041116-511441
User's Manual
© 2016 All rights reserved
Notices: The information in this document is subject to change without notice. NO WARRANTY OF
ANY KIND IS MADE WITH REGARD TO THIS MATERIAL, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO,
THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR
PURPOSE. No liability is assumed for errors contained herein or for incidental or consequential
damages in connection with the furnishing, performance, or use of this material. This document
contains proprietary information that is protected by copyright. All rights are reserved. No part of
this document may be photocopied, reproduced, or translated into another language without prior
written consent.
Trademark Acknowledgments: Windows is a registered trademark of Microsoft Corporation.
All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.
Printing History
Edition 1.0, #041116, Copyright 2016 All rights reserved.
FCC Compliance Statement: 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.
For Users in the United States: This product is intended to be supplied by a UL listed Direct Plug-In
Power Supply marked "Class 2"or a UL listed ITE Power Supply marked "LPS" with output rated
12VDC, 4.5A or higher. 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. In a domestic environment this product
may cause radio interference, in which case the user may be required to take adequate measures. This
equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in
accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However,
there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does
cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the
equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the
following measures:
•
Re-orient or relocate the receiving antenna.
• Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver
is connected.
•
Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
Use of shielded cables is required to comply with the Class B limits of Part 15 of the FCC Rules.
You are cautioned that any changes or modifications not expressly approved in this manual could
void your authority to operate and/or obtain warranty service for this equipment.
For Users in Canada: This digital apparatus does not exceed the Class B limits for radio noise for
digital apparatus set out on the Radio Interference Regulations of the Canadian Department of
Communications. Le present appareil numerique n'emet pas de bruits radioelectriques depassant
les limites applicables aux appareils numeriques de la class A prescrites dans le Reglement sur le
brouillage radioelectrique edicte par le ministere des Communications du Canada.
CAUTION!
TO PREVENT FIRE OR SHOCK HAZARD, DO NOT EXPOSE THE UNIT TO RAIN OR
MOISTURE. TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT REMOVE EXTERIOR
PANELS. NO USER-SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE. REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED
SERVICE PERSONNEL. OPERATE THE UNIT WITH ONLY THE PROPER ELECTRICAL
SPECIFICATIONS AS LABELED ON THE PRINTER AND AC ADAPTER.
CAUTION!
THIS PRODUCT CONTAINS A LASER DIODE OF A HIGHER CLASS THAN 1. TO ENSURE
CONTINUED SAFETY, DO NOT REMOVE ANY COVERS OR ATTEMPT TO GAIN ACCESS TO
THE INSIDE OF THIS PRODUCT. REFER ALL SERVICING TO QUALIFIED PERSONNEL. THE
FOLLOWING LABEL APPEARS INSIDE YOUR UNIT:
CLASS 1 LASER PRODUCT LASER KLASSE 1
CAUTION!
USE OF CONTROLS OR ADJUSTMENTS OR PERFORMANCE OF PROCEDURES OTHER
THAN THOSE SPECIFIED HEREIN MAY RESULT IN HAZARDOUS RADIATION.
ii
Table of Contents
Section 1: Getting Started ...............................................................................1
A. Choosing a Good Location ................................................................1
B. Unpacking and Inspection ................................................................ 2
C. Identifying the Parts ...........................................................................3
Section 2: Hardware and Software Setup
A. Installing Label Stock .........................................................................5
B. Adjusting the Stock Gap Sensor Position ........................................7
C. Using Fan-fold Label Stock .............................................................10
D. Installing the Ink Cartridge .............................................................10
E. Aligning the Ink Cartridge ..............................................................13
Section 3: Using the Status Monitor
A. Monitoring Ink Levels .....................................................................15
B. Set the Stock Sensor Mode .............................................................. 16
C. Output or Cut Mode (LX500c Only) ..............................................17
D. Adjusting Label Offsets ...................................................................20
E. Using the Cost Estimator .................................................................22
F. Settings ...............................................................................................23
Section 4: Printing Using a PC
A. Using BarTender® ............................................................................ 24
B. Add Text, Barcodes and Graphics to BarTender Label................28
C. Printing from BarTender® ...............................................................29
D. Printer Driver Settings (PC) ............................................................ 30
E. Printing from other Programs ........................................................33
Section 5: Troubleshooting
A. Solving Offset/Alignment Problems .............................................35
B. Creating a Full Bleed Print ..............................................................38
C. Clearing a Label Jam ........................................................................ 39
D. Cleaning the Printer ......................................................................... 39
E. Cleaning the Ink Cartridge .............................................................40
F. Technical Support .............................................................................40
Section 6: Label and Roll Specifications
Section 7: Technical Specifications
Index
................................................................................................................. 45
....................................................................24
...........................................................................35
................................................... 5
..........................................................14
................................................... 41
............................................................. 44
iii
iv
Section 1: Getting Started
THANK YOU…
...for choosing an LX500 Color Label Printer. The LX500 Printer
will print razor-sharp text and barcodes, vibrant colors, and
even stunning photo-realistic photographs directly onto rolls
of labels, card stock and fan-fold stock.
This User's Manual is your complete step-by-step guide to
quickly and easily setting up and printing with your new Color
Label Printer!
A. CHOOSING A GOOD LOCATION
• Place the printer on a flat surface in a location with
adequate air circulation to prevent internal heat build up.
Do not place the printer near heat sources such as radiators
•
or air ducts, or in a place subject to direct sunlight,
excessive dust, mechanical vibration or shock.
Allow for adequate clearance in front of the printer to
•
accommodate the printed label stock as it is leaving the
printer to avoid the possibility of binding or jamming of
the label stock.
