Postek Q8 User Manual

Q8 Series User’s Manual

FCC Notice

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device
may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that
may cause undesired operation.

This equipment may generate, use and/or radiate radio frequency energy. If not installed and used in full accordance with this
User’s Manual, interference to radio communications may occur. This equipment complies with the limits for a Class A
Information Technology Equipment pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules, which are designed to provide reasonable
protection against such interference when operated in a commercial environment. Operation of this equipment in a
residential area may also cause interference. In such case the user, at his/her expense, will be required to correct the
interference using whatever means necessary.

Trademarks

POSTEK is a registered trademark by POSTEK Electronics Co., Ltd.
Microsoft, Windows are registered trademarks by Microsoft Corporation.

Copyright

© 2011 by POSTEK Electronics Co., Ltd. All rights reserved. Under the copyright laws, this manual cannot be reproduced
in any form without the prior written permission of POSTEK. No patent liability is assumed with respect to the use of the
information contained herein.

POSTEK Q8 Barcode Label Printer User’s Manual
1st edition Jan. 2011

Disclaimer

This manual has been validated and reviewed for accuracy. The instructions and descriptions it contains are accurate for the
Postek Q8 Label Printer at the time of this manual’s printing. However, succeeding printers and manuals are subject to
change without notice. Postek assumes no liability for damages incurred directly or indirectly from errors, omissions or
discrepancies between the printer and this manual.

Although this manual describes and details many issues, which could possibly occur, the manufacturer cannot warrant
against unpredictable conditions during the printing process. For problems such as the printer not working, lost or unclear
print content, etc., the manufacturer and resellers are responsible for correcting these issues (according to Postek Printer
Warranty Clauses). In no event shall the manufacturer or the resellers involved be liable for any damages whatsoever
including without limitation; damages for loss of business profits, business interruption, loss of business information, or
other pecuniary loss arising from the use of this product.

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Q8 Series User’s Manual

Important Safety Instructions

♦ Only qualified and trained authorized POSTEK service providers should attempt to disassemble or repair the printer.

Incorrect disassembling of the product or its power adaptor may cause an electronic short, human injury or printer
component damages.

♦ Do not use a worn or damaged power cord as it could result in electric shock and personal injury. If the power cord

becomes damaged or frayed, replace it immediately.

♦ Be sure that the output of the power adapter is 24VDC and your power source matches the rating listed on the power

adapter. Ensure the power source is grounded.

♦ Do not insert anything into the ventilation slots or openings on the printer.
♦ The printer and power adapter should never be operated in a location where either one can get wet. Personal injury may

result.

♦ The Printhead becomes hot while printing. To protect from damaging the Printhead and risk of personal injury, avoid

touching it.

♦ To obtain increased Printhead longevity and higher quality output, always use quality labels, tags and thermal transfer

ribbons. Check for quality supplies with a POSTEK reseller.

♦ Static electricity that accumulates on the surface of the human body or other surfaces can damage or destroy the

Printhead or electronic components in this device. DO NOT touch the Printhead or the electronic components with bare
hands.

♦ Place the printer on a flat, firm, solid surface.

Warnings:

This is a Class A product. In a domestic environment this product may cause radio interference in which case the user may be
required to take adequate measures (see FCC Notice).

Static electricity that accumulates on the surface of the human body or other objects can damage the print head or electronic
components in the V6 printer. Observe proper electrostatic safety precautions when handling.

♦ Power off the printer when not in use for extended periods of time.
♦ Never operate in a high temperature environment.
♦ Follow all recommendations and setup instructions included in this manual.

