Microcom 428TC, 438TC Operator's Manual

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MODEL 428TC

DIRECT THERMAL PRINTER

OPERATOR’S MANUAL

PART NUMBER: 880041-0141

September 12, 2013 CPC

Printed in the United States of America

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® and HyperAccess® are trademarks of Hilgraeve Inc. Centronics

is a registered trademark of Data Computer Corporation.

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. Other products and company names mentioned herein may be trademarks of their respective owners.

Table of Contents

INTRODUCTION ...........................................................................................VII

CHAPTER 1: PRINTER SPECIFICATIONS............................................... 1-1

1.1 General Specifications ......................................................................................... 1-1

1.2 Printing Specifications.......................................................................................... 1-1

1.3 Media Specifications ............................................................................................ 1-2

CHAPTER 2: FEATURES AND OPTIONS ................................................ 2-1

2.1 Fonts .................................................................................................................... 2-1

2.2 Graphics............................................................................................................... 2-1

2.3 Bar codes............................................................................................................. 2-1

2.4 Special Features.................................................................................................. 2-2

2.5 Options................................................................................................................. 2-2

CHAPTER 3: GETTING STARTED............................................................ 3-1

3.1 Unpacking and Inspection.................................................................................... 3-1

3.2 Printer Power ....................................................................................................... 3-2

3.3 RS232 Serial Communication Interface ............................................................... 3-2

3.3.1 RS-232 Serial Cables ................................................................................... 3-3

3.4 USB Communication Interface ............................................................................. 3-3

3.4.1 USB Driver Setup.......................................................................................... 3-3

3.5 Parallel Communication Interface ........................................................................ 3-5

3.6 Ethernet Communication Interface....................................................................... 3-5

3.6.1 Device Installer ............................................................................................. 3-5

3.7 Cash Drawer Option........................................................................................... 3-10

3.8 AUX Option........................................................................................................ 3-10

3.9 MICPrinter USB Windows Driver ....................................................................... 3-10

3.10 Loading Media ................................................................................................... 3-27

3.11 Print Button and Status Indicator Light............................................................... 3-28

3.11.1 Print Button ................................................................................................. 3-29

3.11.2 Status Indicator Light .................................................................................. 3-29

3.12 Printer Modes..................................................................................................... 3-30

3.12.1 Idle Mode: GREEN .................................................................................... 3-30

3.12.2 Halted Mode: RED ..................................................................................... 3-30

3.12.2.1 Clear >LOW STOCK< error ................................................................. 3-30

3.12.2.2 Clear error with “single button error clear” ........................................... 3-30

3.12.2.3 Automatic Stock Eject on >LOW STOCK< .......................................... 3-30

3.12.3 Paused Mode: Solid or Flashing AMBER .................................................. 3-30

3.12.4 Diagnostic Mode ......................................................................................... 3-31

3.12.4.1 Entering Diagnostic Mode.................................................................... 3-31

3.12.4.2 Statistics Label..................................................................................... 3-31

3.13 TOF Sensor ....................................................................................................... 3-32

3.14 Media Roll Holder Option ................................................................................... 3-34

3.15 Ticket Catch Tray Option ................................................................................... 3-34

3.16 Wristband Media Adapter Option....................................................................... 3-35

428TC Operator’s Manual - 880041-0141 i

CHAPTER 4: DESIGNING LABELS USING LDS ......................................4-1

4.1 Control Characters ...............................................................................................4-1

4.2 LDS Design Exercises.......................................................................................... 4-1

4.2.1 Format Creation ............................................................................................ 4-2

4.3 Label Design: An Overview ..................................................................................4-3

4.4 Label Header........................................................................................................ 4-4

4.4.1 HFM (Number of Fields in Layout) ................................................................4-5

4.4.2 LSX (Print Head Size X)................................................................................ 4-6

4.4.3 LSY (Label Size Y)........................................................................................ 4-6

4.4.4 WEB (Web Size) ...........................................................................................4-6

4.4.5 GAP (GAP Size)............................................................................................ 4-6

4.4.6 DPS (Print Speed)......................................................................................... 4-6

4.4.7 LCB (Label Control Byte) .............................................................................. 4-7

4.4.7.1 Die-Cut and Blow-Hole Media (setting = 0) ...................................................4-7

4.4.7.2 Continuous Media (setting = 2) .....................................................................4-7

4.4.7.3 Black Line Media (Reflective) (setting = 3).................................................... 4-8

4.4.8 AGD (Activate Gap Detector)........................................................................ 4-8

4.4.9 SPG (Steps Past Gap).................................................................................. 4-8

4.4.10 OFX (Offset X Direction) ............................................................................. 4-10

4.4.11 OFY (Offset Y Direction) ............................................................................. 4-10

4.5 Sample Header .................................................................................................. 4-10

4.6 Label Format Fields............................................................................................4-11

4.6.1 TSN (Text String Number).......................................................................... 4-12

4.6.2 XB (X Beginning Coordinate) ......................................................................4-12

4.6.3 YB (Y Beginning Coordinate) ......................................................................4-12

4.6.4 CC (Character Count) ................................................................................. 4-12

4.6.5 TCI (Text Conversion Identifier) .................................................................. 4-12

4.6.6 CGN (Character Generator Number) ..........................................................4-14

4.6.6.1 Embedded Fonts......................................................................................... 4-14

4.6.6.2 Downloadable Fonts and Graphics .............................................................4-14

4.6.6.3 Embedded Bar Codes................................................................................. 4-16

4.6.7 FO (Field Orientation) ................................................................................. 4-17

4.6.8 FJ (Field Justification) ................................................................................4-17

4.6.9 CMX (Character Multiplier X Direction) ....................................................... 4-18

4.6.10 CMY (Character Multiplier Y Direction) ....................................................... 4-18

4.6.11 CS (Character Spacing) .............................................................................. 4-18

4.6.12 TSP (Text Starting Position)........................................................................4-18

4.6.13 ,,, (Reserved Spaces) ................................................................................ 4-18

4.6.14 AN (Attribute Number)................................................................................. 4-18

4.7 Line Draw ...........................................................................................................4-19

4.8 Reverse Video.................................................................................................... 4-21

4.8.1 Black Box Reverse Video............................................................................ 4-21

4.8.2 Auto Reverse Video .................................................................................... 4-22

CHAPTER 5 PRINTER COMMANDS........................................................5-9

5.1 Special Printer Control Codes ..............................................................................5-9

5.1.1 Enquiry Responses..................................................................................... 5-11

5.2 Printer Configuration Commands .......................................................................5-13

5.2.1 Software Switches....................................................................................... 5-13

ii 428TC Operator’s Manual - 880041-0141

5.2.1.1 Software Switch #1 ..................................................................................... 5-13

5.2.1.2 Software Switch #2 ..................................................................................... 5-14

5.2.1.3 Software Switch #3 ..................................................................................... 5-15

5.2.1.4 Software Switch #4 ..................................................................................... 5-16

5.2.1.5 Software Switch #5 ..................................................................................... 5-17

5.2.1.6 Software Switch #6 ..................................................................................... 5-19

5.2.1.7 Software Switch #7 ..................................................................................... 5-25

5.2.1.8 Software Switch #8 ..................................................................................... 5-26

5.2.2 Communication Port Configuration ............................................................. 5-28

5.2.2.1 Baud Rate................................................................................................... 5-28

5.2.2.2 Set Serial Port Source Command (Non-volatile- ^D108) ............................ 5-29

5.2.2.3 Set Serial Port Source Command (Volatile - ^D109) .................................. 5-29

5.2.2.4 Ethernet Telnet Pass-Through Mode.......................................................... 5-29

5.2.3 Print Head Size Commands........................................................................ 5-31

5.3 General Purpose I/O .......................................................................................... 5-32

5.4 Specialized Print Modes..................................................................................... 5-34

5.4.1 Synchronous Print Mode............................................................................. 5-34

5.4.2 USB Image Print Mode ............................................................................... 5-35

5.4.3 Contrast Adjustment Commands ................................................................ 5-36

5.4.3.1 Adjust Contrast Window (Volatile - ^D35) ................................................... 5-36

5.4.3.2 Adjust Contrast Base (Non-volatile - ^D36)................................................. 5-36

5.4.4 Slice Buffer Size and Set Starting Slice Number Commands ..................... 5-37

5.4.5 Printer Restart / Reboot Commands........................................................... 5-37

5.4.6 Registration Commands ............................................................................. 5-38

5.4.7 Auto-size Commands.................................................................................. 5-39

5.4.8 AutoHeader Commands ............................................................................. 5-40

5.5 AutoLoad Media Commands.............................................................................. 5-41

5.5.1 AutoLoad + Form Feed............................................................................... 5-41

5.5.2 AutoLoad + Top-Of-Form............................................................................ 5-42

5.6 Printing Commands............................................................................................ 5-43

5.6.1 Basic Printing Commands........................................................................... 5-43

5.7 Label Header Parameter Override Commands.................................................. 5-44

5.7.1 Serial Number Commands.......................................................................... 5-45

5.8 Text String Commands ...................................................................................... 5-47

5.9 Cutter Configuration Commands........................................................................ 5-49

5.9.1 Cutter Type ................................................................................................. 5-49

5.9.2 Kiosk Cutter Commands ............................................................................. 5-49

5.9.2.1 Kiosk Cutter Mode ...................................................................................... 5-49

5.9.2.2 Kiosk Cutter Advance Distance Command................................................. 5-49

5.9.3 Volatile Cutter Operation............................................................................. 5-50

5.9.4 Cutter Hold-off............................................................................................. 5-51

5.10 Dispensing Commands ...................................................................................... 5-51

5.10.1 Tag/Tear Operation..................................................................................... 5-51

5.10.2 Peel-and-Dispense Operation..................................................................... 5-52

5.10.3 Load Advance/Retract Distance and Load Advance Delay......................... 5-52

5.11 View Printer Configuration and Statistics ........................................................... 5-52

5.12 Memory Commands........................................................................................... 5-53

5.13 Printer Code Update .......................................................................................... 5-58

5.14 Miscellaneous Commands ................................................................................. 5-59

428TC Operator’s Manual - 880041-0141 iii

CHAPTER 6: DOWNLOADABLE GRAPHICS ...........................................6-1

6.1 FLASH Data Types ..............................................................................................6-1

6.2 RAM Data Types .................................................................................................. 6-1

6.3 Using the BMP2MIC.exe GRAPHIC Conversion Utility ........................................ 6-1

6.3.1 BMP2MIC.exe GRAPHIC Conversion Utility Procedure ...............................6-2

6.4 Graphic Download Methods................................................................................. 6-3

6.4.1 Uncompressed Graphic Downloads.............................................................. 6-3

6.4.2 Compressed Binary GRAPHIC Downloads................................................... 6-3

6.5 Advanced GRAPHIC Format Conversion for Programmers................................. 6-3

6.5.1 Save Compressed Graphics to RAM (D107).................................................6-4

6.5.2 Save Compressed Graphics to FLASH (D133) ............................................. 6-4

6.5.3 Binary Compression Algorithm...................................................................... 6-5

6.5.4 Uncompressed FONT to RAM (^D104)......................................................... 6-5

6.6 Graphic Image Data Format................................................................................. 6-6

6.7 Downloadable Graphics Commands .................................................................... 6-8

CHAPTER 7: DOWNLOADABLE FONTS ..................................................7-1

7.1 FLASH Data Types ..............................................................................................7-1

7.2 RAM Data Types .................................................................................................. 7-1

7.3 Using the Font Conversion Utilities ...................................................................... 7-1

7.3.1 SFP2MIC.exe Program ................................................................................. 7-2

7.3.2 FONTCV16.exe Program ..............................................................................7-2

7.4 Font Download Methods ...................................................................................... 7-2

7.4.1 Compressed Binary Commands ...................................................................7-2

7.4.1.1 Save Compressed FONT to RAM (D127) .....................................................7-3

7.4.1.2 Save Compressed FONT to FLASH (D135)..................................................7-3

7.4.2 Uncompressed FONT to RAM (^D104)......................................................... 7-3

7.4.3 Save FONTS to FLASH (^D135)................................................................... 7-4

7.5 Font Structure....................................................................................................... 7-5

7.6 Downloadable Font Command Summary............................................................. 7-6

CHAPTER 8: BAR CODES ........................................................................8-1

8.1 Types of Bar Codes..............................................................................................8-1

8.1.1 Universal Product Code – Version A (UPC-A), TCI 12..................................8-1

8.1.2 Universal Product Code – Version E (UPC-E), TCI 13..................................8-1

8.1.3 Universal Product Code (UPC-E, send 6 digits), TCI 14............................... 8-2

8.1.4 Interleaved 2 of 5 (I2 of 5), TCI 15 ................................................................ 8-2

8.1.5 Code 3 of 9 (Code39), TCI 16 .......................................................................8-2

8.1.6 European Article Numbering System 13 (EAN-13), TCI 20........................... 8-3

8.1.7 European Article Numbering System 8 (EAN-8), TCI 21............................... 8-3

8.1.8 Modified Plessey (MSI 1), TCI 24.................................................................. 8-3

8.1.9 Modified Plessey (MSI 2), TCI 25.................................................................. 8-3

8.1.10 Modified Plessey (MSI 3), TCI 26.................................................................. 8-3

8.1.11 GS1 Databar, TCI 35 ....................................................................................8-3

8.1.11.1 GS1 Databar Omni-Directional ..............................................................8-4

8.1.11.2 GS1 Databar Truncated......................................................................... 8-4

8.1.11.3 GS1 Databar Stacked ............................................................................8-4

8.1.11.4 GS1 Databar Stacked Omni-directional .................................................8-4

8.1.11.5 GS1 Databar Limited..............................................................................8-5

iv 428TC Operator’s Manual - 880041-0141

8.1.11.6 GS1 Databar Expanded......................................................................... 8-5

8.1.11.7 How to Print an GS1 Databar Barcode.................................................. 8-5

8.1.12 Postnet (ZIP+4), TCI 36................................................................................ 8-6

8.1.13 Postnet (ZIP+6), TCI 37................................................................................ 8-7

8.1.14 MaxiCode, TCI 38 ......................................................................................... 8-7

8.1.15 Code 128 (Automatic Compression), TCI 40 ................................................ 8-9

8.1.16 Code 128 (Manual Compression), TCI 41 .................................................. 8-10

8.1.17 Codabar (Rationalized), TCI 42 .................................................................. 8-11

8.1.18 Code 93, TCI 43.......................................................................................... 8-11

8.1.19 PDF-417, TCI 46......................................................................................... 8-11

8.1.20 Datamatrix, TCI 47 ...................................................................................... 8-14

8.1.21 Intelligent Mail Barcode, TCI 48.................................................................. 8-19

8.1.22 Planet Code, TCI 49 ................................................................................... 8-21

8.1.23 UCC/EAN 128, TCI 50 ................................................................................ 8-22

8.1.24 UCC/EAN Text Information, TCI 51 ............................................................ 8-26

8.2 Bar Code Rotation ............................................................................................. 8-26

8.3 Bar Code Human Readable Text ....................................................................... 8-27

CHAPTER 9 CODE PAGE SWITCHING................................................... 9-1

9.1 What is Code Page Switching?............................................................................ 9-1

9.2 Character Sets ..................................................................................................... 9-1

9.3 Code Pages ......................................................................................................... 9-1

9.3.1 Code Pages .................................................................................................. 9-2

9.3.2 Danish Code Page........................................................................................ 9-3

9.3.3 860 Code Page............................................................................................. 9-4

9.3.4 Spanish Code Page...................................................................................... 9-5

9.3.5 850 Code Page............................................................................................. 9-5

9.3.6 German Code Page...................................................................................... 9-7

9.3.7 865 Code Page............................................................................................. 9-8

9.3.8 Swiss Code Page.......................................................................................... 9-9

9.3.9 852 Code Page............................................................................................. 9-9

9.3.10 French Code Page...................................................................................... 9-11

9.3.11 863 Code Page........................................................................................... 9-12

9.3.12 Swedish Code Page ................................................................................... 9-13

9.3.13 437 Code Page........................................................................................... 9-13

9.3.14 Italian Code Page ....................................................................................... 9-15

9.3.15 British Code Page....................................................................................... 9-16

9.3.16 USA Code Page.......................................................................................... 9-17

CHAPTER 10 PRINTER MAINTENANCE................................................ 10-1

10.1 Maintenance Schedule....................................................................................... 10-1

10.2 Thermal Printer Cleaning Card .......................................................................... 10-1

10.3 Internal Cleaning................................................................................................ 10-3

10.4 Print Head Maintenance..................................................................................... 10-4

10.5 Replacing the Drive Roller ................................................................................. 10-5

10.6 Adjusting Printhead Pressure............................................................................. 10-7

CHAPTER 11: TROUBLESHOOTING ..................................................... 11-1

11.1 Troubleshooting Tips.......................................................................................... 11-1

428TC Operator’s Manual - 880041-0141 v

INDEX ........................................................................................................12-1

General Index .......................................................................................................... 12-1

List of Figures .......................................................................................................... 12-7

List of Tables............................................................................................................12-9

APPENDIX.................................................................................................13-1

Appendix A: Limited Warranty.................................................................................. 13-1

Appendix B: RMA Procedure ................................................................................... 13-3

Appendix C: ^D Command Summary .......................................................................13-5

Glossary...................................................................................................................... 13-23

Appendix D: User Notes ......................................................................................... 13-27

vi 428TC Operator’s Manual - 880041-0141

Introduction

The Model 428TC printer has been designed to provide solutions for the ticketing industry. The printer uses the same reliable print mechanism found in the Model 428M printer. The lockable printer box not only houses the media but protects your ticketing investment as well. The print mechanism has been designed with a 4” printhead capable of printing up to 8” per second and is available in 203 or 300 dpi. It incorporates the latest features of the proven LDS software found in earlier Microcom Corporation printers and also is capable of using the STL (Standard Ticketing Language) found in a number of existing Ticket counters.