Allow for adequate overhead clearance for opening the
•
top cover to allow easy access to the label stock and ink
cartridge.
Getting Started 1
B. UNPACKING AND INSPECTION
While unpacking your printer, inspect the carton to ensure
that no damage has occurred during shipping. Make sure
that all supplied accessories are included with your unit. The
following items should be included:
• Printer
• Power Adapter
• Separate Power Cord
• 6' USB Cable (If other USB cable is used, it must be 6'
(2 M) or less.)
Software Installer CD
•
• Color Ink Cartridge
• Starter roll of high gloss label stock
• Warranty Statement and Registration Card
• This manual and other printed information
Save the carton and packing materials. They will come in handy when
transporting the printer.
2 Getting Started
C. IDENTIFYING THE PARTS
This illustration shows the front of the printer with its control
buttons and LED indicator lights.
Power LED
Ink Low LED
Label Tear Bar
The Ink Low LED will illuminate when a cartridge has 10% or
less of its ink remaining.
The Power LED indicates that the printer is on and ready to
receive print jobs.
The Ink Button moves the carriage to the center to allow for
loading of the ink cartridge. Once the cartridge is loaded,
press the ink button again.
The Load/Feed Button is pressed in order to load label stock or
form feed the label stock through the printer.
The Unload Button will unload the installed label stock by
reversing it through the printer. Make sure to tear off the
printed labels before pressing the Unload Button.
The Label Tear Bar is a serrated edge for conveniently tearing
your finished labels from the printer.
Label Stock TOF
Sensor Bar
Top Cover
Ink Button
Load/Feed Button
Unload Button
Getting Started 3
This illustration shows the input ports and power switch found
on the rear panel of the printer.
Fan-fold Label Slot
USB PortPower Switch Power Input Port
4 Getting Started
Section 2: Hardware and Software
Setup
A. INSTALLING LABEL STOCK
Your printer will utilize a wide variety of paper label stock.
As long as the label stock is paper and can receive ink jet
printing and is within the
allotted size, it will work in
the printer. Primera carries
a large variety of paper
label stock that has been
converted and ready for
use with your printer.
1. Open the Top Cover.
2. Pull the spring loaded
label stock guide out
far enough to fit the
label stock.
3. Remove any shipping tape from your label stock roll to
ensure that it can unroll freely, making certain that no
adhesive portion is exposed. It is important to note that
any exposed adhesive surface can attach itself to the inner
workings of the print mechanism and cause a media jam.
Note: If you are using fan-fold label stock or label stock other than standard
square / rectangular die cut labels, see Sections 2B and 2C for
additional instructions.
Label Stock Guide
Stock Guide Rollers
Hardware and Software Setup 5
4. Place the label stock between the stock guide rollers and
release the spring loaded stock guide to hold the label
stock. The stock guide rollers allow the label stock roll to
move freely.
5. Place the leading edge of the label stock between the throat
guide and the side of the printer.
Throat Guide
6. Quickly continue feeding the label stock further into the
printer until you feel resistance from the feed rollers. The
printer will sense the label and automatically feed it
through the printer. If the printer fails to feed the label
stock, press the Load/Feed button to manually engage the
feed roller while continuing to guide the label stock into
the printer.
6 Hardware and Software Setup
Tip! To ensure that the label stock is fed straight be sure to push
the label stock into the printer quickly until the entire front edge
of the stock is touching the feed roller. For wider stock use both
hands to feed the stock to maintain even forward pressure while
you are pushing the stock into the printer.
B. ADJUSTING THE LABEL STOCK GAP SENSOR
POSITION
The stock gap sensor (TOF Sensor) "sees" the gap between label
stock by shining light from the top of the label and attempting
to read that light from a sensor on the bottom. By default, this
sensor is set to read the gap .5" from the left side of the label
stock. If the gap in your label stock intersects with gap
position as shown on the slide bar you do not need to adjust
this and you can skip this section. This does not need to be
adjusted for most label stock.
Gap between
Labels
Intersection Point
Gap Sensor
Position
0.5
1.0
1.5
in.
12.7
25.4
mm
Power
Ink
2.0
38.1
50.8
Ink Load/Feed Unload
Hardware and Software Setup 7
If you are using label stock other than standard square /
rectangular die cut labels such as circular die-cut labels or
through-hole stock use the instructions below to adjust the
label stock TOF sensor.
in.
0.5
mm
12.7
Gap Sensor Slide Bar
1.0 1.5
25.4 38.1
Circular Labels
If you are using Circular Labels you must adjust the Stock Gap
sensor to correspond with the very top of the label where the
circles are closest together. If the sensor is too far to the right
or the left the printer will still sense the label but the image
may be offset downward because the printer will start printing
at the wrong position. If you are using stock that has multiple
labels across make sure the sensor corresponds to a place on
the stock that has a label and not a vertical gap.
The Sensor Bar has a guide in inches and millimeters that will
help you identify where to set the bar to align the sensor over
any identifying mark or top of a circular shape. To do this,
measure the distance from the edge of the label stock to
the correct position on the stock. Set the sensor bar to this
measurement. For example, if you have a two inch circular
die-cut label, measure from the edge of the label stock to the
center of the circle. For this example it should be about
1 1/8 inches. Set the Sensor Bar to this value.
2.0
50.8
8 Hardware and Software Setup
1/2”
Center
of Circle
1 1/8”
Center
of Hole
Through-Hole LabelsCircular Labels
Through Hole Labels
If you are using card stock or label stock that has a hole punch
or a notch to identify a transition from backing to label, you
can adjust the Sensor Bar to position it over the identifying
mark.