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Q8 Series User’s Manual

Table of Contents

Preface ............................................................................................................................................................................... 1

Important Notice, Read Me First! ....................................................................................................................................... 1

Chapter 1: Introduction ................................................................................................................................................... 2

T echnical Specif icati ons ...................................................................................................................................................... 2

Printer Specifications .................................................................................................................................................. 2

Power Adapter Specifications ..................................................................................................................................... 3

Contents of Box .................................................................................................................................................................. 3

Packing List ................................................................................................................................................................ 3

Chapter 2: Setup and Use ................................................................................................................................................ 5

Setting up the Printer........................................................................................................................................................... 5

Main Parts and Structures ........................................................................................................................................... 5

Connecting the Printer ................................................................................................................................................ 7

Interface Connection ................................................................................................................................................... 8

Loading the Media .................................................................................................................................................... 12

Peel-off Mode ........................................................................................................................................................... 16

Cutting Mode ............................................................................................................................................................ 18

Adjusting the Position of Media Sensor .................................................................................................................... 19

Chapter 3: Operations and Settings .............................................................................................................................. 24

Basic Operations ............................................................................................................................................................... 24

Power Switch ............................................................................................................................................................ 24

The Front Panel ......................................................................................................................................................... 24

Advanced Operations ........................................................................................................................................................ 25

Media Sensor Calibration .......................................................................................................................................... 25

Self Test ..................................................................................................................................................................... 25

Reset to Factory Default Settings .............................................................................................................................. 26

DIP Switch Panel ...................................................................................................................................................... 26

Windows Driver and PosLabel Software .................................................................................................................. 27

Chapter 4: Maintenance................................................................................................................................................. 28

Cleaning the Printhead ...................................................................................................................................................... 28

Cleaning the Platen Roller ................................................................................................................................................ 28

Cleaning the Printer Interior ............................................................................................................................................. 29

Chapter 5: Tr oub leshooting ........................................................................................................................................... 30

Error Indicators ................................................................................................................................................................. 30

Miscellaneous ................................................................................................................................................................... 31

Vertical Blank Lines Appear ..................................................................................................................................... 31

Printer Timeout Error Message ................................................................................................................................. 31

Data Sent but Not Printing ........................................................................................................................................ 31

Poor Printing Quality ................................................................................................................................................ 31

Recovery ................................................................................................................................................................... 32

Appendix A: IO Interface Specifications ...................................................................................................................... 33

RS232 Serial Interface ...................................................................................................................................................... 33

Appendix B: ASCII T able .............................................................................................................................................. 34

iii

Preface Q8 Series User’s Manual

Preface

Your POSTEK Q8 barcode label printer provides many outstanding features to enjoy. The POSTEK Q8 is compact, versatile,
and easy to use. It supports both direct thermal and thermal transfer printing methods, and employs an unparalleled print
engine that reduces noise and enhances durability.

This ma nual explains how to set up and begin using your POSTEK Q8 printer. It also provides detailed information on
configuring your Q8 printer, basic operations, maintenance and troubleshooting.

Please read this manual carefully and completely before using the POSTEK Q8 printer.

Important Notice, Read Me First!

A thermal Printhead can be easily damaged due to its precision construction. A Printhead damaged due to misuse is not
covered under the terms of the warranty. To ensure longevity of the Printhead, please note the following:

♦ DO NOT scrape, or use tools that might damage the Printhead surface.
♦ To protect from corroding the Printhead, DO NOT touch the Printhead with bare hands.
♦ DO NOT use thermal paper or thermal transfer ribbon, which contains Na, K or Cl.
♦ Keep Printhead away from any liquid or dampness.
♦ Use a cotton swab dipped in anhydrous isopropyl alcohol to clean the Printhead only.
♦ Always use high-quality consumables:

- When the Printhead module is closed, pressure is placed directly onto the Printhead; dirt such as paper scraps, sand,

dust and glue can scrape or damage the Printhead.

- The Printhead is also easily damaged by static electricity, which may be generated by poor quality ribbons. Always

inspect consumables for quality before purchasing.

