Printekmobile FieldPro 530si Series Operator's Manual

FieldPro 530si Series

Operator’s Manual

Printek, LLC

2515 Lakeshore Drive

Saint Joseph, MI 49085-2977

269-925-3200

www.printek.com

Printek, LLC. A Company.

Part Number 7666 Rev C

FCC Part 15 Class B

This device complies with Industry Canada license-exempt RSS standard(s). Operation is subject to the following two
conditions: 1) this device may not cause interference; 2) this device must accept any interference, including
interference that may cause undesired operation of the device. Under Industry Canada regulations, this radio
transmitter may only operate using an antenna of a type and maximum (or lesser) gain approved for the transmitter
by Industry Canada. To reduce potential radio interference to other users, the antenna type and its gain should be
so chosen that the equivalent isotropically radiated power (e.i.r.p.) is not more than that necessary for successful
communication. Maximum power output plus maximum antenna gain of the EUT is: 4.5W/m2 , Limit is 10Wm2.

Le présent appareil est conforme aux CNR d'Industrie Canada applicables aux appareils radio exempts de licence.
L'exploitation est autorisée aux deux conditions suivantes : (1) l'appareil ne doit pas produire de brouillage, et (2)
l'utilisateur de l'appareil doit accepter tout brouillage radioélectrique subi, même si le brouillage est susceptible d'en
compromettre le fonctionnement. Conformément à la réglementation d'Industrie Canada, le présent émetteur radio
peut fonctionner avec une antenne d'un type et d'un gain maximal (ou inférieur) approuvé pour l'émetteur par
Industrie Canada.

Dans le but de réduire les risques de brouillage radioélectrique à l'intention des autres utilisateurs, il faut choisir le
type d'antenne et son gain de sorte que la puissance isotrope rayonnée équivalente (p.i.r.e.) ne dépasse pas
l'intensité nécessaire à l'établissement d'une communication satisfaisante. La puissance de sortie maximale plus
gain d'antenne maximal du EUT est : 4.5W/m

2

Limite est 10W/m

2

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 has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the
FCC rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential
installation. 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:

 Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
 Increase the separation between the equipment and the 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.

This equipment complies with Canadian and FCC radiation exposure limits set forth for an uncontrolled environment. This
equipment is in direct contact with the body of the user under normal operating conditions. This transmitter must not be co­located or operating in conjunction with any other antenna or transmitter.

Part 15.21 Caution: Changes or modifications not expressly approved by Printek, LLC could void the user’s authority to
operate the equipment.

Canadian Department of Communications Radio Interference Statement

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Battery Disposal

Only dispose of used batteries according to your local regulations. If you do not know your local
regulations, the Rechargeable Battery Recycling Corporation (RBRC) is a non-profit organization
created to promote recycling of rechargeable batteries. For more information visit www.rbrc.org.

Acknowledgments:
Printek is a registered trademark of Printek, LLC
Bluetooth is a registered trademark of Bluetooth SIG, Inc.

Zebra, CPCL and ZPLare registered trademarks of Zebra Technologies

Wi-Fi is a registered trademark of the Wi-Fi Alliance
Windows is a registered trademark of Microsoft Corporation
All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

© 2015 By Printek LLC, 1517 Townline Road, Benton Harbor, MI 49022. All rights reserved.

Read all set up and operating instructions before proceeding with operation. Do not operate in an enclosure unless properly

ventilated. Do not operate near a heat source.

Lesen Sie vor der Inbetriebnahme die Aufbau- und Bedienungsanleitung Betreiben Sie den Drucker nicht in einem kleinen,
geschlossenen Raum, es sei denn dieser wird ordnungsgemäß belüftet. Nehmen Sie den Drucker nicht in der Nähe einer Wärmequelle in
Betrieb

No user-serviceable parts inside. Refer service or repairs to a qualified service professional. Use of genuine Printek replacement
parts is required to warrant proper, safe operation. Any alteration or modification of this device voids the user warranty and may make the
product unsafe to operate. The print head and motors get hot during use. Wait until they cool before touching them. Make certain the printer
is disconnected from AC power before removing any covers or performing any required cleaning or maintenance. Connecting this printer
to an ungrounded receptacle can result in electrical shock. Never place the printer near inflammable or explosive substances. Do not
operate near liquid or spill liquid into the printer at any time.