To adjust the sensor position use a pen to move the slide bar to
the correct postion.
Hardware and Software Setup 9
C. USING FAN-FOLD LABEL STOCK
It is possible to use fan-fold label stock by feeding it through
the fan-fold slot in the the back of the printer.
Before feeding the fan-fold stock through the back of the
printer, lock the stock guide in the out position so the stock
guide rollers will
not interfere with
the label stock.
The stock guide
is spring loaded
and under
normal
Stock Guide
circumstances it
will pinch any
label stock roll
inserted into the
printer.
To lock the stock
guide push the
tab located on the
bottom of the
moveable stock
guide to the out/
locked position.
Unlocked
Locked
D. INSTALLING THE INK CARTRIDGE
When the cartridge reaches 10% remaining you will be
prompted via the Status Monitor to replace the cartridge. If
quality still looks acceptable you can choose to ignore this
warning. However, you may waste labels if the cartridge runs
out of ink before the next warning at 0%. If you choose to
replace the cartridges follow the procedure below.
After installing a new cartridge, you may choose to run an
alignment print to achieve maximum quality. However, this
will require cancelling the print job. If you would like to enable
smooth transitions between ink cartridge changes, you may
choose to disable alignment print warnings. (See the next
section).
10 Hardware and Software Setup
1. Open the Top Cover of the printer.
2. Press the Ink Button on the printer.
Power
Ink
Ink Load/Feed Unload
3. The Cartridge Carrier will align itself to the center of the
print area.
4. Press the Cartridge Cover Release to open the Cartridge
Holder. Remove the cartridge (if installed).
5. Remove the new Cartridge from its packaging. Be sure to
remove the protective tape covering the copper contacts.
Remove tape
6. Replace/install the cartridge copper end first.
Hardware and Software Setup 11
7. Push cartridge cover downward until it snaps in place.
Note: Ink Cartridge Levels are estimates based on analysis of the printed
images by the driver during spooling. This analysis estimates the
number of ink droplets(spits) required to print the image and
subtracts that amount from the total amount in the cartridge. It
displays the total remaining spits as a percentage. In other words,
there is no real time sensor that shows the actual amount of ink in the
cartridge.
8. Press the Ink button on the printer to indicate the new
cartridge is now installed. You will be prompted to align
the cartridge. A warning will appear stating that you must
have installed label stock that is equal to or larger than 4" x
2" (101.6 mm x 50.8 mm). If your label stock meets this
requirement click OK to align the cartridge. If your stock
does not meet this size requirement see the next section
before clicking OK.
Power
Ink
12 Hardware and Software Setup
Ink Load/Feed Unload
E. ALIGNING THE INK CARTRIDGE
Cartridge alignment will align the Color Cartridge for
bidirectional printing and calibrate the printer to each
individual cartridge. You will automatically be prompted to
perform this alignment each time you install a new cartridge.
You may also manually align the cartridge via the status
monitor.
For Alignment you will need to have installed label stock that
is equal to or larger than 4" x 2" (101.6 mm x 50.8 mm). If your
stock does not meet this requirement you can use the sample
roll that came with the printer for this purpose. You may also
choose to disable alignment via the settings area of the status
monitor.
Disable Alignment: If you would like to enable smooth
transitions between ink cartridge changes, you may choose to
disable alignment print warnings. Alignment improves print
quality if Bidirectional printing is enabled. It is not necessary
if Bidirectional printing is disabled via the printer driver.
You can disable alignment via the status monitor.
1. Open the status monitor.
2. Select the settings tab (fifth tab).
3. Uncheck "Require cartridge alignment for best quality."
Hardware and Software Setup 13
Section 3: Using the Status Monitor
The Status Monitor is used to interact with the printer for
gathering ink levels, maintenance, alignment, cost calculation
and several other functions.
It automatically installs with your printer driver and can be
accessed through the printer driver preferences or as a
program on your Windows start menu.
1. Connect the printer via USB and turn on the power. The
Status Monitor accesses most of the information it uses
from the printer itself so the printer must be turned on and
communicating for the program to open.
2. Go to Start - Programs - Primera Technology - LX500 Status
Monitor. The Status Monitor consists of five tabs that are
arranged on the left side of the window. Each tab opens a
screen that has various similar functions. The tabs will
only be displayed if the printer is idle (not printing).
Ink Tab (First Tab). Displays ink levels, and a print
•
counter.
• Cartridge Settings Tab (Second Tab). Aligns Print
Head, Cleans Print Head and Changes the Cartridges.
Alignment Tab (Third Tab). Adjusts vertical and
•
horizontal print alignment, Changes the Stock Sensor
Mode and toggles the Output/Cut Mode.
14 Using the Status Monitor
• Cost Tab (Fourth Tab). Calculates cost per label based
on last label printed.
The Settings Tab (Fifth Tab). Adjusts language settings,
•
automatic updates, Print alignment settings, see
version numbers and generate log files.
A. MONITORING INK LEVELS
Ink levels can be monitored at any time by using the Status
Monitor. Immediately after printing starts the Status Monitor
will open and display the ink levels.
The print status will also be displayed on the top bar. If a print
job is currently printing you may click the cancel button on this
screen to stop it.
Note: Ink Cartridge Levels are estimates based on analysis of the printed
images by the driver during spooling. This analysis estimates the
number of ink droplets(spits) required to print the image and
subtracts that amount from the total amount in the cartridge. It
displays the total remaining spits as a percentage. In other words,
there is no real time sensor that shows the actual amount of ink in the
cartridge.