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Q8 Series User’s Manual Chapter 1: I ntr o duction

W ax, Wax/Resin, Resin

Max width: 4.33” (110 mm); Max length: 360’ (100 M)

1D Barcode : Code 39, Code 93, Code 128/subset A,B,C, Codabar, Interleave 2 of 5, UPC A/E
Operation

Relative humidity: 5% - 85% non condensing

Storage
environment

Temperature: -40° F ~ +140° F (-40° C ~ 60° C)
Relative humidity: 5% - 85% non condensing

Chapter 1: Introduction

Technical Specifications

Printer Specifications

Mode Q8/200 Q8/300

Printing method Direct Thermal & Thermal Transfer
Printing resolution 203 dpi (8 dots/mm) 300 dpi (11.8 dots/mm)
Max printing speed 4 ips (101.6 mm/s) 3 ips (76.2 mm/s)
Max printing width 4.25″ (108 mm) 4.17″ (106 mm)
Max printing length 157″ (3987.8 mm) 79” (2006.6 mm)
Memory 2 MB FLASH ROM, 8 MB SDRAM

Roll-feed, die-cut, continuous, tags, tickets in plain paper or thermal paper

Media

Ribbon

Fonts Five built-in ASCII fonts; Optional multiple language fonts

Bar Code Ty pes

Media sensor Reflective
Interfaces RS-232 Serial, USB
Power rating 24 VDC Power adapter
Weight 5.29lbs (2.4 kgs)
Dimensions W 8.27” x D 10.04” x H 5.9” (W 210 x D 255 x H 150 mm)

environment

Width：4.33″ (110 mm) max., .98″ (25 mm) min.
Supply roll: OD 5″ (127 mm) max., ID 1″ (25.4 mm) min.

Thickness: 0.003″～0.006″ (0.08～0.15 mm), including liner

Ribbon roll: OD 3″ (76.2 mm) max., ID 1″ (25.4 mm) core

2 and 5 add-on, EAN-13/8/128, UC C-128.
2D Barcode : MaxiCode, PDF417, Data Matrix.

Temperature: 32° F ~ +104° F (0° C ~ 40° C)

Optional items Guillotine Cutter, Peeler Kit, External Rewinder

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Q8 Series User’s Manual Chapter 1: I ntr o duction

Input

AC 100 ~ 240 V, 47 ~ 63 Hz

Output

DC 24V, 2.0 A

Environment

32° F ~ 104° F (0° C ~ 40° C)

Power Adapter Specifications

Contents of Box

Inspect the shipping carton(s) for possible shipping damage, if damage is discovered, notify the shipping company to
report the nature and extent of the damage.

Please check the items according to the Packing List. If there are any items missing, notify your authorized reseller.

Packing List

Quick Start Guide 1 pc

Q8 Printer 1 pc

Power Adapter 1 pc

USB interface cable 1 pc

Media Spindle 1 pc

Media Roll Guides 2 pc

Warranty card 1 pc

CD-ROM pack 1 pc

Sample Media Roll 1 pc

Sample Ribbon 1 pc

Note: CD-ROM pack includes the Q8 printer driver, PosLabel software, Q8 User’s Guide and the Programming Manual.

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Q8 Series User’s Manual Chapter 1: I ntr o duction

Printer

Power Adapter

Media

Media Roll Guide

Quick Start Guide
Ribbon

Sample Media

CD Rom

Figure 1: Printer and Accessories

4

Chapter 3: Setup and Use Q8 Series User’s Manual

9

3

1

2

4 5 6

Chapter 2: Setup and Use

Setting up the Pri nt er

Before setting up the printer consider the following:

1. Make sure there is adequate space around the printer for loading consumables and proper ventilation.

2. Make sure the printer is close to the host so the interface cable is easily accessible at either end.

Main Parts and Structures

1．READY Indicator 4．PAUSE Button 7．Media Exit
2．MEDIA Indicator 5．FEED Button 8．Cover Handle
3．RIBBON Indicator 6．CANCEL Button 9．Observation W indow

7

8

Figure 2

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Chapter 3: Setup and Use Q8 Series User’s Manual

6 2 3 4 5

7

1

Figure 3

1．Ribbon Take-up 4．Printhead Module Plate 7．Media Compartment
2．Printhead Bracket 5．Ribbon Release Knobs
3．Handle 6．Ribbon Supply

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Chapter 3: Setup and Use Q8 Series User’s Manual

1

2

4

5

3

Figure 4

1．RS-232 Serial Interface 4．Power Jack
2．DIP Switches 5．Power Switch
3．USB Interface

Connecting the Printer

Warnings:

(1) Using the wrong power adapter will cause damage to your printer. POSTEK assumes no liability for any damage in

such cases. The rating for the printer is 24VDC.