428TC Rear Side View

428TC Front Side View

428TC Operator’s Manual - 880041-0141 vii

viii 428TC Operator’s Manual - 880041-0141

Chapter 1: Printer Specifications

1.1 General Specifications

Width* 7.3” (185 mm) Height* 7.4” (188 mm) Depth* 5.8” (148 mm) Weight* 10.2 lbs. (4.6 kg) Electrical +24 VDC Current 3 Amps maximum Temperature** 40° F – 122° F (5° C – 50° C), operating Humidity 10% – 85%, non-condensing SRAM Memory 512 K Code Flash Memory 512 K User Flash Memory 8 MB

Agency Approvals

Interface Communications

Flow Control XON/XOFF and CTS/RTS Hardware Baud Rate 115200 Parity Odd, Even, and None Data Bits 7 or 8

Table 1-1 General Specifications

* NOTE: Listed specifications are based on a standard print mechanism and may vary

** NOTE: Higher temperature applications are possible; please contact your Microcom

Corporation Sales representative for more information.

Designed to meet CUL, CE, and complies with FCC Class A

RS232, USB, Version 1.1 supported, Optional Centronics Parallel, and Ethernet Ports

based on final configuration.

1.2 Printing Specifications

Print Type Direct Thermal

Print Resolution

Maximum Print Speed 8”/sec. (203 mm/sec.)

Maximum Print Width

Maximum Print Length 50” (1,270 mm)

Minimum Print Length 0.25” (6 mm)

428TC Operator’s Manual - 880041-0141 1-1

203 DPI (8 dots/mm = 0.0049” per dot) 300 DPI (12 dots/mm = 0.0032” per dot)

203 DPI = 4.098” (104.10mm); 832 dots 300 DPI = 4.252” (108 mm); 1,280 dots

Table 1-2 Printing Specifications

Printer Specifications Chapter 1

1.3 Media Specifications

Media Types

Maximum Media Thickness* .011” (.2794 mm) Maximum Media Width

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

4.38” (111 mm)

*NOTE: The printers may print on thicker media types depending on the pliability of the material; however, this requires testing and evaluation. Contact your authorized Microcom Corporation representative for additional information regarding testing and evaluation of thicker or rigid media types.

Table 1-3 Media Specifications

1-2 428TC Operator’s Manual - 880041-0141

2.1 Fonts

 7 (203 DPI) smooth bitmapped alpha-numeric fonts from 6pt to 14pt.

 TrueType® font capability using Microcom Corporation utility program.

 19 downloadable standard font set.

 All bitmapped fonts expandable in height and width.

 Reverse image printing.

 Rotated: 0 º, 90 º, 180 º, and 270 º.

2.2 Graphics

 Resident Lines feature.

Chapter 2: Features and Options

 Storage of fonts, label formats and graphics in both volatile RAM and non-

volatile FLASH memory.

 All BMP files may be converted using a Microcom utility program.

 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

 Postnet.

 Planet Code

 Two-dimensional

 GS1 Databar

Omni Directional

Truncated

Stacked

Stacked Omni-

directional

Limited

Expanded

 PDF-417  Maxi code  Data matrix

 Rotated: 0 º, 90 º, 180 º, and

270 º.

 Expandable in height and

width.

428TC Operator’s Manual - 880041-0141 2-1

Features and Options Chapter 2

2.4 Special Features

 USB 1.1

 Easy print head cleaning

 Tool less platen roller replacement

 Adjustable media guides for easy label centering

 Automatically adjustable reflective blackline sensor in media guide

 Software controlled contrast adjustment

 Detects label gap, black line, and blow-hole 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

 On-site programmable flash memory updates

 Autoload / Alignment of media

 Automatic stock eject on paper-out

2.5 Options

 +24 VDC Universal 100W Desktop Power Supply

 300 dpi print head

 Heavy Duty Rotary Cutter

 Centronics Parallel Port

 Ethernet Port

 Pre-Stock Out Sensor Assembly

 Low Paper Sensor Assembly

 Wristband Option

 Paper Supply Holders

 Media Catch Trays

 Cleaning kit

2-2 428TC Operator’s Manual - 880041-0141

Chapter 3: Getting Started

3.1 Unpacking and Inspection

The printer has been packaged in protective foam to help reduce the damage during shipment.

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 items on the packing list are present and in good condition. The picture below (See Figure 3-1) shows a 428TC and optional power cord. Your shipment may contain different items.

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

Figure 3-1 Typical Printer Accessories

428TC Operator’s Manual - 880041-0141 3-1

Getting Started Chapter 3

Power

Connection

Figure 3-2 Printer Rear Panel

External Media

Entry Slot

Optional Cash

Drawer Port

Optional Parallel

Port

3.2 Printer Power

The printer has a universal auto-sensing internal power supply that operates in the 100-240 VAC; 50-60 Hertz range. The three-prong female end of the power cord plugs into the mating connector located on the back of the printer.

3.3 RS232 Serial Communication Interface

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 3-1 below for correct cable configurations.

The factory settings, unless otherwise requested, are set at 115200 baud, 8 data bits, 1 stop bit and no parity with hardware handshaking enabled. The baud rate is user selectable from 110 to 115,200 and uses software XON/XOFF flow control and/or hardware CTS/RTS handshaking.

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, then the CTS and RTS signals are required. The other signals are offered in the event that the host computer would require them.

3-2 428TC Operator’s Manual - 880041-0141

Chapter 3 Getting Started

3.3.1 RS-232 Serial 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.

9 to 9 Pin Cable 9 to 25 Pin Cable

DE-9

State

XX 1 DCD

XX 2 TXD

XX 3 RXD

HI 4 DTR

LO 5 GND

HI 6 DSR

DC 7 RTS

XX 8 CTS

HI 9 +5V

Pin #

Signals /

Directions

DE-9

Pin #

DCD

RXD 2 XX 2 TXD

TXD 3 XX 3 RXD

DSR 4 HI 4 DTR

GND

DTR 6 HI 6 DSR

CTS 7 DC 7 RTS

RTS 8 XX 8 CTS

+5V 9 HI 9 +5V -

1 HI 1 DCD

5 LO 5 GND

State

DE-9

Pin #

Signals /

Directions

DCD 8

RXD 3

TXD 2

DSR 20

GND 7

DTR 6

CTS 4

RTS 5

DB-25

Pin #

DC = DO NOT CARE XX = INDETERMINATE

Table 3-1 RS-232 Cable Configurations

3.4 USB Communication Interface

The 428TC printer provides a single USB port for communication to a host device. In order to communicate with the printer, the USB driver must be installed on the host computer. This may be downloaded at http://www.microcomcorp.com/drivers.htm. The Windows combined driver model (CDM) may be installed on XP, VISTA, Windows 7 or Windows 8 allowing applications to access FTDI devices through either the D2XX DLL or a COM port without having to change driver type. However, it should be noted that an application can only communicate through one of these interfaces at a time and cannot send commands to the D2XX DLL and the associated COM port at the same time.

3.4.1 USB Driver Setup

The Windows combined driver model (CDM) may be installed on XP, VISTA, Windows 7 or Windows 8 allowing applications to access FTDI devices through either the D2XX DLL or a COM port without having to change driver type. However, it should be noted that an application can only communicate through one of these interfaces at a time and cannot send commands to the D2XX DLL and the associated COM port at the same time.

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Getting Started Chapter 3

If there is an available Internet connection, Windows will silently connect to the Windows Update website and install any suitable driver it finds for the device once connected. If an manual install is desired, follow the instructions below.

Run the CDM.exe driver to install the FTDI based USB.

Click “Continue Anyway” if this dialog box pops up.

The next step is to install the D2xx.dll. While this is a communication port (RS-232) emulator, no configuration of the RS-232 port is required.

Once installed, the FTDI USB device will show up as a USB SERIAL PORT (COMx) listed under the “COMM PORTS AND LPT” within Device Manager. The “x” indicates the COMM port number this will be used for that USB port connection to the printer.

Connect the power cable and the USB cable to the printer and turn the printer on. If already connected, disconnect USB and then reconnect the USB. The FTDI USB device should now recognize and install.

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3.5 Parallel Communication Interface

The printer may be configured with a standard Uni-directional parallel port. The connector on the printer side is a DB25 pin female type of connector.

3.6 Ethernet Communication Interface

Either type 192.168.200.3 in your Web Browser or run the Device Installer software. Please note that you will need to add the 192.168.200.3 address to your network in order to communicate to the printer via the Web Interface.

Please note that the printer’s Ethernet port is configured with an IP address of

192.168.200.3, a NET mask of 255.255.255.0, and a local port of 9100.

3.6.1 Device Installer

After starting the Device Installer software, you will see a screen similar to the picture below.

Select the Search button to search for the XPORT device.

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To change or configure the IP address, first click to highlight the XPOT-03 device and select the Assign IP button.

Select Assign a specific IP address and select Next.

This screen allows you to assign the IP Address and the Subnet Mask. You will need to obtain these two items from your network administrator and select Next.

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The next screen prompts you to confirm your selection by pressing the Assign button.

Once the task is complete, select the Finish button to return to the main Device Installer screen.

The XPORT device is now configured. Before the printer will use the Ethernet port, the printer needs to have the Ethernet port selected as the active port.

Configuring the printer to use Ethernet:

Connect to the printer using either the Serial or USB port and a VT100 terminal emulation software package at 115200,n,8,1 serial parameters. Please note: Before using the USB port, the Prolific USB to Serial driver must be installed. The process below shows how to configure the Ethernet port using Hyperterminal.

Connect to the printer using a Serial or USB connection.

Install media/paper into the printer.

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Turn the printer ON with the print button pressed and held in. Release the button after the printer starts to feed media.

Open a Hyperterminal session and type TEST for the name, select OK.

Select the COM port that you are using to communicate and then select OK.

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Set the COM parameters up for 115200,n,8,1 and Hardware flow control and select OK.

Type ^D29 in the window (you will not see the characters being echoed back, this is okay) and press the Enter key.

You should see information from the printer reported to the screen if communicating properly.

Type a ^A1^D108 followed by the Enter key to change the active port to Ethernet. Power cycle the printer and the unit should be configured for Ethernet operation.

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Pin 1

DR1

Pin 3

DR2

Pin 2

3.7 Cash Drawer Option

The printer provides a DB15 connector to support the use of 24v cash drawer applications. The Draw Kick-out solenoid current must be 1 amp or less to avoid current overloads. This option is only available when using the STL mode.

Figure 3-3 Cash Drawer Pin-out

3.8 AUX Option

The AUX port option or auxiliary port on the printer is for custom application support.

3.9 MICPrinter USB Windows Driver

MICPrinter is a driver that allows most traditional Windows applications to print to a Microcom printer equipped with fast USB capability. The Micprinter utility may also be used in a command line environment if more than one device instance is needed. The MicOptions GUI will only support one device at a time

The installation of the driver will require that the user has Administration privileges on the host computer to complete the installation. Please note that the drivers should be installed before connecting the printer and turning it on.

The first step would be to execute the MICPrinter installer (MICPrinter-Setup.exe) to install the utility onto your system. The first screen will be similar to:

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Click the Next button to continue.

You will see a screen similar to this showing the progress of the installation.

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Click “Continue Anyway” if this dialog box pops up.

The next step is to install the FTDI USB driver. While this is a communication port (RS-232) emulator, no configuration of the RS-232 port is required.

Once installed, the FTDI USB device will show up as a USB SERIAL PORT (COM) listed under the “COMM PORTS AND LPT” within Device Manager. The “x” indicates the COMM port number this will be used for that USB port connection to the printer.

Connect the power cable and the USB cable to the printer and turn the printer on. The FTDI USB device should try to install. If it is unable to install, please manually install the by following the example below.

Select YES to install the communications driver.

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Select the FINISH button to complete the installation process.

The Micoption GUI may now be configured for the printer being used. You may access the Micoptions GUI from either the PRINTERS and FAXES folder and select Micprinter\Properties\Advanced Options\Setup Printer or START button\Programs\Micoptions\Micoptions.

Micprinter listed under the Printers and Faxes folder.

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Selecting this will

This is a Micoptions configuration window sample.

Select the COMM port # that the FTDI device is connected to.

If selected, the driver will auto detect the communication port. This should be disabled if using the command

report the port that the USB device is detected on.

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The Form Setup may be used to save a configuration. Export the form to save the setup and select Import to use an existing setup.

Media and printer configurations

Error monitors and the ability to insert commands or files into the data stream.

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Select and send commands, files, and images directly to the printer port. This is a great way to get started and to verify printer settings.

The Detect Hardware button is used to read settings from the printer. When the Autodetect is enabled, the driver will communicate to the printer and automatically set the Internal Parameters section.

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The Calculate SPG button is to manually calculate the SPG which is a registration parameter used by the printer. The AutoCalc SPG will cause the printer to automatically calculate the parameter.

The Internal Parameters section is set based on the printer being used. Please use the table below to determine the proper values if the Autodetect and AutoCalc and not checked.

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saved.

Product

Printhead

Width

203 or

300 dpi

Dot2Gap

Value

203 dpi 324M 640 203 284

300 dpi 324M 960 300 438

203 dpi 424M 832 203 284

300 dpi 424M 1280 300 438

203 dpi 424 832 203 468

300 dpi 424 1280 300 730

203 dpi 428TC, TC, TM Black line 832 203 487

300 dpi 428TC, TC, TM Black line 1280 300 720

203 dpi 428TC, TC, TM Die-cut, Blow-

hole, Continuous

300 dpi 428TC, TC, TM Die-cut, Blow-

hole, Continuous

832 203 264

1280 300 385

The “APPLY” button needs to be pressed in order for changes to be

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You will also need to create form sizes that match the media you are using within the Windows form sizes if your form size is not included. To do this, open the Printers and Faxes folder and select Server Properties from the File drop down menu.

A window similar to this will appear showing the available forms.

To create a new form, check the “Create a new form” check box, fill in the Form name, Form description and remember to press Save Form to save it!

After you have created the appropriate forms you need. Press OK

Double click on the MICPrinter and you should see:

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If we were printing any files they would be listed here. From the Printer drop down menu select Properties. The properties pages are displayed.

The appropriate form size for the media we are using with the printer is set within this screen. Select Printing Preferences.

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Now select Advanced…

Select the Paper Size (form size) being used.

Select the Print Resolution of the printer under the Print Quality.

Press the OK to continue.

Now we return to the MICPrinter Properties page.