Using the Status Monitor 15
B. SET THE STOCK SENSOR MODE
The stock sensor mode refers to the method the printer will use
to detect the print starting position for each label. To adjust the
stock sensor mode, open the Status Monitor. The LX500 Status
Monitor automatically installs with your printer driver and can
be accessed through the printer driver or as program that is
accessible in the same manner as all other programs.
Important Note: Set the Stock Sensor Mode BEFORE loading label stock!
1. Connect the printer via USB and turn on the power. The
Stock Sensor Mode setting is stored on the printer main
board so you will not be able to access it unless the printer
is turned on and properly communicating with the
computer.
2. Go to Start - Programs - Primera Technology - The LX500
Status Monitor.
3. Click on the Alignment Tab (3rd tab from top).
4. Click on the Stock Sensor Mode button.
5. Select the Stock Sensor Mode by clicking on the graphic
that most closely corresponds to the stock you intend to
install.
16 Using the Status Monitor
There are three sensor modes:
Die Cut (Default). If you are using standard die-cut labels that
look similar to the graphic, use this setting regardless of the
size of the label. Also, use this setting for Through-hole label
material where a hole is punched through each label or a notch
is cut in the side.
Reflective. Use Reflective for label material where a black
pre-printed line (black mark) on the back of the label stock
indicates the break between labels. Black marks are required
on clear label stock rolls, or labels where the label waste matrix
(waste) is left on the liner. Black marks can also be used for
irregular shaped labels, circles larger than 4.6 inches or on any
stock where the print starting position can not be sensed using
the label itself.
Continuous. (Sensor off) If you have continuous stock with no
die-cut, reflective mark or holes, set the sensor type to
Continuous. This will turn off the stock sensor. In this mode
there is no way to set the print starting position. The printer
will simply start printing the first label and print each
subsequent label immediately after that previous one. To
produce a gap between prints simply add the desired amount
of white space to the end of the label being printed.
Important Note: You must also set the Stock Gap Sensor Position (Section
2B) so that the sensor is sensing the correct point on the label stock.
C. OUTPUT OR CUT MODE
Use the Output/Cut Mode to adjust how the printer presents
labels after they are printed or if/when they are cut after
printing. To adjust the Output/Cut Mode, open the Status
Monitor.
1. Connect the printer via USB and turn on the power. The
Output/Cut Mode Setting is stored on the printer main
board so you will not be able to access it unless the printer
is turned on and properly communicating with the computer.
2. Go to Start - Programs - Primera Technology - LX500 Status
Monitor.
3. Click on the Alignment Tab (3rd tab from top).
4. Click on the Output/Cut Mode button.
Using the Status Monitor 17
There are different options available which change depending
on whether you have the LX500 or the LX500c (Integrated
cutter version). If the LX500 is connected the label present
options will be available. If the LX500c is connected the present
options are are no longer available but cut options become
available.
Present Options:
Do not present. In this mode the label stock does not move
after the last label is printed. This means that part of the last
label printed is still in the printer. This should be used only if
you have a label rewinder attached.
Present after no activity. This setting will present at the end of
a print job if the printer does not receive another print job
within one second of the last print job in the queue. You can
use this feature to present at the end of multi-copy job, multipage job or multiple individual jobs in queue.
Present after button press. This setting will present after you
press the Load/Feed button on the printer. This can be used
after one label or an entire job.
Present after every label. This setting will cause the printer to
feed the last label printed forward so that it and the previously
printed labels can be torn off using the tear bar. If no other
jobs are sent to the printer within one second after the last label
has printed, the last printed label will present for tear off.
Present after specified number of labels. This option will
present after the number of labels specified in the "Present
After___ Labels" setting. Change the value and then click "Set"
to send it to the printer.
18 Using the Status Monitor
Cutter Options:
Do not cut. The label stays at the same position after printing.
Cut after no activity. This setting will cut at the end of a print
job if the printer does not receive another print job within one
second of the last print job in the queue. You can use this
feature to cut at the end of a multi-copy job, multi-page job or
multiple individual jobs in the queue.
Cut after button press. This setting will cut after you press the
Load/Feed button on the printer. This can be used after one
label or an entire job. This feature is useful if you will not be
present at the end of the print to catch the cut label.
Cut every label. This setting will cut after every label.
Cut after specified number of labels. This option will cut
after the number of labels specified in the "Cut After___ Labels"
setting above. Change the value and then click "Set" to send it
to the printer.
Using the Status Monitor 19
D. ADJUSTING LABEL OFFSETS
The label offsets tab (third tab) will allow you to adjust the
vertical and horizontal printing position of the label. If you see
white on your label edges use this section to adjust the printing
position.
If your previous experience with printing is limited to printing
letters and cards to 8.5 inch by 11 inch paper you probably are
not familiar with an essential part of a label printing - Print
Offsets or Alignment. Standard printers feed a sheet and start
printing based on the start of the sheet. They also prohibit
printing to the edge of the sheet. This is to avoid any need for
adjusting offsets. The LX500 senses the beginning of the label
with an optical sensor and is capable of printing to top,
bottom, left and right edge. Because of this it is necessary to
align the printer to work with specific types of label stock.
The LX500 comes factory calibrated to print exactly to the edge
of Primera label stock. However, due to variations in the left
margins and other variables it may be necessary to fine tune
these settings at the beginning of each roll. This is especially
true for other non-Primera brand label stock.
Important Note: Before adjusting alignment settings first print one label at
the quality level you intend for the entire job. This will ensure the
label stock is moving at the same speed and the stock sensor will
sense the gap in the same way.