(2) Do not operate the printer near heat sources, liquids or corrosive chemicals.

1. Make sure the printer is powered OFF.

2. Connect the power cord to the power adapter.

3. Connect the power adapter’s DC input plug to the power jack.

4. Plug the power cord into a live wall outlet.

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Chapter 3: Setup and Use Q8 Series User’s Manual

Interface Connection

The Q8 supports USB and RS-232 Serial interface connections.
Note: When connecting the Q8 to a computer via the USB cable, make sure to utilize the same USB port used during the

driver installation process, which enables the printer to retrieve needed commands or data from the PC. If the same USB
port is not available or not known, then in the printer’s Properties Dialogue Box, under the Ports tab, ensure the current
port location is checked.

To connect:

1. Make sure the printer is powered OFF.

2. The printer will identify the communication port automatically.

3. The default values of printer port can be obtained from the self-test report. (See Chapter 2: Operation Basics/

Advanced Functions/ Self Test)

4. Cable configurations for interfaces are found in Appendix A of this guide.

5. Please take the following measures to reduce cable noise.

- Restrict the length of the interface cable to less than 6’ (1.83 M) if possible.

- Keep the interface cable separate from power cords.

Installing the Ribbon

Note: Load ribbon only when using the thermal transfer printing method. Remove any ribbon that may be loaded when
using the direct thermal printing method.

Warnings:

(1) The Q8 supports ribbons with ink on the outside only. Check the ribbon package for ink side specifications.
(2) Always install a ribbon with the ink side facing outwards. The ink side of the ribbon must face the media and NOT

the Printhead

(3) If using a ribbon less than 110 mm wide, place the ribbon roll in the middle of the Ribbon Spindle for proper

alignment.

(4) Make sure the inner diameter of the ribbon is 0.5″ (12.5 mm).

To install the ribbon:

1. Open the right cover of the printer and turn the handle to the “open” position. Flip down the Printhead Module

Plate (see Figure 5-1).

2. Remove the ribbon from its package, and place the roll into the Ribbon Supply area, pulling out the Ribbon Release

Knob to insert the roll, and allow the leading edge of the ribbon to fall underneath the Printhead module. Ensure
the ink side of the ribbon is facing down (see Figure 5-2).

3. Lead the ribbon below the Printhead module towards the front of the printer.

4. Attach the leading edge of the ribbon to an empt y core. Mount the core onto the Ribbon Take-up using the Ribbon

Loading Knob.

5. Turn the Ribbon T ak e-up Knob clockwise to ensure ribbon is tight and smooth (see Figure 5-3).

6. Close the Printhead Module Plate and turn the handle to the “close” position to lock the Printhead Module (see

Figure 5-3).

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Chapter 3: Setup and Use Q8 Series User’s Manual

Figure 5-1

9

Chapter 3: Setup and Use Q8 Series User’s Manual

Figure 5-2

10

Chapter 3: Setup and Use Q8 Series User’s Manual

Figure 5-3

11

Chapter 3: Setup and Use Q8 Series User’s Manual

Loading the Media

Q8 printers can be operated in three different modes: Standard mode, Peel-off mode, and Cutting mode.

- In Standard mode, each printed label remains on the backing liner.

- In Peel-off mode, each printed label is peeled away from the backing liner automatically.

- In Cutting mode, the printer automatically cuts the label after it is printed.

Note: Pell-off requires an optional Peeler Kit to be installed. Cutting mode requires an optional Guillotine Cutter to
be installed.

Standard Mode

To load media into the Q8 while using Standard Mode:

1. Lift the top cover to expose the Media Compartment.

2. Ta ke out the Media Spindle (see Figure 6-1).

3. Load a Media Roll, with labels facing up, onto the Media Spindle, using the scale on the Media Spindle to position

the Media Roll in the middle of the Spindle.

4. Next, insert the two Media Roll Guides, with their smooth sides facing inwards towards the Media Roll, on each

side of the Roll on the Media Spindle. Push the two Media Roll Guides close to Media Roll (see Figure 6- 2).