Form Size created under Server Properties

Print resolution of the printer; 200 or 300

Press OK once finished

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Print Test Page

Press the Print Test Page and see a sample printout. Micprinter also provides the ability to use the driver in a Command line environment. If your application needs more than one install per PC, then the command line operation would need to be used as the GUI will only support one install. Only one driver should be used at a time. Issues may occur if more than one instance of Micprinter is used at the same time.

If a second printer is desired, then you could run two independent setups. You would need to copy all of the supporting Micprinter files including the executable into separate directories and specify the working directory of each as well.

From a Command line, type Micprint and press ENTER:

Reported to screen:

MICPrint.exe ver 2.8 Prints image based on attached BMP file and the registry entries.. Usage: MICPrint [<bmpfile>] - Send a bmpfile to the printer using the registry settings MICPrint [<bmpfile> 0] - same as above but for use with -f, -p and

-d options MICPrint [<command_line> 1] - Send a command line to the printer MICPrint [<cmdfile> 2] - Send a command file to the printer MICPrint - this message

Other options:

-f<config_file> - Send the configuration to the printer as a file (NOT READ FROM REGISTRY) This uses the same exported setup file created from the MICPrint Configuration utility

-p<communication_port> - Send the communication port to the printer directly over-riding registry and configuration file

-d<working_directory> - Directory for use with temporary files

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-i - vertically invert the image before printing

-f<config_file> - This switch is used to specify the location of the Micoptions set file used to configure the driver. Syntax: -fc:\temp\app1\app1.set

-p<communication_port> - This switch is used to override the COMM port selection stored in the configuration. Syntax: -p08

-d<working_directory> - This switch is used to specify the location of the temporary files that the driver creates to work. Each driver should have a unique working directory. Please not that a space must follow the –d switch and the path must be surrounded by quotes with an extra “\” character. Syntax: -d "c:\\temp\\app1"

-i - vertically invert the image before printing – The image will be inverted before the driver converts the image. Here is an example of the Syntax used to print labels:

C:\Program Files\MICOptions> micprint c:\temp\app1\image.bmp 0 –p08 –d "c:\\temp\\app1"

-f c:\temp\app1\app1.set

This example prints image.bmp on COMM 8 using the app1.set Micoptions configuration. Please note that the supporting files are located at c:\temp\app.

By default, supporting files are located at the following locations:

WINDOWS XP C:\Documents and Settings\All Users\Documents\MICPrinter

WINDOWS 7 32bit C:\Users\Public\Documents\Micprinter

This is the location where the .set files should be copied so that the IMPORT may be selected above to configure the printer.

It is also important to check the status of the application to make sure that the job printed without issue.

You may use the Exit Code, %errorlevel%, to retrieve the return code from the Micprint application.

Micprint status returns: 0 - success

-1 - unable to open image file

-2 - unknown image file type

-3 - unable to allocate memory

-4, -9, -10, -12, -13. -31 - unknown error

-5 - unsupported image resolution

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-6 - error opening output file

-8 - error opening output file - binary form

-11 - image compression not supported

-14 - output width exceed maximum

-20 - binary image file not found

-21 - setting contrast error

-22 - setting dispense mode 0 error - no dispense mode sent

-23 - setting dispense mode 1 error - advance when idle

-24 - setting dispense mode 2 error - advance every label

-25 - setting dispense mode 3 error - cut every label

-26 - setting retraction delay error

-27 - setting dispense distance error

-29 - low stock prior to printing

-30 - low stock detected post printing

-40 - pre-print command string error

-41 - pre-print command file error

-42 - post-print command string error

-43 - post-print command file error

-50 - sending file format error

-60 - binary file download error

-61 - binary image download timeout

-62 - binary file size error

-64 - status after print timeout error

-65 - clear memory command error

-66 - image processing error

Example: ******************************************************************** cls @echo off REM Clears the environment variable so temporary status variable can be set set errorlevel= micprint c:\bin\odds4\sample.bmp 0 -p3 -d "c:\\bin\\odds4" fc:\bin\odds4\3.15x2.75_Odds.set

IF ERRORLEVEL 0 GOTO LabelP00 IF ERRORLEVEL -1 GOTO LabelN01 IF ERRORLEVEL -2 GOTO LabelN02 IF ERRORLEVEL -3 GOTO LabelN03 IF ERRORLEVEL -4 GOTO LabelN04 IF ERRORLEVEL -5 GOTO LabelN05 IF ERRORLEVEL -6 GOTO LabelN06 IF ERRORLEVEL -8 GOTO LabelN08 IF ERRORLEVEL -9 GOTO LabelN09 IF ERRORLEVEL -10 GOTO LabelN10 IF ERRORLEVEL -11 GOTO LabelN11 IF ERRORLEVEL -12 GOTO LabelN12 IF ERRORLEVEL -13 GOTO LabelN13 IF ERRORLEVEL -14 GOTO LabelN14

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IF ERRORLEVEL -20 GOTO LabelN20 IF ERRORLEVEL -21 GOTO LabelN21 IF ERRORLEVEL -22 GOTO LabelN22 IF ERRORLEVEL -23 GOTO LabelN23 IF ERRORLEVEL -24 GOTO LabelN24 IF ERRORLEVEL -25 GOTO LabelN25 IF ERRORLEVEL -26 GOTO LabelN26 IF ERRORLEVEL -27 GOTO LabelN27 IF ERRORLEVEL -29 GOTO LabelN29 IF ERRORLEVEL -30 GOTO LabelN30 IF ERRORLEVEL -40 GOTO LabelN40 IF ERRORLEVEL -41 GOTO LabelN41 IF ERRORLEVEL -42 GOTO LabelN42 IF ERRORLEVEL -43 GOTO LabelN43 IF ERRORLEVEL -50 GOTO LabelN50 IF ERRORLEVEL -60 GOTO LabelN60 IF ERRORLEVEL -61 GOTO LabelN61 IF ERRORLEVEL -62 GOTO LabelN62 IF ERRORLEVEL -64 GOTO LabelN64 IF ERRORLEVEL -65 GOTO LabelN65 IF ERRORLEVEL -66 GOTO LabelN66 :LabelP00 echo SUCCESS GOTO END :LabelN01 echo UNABLE TO OPEN IMAGE FILE GOTO END :LabelN02 echo UNKNOWN IMAGE FILE TYPE GOTO END :LabelN03 echo UNABLE TO ALLOCATE MEMORY GOTO END :LabelN04 echo UNKNOWN ERROR GOTO END :LabelN05 echo UNSUPPORTED IMAGE RESOLUTION GOTO END :LabelN06 echo ERROR OPENING OUTPUT FILE GOTO END :LabelN08 echo ERROR OPENING BINARY OUTPUT FILE GOTO END :LabelN09 echo UNKNOWN ERROR GOTO END :LabelN10 echo UNKNOWN ERROR

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GOTO END :LabelN11 echo IMAGE COMPRESSIOM NOT SUPPORTED GOTO END :LabelN12 echo UNKNOWN ERROR GOTO END :LabelN13 echo UNKNOWN ERROR GOTO END :LabelN14 echo OUTPUT WIDTH EXCEED MAXIMUM GOTO END :LabelN20 echo BINARY IMAGE FILE NOT FOUND GOTO END :LabelN21 echo SETTING CONTRAST ERROR GOTO END :LabelN22 echo SETTING DISPENSE MODE 0 ERROR - NO DISPENSE MODE SENT GOTO END :LabelN23 echo SETTING DISPENSE MODE 1 ERROR - ADVANCE WHEN IDLE GOTO END :LabelN24 echo SETTING DISPENSE MODE 2 ERROR - ADVANCE EVERY LABEL GOTO END :LabelN25 echo SETTING DISPENSE MODE 3 ERROR - CUT EVERY LABEL GOTO END :LabelN26 echo SETTING RETRACTION DELAY ERROR GOTO END :LabelN27 echo SEETING DISPENSE DISTANCE ERROR GOTO END :LabelN29 echo LOW STOCK PRIOR TO PRINTING GOTO END :LabelN30 echo LOW STOCK DETECTED POST PRINTING GOTO END :LabelN40 echo PRE-PRINT COMMAND STRING ERROR GOTO END :LabelN41 echo PRE PRINT COMMAND FILE ERROR GOTO END

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:LabelN42 echo POST-PRINT COMMAND STRING ERROR GOTO END :LabelN43 echo POST-PRINT COMMAND FILE ERROR GOTO END :LabelN50 echo SENDING FILE FORMAT ERROR GOTO END :LabelN60 echo BINARY FILE DOWNLOAD ERROR GOTO END :LabelN61 echo BINARY IMAGE DOWNLOAD TIMEOUT GOTO END :LabelN62 echo BINARY FILE SIZE ERROR GOTO END :LabelN64 echo STATUS AFTER PRINT TIMEOUT ERROR GOTO END :LabelN65 echo CLEAR MEMORY COMMAND ERROR GOTO END :LabelN66 echo IMAGE PROCESSING ERROR GOTO END :End ********************************************************************

3.10 Loading Media

Loading media into the printer is an easy process. Follow the instructions below to properly load the media.

1. Feed the media into the paper path, 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 Print Button.

The printer is also equipped with an Autoload feature. This feature allows the printer to automatically sense new media as it is inserted into the printer, and automatically feed the media to provide proper registration of the first label/tag to either the leading edge or a registration mark. For more details on this feature, please refer to Chapter 5, Autoload Commands.

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Insert media between the

guides until

resistance is felt

Figure 3-4 Loading Media

3.11 Print Button and Status Indicator Light

The Print Button and the Status Indicator Light are used to identify and perform many functions. This section provides a description to familiarize you with the basic function of the Print Button and the Status Indicator Light.

Figure 3-5 Print Button and Status Indicator Light

Status Light

Button

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3.11.1 Print Button

Operation Description

Press the Print Button while the printer is IDLE or PAUSED to

Printing a label

reprint the last label. A power up label will print after a power ON cycle when the Print Button is pressed.

Pause printing

Feeding labels

(Line feed)

Press & hold the Print Button while the printer is printing to enter the PAUSED mode. Press the Print Button again to continue printing.

Press & hold the Print Button while the printer is IDLE to advance label media. The printer will continue advancing label media until the Print Button is released.

Table 3-2 Print Button Description

3.11.2 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.

The printer is in the Tag/Tear or Peel-and-Dispense mode and is waiting for the label/tag to be taken. OR Indicates that the printer is in the Boot Loader mode (MCB) and is not running the printer application program.

A cutter error has occurred. OR A memory download operation was not successful. OR Power Spike or low voltage on the AC line. (The printer will remain in this mode until the condition is removed and the printer power is cycled.)

Flashing Amber Printer is PAUSED,

Table 3-3 Status Indicator Light Description

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3.12 Printer Modes

The printer has four primary modes of operation. The different types of modes have an impact on how the Print Button and the Status Indicator Light operate. This section is intended to provide the user with an explanation of these different modes.

3.12.1 Idle Mode: GREEN

The printer is in the IDLE Mode when it is not printing and/or has no pending activity. The indicator light is GREEN, which indicates that the printer is ready to receive label formats and/or commands.

In IDLE Mode the Print Button has several different functions:

a) Pressing the button quickly will reprint the last label (unless print

repetition has been disabled by the ^D22 command bit 4, then a form feed will execute)

b) If the printer was just turned ON and no formats were sent to the

printer, pressing quickly will print the power-up label,

c) Holding the button depressed: Line Feed until the button is released.

3.12.2 Halted Mode: RED

The printer is in the HALTED Mode when it has stopped due to an error condition. The Status 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 cleared. Once the error has been cleared, the printer will attempt to execute the previous format and/or commands.

3.12.2.1 Clear >LOW STOCK< error

a) Load new label media. b) Press the Print Button quickly to start printing. c) Press the Print Button until label is properly registering on media. d) Press the Print Button again during printing to resume batch printing.

3.12.2.2 Clear error with “single button error clear”

If Soft Switch #5, Bit #1 is set to “1”, then a single quick press of the Print Button will clear the >LOW STOCK< error once the printer has more label media loaded.

3.12.2.3 Automatic Stock Eject on >LOW STOCK<

The printer performs an Automatic Stock Eject operation whenever it runs out of label media. As soon as the >LOW STOCK< condition is detected, the printer feeds the label media forward to clear the drive roller.

The feed distance is just enough to eject the last of the label media past the drive roller and then stop. This happens automatically…the user doesn’t have to hit the Print Button.

3.12.3 Paused Mode: Solid or Flashing AMBER

There are several ways that the operator can control the output of the printer. The printer will display either solid or flashing AMBER depending upon the mode of operation. Also, the printer will display a solid AMBER during a FLASH update operation.

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Solid AMBER A printed tag/label is waiting to be taken by the operator when the

printer is in a Tag/Tear (^D97) or Peel-and-Dispense (^D98) mode.

The printer is in the Bootloader or updating the application stored in

flash memory.

Flashing AMBER Press and holding the Print Button during tag/label printing will cause

the printer to pause. It will resume printing by pressing the Print Button again.

3.12.4 Diagnostic Mode

The Diagnostic Mode temporarily powers up the printer using factory default parameters. Also, the printer’s current user configuration parameters and statistical information are printed out on a Status Label. This provides useful information 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 configuration shown on the Status Label.

3.12.4.1 Entering Diagnostic Mode

To enter the Diagnostic Mode, press and hold the Print Button “IN” while turning the printer “ON.” Release the Print Button after printer begins to feed media. The printer will enter the DIAGNOSTICS Mode, and print the Statistics label and a print test pattern. The printers will autodetect for the active serial or USB port at 115200 Baud when in this mode.

The printer’s normal Soft Switch settings are ignored, and factory default settings are loaded into the printer. These default settings will remain in effect until the printer power is cycled, the RESET command is issued (^A1^D143), or a Soft RESTART command is issued (^D32). These are the only ways to get out of the DIAGNOSTICS mode.

3.12.4.2 Statistics Label

The Statistics Label may be printed either by entering the DIAGNOSTICS Mode or sending the Printing Statistics Command.

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PRINTER SERIAL #: 00516645051

PRINTED LABELS: 303

PRINTED INCHES: 1533

TOTAL INCHES: 1571

POWER ON HOURS: 32.8

CUTTER TYPE: Guillotine

CUTTER ENABLED?: YES

CUTTER COUNTS: 1789

KIOSK CUT MODE: Disabled

KIOSK DISTANCE: 0 SWITCH BANK 1: 10001010 SWITCH BANK 2: 01010001 SWITCH BANK 3: 00000000 SWITCH BANK 4: 00000000 SWITCH BANK 5: 00000000 SWITCH BANK 6: 00000001

CURRENT COMM PORT: Autoselect USB/RS232

RS232 PARAMETERS: 115200-N-8-1

PRINT HEAD SIZE: 1280

PRINT HEAD DPI: 300

% CONTRAST: 100

D91 GAP VALUE: 30

TOF DISTANCE: 179

STOCK OUT VALUE: 100

PRINTER CODE REV: 02.12.050719A

BOOTLOADER CODE REV: 02.12.050719A

CODE ASSY PN. 071001-0212

PRINTER SERIAL #: 00516645051

PRINTED LABELS: 303

PRINTED INCHES: 1533

TOTAL INCHES: 1571

POWER ON HOURS: 32.8

CUTTER TYPE: None

KIOSK CUT MODE: Disabled

KIOSK DISTANCE: 0 SWITCH BANK 1: 10001010 SWITCH BANK 2: 01010001 SWITCH BANK 3: 00000000 SWITCH BANK 4: 00000000 SWITCH BANK 5: 00000000 SWITCH BANK 6: 01110010

CURRENT COMM PORT: Autoselect USB/RS232

RS232 PARAMETERS: 115200-N-8-1

PRINT HEAD SIZE: 1280

PRINT HEAD DPI: 300

% CONTRAST: 100

D91 GAP VALUE: 30

TOF DISTANCE: 160

STOCK OUT VALUE: 100

PRINTER CODE REV: 02.12.050719A

BOOTLOADER CODE REV: 02.12.050719A

CODE ASSY PN. 071001-0212

Figure 3-6 Status Label (Examples)

3.13 TOF Sensor

The TOF Sensor is used to detect when media is present and is used in conjunction with the Top-Of-Form operation. A TOF is when the printer uses the sensor to detect the edge of the media and retracts the configured distance. See the D121 and D123 commands for more details regarding the TOF operation.