Adjust print alignment using the Status Monitor. Go to the
Alignment Tab (third tab).
20 Using the Status Monitor
Three items can be adjusted here:
• Tear off Position. This value adjusts the position of the
last label printed after it has been presented for tear off.
This only applies if the output mode is set to "Present the
label." Add to the current value to move the tear point
closer to the printer. Subtract from the current value to
move the tear point away from the printer. After adjusting
the value click the "Set" button to send the value to the
printer.
Left Margin Offset. This value moves the printed label
•
left or right. Add to the current value to move the printed
label to the right. Subtract from the current value to move
the printed label to the left. After adjusting the value, click
the “Set” button to send the value to the printer.
Note: Before adjusting this value make sure the label stock is properly load-
ed so that there is no gap between the edge of the liner and the fixed
throat guide. Any gap at this point will greatly affect the Left margin offset value needed to align the label. Also, if you adjust the
value with improperly loaded label stock you will have to adjust it
again if you load the label stock correctly the next time.
Top of Form (TOF). This value moves the print start
•
position up or down on the label. Add to the current value
to move the printed label down or toward the printer.
Subtract from the current value to move the printed label
up or away from the printer. After adjusting the value
click the “Set” button to send the value to the printer.
You may have to make
several adjustments to one or
more of these values. After
each adjustment you can
click the Test button to print
a small test pattern on the
label. This will help you find
the proper alignment value.
Using the Status Monitor 21
E. USING THE COST ESTIMATOR
The cost estimator is found on the fourth tab of the Status
Monitor. The Status Monitor automatically opens as soon as
you begin printing. However, you can also access it at any time
as long as the printer is turned on and communicating by going
to Start - Programs - Primera Technology - LX500 Status
Monitor.
Ink cost is automatically and continuously calculated based
on the black and color cartridge costs entered. Only the last
printed label cost is displayed.
• Adjust the cartridge costs according to the actual price paid
for them. The estimate does not take currency into account
so you can assume that whatever value you entered is
displayed in your currency.
• Save a screen capture of the cost by clicking the disk icon.
• Print a screen capture of the cost by clicking the printer
icon.
Important Note: The cost per label represents the average cost per label over
an entire run of labels. This means that the per label cost will
decrease and become more accurate as the number of labels printed
increases. This is because ink used for cartridge maintenance is
divided into a larger number of labels.
22 Using the Status Monitor
F. SETTINGS
The status monitor settings tab (fifth tab) allows you to adjust
various advanced settings.
Software Versions. The Status monitor, driver version and
printer Firmware version are displayed on the top of this tab.
Cartridge Alignment. Check the "Require cartridge alignment"
option to maintain the highest possible print quality when
printing in bidirectional mode. It is not necessary to align
cartridges if Bidirectional printing is disabled via the printer
driver preferences (See section 4D). If you would like to enable
smooth transitions between ink cartridges changes, you may
choose to uncheck this setting. If the setting is checked, you
will be required to cancel the print job and run an alignment
print every time you change a cartridge.
Language. Choose the display language of the LX500 Status
Monitor by using the drop down menu on this tab.
Log Files. Click Save Log files to save a zip file with all
relevant log files to your desktop. Tech Support may request
this information during troubleshooting.
Software Updates. The status monitor is set by default to
automatically check for updates once per day. This interval can
be changed. If it finds an update it will prompt you to apply
the update. The update may be for the driver, status monitor
or printer firmware. You may also choose to check for Beta
updates.
Using the Status Monitor 23
Section 4: Printing Using a PC
A. USING BARTENDER®
Primera Special Edition BarTender UltraLite is included with
the printer. Other programs can be used to print. If printing
from other programs please follow the guidelines in Section
3D.
When you open BarTender you will be given the choice to
select an existing label or create a new one using a wizard.
Use the following instructions as a general guide for standard
labels.
1. Choose "Start a new BarTender document..."
24 Printing Using a PC
2. Select "Blank Template". Click "Next".
3. Select "Color Label 500". Click "Next".
4. Select "Specify Custom Settings". Click "Next".
Printing Using a PC 25
5. Set the page size, width and height to match labels
installed in the printer. Click "Next".
6. Check the "Picture" box to add a background photo or
graphic to your label. Click "Next". If you click "Finish",
the remaining default wizard options will be set and no
picture will be added.
26 Printing Using a PC
7. Select "Embedded Picture". Click the "File" Button to
browse to the location of your photo/graphic file. Set the
Size Method to "Stretch". Note the preview to the right.
Click "Next" if you are satisfied with the layout of the
photo or graphic.
8. Review the label setup summary. If it is correct, click
"Finish". Your blank label will be displayed.
After you click Finish, you can always go back and change any
of these settings, by going to the File Menu and selecting "Page
Setup". Basic and advanced settings are available on the
various tabs.
Printing Using a PC 27
B. ADD TEXT, BARCODES AND GRAPHICS TO A
BARTENDER LABEL
Once you have created your label size you will need to add
text, a barcode and/or graphics. This can be done using one of
the buttons on the button bar at the top of the screen.
Add Text. Click the Text button.
Now click anywhere on your label.
"Sample Text" will appear. Edit the
text on screen or double click it to
open up text settings to change
font, size and other settings.
Add Barcode. Click the Barcode
button. Now click anywhere on
your label. A barcode settings
window will appear. Here you can
choose any type of barcode and
enter the value.
Add Graphic. Click the
Image button. Now click anywhere on your label. An Image
icon will appear. Double-click it
to open up image settings and
browse to the image/graphic
that you would like to insert.
