’s serial number, power-on hours, serial parameters, soft switch bank configurations,
firmware revision, and cutter information if installed. Refer to Chapter 6 for additional
information regarding the soft switch bank settings.

PRINTER SERIAL #: 1234567890

PRINTED LABELS: 303

PRINTED INCHES: 1533

TOTAL INCHES: 1571

POWER ON HOURS: 32

CUTTER TYPE: Guillotine

CUTTER ENABLED: NO

CUTTER COUNTS: 303
SWITCH BANK 1: 10001011
SWITCH BANK 2: 01010000
SWITCH BANK 3: 00000010
SWITCH BANK 4: 00000000

SERIAL PARAMETERS: 9600-N-8-1

322 REV 1.00 070000-0100 01/28/03

Figure 6 Statistics Label

20 322M Operator’s Manual

Chapter 4: Communication

4.1 RS-232D Serial

The printer provides a 9 pin female D-Sub connector, on the rear panel, for RS-232D serial
communication. The printer is configured as DCE (Data Circuit-terminating Equipment) so a
NULL modem cable is not necessary. A serial data cable is required to use serial
communications, refer to Table 7 below for correct cable configurations.

The factory settings, unless otherwise requested, are set at 9600 baud, 8 data bits, 1 stop
bit and no parity with both hardware and software handshaking enabled. The baud rate is
user selectable from 1200 to 115,200 and uses software XON/XOFF flow control and/or
hardware CTS handshaking.

9 to 9 Pin Cable 9 to 25 Pin Cable

322M

State

DE-9

Pin #

XX 1 DCD DCD 1 HI 1 DCD DCD 8
XX 2 TXD RXD 2 XX 2 TXD RXD 3
XX 3 RXD TXD 3 XX 3 RXD TXD 2

HI 4 DTR DSR 4 HI 4 DTR DSR 20

LO 5 GND GND 5 LO 5 GND GND 7

HI 6 DSR DTR 6 HI 6 DSR DTR 6
DC 7 RTS CTS 7 DC 7 RTS CTS 4
XX 8 CTS RTS 8 XX 8 CTS RTS 5

HI 9 +5V +5V 9 HI 9 +5V -

Signals /

Direction

PC
DE-9
Pin #

State

322M

DE-9

Pin #

Signals /

Directions

PC

DB-25

Pin #

DC = DO NOT CARE XX = INDETERMINATE

Table 7 RS-232 Cable Configurations

If XON/XOFF handshaking is used, the only signals that the printer requires are the RXD,
TXD, and GND signals. If the hardware handshaking is used the CTS and RTS signals are
required. The other signals are offered in the event that the host computer would require
them.

322M Operator’s Manual 21

Communication Chapter 4

4.1.1 RS-232 Printer Cables

The printer uses a standard through serial cable, typically referred to as a modem cable,
which may be purchased through Microcom Corporation or a local computer supply
company. A NULL-modem cable is not required because the printer is configured as DCE.

For a 25-pin serial communication port – Use a 25-pin female to 9-pin male cable.

For a 9-pin serial communication port – Use a 9-pin female to 9-pin male cable.

CAUTION: Connection of a serial port to a parallel port may
result in damage to the printer and / or computer.

22 322M Operator’s Manual

Chapter 5: Designing Labels Using LDS

Label Design Software (LDS) refers to the control language resident in the printer used to
create labels. All bitmapped fonts, character sets and bar codes are resident in the printer.

Additional fonts and graphic images may be sent from a host and stored in the printer’s

memory.
A label format is produced by a series of 5 steps:

1. Control commands to define printer operation.

2. A format header to define the label height, width, print speed, etc…

3. Field data that defines the placement of text, bar codes, graphics or lines.

4. Actual text data to place in the Field data strings.

5. Control commands to initiate printing.

5.1 Control Characters

Throughout this manual there are references to control characters. In order to print them in
this manual, they have been written using standard characters and icons. Escape
characters are represented by <ESC> and a carriage return is represented by <CR>. It is
important to note that all printer functions, unless otherwise noted, must be followed or
terminated with a carriage return (<CR> or HEX OD).

5.2 LDS Design Exercises

There are many different machines capable of sending information to the printer including
main frames, mini-computers, special purpose computers and PC’s. For the purpose of
simplicity, the design exercises contained in this manual will use one of the easiest methods
by using an IBM compatible PC and a VT-100 terminal emulation software program. This
method of connection will allow two-way, serial communication with the printer.

Items required:

- A computer with at least one unused serial communication port (COM1, COM2…).

- A serial interface cable (see section 4.1.1).

- A VT-100 terminal emulation program such as HyperTerminal™.

- A text editor that does not add formatting characters such as Microsoft® Notepad.

5.2.1 PC Connection (Serial)

The printer ships with serial communication parameters set to 9600 bits per second, no
parity, 8 data bits, and 1 stop bit (9600-N-8-1). This means that for proper communication,

the PC’s communication port will have to be set to these parameters. If a terminal program

is not available, it is possible to send files to the printer using the DOS COPY (for example:
C:\>COPY FILENAME COM1) command. When using DOS, it is a good idea to set the
communications port up using the DOS MODE (for example: C:\>MODE
COM1:9600,n,8,1,p) command before copying the files to the port. Create a text file, enter

“^D3” <CR> (carriage return) and save it as “D3.txt”. Send the file to the printer by either

322M Operator’s Manual 23

Designing Labels Using LDS Chapter 5

using the DOS COPY (C:\>copy d3.txt com1) command or by using a terminal program (see
Figure 7).