5. Insert the entire unit into the printer’s Media Compartment.

6. Turn the Handle to the “open” position to open the Printhead module.

7. Route the labels under and pass the Media Guide Rod, and over and pass the Platen Roller to the front of the printer.

8. Slide the Media Guides to the edge of the media; don’t squeeze the labels, make sure they remain flat (see Figure

6-3).

9. Turn the Handle to the “close” position.

10. Close the cover and press the “FEED” button to feed the Media and ensure proper tracking. If the printer does not

correctly sense the top of each label, it may be necessary to perform the Media Calibration (see Operations).

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Chapter 3: Setup and Use Q8 Series User’s Manual

Figure 6-1

13

Chapter 3: Setup and Use Q8 Series User’s Manual

Figure 6-2

14

Chapter 3: Setup and Use Q8 Series User’s Manual

Media Guide

Media Guide Rod

Platen Roller

Media

Figure 6-3

15

Chapter 3: Setup and Use Q8 Series User’s Manual

1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8

OFF

ON

Liner

Printhead Module
Label

Peel-off Mode

To load media into the Q8 while using Peel-off Mode:

1. Set the 4

2. Turn on the printer.

3. Reset the Peeler Module: Press and hold the “Cancel” button for 4 seconds, until the 3 indicator lamps begin to blink

simultaneously. Release the “Cancel” button and press it again one more time. Reset is complete.

4. Load a roll of ribbon. Push the Peeler Module to the “Open” state. Route the media as shown, pull the liner to make

sure it is tight, and then turn the Peeler Module to the “Close” state. Peeler Module installatio n is complete (see
Figure 6-4 and Figure 6-5).

th

DIP Switch to the ON position.

Figure 6-4

16

Chapter 3: Setup and Use Q8 Series User’s Manual

Peeler under Open state

Label Path

Peeler under Close state

Liner Path

Figure 6-5

17

Chapter 3: Setup and Use Q8 Series User’s Manual

Cutting Mode

1. Set the 3rd DIP Switch to ON to enable the cutter function (see Figure 6-6).

2. Turn on the printer.

3. Reset the Cutter: Press and hold the “Cancel” button for 4 seconds, the three lamps will blink simultaneously.

Release and press the “Cancel” button again, the Cutter is ready to use (see Figure 6-6).

4. Turn the Handle to the “open” position, and flip down the Printhead Module Plate. Lead the labels through the

Cutter, then close the Printhead Module Plate , and turn the Handle to the “close” position. Media roll is loaded (see
Figure 6-7).

Remarks: It is a must to reset the cutter before loading media, or else, the wrong location of cutter blade will cause
label fail to go through the cutter.

Figure 6-6

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Chapter 3: Setup and Use Q8 Series User’s Manual

Figure 6-7

Adjusting the Position of Media Sensor

1. Lift the top cover (see Figure 7-1).

2. Turn the Handle to the “open” position; take out the Media Sensor Cover to expose the Media Sensor (Figure 7-2).

3. Check the location of Media Sensor (see Figures 7-3, 7-4 and 7-5).

4. Remove the media sensor cover, remove the screw, adjust the media sensor to the appropriate position, then fix the

screw back(Figure 7- 7)

5. Put back the media sensor cover.

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Chapter 3: Setup and Use Q8 Series User’s Manual

Media Sensor Slot

Figure 7-1

20

Chapter 3: Setup and Use Q8 Series User’s Manual

Space

Media Sensor

Figure 7-2

Figure 7-3

2 – 5mm

21

Chapter 3: Setup and Use Q8 Series User’s Manual

Space

Figure 7-4

Space

Figure 7-5

22

Chapter 3: Setup and Use Q8 Series User’s Manual

Media Sensor Cover

Figure 7-6

Figure 7-7

23

Chapter 3: Operations and Settings Q8 Series User’s Manual

READY

MEDIA

RIBBON

Chapter 3: Operations and Settings

Basic Operations

Power Switch

The power switch is on the back panel of the printer. The symbols on the switch are defined as follows:

━ —ON
〇 —OFF

The Front Panel

The Front Panel of the Q8 printer consists of:

- Three Indicator Lamps: MEDIA, READY and RIBBON

- T

hree multi function buttons: PAUSE, FEED and CANCEL

Indicator Lamps

The three lamps indicate the status of the printer (please refer to Chapter 4: Troubleshooting, for error indicators).