Print. Click the Print button to
start printing.
Page Setup. Click the Page Setup
button to change your label size,
adjust corner radius or change the
shape.
Lines. Click the Line button to
add a horizontal or vertical line.
Tip! Double-click any object to open settings for that object.
Tip! Go to the Help menu to access the BarTender Manual and Tutorials.
28 Printing Using a PC
C. PRINTING FROM BARTENDER
1. To print, click the Print button or go to the File
Menu and select "Print". The Print Dialog window will
appear.
2. Select the Color Label 500.
3. Set the number of copies.
4. Click "Document Properties" to adjust print quality
settings. These settings are explained in the next section.
5. Click "Print".
Printing Using a PC 29
D. PRINTER DRIVER SETTINGS (PC)
Settings changed via the method below will apply to all new
designs created in BarTender or other programs after the preferences were changed. Existing labels saved in BarTender will
not be affected since the preferences are saved with the label.
To change these preferences you will have to change printer
preferences through BarTender before printing by clicking the
"Document Properties" button.
To find Driver Settings:
Click the Start button, choose Printers and Faxes. Right-click
on the Color Label 500 Icon and select Printing Preferences
from the drop-down menu.
The preferences screen will appear.
30 Printing Using a PC
NOTE on PC Settings:
Most applications allow you to change these same printer driver
options from their "Print" screens. Some applications such as
BarTender save your settings with the label, others use settings only
for the current print job just sent to the printer.
Paper Size
If you are using BarTender, this setting is adjusted during the
label setup wizard. If you are using a program other than
BarTender you will need to set this to the dimensions of your
label. Keep in mind that the dimensions are always relative to
the width and height of the actual label in the printer.
Orientation of an image on the label should not change this
setting. See Section 6 for minimum and maximum label sizes.
Orientation
There are two settings for orientation, Portrait and Landscape.
If your text and graphics print left to right or as shown on the
screen, select portrait. If you wish your printing to rotate 90
degrees from what you see on the screen so it is printing
horizontally, select landscape as your orientation. Remember,
this does not change the width and height in the Paper Size
setting. It is only a tool for viewing a label upright on screen
that will be printed sideways on the printer.
Portrait Landscape
Printing Using a PC 31
Print Quality
There are 4 levels of print quality in the driver. The lower the
Quality, the faster the print. Quality 1 provides the fastest
print available while Quality 4 provides the best quality. It is
recommended that you experiment with the different levels
when designing your label to find a good balance between
print quality and print speed.
Color Matching
Best for Graphics mode is best used for graphical images
where accurate color reproduction is not as essential. Images
printed in this mode will look more vibrant because more ink
is being used to produce them. However, printing images of
people may produce skin tones that have a reddish tint.
Best for Photos mode is best used for photographic images
where accurate color reproduction is very essential. Images
printed in this mode will look lighter than those printed in
Photo mode. Skin tones especially will look more natural in
this mode.
NOTE: Exact color matching of the printed labels to the screen may never be
possible since there are factors that affect this out of the drivers
control. The surface of the label reacts with the ink in the cartridge to
produce the color. For this reason, when printing the same image to
different types of labels with different surfaces the printed output can
look entirely different.
Ink Saturation
This option controls the amount of ink used when printing an
image. The default setting is 100%, which will provide the
most accurate color matching. If the ink is not drying fast
enough or is bleeding, you can decrease the Ink Saturation to
lessen the amount of ink that is applied to the label.
Enable Bidi (Bidirectional) Printing
Set to "Yes" for fastest print speed. Requires an alignment print
after every cartridge change. Set to "No" for better quality
print (in some cases).
32 Printing Using a PC
Launch Status Monitor
Click here to open the LX500 Status Monitor. See section 3 for
more details.
Details/Print Counter
Clicking on the Details button will allow you to view
information about printer settings stored on the printer. There
is also a print counter in the details window to help you count
the number of labels printed since the last time it was reset.
Click Reset Counter to set the counter to zero.
E. PRINTING FROM OTHER PROGRAMS
Since this printer uses a standard Windows printer driver you
can print from any application you would like. There are just a
few things to remember that will make it much easier.
1. Set the Page/Label Size in the Driver. BarTender
automatically prompts you for the size of the label that you
are using. When printing from any other program you
must do this manually. Before you print, simply set the
Paper Size just as you would set print quality in the
printing preferences. In the example below the label size is
4" x 4" so the custom page size is set to 400 x 400
(displayed in .01 inch units).
Printing Using a PC 33
2. Check the image or document size. The image size or
document size should correspond to the Page/Label Size
set in the driver. If you have set your page size n the driver
to 4" x 4" but your image is actually 5" x 3" the printer
driver will automatically shrink your image to fit inside the
4" x 4" label. The result is that the actual printed label is 4"
x 2.4". Avoid this by setting your page size in the driver
and image size in the printing application to match the
label size installed in the printer.
3. Choose the right printing program. There are many
different applications that are capable of printing to the
LX500. However there are only a few that are ideal
printing applications. For example, Adobe Illustrator is
an excellent design program but is not always the best
printing program. It can be difficult to find the printing
preferences or to know the exact size of the art board. It is
best to save as a PDF file and print from Adobe Reader or
export as a 300 dpi JPG and print from BarTender.
34 Printing Using a PC
Section 5: Troubleshooting
A. SOLVING OFFSET/ALIGNMENT PROBLEMS
Image is Vertically Offset
(White space can be seen on the top or bottom of the label)
The LX500 decides where to start printing by detecting the
start of a die-cut label, detecting a black mark on the back or
detecting a thru-hole that corresponds to the start of the label.