Figure 7 HyperTerminal™ Window Example

5.2.2 Format Creation

Special Control code functions (see section 6.1) and/or label formats may be entered
directly through the keyboard but is not the most efficient method if entering a large amount
of data or numerous commands. Large formats and/or numerous commands should be
entered in an ASCII text editor and then uploaded to the printer. Microsoft® Notepad has is
used for the creation of label designs contained within this manual because it is simple to
use and does not add formatting characters.

The LDS uses thermal dots as the unit of measure. All commands and parameters, unless
noted otherwise, should be entered using dots. The conversion values for the printer are 8
dots per millimeter, 203 dots per inch, or 0.0049” per dot. For example: To enter the width
of a label that is 2” wide, the value entered would be 406 (2” X 203 = 406).

The printer can accept either the one-character control code (“Ctrl + E” (HEX05)) or the two-

character caret (^) plus alpha character (“^E”). In other words, for a PC keyboard, the same

command can be generated either by holding down the “Ctrl” key and pressing the alpha

character or by entering the two characters; the “^” (the character generated when you
press the “Shift” key and the “6”) plus the alpha character. See Chapter 5 for additional

information regarding control codes and printer commands.
There are some special features offered by the printer that assist in label design. For

example, the auto-si ze command (^A2^D39 <CR>) provides most of the header format
information needed to define the different properties of the media being used. The current
state of the printer is accessed through the enquiry command (^D5 <CR>, Ctrl E, or 5
NULL characters (HEX 00) if binary compression has been enabled). The statistical

24 322M Operator’s Manual

Chapter 5 Designing Labels Using LDS

information of the printer is made available through the use of the ^A0^D29 <CR> or more
simply ^D29 <CR> command.

The following sections of this chapter are intended to provide the user an overview of the
LDS language. The overview will include information regarding the label format, header
definition, and list the different types of field information available. The combination of these
sections and Chapter 5 should provide the user with the information required for easy format
creation and printing. Once some understanding of these basis concepts are achieved, use
the Quick Reference Guide in Appendix C for expedient label design.

5.3 Label Design: An Overview

A label format consists of a header record and field records, followed by the text data to be
printed. The records describe how the label is to be printed. The header contains
information about the label itself such as label height, width, print speed, etc. The field
records refer to the data section and contain information about positioning coordinates, and
the type of character generation such as text, graphics, bar codes, etc. The number of
fields is limited only by the amount of free memory available.

Below is a sample label format. We will refer to this format as we break down the steps and
components to produce the format. Refer to Figure 8 for a printed representation.

^D57 <CR> A label format is coming.
5,575,609,,25,35,0,1,285,0,0 <CR> Header Information.
1,300,500,8,1,5,0,4,2,2,,,,,0 <CR> Field #1 format information.
2,300,400,11,1,5,0,4,2,2,,,,,0 <CR> Field #2 format information.
3,300,300,26,1,5,0,4 <CR> Field #3 format information.
4,300,200,6,1,5,0,4 <CR> Field #4 format information.
4,300,100,6,16,3,,4,3,75 <CR> Field #4 format information.
^D56 <CR> Select RAM format.
^D2 <CR> Text data is coming.
Microcom <CR> Text data string #1.
Corporation <CR> Text data string #2.
Thermal Printing Solutions <CR> Text data string #3.
012345 <CR> Text data string #4.
^D3 <CR> Print label.

The command ^D57<CR> on the first line informs the printer that a format is coming and
causes the printer to enter the format entry mode.

The next line is the header information that sets the label size and other pertinent
information.

The next five lines are layout and configuration for each data field in the format.

The command ^D56<CR> selects the user’s layout or more simply the end of the formatting

information.
The command ^D2<CR> instructs the printer to start accepting data for each of the defined

field’s strings that are entered into the previous format received (between the ^D57 and

322M Operator’s Manual 25

Designing Labels Using LDS Chapter 5

^D56 commands). Field #1 defines the placement and configuration for Text Data String
#1; Field #2 defines the placement and configuration for Text Data String #2, etc… The
label is printed from the bottom left corner to the top of the label.

The next three lines are the text data for the associated field format lines.

Text Data String #4 is being accessed twice. The format places the Text “012345” on the

label and then is accessed again placing a Code39 symbol representing “012345” on the
label.

The command ^D3<CR> instructs the printer to print.

The sample label design (Figure 8) is based on a label that is 3” x 3”. You will notice that

the header value that determines the LSX (Label Size X direction) or width is set to “575” (or

2.83”), this is the maximum print head size of the Model 322M printer and should always be
used for the LSX size. The following chapters will go into greater detail about the header
and field format parameters as well as a more in-depth description on their functionality.

Thermal Printing Solutions

Figure 8 3x3 Sample Label

Microcom

Corporation

012345

5.4 Label Header

The label header consists of eleven parameters that control the media layout as well as
printer configuration. A comma (,) delimiter is used to separate the different parameters and
a carriage return is required to terminate the header. If a parameter is left blank, then a
default value will be used. Some parameters, for the Model 322M, are required for proper
operation and should always be included in the script header. These required parameters
are listed in the individual descriptions below.

The value of measurement for many of the header elements is a thermal dot or pixel. The
conversion values for the printer are 8 dots per millimeter, 203 dots per inch, or 0.0049” per

dot. For example: To enter the width of a label that is 2” wide, the value entered would be

26 322M Operator’s Manual