- Solid: Indicates the printer is in the normal state;

- Blinking: Indicates the printer is in the ‘PAUSE’ state.

Solid: Indicates the printer is in the normal state;

-

- Blinking simultaneously with READY: Running out of media;

- Solid: Indicates thermal transfer printing;

- Off: Direct thermal printing (no ribbon installed);

- Blinking simultaneously with READY: Running out of ribbon.

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Chapter 3: Operations and Settings Q8 Series User’s Manual

Advanced Functions

Feed/Calibration

Feeds one label

Media Sensor Calibration

Pause/Self Test

- Press once to pause current print job

Self-test:
Cancel/ Reset

- Cancel current batch of labels

Reset:

Buttons

The three buttons have different functions based on the mode of the operation is performed.

Mode Basic Functions

- Press a second time to resume printing

- Forces the printer to continue working after
an error has been corrected

Advanced Opera t ions

Media Sensor Calibration

See Advanced Operations below

The Printer performs a self-test and prints

out a configuration report

Resets the printer to Factory Default

Settings

It is necessary to perform a Media Sensor Calibration after each new roll of media is installed.

1. Press and hold the Feed/Calibration button for about 4 seconds.

2. The printer will feed several labels.

3. The three indicator lamps will stop blinking and remain lit; the printer is back to a normal state.

Self Test

1. Press and hold the Pause/Self Test button for about 4 seconds;

2. The printer will print out a configuration report and the three indicator lamps will stop blinking and remain lit. The

printer is back to a normal state.

3. The following information will be printed on the self-test report:

- Font list

- Hardware configuration and status

- Label parameters

- Firmware version

- Direct Thermal or Thermal Transfer printing method

25

Chapter 3: Operations and Settings Q8 Series User’s Manual

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

O FF

ON

Reset to Factory Default Settings

To reset the printer to factory default settings:

1. Press and hold the Cancel/

to normal state automatically if no operations are performed within 4 seconds);

2. Release and press the Cancel/

3. The three indicators stop blinking and remain lit. The printer is now in its normal state.
Note: The printed label count and printed length may not be reset.

Reset button for 4 seconds, the three lamps will blink simultaneously (the printer will return

Reset button again;

DIP Switch Panel

The DIP Switch panel is located on the back of the printer.

Note: Turn off the printer before setting DIP switches.

26

Chapter 3: Operations and Settings Q8 Series User’s Manual

DIP Bit

Functions

Remarks

ON: Direct thermal print
OFF: Thermal transfer print

Printing type setting
Default: OFF

ON: Tear off position
OFF: Edge of next label

Stop position setting
Default: OFF

ON: Cutter is installed

Cutter setting

ON: Peeler is installed
OFF: Peeler is not installed

Peeler settings
Default: OFF

ON: Enable IP setting
OFF: Disable IP setting

IP address setup
Default: OFF

Windows 7

Windows Me

• Windows XP

• Windows 2003

• Windows 9X

1

2

3

OFF: Cutter is not installed

4
5 Reserved and not available
6

7

8 7
0 | 0 – 9600,n,8,1
0 | 1 – 19200,n,8,1
1 | 0 – 38400,n,8,1

8

1 | 1 – 57600,n,8,1

Windows Driver and PosLabel Software

The Q8 printer is compatible with the following operating systems:

•

•

Windows V ista • Windows 2000

•

Default: OFF

RS232 Serial Port baud rate setting
0: OFF, 1: ON
Default: 00

Additionally, the Q8 printer comes with powerful bar code software, PosLabel.

Both the Windows driver and PosLabel are available on the CD-ROM shipped with the product. Software upgrades are
available for download from:

www.postek.com.cn (Choose English version) or,
www.postektechnologies.com

Note: Prior to uploading a new driver or installing an updated driver, remove any old version of the driver that may be
stored in your computer.