The following items can cause the label sensor to improperly
detect the start of a label:
1. TOF Offset. TOF stands for Top of Form and this setting
allows you to fine tune the alignment of your printing on
your label stock. This will be factory calibrated. If fine
tuning is needed, increase this setting to move the image
down on the label; decrease this setting to move the image
up on the label. The unit of measure is 0.1mm. To access
open the Status monitor and click on the Label Offsets Tab
(third tab).
Troubleshooting 35
2. Nonstandard / Non-translucent Backing Material. Test
the unit with the label sample material that came with the
unit. If it prints correctly, your label stock may not be
compatible. The label sensor needs to see the difference
between a label and a backing material by seeing through
the label stock for light variations. If it can not see through
the label, problems will arise. If you must use this type of
backing, try label stock that has a black mark on the back
to show where the label begins. You will need to change
the Sensor Type setting in the driver preferences to
Reflective if you switch to a label with a black mark on the
back.
3. Improper Label Gap Distance. See Section 6 for label
specifications.
4. Page Size is Bigger than Label Stock Size. If the page size
set in the driver is larger than the actual label stock, ink
will be printed on the gaps and the sensor will start
looking for a gap too late. This can cause label skipping
or inconsistent print starting points.
5. Portrait / Landscape. If the Portrait / Landscape setting
does not correspond to the label stock installed this will
also cause the printer to print over the gap and onto the
next label. Make sure this is set correctly.
6. Sensor Position. Circular, nonstandard label shapes or
multiple labels across will require precise adjustment of
the label sensor. If you are using circular or other non
rectangular die-cut labels see Section 2B for instructions.
The image is printing horizontally offset
(White space is seen on the left or right side of the label)
Two printer driver settings can affect this issue.
Left Margin Offset. This adjustment is found in the Status
Monitor. If you see white space on the right side of the label
and overlap on the opposite side, increase the number. If you
see white space on the left side of the label and overlap on the
opposite side decrease the number (Negative numbers are
allowed).
36 Troubleshooting
Note: Usually a space on the right side indicates a margin around the label
that is not being accounted for. The printer is factory calibrated for a
2mm margin. A larger margin around the label will cause a right
side space.
Page Size. Often the page size is not large enough for the
label. If this is the case you may see white space on the right
side of the the label and no image overlap on the opposite side.
This indicates that the page size needs to be increased.
Increase the page size through the printer preferences enough
to cover the label.
Troubleshooting 37
B. CREATING A FULL BLEED PRINT
1. If you are having trouble making the image cover the
entire label, first make sure the image is printing at least as
big as the label size you have selected. To accomplish this
using BarTender, make the image a few millimeters larger
than the label by dragging the image over the edge of the
label on all sides. The bounding box around the image
will turn red when it is over the edge of the label. Try
printing again to see if it covers the entire label. If not,
move on to step two.
2. Adjust these settings in the printer driver preferences:
Page Size. Increase the page size width in the driver
preferences by .05 inches. Increase the height by .05
inches. If you are using BarTender, simply change the size
under the File Menu - Label Setup. Increase the size of the
image to fit the new larger page size. If you are using
other graphics programs you will need to change the page
size in the application and in the printer driver
preferences.
Left Margin Offset. Decrease the Left margin offset by
half the increase of the page size width. In this case you
would decrease the value by 6 (which corresponds to .025
inches). This will center the page size increase so there is a
.025 inch over bleed on both left and right sides.
TOF. Increase the Top of form by 6. This will cause the
printer to start printing before the label and ensure a fully
printed label.
Note: It is best to over bleed as little as possible to avoid excess ink on the
label backing. Also, over bleeding too much will cause the printer to
skip labels. This is because the printer stops printing too late to sense
the next label.
38 Troubleshooting
C. CLEARING A LABEL JAM
If there is a label jam in the printer mechanism first attempt to
remove the jam by opening the cover and removing the jam
from the printer feed output area.
If the jam can not be located, it is possible to remove a cover
over the feed input area. Pull on the center of the cover as
shown below to release the tabs on the sides.
To prevent future jams, use rubbing alcohol to remove any
adhesive left in the printer feed area.
D. CLEANING THE PRINTER
The case of the printer can be cleaned with an ammonia based
window cleaner and a lint-free cloth.
Over time, ink overspray may gather at the base of the printer.
The printer is designed using a vacuum system to gather most
of this ink on a series of saturation pads. Eventually, these
pads may need to be replaced. Contact tech support to
determine if pad replacement is necessary.
PULL
Troubleshooting 39
E. CLEANING THE INK CARTRIDGE
It may be necessary to clean the ink cartridge nozzles if you
notice reduced print quality, or if you suspect a cartridge
nozzle has become slightly dried out or clogged. If you are
having print quality problems, follow the steps below:
1. Remove the print cartridge.
2. Moisten a lint-free cloth with water.
3. Hold the cloth against the nozzles for three seconds. This
will “wick” some additional ink
onto the damp cloth.
4. Wipe in one direction only.
5. Repeat the process.
F. TECHNICAL SUPPORT
If you have difficulties operating your Printer, contact technical
support using one of the methods listed below.