A potentiometer adjusts the distance over which the LPD sensor will detect reflections. The maximum range may be adjusted over a distance of 0.20” to 0.85”. Distances are measured from the surface of the sensor to the reflecting surface. The sensor is set to the maximum detection at the factory. This pot may be used to decrease sensor range to avoid false reflections from stationary objects such as a cutter.

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The TOF Sensor is

located in front of

the cutter assembly

TOF sensor when

the cutter assembly

is not installed.

Figure 3-7 TOF (Top-Of-Form) Sensor

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3.14 Media Roll Holder Option

The printer may be configured with an optional media holder for media wound on rolls. The holder is designed to hold media cores of 1.5” or larger and contains media guides intended to help prevent unnecessary unwinding of media.

Figure 3-8 Rolled Media Holder

3.15 Ticket Catch Tray Option

The printer may be configured with an optional ticket catch tray that is used to catch the printed tickets. The trays are available in a couple of standard sizes.

Figure 3-9 Ticket Catch Tray

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3.16 Wristband Media Adapter Option

When 1” wide wristband media is being used, the wristband option should be installed. The wristband guide is inserted into the media guide and is locked into place.

Wristband Guide

Insert into media guide

making sure that it is

flush against the green

media guide

Figure 3-10 Wristband Media Adapter

Loosen locking nut and

slide guide into place

and retighten into place

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Chapter 4: 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.

4.1 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 0D). The printer ignores the <LF> (line feed) or HEX 0A character so it is easier to read and troubleshoot files if the <LF> character is sent after the <CR> character.

Note: Control codes are ignored when the printer is configured for binary compression mode (^D23 bit 7).

4.2 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, communication with the printer.

Items required:

- A computer with a Prolific Technologies USB driver installed. (Contact your Microcom Corporation representative for more details.)

- A USB cable with Type-A (host computer) and Type-B (printer) connectors.

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

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

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Figure 4-1 HyperTerminal™ Window Example

4.2.1 Format Creation

Special Control code functions (see Chapter 5, Special Control Codes) and/or label formats may be entered directly through the keyboard but this 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 been used for the creation of label designs in this manual because it is simple to use and does not add formatting characters.

The LDS programming language uses thermal dots as the unit of measure. All commands and parameters, unless noted otherwise, should be entered using dots. The printer is capable of being fitted with a 203 dpi or a 300 dpi head. The examples contained in this document discuss a 300 dpi printer.

The conversion values for the 300dpi print head:

Dots/mm Inch/Dot

12 0.0033 (1/300)

EXAMPLE: A label that is 2” in length would be (2 x 300) = 600 dots.

The printer can accept either the one-character control code (“Ctrl + E” (HEX05)) or the twocharacter 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-size command (^A2^D39 <CR>) provides most of the header format

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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 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 has been achieved, use the Quick Reference Guide in Appendix C for expedient label design.

4.3 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 created for a 300dpi printer on a 4x3 diecut label. We will refer to this format as we break down the steps and components to produce the format. Refer to Figure 4-2 for a printed representation.

^D57 <CR> A label format is coming. 5,1280,900,19,38,7,0,1,385,0,0 <CR> Header Information. 1,640,650,8,1,5,0,4,2,2,,,,,0 <CR> Field #1 format information. 2,640,550,11,1,5,0,4,2,2,,,,,0 <CR> Field #2 format information. 3,640,450,26,1,5,0,4 <CR> Field #3 format information. 4,640,300,6,1,5,0,4 <CR> Field #4 format information. 4,640,150,6,16,3,,4,3,75 <CR> Field #4 format information. ^D56 <CR> Signals the end of the label field definition. ^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 format.

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.

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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 ^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.

Thermal Printing Solutions

Figure 4-2 3x3 Sample Label

Microcom

Corporation

012345

4.4 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 parameters and a carriage return is required to terminate the header.

The values for header elements requiring measurements are expressed as thermal dots or pixels. Dot or pixel size varies depending upon the print resolution of the print head. The dot size of a 300 dots per inch head (12 dots/mm) is 0.0033”. The dot size is the same in both the horizontal and vertical direction. For example, a 4” X 6” label printed with a 300 DPI print head would be 1200 (4 X 300 dots in the horizontal or “X” direction, and 1800 (6 X

300) dots in the “Y” direction.

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This is the

3.0” or 900 Dots

While the maximum number of dots in the horizontal or “X” direction is limited by print head size, it is virtually unlimited in the vertical or “Y” direction. Vertical dot rows are “stepped” by the drive roller motor.

This is a list of the header element mnemonics for the sample label in Figure 4-2:

HFM, LSX, LSY, WEB, GAP, DPS, LCB, AGD, SPG, OFX, OFY 5 1280 900 19 38 7 0 1 385 0 0

Feed Direction

4” PRINT HEAD

Web Value .0625” or 19 Dots

Thermal Printing Solutions

Microcom

Corporation

LSY

012345

X beginning

origin; 1,1

Y beginning

Gap Value .125” or 38 Dots

LSX

4.266” or 1280 Dots

(Total Print Head Dots)

Figure 4-3 Header Elements

4.4.1 HFM (Number of Fields in Layout)

HFM, LSX, LSY, WEB, GAP, DPS, LCB, AGD, SPG, OFX, OFY

This parameter is used to specify the number of fields in the layout. If more format fields are defined than specified in the HFM parameter, they will be ignored and will not print. The HFM was set to a value of 5 in the format used to create the sample in Figure 4-2. This

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means that a total of five format fields are to be generated. If the HFM were changed to 4, only the first four format fields would be generated. The HFM value should never be larger that the fields that are actually sent. This would cause the printer to produce corrupt images.

4.4.2 LSX (Print Head Size X)

HFM, LSX, LSY, WEB, GAP, DPS, LCB, AGD, SPG, OFX, OFY

This parameter is used to specify the width of the print head using dots as the unit of measure. The maximum width of the LSX parameter is determined by the width of the print head. LDS has been specifically designed to accommodate a variety of print head widths. The printer LSX value should always be set to 1280.

4.4.3 LSY (Label Size Y)

HFM, LSX, LSY, WEB, GAP, DPS, LCB, AGD, SPG, OFX, OFY

This parameter is used to specify the height of the label using dots as the unit of measure. The maximum height is virtually unlimited and is dependant only with available printer memory. The label sample (Figure 4-2) LSY measures 3” or 900 dots.

4.4.4 WEB (Web Size)

HFM, LSX, LSY, WEB, GAP, DPS, LCB, AGD, SPG, OFX, OFY

The WEB parameter is the width, measured in dots, of the webbing or backing material that is found on the left side of a die-cut label. This parameter is used to introduce an offset to accommodate the backing of die-cut media. The label sample (Figure 4-2) WEB measures .0625” or 19 dots.

4.4.5 GAP (GAP Size)

HFM, LSX, LSY, WEB, GAP, DPS, LCB, AGD, SPG, OFX, OFY

This parameter is the height, measured in dots, of the registration mark used to identify the beginning of a label. The label sample (Figure 4-2) GAP (distance of the backing material between the labels) measures 0.125” or 38 dots.

4.4.6 DPS (Print Speed)

HFM, LSX, LSY, WEB, GAP, DPS, LCB, AGD, SPG, OFX, OFY

The DPS parameter is used to set the printing speed for the printer. Refer to Table 4-1 for the list of print speeds, DPS values, and corresponding inches per second values. The printer has a default speed of 3.5 inches per second (IPS), which is a DPS value of 7. To print at greater speeds, change the DPS value to a lower setting as shown on Table 4-1. Generally, better print quality is achieved by printing at lower speeds, however this is also dependent on the media and contrast settings as well.

Labels per minute can be calculated by the equation below:

IPS x 60 seconds Labels per Minute = Label Height

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PRINT SPEED

DPS VALUE

MM PER

SECOND

INCHES PER

SECOND

00 203.2 8.0 480

01 190.5 7.5 450

02 177.8 7.0 420

03 165.1 6.5 390

04 152.4 6.0 360

05 139.7 5.5 330

06 127.0 5.0 300

07 114.3 4.5 270

08 101.6 4.0 240

09 88.9 3.5 210

10 76.2 3.0 180

11 63.5 2.5 150

12 50.8 2.0 120

13 38.1 1.5 90

INCHES PER

MINUTE

Table 4-1 DPS Values

4.4.7 LCB (Label Control Byte)

HFM, LSX, LSY, WEB, GAP, DPS, LCB, AGD, SPG, OFX, OFY

This parameter selects the method the printer uses for detecting registration marks on the different media types. The printer has both upper (transmissive) and lower (reflective) gap detectors as standard equipment. The following sections discuss the LCB settings for the different media types.

4.4.7.1 Die-Cut and Blow-Hole Media (setting = 0)

A selection of “0” in the LCB parameter instructs the printer to detect the leading edge of a die-cut label or a “blow-hole” to identify the start of the next label. In this method light from the lower sensor passes through the stock to the detector in the upper sensor. This is referred to as “transmissive” sensing. The label sample (Figure 4-2) is die-cut; therefore, the LCB is set to “0”.

4.4.7.2 Continuous Media (setting = 2)

If the LCB parameter is set to a value of “2”, the printer will not search for a registration mark. The gap detectors are only used for stock out conditions when set for continuous media types. The printer will print all fields that contain data and then advance the media by the amount specified in the SPG parameter of the header when the default AGD of “1” is entered in the header. This means that fields that are left blank or text data for the associating format fields are left empty will not print.

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For example: Imagine a receipt format that contains 100 lines. If data is provided for the first 50 lines, the printer will not advance for the remaining 50 lines that have been left blank. The printer would stop immediately after printing the 50th line and then advance the media by the amount specified in the SPG header parameter.

When the AGD header parameter is set to “0”, the printer will advance the same amount of media even when text data fields are left blank. In this case, the advance distance is determined by adding the SPG parameter and LSY parameter values.

For example: Imagine the same format as mentioned above that has an LSY value of 900 (3” x 300 = 900), an SPG value of 385, and an AGD value of “0” that contains 100 format lines. If text data is provided for the first 50 lines and the remaining 50 lines are left empty, then the printer will print the first 50 lines, advance the next 50 lines, advance the remaining LSY value, and then finally advance the SPG or 385 dots. Regardless of the format fields, if the LSY is set to 900 and the SPG is set to 385 the printer will advance a total of 1285 dots (900+385=1285).

4.4.7.3 Black Line Media (Reflective) (setting = 3)

The Reflective Black Line method is used when media uses a black line for a registration mark; a “3” should be entered in the LCB parameter. This setting will detect the leading edge of the black line by using the reflective sensor only. The light from the emitter in the lower sensor is reflected down to the detector in the lower sensor.

Note: The transmissive sensor is still used to detect “paper out” conditions.

4.4.8 AGD (Activate Gap Detector)

HFM, LSX, LSY, WEB, GAP, DPS, LCB, AGD, SPG, OFX, OFY

This parameter selects the number of step (dot rows) that the printer will skip before registration mark sensing is activated. This value is usually set to “1”. It is a good idea to set it to a value to ignore areas of pre-printed or perforated stock that might cause incorrect registration mark detection.

4.4.9 SPG (Steps Past Gap)

HFM, LSX, LSY, WEB, GAP, DPS, LCB, AGD, SPG, OFX, OFY

This parameter is used to specify the number of steps (thermal dots) to advance the media after a registration mark has been detected. This parameter is required to properly register print on each label. The table below lists proper SPG settings for particular printer configurations when the LSY is greater than the D2G parameter value, the D2G value is used.

Registration Sensor/Print Head DPI D2G Value

Transmissive (GAP) / 203 DPI 264

Reflective (Blackline) / 203 DPI 487

Transmissive (GAP) / 300 DPI 385

Reflective (Blackline) / 300 DPI 720

Table 4-2 Dot to Gap Parameters

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For media that has a LSY value less than the D2G parameter value in table 4-2, the SPG will need to be calculated. SPG can be calculated using this formula:

SPG = (D2G + LSY - DRM) mod (LSY + SBL)

NOTE: All values are in pixels or dots.

D2G = This is a physical distance from the registration sensor being used to the print

head's dot row, and is a specific value for each model; see Table 4-2

LSY = This is the actual height of the media or printable surface in pixels or dots.

DRM = The Distance to Registration Mark is the distance from the leading edge of the

printable area to the beginning of the registration mark.

SBL = The Space Between Labels is the non-printable distance between the media,

typically found on die-cut labels. If the media contains space between the actual printable portions of the media being used, this would be the SBL parameter. Please note that this does not reflect a blowhole or black line height, as these registration marks are typically positioned within the printable area. When die-cut media is used, this value is also used in the GAP header parameter.

Calculation Examples:

Die-cut Media: A 203 DPI printer is being used with 3" x 1" media containing a .125" die-cut gap. The SPG would be calculated as follows: SPG = (D2G + LSY - DRM) mod (LSY + SBL)

SPG = (264 + 203 - 203) mod (203 + 25)

SPG = 264 mod 228

SPG = 36

D2G (264) = The Dot to Gap distance for the transmissive sensor (Table 4-2).

LSY (203) = The height of the printable area; 1" x 203 DPI = 203 dots.

SBL (25) = The Space Between Labels, or die-cut GAP in this case; .125" x 203 DPI = 25 dots.

DRM (203) = The Distance to Registration Mark is from the leading edge of

the printable area to the next registration mark;

1" x 203 DPI = 203 dots.

The SPG may also be determined by adding a line at dot row #1 using Line Draw (See Section 4.7) and adjusting the SPG number up and down to get desirable registration with the line printing at the bottom edge of the media.

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4.4.10 OFX (Offset X Direction)

HFM, LSX, LSY, WEB, GAP, DPS, LCB, AGD, SPG, OFX, OFY

This parameter is used to move or offset all format fields in the X direction without altering the format fields coordinates themselves.

4.4.11 OFY (Offset Y Direction)

HFM, LSX, LSY, WEB, GAP, DPS, LCB, AGD, SPG, OFX, OFY

This parameter is used to move or offset all format fields in the Y direction without altering the format fields coordinates themselves.

4.5 Sample Header

This is the header for the format used to generate the printed sample in Figure 4-2 followed by a summary of the header values.

5, 1280, 900,19 ,38 ,7 ,0 ,1 ,385, 0, 0 <CR>

5 = 5 format fields are following the header. 1280 = LSX (total print head dots) is 1280 dots. 900 = LSY (label height) measures 3” or 900 dots. 19 = WEB measures 0.0625” or 19 dots. 38 = GAP measures 0.125” or 38 dots. 7 = Print speed (DPS) of 7 = 4.5 inches per second. 0 = LCB of 0 for die-cut labels. 1 = AGD of 1 step. 385 = SPG of 385 for proper placement of the next label. 0 = No X offset. 0 = No Y offset. <CR> = A carriage return must follow the header.

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This is the

4.6 Label Format Fields

The Label Format Fields are used to define the characteristics, placement and representation of the corresponding text data of the individual fields. A format field is broken down into many different parameters. It is not necessary to enter values for all of the parameters (default value will be used if a parameter is left blank) but each parameter must be separated with the comma delimiter (“,”). A carriage return must follow each format field for proper operation to occur. The values entered must be positive integers for all of the parameters of the format field.

This is a list of the first label format field element mnemonics for the sample label in Figure 4-2:

TSN, XB, YB, CC, TCI, CGN, FO, FJ, CMX, CMY, CS, TSP, , , AN 1, 640, 650, 8, 1, 5, 0, 4, 2, 2, 1, 1, , , 0

origin; 1,1

X beginning

Thermal Printing Solutions

Y beginning

Figure 4-4 Label Format Field Elements

Feed Direction

4” PRINT HEAD

Microcom

Corporation

012345

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4.6.1 TSN (Text String Number)

TSN, XB, YB, CC, TCI, CGN, FO, FJ, CMX, CMY, CS, TSP,,, AN

The parameter determines which line of text data will be used for formatting. This allows for more than one field to use the same text data. A TSN of “1” accesses the first line of data. A TSN of “2” accesses the second line of data, and so forth. The text data is the text that follows the “^D2<CR>” command in the label’s layout. A graphic image field must point to a text string that contains at least one character. The maximum value for a TSN is 65536.