27

Chapter 4: Maintenance Q8 Series User’s Manual

Chapter 4: Maintenance

Warnings

(1) Make sure the printer is powered off before performing maintenance operations.

(2) The Printhead may be hot due to recent printing. Wait until the Printhead cools before performing maintenance.
(3) Use only anhydrous isopropyl alcohol to clean the print head.

Cleaning the Printhead

The Printhead is the mechanism that enables the ink to impact the label. Due to the Printheads precision construction and
necessary location in the printer, it comes into c ontact with consum ables and ther efore is sus ceptible t o dirt accum ulation. If
dirt is not removed, the Printhead may be damaged. To ensure longevity of the Printhead, follow the recommended
maintenance guidelines below:

Note: A Printhead damaged by misuse is not covered under warranty.

Clean the Printhead

Clean the Printhead after every (1) roll of ribbon use or every (3) rolls of label media use. To clean the Printhead:

1. Turn printer power off

2. Open the top cover of Q8 printer

3. Turn the handle to open.

4. Remove the ribbon (if applicable) and media

5. Use a cotton swab dipped in anhydrous isopropyl alcohol. Rub the swab along the Printhead until the swab no longer

accumulates ink

6. Let the Printhead dry before using the Q8 again

Cleaning the Platen Roller

The Platen Roller, located at the exit poi nt and underneath labels, support s the labels as they f eed out of the printer. The roller
can accumulate debris f rom consumabl es, such as dirt, san d, dust or glue. To ensure longevity of the Platen Roller, follow the
recommended maintenance guidelines below:

Clean the Platen Roller after every (3) rolls of label media used. To clean the Platen Roller:

1. Turn off the printer.

2. Open the top cover.

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

4. Use a cotton swab dipped in anhydrous isopropyl alcohol. Rub the swab along the Platen Roller while rotating the roller

until the swab no longer accumulates ink or debris.

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Chapter 4: Maintenance Q8 Series User’s Manual

Cleaning the Print er Interior

Over time, the printer’s interior may collect dust or debris from the consumables. It is advised to periodically clean the
printer’s interior in order to prevent the accumulated debris from damaging internal parts.

To clean the printer interior, use a cotton swabs dipped into anhydrous isopropyl alcohol and remove any debris.

29

Chapter 5: Troubleshooting Q8 Series User’s Manual

The Media Roll Guides are not firmly

been installed.

Contact an authorized POSTEK service provider for
technical support.

Ribbon ran out

Load a new roll of ribbon

Contact an authorized POSTEK service provider for
technical support.

Chapter 5: Troubleshooting

Error Indicators

Typically, when the printer is not functioning, the READY lamp on the front panel will begin blinking, the communication
between printer and the host would be interrupted, and the printer would stop working. Please check the LED indicators on
the front panel to detect the malfunction.

READY and MEDIA Lamps blink simultaneously:

Possible Cause Recommended Solutions

(1) Check and confirm the media has been loaded correctly

Media sensor cannot detect labels

Media ran out Load a roll of media
Media jammed Clear the jam

(2) Check the position of the media sensor and confirm it

could detect the media gap or black line

(3) Calibrate the media sensor

positioned against the Media or have not

Media sensor is broken

Note: If you are using continuous media without gaps or black lines, please make sure the correct Media Type settings are
input in PosLable software.

READY and RIBBON Lamps blink simultaneously:

Possible Cause Recommend Solutions

Ribbon jammed Clear the jam
Ribbon Sensor error

Only READY Lamp blinks:

Possible Cause Recommend Solutions

Serial I/O error Check DIP switches for the baud rate settings

Memory overflow

Install the Media Roll Guides correctly as shown in Figure
6-2.

a. Restart the printer
b. Reset the printer

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Chapter 5: Troubleshooting Q8 Series User’s Manual

Clean the Printhead. Follow the recommended maintenance guidelines
for cleaning the Printhead.