Source Location
Primera Knowledge Base www.primera.com/kb
BarTender Software Help files Open the software. Click on the Help
Menu - BarTender Help
Email Support www.primera.com/contact_tech_support.cfm
Phone Support 763-475-6669 (Mon - Fri 8 a.m. - 6 p.m CST)
Chat http://www.primera.com/contact_tech_
support.php (Mon - Fri 8 a.m. - 6 p.m CST)
40 Troubleshooting
Section 6: Label and Roll
Label Width
Liner Width
Distance from
edge of Media
to edge of Label
Width of Opening
Black Mark
Width
Gap Between
Labels
Label Height
Distance from
edge of Media
Label Sensing Methods
Method 1: Label
Gap Sensing
Method 2: Width of
thru-hole opening
Sensing
Method 3: Reective/Black
Mark Sensing
(Black Mark must be printed
on back side of label stock)
Specifications
Important! Test all custom made label stock with the intended printer before
ordering large quantities! Primera will only assume responsibility for
custom label stock ordered from Primera.
Label and Roll Specifications 41
Max Min
Label/Print width 4.25" (108mm) 0.75" (19mm)
Liner width 4.25" (108mm) 1" (25.4mm)
Label height/length 24" (609.6mm) 0.75" (19mm)
Gap between labels 0.75" (19mm) 0.10" (2.5mm)
Width of thru-hole opening 0.5" (12.7mm) 0.375" (9.5mm)
Distance from edge of media 1.90" (48.3mm) 0.20" (5.1mm)
to edge of thru-hole
Reflective/Black Mark Width* Equal to distance 0.10" (2.5mm)
between labels
Max Outer Diameter (OD) 5.0"(127mm) N/A
Inner Core Diameter (ID) see roll specifications below
Stock Thickness** .0010” (10 mil) N/A
Distance from edge of media to Printer driver assumes 2 mm gap.
edge of label However, this is adjustable via the
left margin offset.
* The Reflective/Black Mark should be opaque to infared light. The
mark should be between the labels. The end of the mark should
correspond with the beginning of the next label.
**This is the recommended maximum. There are two factors that
determine whether the printer will accept any particular stock thickness.
1. The ability for the printer to pull the paper through the print area.
2. The ability for the sensor to read through the backing if the sensor is
set to die-cut.
If you are printing in continuous or reflective label sensing mode
number 2 does not apply. The fact that the printer must read through
the backing in die-cut mode will limit the thickness much more than the
printer's ability to pull the paper through the print area. However, if
you adjust opacity level of the liner enough to allow the label to be seen
by the stock sensor, the thickness will only be limited by the printer's
ability to pull it through the printer area. For these reasons the weight
or thickness of the liner is a variable that can not easily be defined.
Primera recommends and uses 40# liner with all label stock.
42 Label and Roll Specifications
Roll Specifications
Label Side Out
Notes:
1.
2.
3.
4.
Roll O.D.
Label Stock
2” 5”
Core I.D.
Core O.D.
Label height <1.5” requires a 2.00” I.D. x 3.00” O.D. core.
Label height >1.5” requires a 2.00” I.D. x 2.25” O.D. core.
Turret glue or 1/2”-wide 3M 928 double-sided removable tape must be
used to attach stock to core. Removable tape must be positioned across
full width of core. Other types of tape are not allowed.
End face of liner must align with end of core on both sides within 0.030”.
(Core width should be the same as liner width.)
Masking tape or equivalent may be used to secure label stock to outside of roll.
Label and Roll Specifications 43
Section 7: Technical Specifications
Print Method: Inkjet
Print Resolutions: 4800 x 1200 dpi, 1200 x 1200 dpi, 600 x 600 dpi
Ink Cartridge: #53374 Color (CMY)
Colors: 16.7 million
Media Types: Roll-fed pressure-sensitive labels, roll-fed tags
Media Sensing: Moveable see-through sensor for die-cut
labels and reflective for tags with black
stripe sensing
Ink Level Warning: Calculates actual number of prints remaining
based upon ink usage of graphics being
printed (patent-pending)
Indicator Lights: Power, Ink
Controls: Ink, Load/Feed, Unload
Operating Systems: Windows 7/8/10, Macintosh OS X
Data Interface: USB 1.1
Minimum System: Pentium® IV computer or better, 512MB
RAM, 5GB free hard drive space,
USB 1.1/2.0 port
Label Design BarTender Ultralite Edition.
Software: Can also be used with most other popular
Windows and Macintosh label design software
programs
Electrical Rating: 12VDC, 5.0A
Power Requirements: 100-240VAC, 50/60 Hz, 60 watts
Certifications: UL, UL-C, CE, FCC Class B
Weight: 7 lbs.
Dimensions: 10.4" wide X 15.3" deep X 7.1" high (closed)
17.4" high (open)
Warranty: One year, parts and labor
44 Technical Specifications
Index
Cartridge Alignment ................................................................ 12, 23
Cleaning Ink Cartridge .................................................................. 40
High Gloss Label Stock .................................................................... 2
Ink Low LED ..................................................................................... 3
Ink Saturation .................................................................................. 32
Installing the Ink Cartridge ...........................................................10
Installing Label Stock ....................................................................... 5
Label Size ...................................................................................28, 33
Label Tear Bar .................................................................................... 3
Left Margin Offset ..............................................................21, 36, 38
Load/Feed Button ............................................................................3
Offsets ............................................................................................... 20
Orientation ....................................................................................... 31
Power LED ......................................................................................... 3
Print Counter ................................................................................... 33
Print Quality .................................................................................... 32
Printer Driver Settings ................................................................... 30
Printing .......................................................................................24, 29
Sensor Type ................................................................................ 17, 36
Roll Specifications ...........................................................................43
Tear Off Position .............................................................................. 21
TOF Offset .......................................................................................35
Troubleshooting ..............................................................................35
Unload Button ................................................................................... 3
Using BarTender ............................................................................. 24
Index 45
Printed in the United States of America
P/N 511441
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