4.6.2 XB (X Beginning Coordinate)

TSN, XB, YB, CC, TCI, CGN, FO, FJ, CMX, CMY, CS, TSP,,, AN

The X coordinate of the field is measured in thermal dots. The far left edge of the print head, as viewed from the front of the printer, is X coordinate “1”. There is no X coordinate of “0”. The X coordinates increase in size from the left to right. An XB of 300 would place the field one inch from the left side of the print head. Any offsets required for media that is not as wide as the print head must be manually entered for the XB or the OFX header element may be used.

Example: The print head is 1280 dots, if 3” or 900 dot wide media was used, the offset of 190 should be added to each XB coordinate.

Offset example: 1280 - 900 = 380; 380/2 = 190.

4.6.3 YB (Y Beginning Coordinate)

TSN, XB, YB, CC, TCI, CGN, FO, FJ, CMX, CMY, CS, TSP,,, AN

The Y coordinate of the field is measured in thermal dots. A YB coordinate of 1 would be the bottom edge of the label as viewed front the front of the printer. The Y coordinates increase in size from the bottom to the top of the label. A YB of 300 would place the insertion point one inch from the bottom of the label.

4.6.4 CC (Character Count)

TSN, XB, YB, CC, TCI, CGN, FO, FJ, CMX, CMY, CS, TSP,,, AN

This parameter determines the number of characters that will be used by the format field. If the number of characters in the selected text string is greater than the quantity specified by the CC, the remainder of the text string will be ignored. If the text string has less than the number specified by the CC, then only those characters defined by the text string will be printed. For example, the text string “character count” should have a CC of “15” including the space character. This parameter should be set to a value of “1” if the field is a graphic image.

4.6.5 TCI (Text Conversion Identifier)

TSN, XB, YB, CC, TCI, CGN, FO, FJ, CMX, CMY, CS, TSP,,, AN

The TCI parameter determines how the text string will be printed. The TCI is used to select text, bar codes, lines, downloadable font, or graphics. All of the TCI values used by the printer are listed below. For example, a TCI of “1” for the text string data “012345” would print the text “012345” while a TCI of “15” would produce an “Interleaved 2 of 5” symbol.

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TCI VALUE TCI DESCRIPTION

1 Regular Text (standard embedded fonts, no barcode) 2 Text Surrounded by Asterisks

3* Text with UPC-A / UPC-E Checksum Digit Added

6 Line Draw 7 FLASH Fonts and Graphics

8 RAM Fonts and Graphics 12 UPC-A Symbol 13 UPC-E Symbol (Send 11 Digits) 14 UPC-E Symbol (Send 7 Digits) 15 Interleaved 2 of 5 Barcode 16 Code 39 Symbol

17* Text with UPC-E Checksum and Extended Bars Added

20 EAN-13 Symbol 21 EAN-8 Symbol

22* Text with EAN-13 Checksum and Extended Bars Added 23* Text with EAN-8 Checksum and Extended Bars Added

24 MSI 1 Symbol (Modified Plessey) 25 MSI 2 Symbol (Modified Plessey) 26 MSI 3 Symbol (Modified Plessey)

28* Text with MSI Checksum Added – Type 1 29* Text with MSI Checksum Added – Type 2 32* Text with UPC-A Checksum and Extended Bars Added 33* Text with UPC-A with Extended Bars Added

35 RSS14 Barcode 36 Postnet Symbol (Zip+4) 37 Postnet Symbol (Zip+6) 38 MaxiCode Symbol 40 Code 128 Symbol (Automatic Compression) 41 Code 128 Symbol (Manual Compression) 42 Codabar Symbol 43 Code 93 Symbol 46 PDF-417 Symbol 47 Datamatrix Symbol 48 Intelligent Mail Barcode 49 Planetcode Symbol 50 UCC/EAN 128 Symbol

51* Text with EAN 128 Information

* Human Readable - Refer to Chapter 8

Table 4-3 TCI Values

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4.6.6 CGN (Character Generator Number)

TSN, XB, YB, CC, TCI, CGN, FO, FJ, CMX, CMY, CS, TSP,,, AN

The CGN parameter is a numeric entry that determines the representation and size of embedded font and bar codes as well as the memory location of graphic images that have been selected by the TCI parameter.

4.6.6.1 Embedded Fonts

The printer providess seven resident Helvetica style 203 DPI embedded fonts that are selected using the CGN when text is selected by the appropriate TCI value.

Embedded Bitmapped Fonts

CGN

VALUE

1 6 Swiss™721 Bold

2 8 Swiss™721 Normal

3 10 Swiss™721 Normal

4 12 Swiss™721 Normal

5 14 Swiss™721 Normal

7 12 OCR-A

8 12 OCR-B

POINT

SIZE

FONT TYPE FONT SAMPLE

6pt ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ1234567890

8pt ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ1234567890

10pt ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ

12pt ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTU

14pt ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQR

ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ

Table 4-4 CGN—Embedded Fonts

4.6.6.2 Downloadable Fonts and Graphics

When selecting downloadable fonts and graphics using TCI value of “7” or “8”, the CGN denotes the memory slot (1-255) where the font or graphic has been stored. See Chapters 6 and 7 for additional information regarding downloadable fonts and graphics.

For example: If a graphic had been stored into RAM (volatile) memory slot 1 (see Chapter 5 for additional information), the proper TCI would be “8” and the CGN value would be “1”.

The Model printer also provides a standard downloadable font set containing 19 Helvetica style fonts. These fonts are stored in the printer’s non-volatile flash memory and are accessed with a TCI of 7 and the appropriate CGN value. Custom font sets may be loaded into printers at the factory, ask your Microcom Representative for additional information on custom font sets.

Downloadable fonts must be stored in two separate directions; 0 and 90 degrees. This means that the 0 degree fonts should be used with 0 and 180 degree rotations while the 90 degree fonts used with 90 and 270 degree rotations in order to achieve correct printing.

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Standard Downloadable Font Set

CGN

VALUE

POINT

SIZE

FONT TYPE

10 6 Swiss™721 Normal 0 degree

11 6 Swiss™721 Normal 90 degree

12 8 Swiss™721 Normal 0 degree

13 8 Swiss™721 Normal 90 degree

14 10 Swiss™721 Normal 0 degree

15 10 Swiss™721 Normal 90 degree

16 12 Swiss™721 Normal 0 degree

17 12 Swiss™721 Normal 90 degree

18 14 Swiss™721 Normal 0 degree

19 14 Swiss™721 Normal 90 degree

20 16 Swiss™721 Normal 0 degree

21 16 Swiss™721 Normal 90 degree

22 20 Swiss™721 Normal 0 degree

23 20 Swiss™721 Normal 90 degree

24 24 Swiss™721 Normal 0 degree

25 24 Swiss™721 Normal 90 degree

30 6 Swiss™721 Bold 0 degree

31 6 Swiss™721 Bold 90 degree

32 8 Swiss™721 Bold 0 degree

33 8 Swiss™721 Bold 90 degree

34 10 Swiss™721 Bold 0 degree

35 10 Swiss™721 Bold 90 degree

36 12 Swiss™721 Bold 0 degree

37 12 Swiss™721 Bold 90 degree

38 14 Swiss™721 Bold 0 degree

39 14 Swiss™721 Bold 90 degree

40 16 Swiss™721 Bold 0 degree

41 16 Swiss™721 Bold 90 degree

42 20 Swiss™721 Bold 0 degree

43 20 Swiss™721 Bold 90 degree

44 24 Swiss™721 Bold 0 degree

45 24 Swiss™721 Bold 90 degree

50 12 OCR-A Normal 0 degree

51 12 OCR-A Normal 90 degree

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Standard Downloadable Font Set

CGN

VALUE

POINT

SIZE

FONT TYPE

52 12 OCR-B Normal 0 degree

53 12 OCR-B Normal 90 degree

54 8 OCR-B Normal 0 degree

55 8 OCR-B Normal 90 degree

Table 4-5 CGN - Standard Downloadable Font Set

4.6.6.3 Embedded Bar Codes

Certain bar codes can be printed using various ratios and character spacing options. The following table illustrates these options. See Chapter 8 for more detailed information on designing label formats using bar code symbols. Some bar codes do not require a CGN value and should be omitted by entering the comma delimiter.

For Example: If a TCI of 40 is selected the CGN will be omitted by entering nothing for the CGN and surrounding the parameter with the comma delimiter.

1,200,200,10,40,,0,0,100,1

Bar Code Symbologies

SYMBOL

Code 39

I 2 of 5

UPC / EAN * - 40 % 1 - 0123

UPC Readable * - 40 % 1 - 0123

Code 128 & UCC / EAN 128 * - 40 % 1 - 0123

Codabar

Code 93 - 2:1 1 - 0123

AS-10 - 2:1 1 - 0123

Maxicode (CGN = Mode)

MSI (Modified Plessey) - 1:1 1 - 0123

CGN

VALUE

2 3 5 8

2 3 5 7 8

2 3 5

2 3 4 5 6

RATIO HEIGHT SPACING FO **

2:1 3:1 5:2 8:3

2:1 3:1 5:2 7:3 8:3

2:1 3:1 5:2

1 1 1 1

1 1 1 1 1

1 1 1

2 2 2 3

0123 0123 0123 0123

0123 0123 0123 0123 0123

0123 0123 0123

0123 0123 0123 0123 0123

Table4-6 CGN—Bar Code Symbologies

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* These Symbols must use the CMX or CMY multipliers by 2 to produce an 80% ratio.

** The “FO” field represents the available Field Orientation or print rotation.

4.6.7 FO (Field Orientation)

TSN, XB, YB, CC, TCI, CGN, FO, FJ, CMX, CMY, CS, TSP,,, AN

This parameter defines the rotation of the format field on the label. The point of rotation is determined from the Field Justification parameter.

0 0 degrees (normal rotation) 1 180 degrees (upside-down rotation) 2 90 degrees (left rotation) 3 270 degrees (right rotation)

4.6.8 FJ (Field Justification)

TSN, XB, YB, CC, TCI, CGN, FO, FJ, CMX, CMY, CS, TSP,,, AN

This parameter defines the justification of the format field on the label.

0 Left Justified above the base-line 1 Right Justified above the base-line 2 Left Justified below the base-line 3 Right Justified below the base-line 4 Centered above the base-line 5 Centered below the base-line

Table shows how to obtain the proper character placement or starting positions relative to the format field’s orientations and justifications.

ROTATION FIELD ORIENTATION and JUSTIFICATION

0 – Left justified above the base-line 1 – Right justified above the base-line

0 & 180 Degrees

90 & 270 Degrees

2 – Left justified below the base-line 3 – Right justified below the base-line 4 – Centered above the base-line 5 – Centered below the base-line

0 – Left justified above the base-line 1 – Right justified above the base-line 2 – Left justified below the base-line 3 – Right justified below the base-line 4 – Centered on the Y axis, right of X coordinate 5 – Centered on the Y axis, left of the X coordinate

Table 4-7 FO & FJ Character Starting Positions

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Designing Labels Using LDS Chapter 4

4.6.9 CMX (Character Multiplier X Direction)

TSN, XB, YB, CC, TCI, CGN, FO, FJ, CMX, CMY, CS, TSP,,, AN

The CMX parameter multiplies each character in the X direction. The valid range is 1 to

65536. For bar codes with a FO of 0 & 180 degree rotation, the CMX would be the multiplier while the CMY would be the actual height in thermal dots. For bar codes with a FO of 90 & 270 degree rotation, the CMX would be the actual height in thermal dots while the CMY parameter would be the multiplier.

4.6.10 CMY (Character Multiplier Y Direction)

TSN, XB, YB, CC, TCI, CGN, FO, FJ, CMX, CMY, CS, TSP,,, AN

The CMY parameter multiplies each character in the Y direction. The valid range is 1 to

65536. For bar codes with a FO of 90 & 270 degree rotation, the CMY would be the multiplier while the CMX would be the actual height in thermal dots. For bar codes with a FO of 0 & 180 degree rotation, the CMY would be the actual height in thermal dots while the CMX parameter would be the multiplier.

4.6.11 CS (Character Spacing)

TSN, XB, YB, CC, TCI, CGN, FO, FJ, CMX, CMY, CS, TSP,,, AN

This parameter adjusts the spacing between each character. If this parameter is omitted, then the default for the selected character generator (CGN) is used. The values (0-127) add dots while (128-255) subtract dots. For example, a value of 4 would insert 4 dots between the characters while a value of 131 would subtract 4 dots between the characters. Bar codes have default spacing according to the indicated multiplier. Multiplying a text string will not multiply the spacing between characters. This element may be used to properly space the characters to create the desired printed effect.

4.6.12 TSP (Text Starting Position)

TSN, XB, YB, CC, TCI, CGN, FO, FJ, CMX, CMY, CS, TSP,,, AN

This parameter marks the starting position of the character in the text string to be used as data. This is useful for allowing several fields to use sections of the same text string, minimizing the amount of data transmitted. For example, for the text string 0123456789, a TSP of 5 and a CC (Character Count) of 2 would print 45.

4.6.13 ,,, (Reserved Spaces)

TSN, XB, YB, CC, TCI, CGN, FO, FJ, CMX, CMY, CS, TSP,,, AN

These are spaces reserved for future use and nothing should be entered between the comma delimiters.

4.6.14 AN (Attribute Number)

TSN, XB, YB, CC, TCI, CGN, FO, FJ, CMX, CMY, CS, TSP,,, AN

The AN parameter has four different effects. If set to a value of “0” the character spacing is proportional. Reverse Text (white on black) is created by setting the AN to a value of “1” and printing a black box on top of the text using the Line Draw function. (Special Note: The AN parameter of the line field should also be set to a “1” for proper reverse imaging.) If the AN parameter is set to a value of “2”, the character spacing will be fixed / non-proportional. A setting of “3” will print both fixed/non-proportional character spacing and reversed text.

0 Proportional Character Spacing 1 Reverse Video

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2 Fixed / Non-proportional Character Spacing 3 Fixed / Non-proportional Character Spacing and Reverse Video

8 Auto Reverse Video: Character cell = BLACK, Character = WHITE

4.7 Line Draw

It is possible to design lines into a label utilizing some of the elements of label format fields. Specifically, a TCI value of “6” enables the line draw function. XB and XY provide a starting position for a line draw. CMX and CMY provide length and thickness to a line. Other elements not necessary to draw a line such as CC, CGN, FO, FJ, CS, and AN are ignored by simply adding delimiters (commas) without values.

An example of two lines drawn on a label is shown in Figure 4-5. This 3 x 3” label was designed for a printer with a 300 DPI print head.

^D57 <CR> 2,1280,900,19,38,7,0,1,385,0,0 <CR> 1,340,712,,6,,,,600,25,,,,,0 <CR> 1,286,127,,6,,,,25,600,,,,,0 <CR> ^D56 <CR> ^D2 <CR> Line <CR> ^D3 <CR>

Figure 4-5 Line Draw Sample

This is a list of the first label format field element mnemonics for the sample label in Figure 4-5:

TSN, XB, YB, CC, TCI, CGN, FO, FJ, CMX, CMY, CS, TSP, , , AN 1, 340, 712, , 6, , , , 600, 25, , , , , 0

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Designing Labels Using LDS Chapter 4

This is the

CMY

Feed Direction

4” PRINT HEAD

CMX

X beginning

origin; 1,1

Y beginning

Figure 4-6 Label Format Line Draw

TSN (Text String Number) The TSN parameter may point to any valid text string but it is a

good idea to always use “1” to make trouble-shooting formats easier. The text string that the TSN is referencing must contain at least one character in order for a line to print properly. “Line” was used in the example to clearly define the label format fields that contain line values. However, it could have simply been one character such as a period “.”

XB (X Beginning Coordinate) The X and Y coordinates determine the start of the line draw.

YB (Y Beginning Coordinate) The X and Y coordinates determine the start of the line draw.

CC (Character Count) This element is not used in line draw. No value is necessary, however, a comma needs to be entered to acknowledge the position.

TCI (Text Conversion Identifier) The TCI is always set to a “6” for line draw.

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CGN (Character Generator Number) This element is not used in line draw. No value is necessary, however, a comma needs to be entered to acknowledge the position.