Vertical lines still appear

Miscellaneous

Vertical Blank Lines Appear

If the printer prints vertical blank lines as shown in the below picture, it may be due to a dirty or defective Printhead. See the
table below for possible causes and solutions.

Cause
The Printhead is dirty.

Corrective Action

after cleaning the
Printhead.

Contact an authorized POSTEK service provider for technical support.

Printer Timeout Error Message

Execute following corrective actions:

1. Check the interface cable for proper connection.

2. Ensure the Q8 printer is powered on.

If the trouble still exists, please contact an authorized POSTEK service provider for technical support.

Data Sent but Not Printing

1. Ensure the correct driver is chosen in the label software.

2. Reset the Q8 printer.

If the trouble still exists, please contact an authorized POSTEK service provider for technical support.

Poor Printing Quality

When experiencing poor print quality, check the following:

1. Adjust print darkness setting value.

2. Adjust print speed setting value.

3. Clean the Printhead and the platen roller.

4. Poor quality printing may be caused from using a low quality ribbon. Change to higher quality ribbon.

5. Poor quality printing may be caused from using low quality media. Change to higher quality media.

31

Chapter 5: Troubleshooting Q8 Series User’s Manual

Recovery

After the miscellaneous has been cleared, press the CANCEL button to clear the alarm or restart the printer to resume
the printing automatically.

Note: For errors not listed here, please contact an authorized POSTEK Service Provider for further assistance.

32

Appendix A: IO Interface Specifications Q8 Series User’s Manual

Pin

Direction

Definition

2

Out

TX

3

In

RX

4

In

CTS

5 - Ground

6

Out

RTS

7

In

DSR

8

Out

DTR

9 / /

Host 25S

Printer 9S

Host 9S

Printer 9S

TX 2

3 RX

RX 2

2 TX

RX 3

2 TX

TX 3

3 RX

DSR 6

8 DTR

DTR 4

7 DSR

DTR 20

7 DSR

DSR 6

8 DTR

RTS 4

4 CTS

RTS 7

4 CTS

CTS 5

6 RTS

CTS 8

6 RTS

GND 7

5 GND

GND 5

5 GND

Host 25S

Printer 9S

Host 9S

Printer 9S

TX 2

3 RX

RX 2

2 TX

RX 3

2 TX

TX 3

3 RX

GND 7

5 GND

GND 5

5 GND

pin 4

pin 4

pin 5

pin 6

pin 6

pin 7

pin 20

pin 8

Appendix A: IO Interface Specifications

RS232 Serial Interface

The RS232 connector on the printer is a DB9F：

1 / /

Connection with the Host:

………
………
………
………
………
………
………

Alternately, you can connect the 3 wires.

………
………
………

………
………
………
………
………
………
………

………
………
………

Baud rate: 9600, 19200, 38400, 57600 (Baud Rate set by DIP switches 7–8)

Data format: always 8 data bits, 1 start bit and 1 stop bit.

Parity: always non parity.

Flow control: RTS/CTS (Hardware flow control).
If using software or drivers under the Windows environment, the flow control must be set to “hardware”

Any communications port can transmit data from the host (RS232 and USB). Preliminary communications settings are not
required since the printer will automatically detect which port is active. Never send data from 2 ports at the same time. Data
cannot be sent to more than one port simultaneously, otherwise, data corruption and print errors may occur.

33

Appendix B: ASCII Table Q8 Series User’s Manual

0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7

0

NUL

0 @ P ` p 1 SOH

XON ! 1 A Q a q

STX

“ 2 B R b r

3

XOFF # 3 C S c s

4

$ 4 D T d

t 5

NAK % 5 E U e u

6

ACK & 6 F V f

v

7

BEL

7 G W g w

8

BS ( 8 H X h

x 9 ) 9 I Y i

y

A

LF * : J Z j

z

B

ESC + ; K [ k { C FF , < L \ l

|

D

CR - = M ] m

}

E

SO

RS . > N ^ n ~

F

SI

US / ? O _ o DEL

Appendix B: ASCII T able

2

‘

Remark: The € sign is included in the embedded table at DEC128 (HEX 80).

34

50.0409.011

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www.postektechnologies.com
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