FO (Field Orientation) This element is not used in line draw. No value is necessary, however, a comma needs to be entered to acknowledge the position.

CMX (Character Multiplier X Direction) This element sets the length of a horizontal line or the thickness of a vertical line.

CMY (Character Multiplier Y Direction) This element sets the length of a vertical line or the thickness of a horizontal line.

CS (Character Spacing) This element is not used in line draw. No value is necessary, however, a comma needs to be entered to acknowledge the position.

TSP (Text Starting Position) This element is not used in line draw. No value is necessary, however, a comma needs to be entered to acknowledge the position.

,,, (Reserved Spaces) These are reserved for future use and no values should be added between the commas.

AN (Attribute Number) This element should be set to “0” for line draw.

4.8 Reverse Video

The printer has the ability to produce Reverse Video by printing white text over a black background. Two methods are used to produce this effect. The advantages and disadvantages are covered in greater detail in the following two sections.

4.8.1 Black Box Reverse Video

The first method (Reverse Video) is to place text over a black box created with line draw. When the label format defines print at the same coordinate twice the printer will not print creating a reverse print effect when the Attribute Number (AN) is set to “1” for the Label Format Fields defining the line draw and the text fields. The size of the box is not defined by the text. Adjustment to the size of the box must be made by adjusting the line draw coordinates.

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Designing Labels Using LDS Chapter 4

Microcom

^D57 6,1280,900,19,38,7,0,1,385,0,0 1,300,300,,6,,,,700,550,,,,,1 2,640,700,8,3,5,0,4,2,2,,,,,1 3,640,591,11,1,5,0,4,2,2,,,,,1 4,640,443,26,1,5,0,4,,,,,,,1 5,640,296,6,1,50,4,,,,,,,1 5,640,148,6,16,3,,4,3,75,,,,,0 ^D56 ^D2 Line Microcom Corporation Thermal Printing Solutions 012345 ^D3

Figure 4-7 Reverse Video Sample

Thermal Printing Solutions

Microcom

Corporation

012345

4.8.2 Auto Reverse Video

The second method (Auto Reverse Video) will create a white character in a black character cell. The size of the black box surrounding the character will be determined by the character cell. Adjusting the size of the box is surrounding text is limited using this method.

It is possible to create a reverse video effect with barcodes using this method.

^D57 5,1280,900,19,38,7,0,1,385,0,0 1,640,700,8,1,5,0,4,2,2,,,,,8 2,640,591,11,1,5,0,4,2,2,,,,,8 3,640,443,26,1,5,0,4,,,,,,,8 4,640,296,6,1,5,0,4,,,,,,,8 4,640,148,6,16,3,,4,3,75,,,,,0 ^D56 ^D2 Microcom Corporation Thermal Printing Solutions 012345 ^D3

Figure 4-8 Auto Reverse Video Sample

Corporation

Thermal Printing Solutions

012345

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The printer has a large and versatile collection of control commands to meet the special needs of the most demanding applications. Most of the commands use the “^D” control sequence, however the printer also recognizes a selected number of other control sequences.

For all commands listed in this manual, the printer will recognize the one character control code (“Ctrl+D”) or the two-character caret plus alpha character (“^+D+<CR>”) sequence. In other words, the same command may be generated by either holding the control (Ctrl) key down and pressing the alpha character or by entering the two characters – the ^ (caret, generated when the “Shift” key is pressed and then the “6” key) and then the appropriate alpha key (upper and/or lower case).

Unless specified otherwise, commands are entered by sending the ^Dxx command where xx is the command number. The ^D commands are terminated by either issuing a carriage return after the command or by issuing another command and/or control code. Some commands load data or control numbers and are preceded by the ^Axx command. The xx specifies the value and/or control number for the associating ^D command. The ^D commands should precede or follow the actual format layout. They should be placed before the ^D57 or just before the ^D3 print command unless otherwise mentioned.

To protect against errors, in situations where the two-character caret and alpha sequences are used exclusively as printer commands, the control character recognition may be disabled. This is accomplished by using the ^D93 command or by using the ^D21 command to setup Soft Switch #1 (^D21) Bit 3 (See 5.2.1.1).

Some mainframe and mini-computers cannot use the ASCII “^” character. In these cases, substitute the ASCII pipe symbol (“|”) or use the one-character control code representation.

5.1 Special Printer Control Codes

To perform special functions, the printer uses the following control characters. All other control characters will be ignored. Some of these instructions are also accessible through a “^D” command sequence and will be noted as such.

^A Accumulator Mode: Used to supply the parameters for the ^D commands.

These parameters must be positive integers and are generally decimal numbers but may be entered as binary if the ASCII “B” precedes the value or parameter. For example, “^AB00000001^D21 <CR>” may also be entered as “^A1^D21 <CR>” as well.

^B Text Entry Mode: Instructs the printer to enter printable text entry mode.

This command (or the preferred “^D <CR>”) must be sent before the text string information. This command is the equivalent of the “^D<CR>” sequence but does not require the carriage return (^B text string data). Because the “control B” is shorter, it is easier to use in direct terminal mode. In general it is better to use the ^D2 command sequence inside a file or program to assist in trouble-shooting the format.

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^C Print: Starts the print cycle or batch. This command is the equivalent of the

“^D3<CR>” command sequence but does not require the carriage return. Because the “control C” is shorter than the ^D3 command sequence it is easier to use in direct terminal mode. In general the ^D3 sequence is better to use inside a format and/or program to assist in trouble-shooting the format.

^D Command Mode: Used to issue commands to the printer. This command is

normally preceded by the ^A sequence. The ^D commands must be terminated with a carriage return or another command sequence (^A9^D73^D3<CR> is the same as ^A9^D73<CR> and ^D3<CR>).

^E Printer Enquiry: This command is used to attain the current status or

operational state of the printer. The “^E” does not require a carriage return and is the equivalent to the “^D5<CR>” command sequence. If Binary Compression is enabled (default setting) the ^E command will not function. Five NULL characters (0x00) followed by a SOH (0x01) (00 00 00 00 00 01) are required to get the printer’s immediate status when configured for binary compression use. The serialized ^D5 command will continue to function while in binary compression mode if the printer is idle or not in an error. It is recommended that the five NULL’s method is used to request printer status as it functions with a printer in binary compression, binary compression disabled, or if the printer is in an error condition. See 5.1.1 for additional information regarding the Printer Enquiries.

^M Terminate Text or Data String: This command is the equivalent of the

carriage return character and is used to terminate commands and format lines.

^H Delete: This control code is used to delete the last printable character when

communicating to the printer through a keyboard via a terminal. The ^H is the equivalent of the “Backspace” key on the keyboard.

^K Print Test Pattern: Used to generate a test pattern, which consists of a

series of diagonal lines. The pattern is helpful in determining the condition of the thermal dots on the print head. The ^K code is the equivalent of the “^D11 <CR>” command sequence.

^L Form Feed: Used to feed one blank form based on the previous format

configuration parameters. This command is the equivalent of the “^D12 <CR>” command sequence.

^Q XON: Instructs the printer to send data or resume sending data.

^S XOFF: Instructs the printer to stop sending data.

5 NULLS + 01: The 5 NULL method commands are a way to pass commands to the

printer even when the printer in configured in binary compression mode. The command is sent to the printer as HEX characters; 00 00 00 00 00 01 are sent to the printer in order to issue the command. This command is used to request the printer’s status and is very similar to the ^E command. The biggest difference between this command and the ^E is that when printers are

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configured for binary compression (D23 -SW3 bit 7), which is required if saving graphics, the ^E will not function. This means that if the printer is going to be using binary compression, the 5 NULL’s method should be used to request status instead of the ^E command.

5 NULLS + 02: The 5 NULL method commands are a way to pass commands to the

printer even when the printer in configured in binary compression mode. The command is sent to the printer as HEX characters; 00 00 00 00 00 02 are sent to the printer in order to issue the command. This command is used to cancel pending jobs/commands and to remotely clear errors returning the printer to an idle >READY< state. If the condition causing the original error condition still exists, sending new jobs will cause the printer to go back into an error condition. This command simply provides the ability to remotely clear error conditions and return the printer to a state that allows normal communication.

5 NULLS + 04: The 5 NULL method commands are a way to pass commands to the

printer even when the printer in configured in binary compression mode. The command is sent to the printer as HEX characters; 00 00 00 00 00 04 are sent to the printer in order to issue the command. This command is used to cancel and exit an LTS Dispense Mode (^D97, ^D98) and to return the printer to an idle >READY< state.

5.1.1 Enquiry Responses

It is important for the host computer to know the status of the printer as labels are being produced. This facilitates security in the system and flags electrical, mechanical, and functional error conditions. Enquiries also aid the system designer in adjusting the pace of the printer with that of the operator or host system.

The printer returns enquiry responses to the host in two different modes depending on how Software Switch#1 is configured. (See Section 5.2.1.1)

Text Mode: The response is sent to the host as text as shown in Table . The strings are sent out the active communication port with a CR LF (0x0D 0x0A) separating each one. The end of the response is terminated with an extra CR LF.

Byte Mode: The response is sent to the host as a hexadecimal number (byte) as shown in Table . Each string is represented by a single byte with nothing separating them. The end of the response is terminated with a 0xFF character.

5.1.1.1 STL Status Responses

If the STL Emulation (Switch Bank #6 bit 2; D26 command) is enabled, the printer will report STL type responses instead of the normal LDS status responses. The STL mode continues to follow the Text and/or Byte mode rule above but will only Display the Decimal codes.

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Text Mode Response

Byte Mode

Response

Definition

6 6 TICKET ACK

16 16 OUT OF TICKETS

25 25 ILLEGAL DATA

29 29 CUTTER JAM

Table 5-1 STL Status Responses

Text Mode Response

Byte Mode

Response

Definition

>RESTARTED< 1A Printer has been reset

>READY< 06 Normal condition

>CUTTER ERROR< 07 Cutter cannot rotate

>TAKE LABEL< 16 Printer is waiting for label to be taken

>LOW STOCK< 19 Media supply is low or out

>INPUT 1< 0E Input sensor #1 active

>INPUT 2< 21 Input sensor #2 active

>TRAY FULL< 09 Printed label tray is full

>PRINTER PAUSED< 10 Printer is paused

>TOF ERROR< 1F Top of Form is not sensed properly

>OVER VDD< 1E VDD voltage is out of operational range

>UNDER VDD< 1C VDD voltage is out of operational range

>OVER TEMP< 1D Print Head is too hot

>DATA ERROR< 15 Communication error

>STOCK NOT LOADED< 22 Printer power on without media installed.

>BUTTON PRESSED< C0

>LPD STOCK JAM< 11

>BROWNOUT RECOVERY<

Print button configured to report message

when pressed.

Reports when jams are detected. Switch 8

Printer entered and recovered from a

brownout power condition

>FAIL TIMEOUT<

>FAIL SIZE<

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Image Print Mode

Incorrect size of the image was received

using the D149 Image Print Mode

Chapter 5 Printer Commands

The printer was unable to locate a valid

>NO FLASH DATA FOUND<

configuration and is forcing the default

>CHECKSUM

VERIFICATION FAILED<

>FLASH READBACK

FAILED<

>ERASE FAILED FOR

SECTOR n<

Table 5-2 Enquiry Responses

Configuration checksum does not match

printer will attempt to restore configuration.

The printer failed to read and verify the

configuration parameters are present.

The flash was unable to erase at the

memory sector noted by the “n”

5.2 Printer Configuration Commands

The following commands are used to set up printer configuration. Most of these commands are non-volatile and, therefore, do not need to be resent unless changes are desired.

Note: When the printer is in the DEFAULT MODE, factory settings control printer operation. This provides a starting point for re-establishing communication with the printer so that user settings may be sent to the printer. The statistics label printed when the printer entered the DEFAULT MODE reflects current printer settings and not the factory default settings.

5.2.1 Software Switches

The Software Switch settings are non-volatile. The Switch commands may use either ^A (decimal) or ^AB (binary) values. Since each bit represents a setting for the printer, the soft switches are always reported as binary. Changes made with these commands will not take effect until the printer’s power is cycled “OFF” and “ON”, a “reboot” command (^A1^D143), or a “soft restart” command (^D32 command) is sent to the printer.

Example: ^AB10100001^D21<CR> configures serial port #1 for text equivalent enquiry responses, accept control codes, disables echo, and enables XON/XOFF flow control.

5.2.1.1 Software Switch #1

^AB ^D COMMAND XX 21 Change SW1: Software Switch #1.

^AB12345678 (each bit is represented by a numeric position number)

Position: 1,2 Enquiry Response: This determines what the printer will send back in

response to an enquiry command.

00 = Control Codes 10 = Text Equivalent

3 Control Codes: This position sets how the printer handles incoming

control codes.

1 = Ignore Incoming Control Codes

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0 = Accept Incoming Control Codes

4 Port #1 Parity Selection: Sets the printer port #1 parity for serial

communication.

1 = Odd Parity 0 = Even Parity

5 Port #1 Parity Enable: Turns printer port #1 parity ON or OFF for serial

communication.

1 = Disable Parity (NONE) 0 = Enable Parity

6 Echo: If this feature is enabled, the printer will echo all received

characters to the serial port.

1 = Enable 0 = Disable

7 Number of Data Bits: Sets the printer’s serial port to use either 7 or 8

data bits.

1 = 8 Data Bits 0 = 7 Data Bits

8 XON/XOFF Flow Control: Sets software flow control handshaking.

CTS/RTS hardware handshaking is always enabled.

1 = Enable 0 = Disable

5.2.1.2 Software Switch #2

^AB ^D COMMAND XX 22 Change SW2: Software Switch #2.

^AB12345678 (each bit is represented by a numeric position number)

Position:

1 Clear Text Function: If enabled, all variable text strings will be erased

when the ^D<CR> is processed.

1= Enable 0 = Disable

2 >RESTARTED< Response: If the printer has been reset and this

switch has been enabled, the printer will respond with the >RESTARTED< message for the first enquiry ONLY, to denote the reset condition and then >READY< with following enquiries.

1 = Enable (>RESTARTED< on first inquiry then >READY<) 0 = Disable (Always responds with >READY<)

3 Button Use: If set to a “1”, the printer will disable the Print Button. 1 = Disable 0 = Enable

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4 Print Repetition: Defines the function of the Print Button. If set to a

“0”, the button can be used for feeding labels but the print function is disabled and blank forms will be issued.

1 = Label PRINT 0 = Label FEED only

5 Power-ON Format Type: Determines whether to use a saved format

file or a standard ROM format. User downloaded Label FORMAT files are saved in non-volatile FLASH memory. Any of these FORMATs may be used for the Power-ON label. When SW2:5=1, the format is selected by SW2 switch positions 6, 7, and 8.

1 = Power-ON label is selected by SW2: 6, 7, and 8 0 = Power-ON label is standard format

6,7,8 Power-up Format: These switches work in conjunction with switch

location 5 above. They determine which stored format is loaded at power-up. The printer can be instructed not to load a format at powerup by setting all three switches to 0.

000 = No Power-up Format 001 = ROM or Saved Format File 1 010 = ROM or Saved Format File 2 011 = ROM or Saved Format File 3 100 = ROM or Saved Format File 4 101 = ROM or Saved Format File 5 110 = Rom or Saved Format File 6 111 = ROM of Saved Format File 7

5.2.1.3 Software Switch #3

^AB ^D COMMAND XX 23 Change SW3: Software Switch #3

^AB12345678 (each bit is represented by a numeric position number)

Position:

1 Extended ASCII: Controls whether characters over HEX 7F will be

processed.

1 = Don’t process input characters greater than 7F 0 = Process input characters greater than 7F

2 INPUT 1 Active State: This bit determines whether the INPUT 1 sensor

must see an object or not to send back the >INPUT 1< response. A setting of 1 (active LOW) will report the >INPUT 1< message if no reflection is detected. A setting of 0 (active HIGH) will report the >INPUT 1< message if a reflection is detected.

1 = Send >INPUT 1< active LOW 0 = Send >INPUT 1< active HIGH

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3 Response After Print: If enabled, an enquiry response will be sent

through the communications after every print automatically.

1 = Enable 0 = Disable

4 INPUT 2 Active State: This bit determines whether the INPUT 2 sensor

must see an object or not to send back the >INPUT 2< response. A setting of 1 (active LOW) will report the >INPUT 2< message if no reflection is detected. A setting of 0 (active HIGH) will report the >INPUT 2< message if a reflection is detected.

1 = Send >INPUT 2< active LOW 0 = Send >INPUT 2< active HIGH

5 Accept “|” for Ctrl: Sets whether the “pipe” character will be

interpreted the same as the “Ctrl” key. The “pipe” character is the <SHIFT> + \ key.

1 = Disable 0 = Enable (<|> key functions as <Ctrl> key)

6 Accept “^” for Ctrl: Sets whether the “caret” character will be

interpreted the same as the “Ctrl” key. The “caret” character is the <SHIFT> + 6 key.

1 = Disable 0 = Enable (^ key functions as <Ctrl> key)

7 Binary Compression: If enabled, the printer will accept downloaded

binary compressed font and/or graphic files. The ^E command will not function. (See 5.1)

1 = Enable Binary Mode 0 = Disable Binary Mode

8 Detect Black Line on Power-up: If enabled, the printer automatically

feeds labels on Power-up to determine the proper ^D90 value.

1 = Enable 0 = Disable

5.2.1.4 Software Switch #4

^AB ^D COMMAND XX 24 Change SW4: Software Switch #4.

^AB12345678 (each bit is represented by a numeric position number)

Position:

1 Slashed Zeros: If enabled, the printer will print a slash through the

embedded zero (“0”) characters.

1 = Enable 0 = Disable

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2 External Print Request: (Call Microcom for more information.) 1 = Enable 0 = Disable

3 Stock Out function: Enable this function to get a >LOW STOCK<

message when the printer runs out of stock. When this is disabled, the printer will not report stock out conditions.

1 = Disable

0 = Enable (stock out detection reports >LOW STOCK<)

4 Auto-size on Power-up: When enabled, the printer automatically sizes

the label to determine the appropriate format header values on powerup. The printer will then use these values on all subsequent label formats. Refer to the ^D39 command for additional information.

1 = Enable 0 = Disable

5,6,7,8 Code Page Selection: Positions 5 through 8 are used to select from

the available code pages stored within the printer. See Chapter 9 for more details

0000 = Not Decoded (Default) 0001 = Danish 0010 = 860 0011 = Spanish 0100 = 850 0101 = German 0110 = 865 0111 = Swiss 1000 = 852 1001 = French 1010 = 863 1011 = Swedish 1100 = 437 1101 = Italian 1110 = English - UK 1111 = English – US

5.2.1.5 Software Switch #5

^AB ^D COMMAND XX 25 Change SW5: Software Switch #5.

^AB12345678 (each bit is represented by a numeric position number)

Position:

1 Single Button Press Error Clear: If enabled, error conditions are cleared

with a single press of the print button after reloading the printer with more media.

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Printer Commands Chapter 5

If this function is disabled, pressing the print button clears the error

condition, prints the pending job, and reenters the previous halting error

state. The button must be pressed and held during printing in order to exit

the error routine. This is used to reprint the pending job until the print

realigns before continuing.

1 = Enable (Single Button Error Clear) 0 = Disable (Reprint and Align)

2 >BUTTON PRESSED< status enable. When enabled, pressing the

button will cause the printer to report the >BUTTON PRESSED< or 0xC0

depending on the printer’s ^D21 response mode configuration. This is

typically used on systems that preload a batch of jobs to the printer but wait

on the >BUTTON PRESSED< message before sending the print

command.

1 = Enable >BUTTON PRESSED< 2 = Disabled

3 Type of Top-Of-Form Sensor: The leading edge of the label stock can be

sensed using either a reflective sensor or a transmissive sensor. The

correct type of sensor is determined by the printer hardware configuration

being used.

1 = TOF is TRANSMISSIVE 0 = TOF is REFLECTIVE

4 Enable Power ON TOF: This bit controls whether or not the printer will

do an automatic Top Of Form (TOF) when it is turned ON.

1 = Enable Power-ON TOF 0 = Disable

5 Enable Button TOF: This bit determines whether the GREEN button

functions as a Top-Of-Form or as defined by SW#2 bit 4. The button is always configured to clear error conditions.

1 = Button is TOF 0 = Button is defined by SW#2 bit 4

6 Enable AutoLoad: This bit determines whether the AutoLoad function

is ON or OFF. When Autoload is enabled, and a no media to media transition is detected by the printer’s internal transmissive sensor, the printer will step the pulled the media into the printer and perform either a TOF or a Form Feed depending on SW#5 bit 7 configuration.

1 = Enable AutoLoad 0 = Disable AutoLoad

7 Type of AutoLoad: This bit determines whether the AutoLoad function

uses the Top-Of-Form sensor (TOF), or if it uses the Form Feed technique.

1 = AutoLoad + TOF 0 = AutoLoad + FF

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8 Status Byte Mode: If enabled, the printer will enter a special mode that

sends a status byte to the host. See D110 command

1 = Enable Status Byte Mode 0 = Disable Status Byte Mode

5.2.1.6 Software Switch #6

^AB ^D COMMAND XX 26 Change SW6: Software Switch #6.

^AB12345678 (each bit is represented by a numeric position number)

Position:

1 Enable >TRAY FULL< response: This bit is used to define whether a

test pattern will print, or if the printer will halt on a >TRAY FULL< error condition when the printer is used with the optional catch tray on the Model 424 printer. This bit will also determine the printer’s response when pin 4 of P17 is active.

2 Enable STL Emulation: This bit determines whether the STL

emulation is enabled or not. This command provides similar functionality of other printer manufacturers that specify exact placement and location of blackline media used for registration. The printer takes in STL commands and internally converts them to LDS command tables. When enabled, the Stock Class (SW#7 bits 1-3) and Width (SW#7 bits

456) must be set properly in order for the STL Emulation to function properly.

1 = Enable STL Emulation

0 = Disable STL Emulation

3 Enable Pre-Stock Out feature: This command supports the PSO

option and is used to detect stock out errors using an optional sensor before the media enters the printer. Once enabled, when the PSO (>INPUT 1<) sensor goes active the printer will finish printing the current label, not cut it (if using a cutter command), then feed he stock until it clears the dot row plus 1/2". At this point the normal stock out function will be active and the printer status will respond with: >LOW STOCK<>INPUT 1< (if the polarity of input one is set correctly).

1 = Enable AutoHeader

0 = Disable AutoHeader

4 Enable >STOCK NOT LOADED< Response: When enabled, the

printer will return >STOCK NOT LOADED< or 0x22 (depending on the ^D21 response mode configuration) to status requests if media is not detected in the printer at powerup. The status message will continue to be reported until media is installed in the printer. This message will only be reported if media is not detected by the internal sensors following a power on, reboot command (^D143), and/or restart (^D32) commands.

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1 = Enable >STOCK NOT LOADED< response

0 = Disable >STOCK NOT LOADED< response

5 48-466 Compatibility Mode: A special limited 466/48-466 LDS

compatibility mode has been developed for the X24/X24M code base. The objective of this compatibility mode is to allow applications that use formats and/or commands developed for a Model 48-466 printer to be sent to a 203 dpi X24 or X24M Model printer with little or no changes required. This command allows the printer to enable a limited 48-466 emulation feature of the printer. When enabled, the printer will process a 48-466 data stream and convert the data stream for proper operation on an X24M printer. The emulation mode uses a lookup table for fonts stored in flash and does not use the TCI 1 embedded fonts while this mode is enabled. Please note that the X24 products store fonts in 0 /180 degree rotation and in 180/270 degree rotation. The odd memory slots denote 0 or 180 degree rotation fonts while the even memory slots denote 90/270 degree rotated fonts. The flash memory slot locations are shown below:

Table 5-3 48-466 Compatibility Fonts

The 48-466 emulation supports unique 48-466 command operations

and will process the data in the same way when technically possible. These unique operations are briefly discussed below. Please consult the Model 48-466 Operators Manual for additional information regarding the command operation.

a) The printer supports the CGN lookup as defined above and in the

48-466 Operators manual when the emulation command is enabled.

b) The 48-466 graphic structure is used when the emulation command

is enabled and discussed in greater detail the 48-466 Operators manual.

c) The ^D59 command allows format slots 121 to 128 to be overwritten

to when the emulation command is enabled.

48-466 TCI = 1, CGN # X24 Flash Memory Slot

1 1 and 2 2 3 and 4

3 5 and 6

4 7and 8

5 9 and 10

6 11 and 12

7 13 and 14

8 15 and 16

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d) The ^Ax^D125 command controls the location of the euro character

as provided in the model 48-466 printers. The euro character which by default is mapped to location 0xE3 (227 decimal) can be moved to another location specified by the x if x>0. If x=0 no remapping will take place and the euro will stay at location 0xE3. Also if the printer must be configured to use a code page other than the default (0000) code page.

The 48-466 and X24 code bases are not fully compatible, so the emulation does have some limitations. The known limitations are briefly mentioned below:

a) The 48-466 data stream should not use an Attribute Number of 2

(fixed/non-proportional) which is the seventeenth parameter. It is not technically possible to emulate this model 48-466 feature.

b) The CS value used in conjunction with the AN set to a 2 to produce

a negative kerning effect should be removed and the field defaulted. This is the 11th field defined in the format lines.

c) Fields that were using an AN of 2 and CS for negative kerning may

require that their placement coordinates are adjusted to produce the same outputs.

Once these changes are made, the resulting data may be sent to a 48466 and 424M printer to produce the same printed image in most cases.

1 = Enable 48-466 Compatibility Mode 0 = Disable 48-466 Compatibility Mode

6 Select GP I/O Hardware Mode: This command is used to select from the various General Purpose I/O modes the printer supports.

0 = Enable Custom General Purpose I/O Hardware. This mode is a

custom solution developed for a specific customer and is not intended to be used by other users.

1 = Enable General Purpose I/O Hardware. When this command is enabled, the printer provides the ability to report the current status of 4 additional inputs accessed through the P17 connector on the PCB, report the status of 4 additional outputs accessed through the P21 connector on the PCB, to change the status of the outputs, and to configure the inputs to generate immediate errors.

GP INPUTS:

The P17 connector is used for the GP inputs. These inputs are active high (24VDC) and may be independently controlled.

The ^D150 command is used to report the current status of the inputs. When issued, the printer will send the host the current status of the 4

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general inputs in the form of “>IO 0nH< where “n” is a hex number from 0 to F.

Example: A status of >IO 05H< would indicate that inputs 1 and 3 are active (24v) and that inputs 2 and 4 are inactive (0v); 05H = 0101(binary).

The ^D151 is a nonvolatile command used to set which GP inputs are configured to cause an immediate error when active. An immediate error will immediately stop printing and go into an error condition. Once the input is inactive, the “error” would need to be cleared before the printer will continue. The ^D29 statistical listing reports the GP inputs that are configured to generate error conditions when active and are listed under the “ERROR INPUT: 0nH” with the value for “n” equaling the HEX value of the inputs. The inputs equal a binary number with the inputs in the following order; 4321.

Command Syntax: ^D151<CR>0n<CR>

n = the hex value from 0 to F.

Example: If the application wanted to configure inputs 1 and 3 to generate error conditions when active, a ^D151<CR>05<CR> command (the <CR> indicates carriage return characters) would be issued. The printer ignores the LF characters, so a <CR+LF> is interpreted as a <CR> as well) would be sent to the printer.

GP OUTPUTS:

The P21 connector is used to provide 4 general purpose outputs. These outputs provide 24V and may be used to provide the voltage needed to power the GP INPUTS.

The ^D69 command is used to read and report the current status of the GP Outputs in the form of “>IO 0nH< where “n” is a hex number from 0 to F. The outputs equal a binary number with the values in the following order; 4321.

Example: A status of >IO 05H< would indicate that outputs 1 and 3 are active (24v) and that outputs 2 and 4 are inactive (0v); 05H = 0101(binary).

The ^D68 is a nonvolatile command used to enable which GP outputs are active. The outputs are entered in as a HEX value that is equal to a binary number with the outputs in the following order; 4321.

Command Syntax: ^D68<CR>0n<CR>

n = the hex value from 0 to F.

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Example: If the application wanted to configure outputs 1 and 3 active, a ^D68<CR>05<CR> command (the <CR> indicates carriage return characters) would be issued. The printer ignores the LF characters, so a <CR+LF> is interpreted as a <CR> as well) would be sent to the printer.

NOTE: A status request (^E, ^D5, or 5 NULL’s 01) will never show the status of the outputs while a status request will show the input status if:

1) GP I/O is enabled AND

2) One or more bits have been configured to generate errors when active AND

3) One or more of those halting bits have gone active and have produced an error that has not been cleared.

NOTE: If the printer is not in the general purpose I/O mode, the inputs status may still be read with the ^D150 command but the outputs cannot be read (or written to) with the ^D69 or ^D68 commands.

NOTE: If an input has caused an error to be generated, then goes inactive, and another print request received before the error is cleared, the printer will not print and will remain in the error state. A status request will show the active error inputs. This condition will remain until the error is cleared.

NOTE: Default power up will disable I/O mode.

The P17 and P21 connectors are 8 pin MTA50 AMP part number #1445350-8 and Microcom Corporation part number 510188-0008.

The pin out is as follows (the square pad denotes pin one on the PCB):

Connector P17 is the input port.

1 = ground 2 = g/p input 1 - Print 3 = ground 4 = g/p input 2 - Print Test Pattern 5 = ground 6 = g/p input 3 - Reset 7 = ground 8 = g/p input 4

All inputs are active high. 24.0 VDC = high 0.0 VDC = low

Connector P21 is the output port.

1 = ground 2 = g/p output 1 - In Reset or printing 3 = ground 4 = g/p output 2 - Error 5 = ground 6 = g/p output 3 - Downloading a format 7 = ground

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INPUTS

OUTPUTS

8 = g/p output 4 - Format loaded

All outputs are active high. 24.0 VDC = high 0.0 VDC = low

Pin 1

P17

Figure 5-1 General Purpose Hardware Inputs and Outputs

7 Select PIC Mode: This command is used to select from the various PIC

modes the printer supports. The PIC code is dedicated to the take-up motor or the cutter.

0 = Select Cutter PIC mode of operation. When this mode is selected the printer will power and energize a cutter when the cutter enable command (^D99 or ^D111) is issued after a print job

1 = Select Take-up PIC mode of operation. When this mode is selected the printer will energize a DC motor to be used in a rewind or take up capacity. Unless the printer is properly configured with a takeup motor and correct take-up motor specific PIC, this mode should not be enabled because it could potentially damage the cutter.

8 Nonstick TOF Mode: This feature was added to handle some

applications where an unmanned system is left idle for long periods of time. The printer will periodically move the media to keep it from adhering to the platen roller in an effort to prevent media jams. Each time the value times out, the printer will advance 75 full steps at .5ips and then perform a TOF at normal speed. The timer is then reset and starts to count down once again. The default time interval is set to 4 hours or 144400 seconds. The interval may be adjusted by using the D156 command.

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5.2.1.7 Software Switch #7

^AB ^D COMMAND XX 27 Change SW7: Software Switch #7.

^AB12345678 (each bit is represented by a numeric position number)

Position: 123 Select STL Stock Class:

These bits are used to select the class of the stock to be used according to the following bit pattern: 100 – Standard 010 – Cinema Ticket 001 - Wristbands

456 Select STL Stock Width:

These bits are used to select the width of the stock (in inches) to be used according to the following bit pattern: 000 – 1.00 100 – 1.328 010 – 2 110 – 2.125 001 – 2.5 101 – 2.75 011 – 3.25 111 – 4

7 Disable System Parameter Saving: When enabled, the printer will not save

the non-volatile system parameters on power downs. The ^A1^D143 will continue to save system parameters.

1 = Disable system parameter saving 0 = Enable system parameter saving

8 Finish Mode: When enabled, the printer will finish printing the current label

as far as it can after a stock out error. The change will take place after a power cycle or after the restart command. When a stock out occurs the printer will finish printing the entire label if the LSY is less than the dot-to-gap distance. If greater, it will continue printing for a distance equal to the dot to gap distance OR until the label finishes; which ever comes first. The dot-to-gap value is configurable using the D158 command. The error will be acknowledged at the end of printing. This will work with all media (continuous, black line, and gap).

1 = Enable Finish Mode 0 = Disable Finish Mode

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5.2.1.8 Software Switch #8

^AB ^D COMMAND XX 28 Change SW8: Software Switch #8.

^AB12345678 (each bit is represented by a numeric position number)

Position: 1 Custom Test Ticket: When this feature is enabled, the printer will process

the saved power up format specified by the D22 command every time the printer button on the printer is pressed.

1 = Enable Custom Test Ticket 0 = Disable Custom Test Ticket

2 Reserved

3 Line Feed: This feature is used to control the line feed. When enabled, the

printer will line feed while the button is pressed and held. When this feature is disabled, pressing and holding the button will be ignored.

1 = Disable Custom Test Ticket 0 = Enable Custom Test Ticket

4, 5 STL Autoheader Mode:

STL Autoheader (^D147) may be configured to execute using three different methods or modes.

00 Standard Autoheader mode 10 Autoheader Table mode 11 Autoheader User mode

Standard Autoheader Mode

This is the default mode used to automatically detect the proper values for a format header. The printer uses the reflective sensor to determine stock sizes within the Ticketing Industry.

Autoheader Table Mode

The table mode takes the calculated blsy value that the standard autosize measures and replaces it with the Norm value based on a 203 dpi table or the 300 dpi table.

If the measured value is >= the 1st value and <= the 3rd value, then blsy is forced to the middle normalized value.

If the measured blsy value falls outside of the table, the value is not changed. Example – Stock is autosized and found to be 1362 dots long (203 dpi). This value will then be changed to 1320. It is this changed value that will be reported (^D148) and used as blsy.

The tables are based on ticketing industry stock sizes off: 2” 2½” 3” 3¼” 3½” 4” 4½” 5” 5½” 5 5/8” 6” 6½” 7” 11”

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low norm hi 355 406 457 458 508 558 559 609 634 635 660 685 686 711 761 762 812 863 864 914 964 965 1015 1066

1067 1117 1129 1130 1142 1180 1181 1218 1269 1270 1320 1370 1371 1421 1827 1828 2233 2300

203 dpi

300 dpi

low norm hi 525 600 675 676 750 825 826 900 938 939 975 1013

1014 1050 1125 1126 1200 1275 1276 1350 1425 1426 1500 1575 1576 1650 1669 1670 1688 1744 1745 1800 1875 1876 1950 2025 2026 2100 2700 2701 3300 3400

Autoheader User Mode

The Autoheader User Mode operates in a similar fashion to the Table Mode, but uses a table that the user creates. The user can have up to three stock ranges within the table (3, 6, or 9 values).

To enter stock ranges use the ^D170 command as follows.

The 1st range is entered like this: ^A1^D170[CR]Range1LowThreshold[CR] ^A2^D170[CR]Range1Target[CR] ^A3^D170[CR]Range1UpperThreshold[CR]

The 2nd range is entered like this: ^A4^D170[CR]Range2LowThreshold[CR] ^A5^D170[CR]Range2Target[CR] ^A6^D170[CR]Range2UpperThreshold[CR]

The 3rd range is entered like this: ^A7^D170[CR]Range3LowThreshold[CR] ^A8^D170[CR]Range3Target[CR] ^A9^D170[CR]Range3UpperThreshold[CR]]

Value1 is the lower boundary, value3 is the upper boundary, and value2 is the blsy value for this range. Up to 9 values can be entered for a total of 3 ranges. All values are non volatile and are stored with the other non volatile parameters. Like the table, if the measured blsy doesn’t fall into any of the ranges the value won’t change and will be used as is. To see all of the table and user values enter ^A0^D170 [CR] Using one of these smart autosize modes gives the user single dot accuracy in using Boca autosize to find blsy.

6 Reserved

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7 Reflective Stock Out Detection: When this feature is enabled, the printer

will use reflective sensor to detect stock out conditions. This should only be used if a Transmissive sensor is not available.

1 = Enable Reflective Stock Out Detection 0 = Disable Reflective Stock Out Detection

8 LTS Jam Detection: This feature uses the printer’s Label Present or Label

Taken sensor to identify a jam condition after sending a print job to the printer. When enabled, the printer will report the >LPD STOCK JAM< message if the printer was sent a print job and the LTS did not detect the media exiting the printer.

1 = Enable LTS Jam Detection 0 = Disable LTS Jam Detection

5.2.2 Communication Port Configuration

These commands are used to configure the communication speed or Baud rate of the printer and to configure which port is the active port. A number of printer’s are configured with more than one port, however only one is active at any given time.

5.2.2.1 Baud Rate

This non-volatile command changes the serial port communication speed.

Note: Unless otherwise noted, the factory default baud setting is 115,200. The baud rate will be temporarily set to 115,200 when the printer is in the Diagnostic Mode if the user setting is different. The user set baud rate will resume after a “soft reset” (^D32) or cycling the power to the printer.

^A ^D COMMAND X 20 Set Bits Per Second:

This command sets the serial/USB port communication speed or BAUD rate of the printer. Settings of 12 (230400) and higher are not intended to be used by normal serial operations. These settings are only intended to be used by the D149 USB image print mode.

0 110 bps 1 150 bps 2 300 bps 3 600 bps 4 1200 bps 5 2400 bps 6 4800 bps 7 9600 bps 8 19200 bps 9 38400 bps 10 57600 bps 11 115200 bps 12 230400 bps (only used for D149 Image Mode) 13 460800 bps (only used for D149 Image Mode) 14 921600 bps (only used for D149 Image Mode)

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5.2.2.2 Set Serial Port Source Command (Non-volatile- ^D108)

This command sets which serial port will be used the next time the printer is turned ON. The 224/424 printer has three serial data ports on the rear panel: RS-232, USB, or Ethernet. Only 1 port can be active at any given time. The D108 command sets how the printer selects the active serial port the next time the printer is powered ON. Settings made with D108 are saved in the printer’s system parameters and are used to select the serial port on power-up.

^A ^D Command X 108 Serial Port Source (Non-volatile) 0 AutoSelect: When the printer powers up, it scans the USB and RS-232 ports

and selects the “Active” port. The USB port will be selected if the USB cable is connected between the printer and a PC that is powered “ON.” The RS-232 port will be selected if the USB cable is not plugged in and a character comes in on the RS-232 port. The printer will continue to scan both ports until one or the other condition is satisfied.

1 Ethernet: This command tells the printer to use the Ethernet port the next

time it powers up. The Ethernet port is generally a third party device that provides the printer with the connectivity of an Ethernet system. Internally, the signals go into a serial port. The Ethernet is setup and configured separated from the printer using the third party software and/or methods. By default, the printers are configured with an IP address of 192.168.200.3 on Port 9100 at the factory.

3 RS232: When the active port is set to a 3, the printer will ignore other ports

being plugged into the machine and will only be active on the RS232 port.

4 USB: When the active port is set to a 4, the printer will ignore other ports

being plugged into the machine and will only be active on the USB port.

5.2.2.3 Set Serial Port Source Command (Volatile - ^D109)

This command is similar to the ^D108 command, except the ^D109 command immediately switches between the 3 serial ports without the need to cycle power. Settings made with ^D109 command are NOT saved on power-down. The printer returns to the original port setting on the next power-ON.

Note: The Auto Select option is not available with the ^D109 command.

^A ^D Command X 109 Serial Port Source (volatile)

0 RS-232

1 USB 2 Ethernet

5.2.2.4 Ethernet Telnet Pass-Through Mode

The ^D171 command is used to open a Telnet session with the Ethernet (Xport Device) port to gain access to its configuration settings. The Ethernet port is set to an IP Address of

192.168.200.3 and Net Mask of 255.255.255.0 on port 9100 by default at the factory. If this

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Change Setup:

address in not reachable on your network, you will need to change the IP address to one that matches your network. One way would be to use the Device Installer software from Lantronix (Refer to Chapter 3) to setup the port or you may use the Telnet Pass through mode.

^A ^D COMMAND

171 Telnet Pass-Through Mode

To use the Telnet mode on the printer, the unit must be configured for

Ethernet use (^A1^D108) and then booted into the diagnostics mode by turning the printer on with the print button pressed and held in. Once the printer boots, it will start to feed media and the button may be released. The printer auto detects the active RS232 Serial port or USB port when booting into diagnostics mode regardless of its current port setting. Once communication has been established, the ^D171 command may be issued to access the XPORT setup parameters.

0 Server 1 Channel 1 3 E-mails 5 Experts 6 Security 7 Factory defaults 8 Exit without save 9 Save and exit Your choice?

By selecting 0 Server, you may enter your IP address, Gateway, Net Mask, and Telnet password.

IP Address

The IP address must be set to a unique value in your network. Default is set to 192.168.200.3

Set Gateway IP Address

The gateway address, or router, allows communication to other LAN segments. The gateway address should be the IP address of the router connected to the same LAN segment as the unit. The gateway address must be within the local network. The default is N (No), meaning the gateway address has not been set. To set the gateway address, type Y and enter the address.

Netmask: Number of Bits for Host Part A netmask defines the number of bits taken from the IP address that are assigned for the host section.

The unit prompts for the number of host bits to be entered, then calculates the

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netmask, which displays in standard decimal-dot notation when the saved parameters are displayed (for example, 8 = 255.255.255.0).

Network Class Host Bits Netmask

Setting of 24 = 255.0.0.0 Setting of 16 = 255.255.0.0 Setting of 8 = 255.255.255.0

Change Telnet Configuration Password

Setting the Telnet configuration password prevents unauthorized access to the setup menu via a Telnet connection to port 9999 or via web pages. The password must have 4 characters.

After setting up the configuration, a selection of 9 will Save and Exit. Once exiting this mode, a hardware reset is required to restore normal printer operation.

5.2.3 Print Head Size Commands

The different printer models may be configured with a variety of different print head sizes and densities. The ^D78 and ^D79 commands (non-volatile) allow the printer to be setup through software to configure the different print head sizes and densities. Power cycle or ^D32 is required before command settings take affect.

Note: When using these commands, the ^D79 command MUST be sent prior to the ^D78

^A ^D COMMAND X 79 Set print head dots/inch (dpi). This command sets the dot density of the

print head.

0 203DPI: This sets the printhead resolution to 203dpi. This requires that a

203dpi printhead is installed on the printer. If the setting is not set properly, the printed image could produce

1 300DPI: This command the printhead resolution to 300dpi. This requires that

a 300dpi printhead is installed on the printer. If the setting is not set properly, the printed image could produce

The only valid entries are ^A0 for 203dpi and ^A1 for 300dpi.

XX 78 Set print head number of dots. This command sets # of dots in the print

head. This command MUST be sent AFTER the dot density (dpi) is set with the ^D79 command. The only valid entries for XX are the numbers in the “# of Dots” column in the table above.

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Printer Model Dots/Inch

224 203 224 300

324M 203

324M 300

424 203

424 300

424M 203

424M 300

X28 203

X28 300

D79 value

448 640

640

960

832

1280

832

1280

832

1280

Table 5-4 Printhead sizes - D78

These are examples of how to use the ^D78 and ^D79 commands:

EXAMPLE #1: How to set the printer for a 640 dot, 300 dpi print head:

^A1^D79<CR> (Sets 300 dpi) ^A640^D78<CR> (Sets 640 dots)

EXAMPLE #2: How to set the printer for an 832 dot, 203 dpi print head:

^A0^D79<CR> (Sets 203 dpi) ^A832^D78<CR> (Sets 832 dots)

5.3 General Purpose I/O

When this command is enabled (Switch 6 bit 6; D26 command), the printer provides the ability to report the current status of 4 additional inputs accessed through the P17 connector on the PCB, report the status of 4 additional outputs accessed through the P21 connector on the PCB, to change the status of the outputs, and to configure the inputs to generate immediate errors.

^A ^D Command XX 110 General Purpose Status Byte

The printer has a special mode of communication for General Purpose control environments. Communication is over the Ethernet port and uses the following protocol.

The host sends a command byte to the Ethernet port every few milliseconds. The printer’s Ethernet interface will pass the command byte on to the printer only when there is a change, i.e., when there is a new command.

The printer sends a byte of status data to its Ethernet interface using the same data format, and will only send the data when there is a change in status. The printer’s Ethernet interface will send the printer status byte to the HOST every few milliseconds.

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This is the command byte configuration:

Command Byte From Host to Printer:

Bit # Function when = “1” Function when = “0”

0 PRINT DON’T PRINT 1 PRINT TEST PATTERN DON’T PRINT TEST PATTERN 2 RESET DON’T RESET 3 not used 4 not used 5 not used 6 not used 7 not used

The HOST only sends the command byte to the printer. The printer’s Ethernet interface receives this command byte from the HOST and tests it to see if it is different from the previous command byte. If there is a change, then the command byte is put into the “xx” of a ^Axx^D110 command and sent to the printer. Valid values for “xx” are determined from the “Host to Printer” table above.

The printer sends a status byte to the host every few milliseconds thru its Ethernet interface. This status byte is sent whether there is a change of status or not.

Status Byte From Printer to Host:

Bit # Function when = “1” Function when = “0”

0 (LSB) IN RESET or PRINTING NOT BUSY 1 ERROR NO ERROR 2 DOWNLOADING A FORMAT FINISHED DOWNLOAD 3 FORMAT LOADED NO FORMAT LOADED 4 not used 5 not used 6 not used 7 (MSB) not used

The General Purpose Status byte mode of operation is enabled by Soft Switch #5, Bit #8. These are the specific commands:

^ABxxxxxxx1^D25 Enable General Purpose Mode ^ABxxxxxxx0^D25 Disable General Purpose Mode

Note that the binary data entry mode is shown in these 2 commands. The user must set the “xxxxxxx” values to agree with current settings in order to avoid changing any of the other settings in Soft Switch #5.

Entering General Purpose Status Byte Mode

Sending the “Enable General Purpose Mode” command will set the printer up to go into General Purpose mode. The printer will NOT go into General Purpose Mode until a power cycle occurs to cause the data to be stored in

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Printer Commands Chapter 5

FLASH memory. This command is nonvolatile, so once the General Purpose Mode is entered the printer will stay in General Purpose Mode thru subsequent power cycles.

Exiting General Purpose Status Byte Mode

A printer that is in General Purpose Mode will stay in General Purpose mode thru power cycles until the “Disable General Purpose Mode” command (^ABxxxxxxx0^D25) is issued. The next power-ON after a “Disable General Purpose Mode” command will cause the printer to leave General Purpose Mode.

Note: A default power-ON will also take the printer out of General Purpose Mode.

5.4 Specialized Print Modes

5.4.1 Synchronous Print Mode

This mode allows the printer to be synchronized to external equipment thru an external PRINT control line. A second input control line ABORT allows a pending print job to be terminated. Using this mode allows any label, no matter what size to begin printing IMMEDIATELY using the print input signal. Printing begins 11 microseconds after the rising edge of the PRINT control line.

Two control signals are required:

1) PRINT input line (connector P17, Pin #2),

2) ABORT input line (connector P17, Pin #8)

Signal logic levels:

The signals are active high and must be between +15Vdc and +24Vdc to be “1”. The signals must drop below +10Vdc to be “0”.

To use this mode, follow these steps:

a) Download a label format to the printer. This format should not

have the normal ^D3 (PRINT command) in the format. If the ^D3 is left in the format, an initial label will be printed regardless of the special input line settings.

a) Send the printer a ^D116<CR> command. This will force the

printer to process the label to the point that the label bitmap is ready to be sent to the print head. After this command is sent no communications will be possible with the printer until the next step is completed.

b) To start the print, send a high-going pulse on the PRINT input

line. To ABORT the job, whether printing or not, send a highgoing pulse on the ABORT input line.

c) After the label prints or aborts, the printer will return to its

normal non-sync mode of operation. The PRINT pulse should go back to “0” before the print ends to avoid a second label being printed. A 10 millisecond pulse works fine. Continuous sync mode is similar to single sync mode except after the label is printed the printer will immediately begin reprocessing the format to prepare another image for printing. If an external print signal is provided on the General Purpose print input, the printer will

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