Enthält keine Teile, die vom Bediener instandgesetzt werden können. Bitte wenden Sie sich bei Instandsetzung oder Reparatur an
qualifiziertes Kundendienstpersonal. Die Verwendung von echten Printek Ersatzteilen ist notwendig, um ordnungsgemäßen, sicheren
Betrieb zu gewährleisten. Änderungen oder Modifikationen dieses Geräts machen die Garantie ungültig und können den sicheren Betrieb
des Produkts gefährden. Während des Druckens werden Druckerkopf und Motoren heiß. Warten Sie, bis sich die Teile abgekühlt haben,
bevor Sie sie berühren. Vergewissern Sie sich, dass der Drucker nicht mehr an die Stromquelle angeschlossen ist, bevor Sie Abdeckungen
abnehmen oder das Gerät reinigen bzw. warten. Schließen Sie diesen Drucker nicht an eine ungeerdete Steckdose an; dies kann zum
Elektroschock führen. Setzen Sie den Drucker niemals in die Nähe von feuer- oder explosionsgefährlichen Stoffen. Betreiben Sie den
Drucker nicht in der Nähe von Flüssigkeiten und lassen Sie keine Flüssigkeiten in den Drucker gelangen.

Specifications are subject to change without notice.

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Table of Contents

Introduction.................................................................................................................................................. 2

Printer Features ........................................................................................................................................... 3

Quick Start Instructions .............................................................................................................................. 4

A. Paper Load ........................................................................................................................................ 4

B. 9 Pin D-Connector Pin Out ................................................................................................................ 5

C. Power On ........................................................................................................................................... 5

D. Control Panel ..................................................................................................................................... 5

E. Performing a Printer Self-Test ........................................................................................................... 6

Configuration ............................................................................................................................................... 7

A. Connectivity Parameters .................................................................................................................... 9

WI-FI Config: .............................................................................................................................................. 12

B. Image Parameters ........................................................................................................................... 15

C. Device Config ................................................................................................................................... 17

D. Fonts ................................................................................................................................................ 19

E. Graphics ........................................................................................................................................... 20

F. Update Printer Firmware, Upload Files to Printer Memory .............................................................. 21

G. Reset Printer Configuration to Factory Defaults (Safe Mode) ......................................................... 21

Printing Modes .......................................................................................................................................... 22

A. ASCII Based Print Jobs ................................................................................................................... 22

B. Graphic Based Print Jobs ................................................................................................................ 22

Integrating the Printer into your Business Applications ...................................................................... 23

Step by Step – Creating a Link from Host to Printer ............................................................................. 23

A. Windows Desktop Computers ......................................................................................................... 23

Print Drivers ............................................................................................................................................. 23

I. SERIAL ....................................................................................................................................... 23

II. USB ............................................................................................................................................. 23

III. Bluetooth – General .................................................................................................................... 23

IV. Bluetooth – Windows 7 and above ............................................................................................. 23

V. Wi-Fi ............................................................................................................................................ 24

B. Windows Tablets and Smartphones ................................................................................................ 25

C. Android Tablets & Smart phones ..................................................................................................... 25

I. Bluetooth ..................................................................................................................................... 25

II. Wi- Fi ........................................................................................................................................... 25

D. Apple™ Tablets & Smartphones ..................................................................................................... 25

Bluetooth ..................................................................................................................................... 25 I.

Wi-Fi ............................................................................................................................................ 25 II.

Media .......................................................................................................................................................... 26

A. Standard Media ................................................................................................................................ 26

B. Black Mark Media Position............................................................................................................... 26

Maintenance and Troubleshooting .......................................................................................................... 27

A. Cleaning ........................................................................................................................................... 27

B. Troubleshooting ............................................................................................................................... 27

General Error Conditions ............................................................................................................ 28 I.

Fault Description and Resolution ................................................................................................ 28 II.

C. Obtaining Service ............................................................................................................................. 29

APPENDIX .................................................................................................................................................. 30

A. Appendix A – FieldPro 530si Printer Specifications ........................................................................ 30

Glossary of Terms ..................................................................................................................................... 31

Index ........................................................................................................................................................... 33

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Introduction

Thank you for purchasing the Printek FieldPro 530si Series mobile thermal printer. The FP530si series
prints on special thermal media supplied in roll form up to 3.125 inches wide. All models are equipped
with a USB port which supports printer configuration. All models support an optional internal Bluetooth or
Wi-Fi interface. Complete specifications may be found in Appendix A – FieldPro 530si Printer

Specifications.

The remainder of this manual focuses on preparing the printer for initial use and performing tasks that will
be encountered during daily use.

Maintenance and Troubleshooting describes how to maintain the printer for optimal performance and has

information on how to diagnose any problems that may occur.
Printek recommends using genuine Printek supplied media and accessories. For detailed lists and

contact information, please see Appendix B – Supplies and Accessories & Appendix C – Media.

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Printer Features

Paper Door

Paper door release button

USB connector under I/O cover

Control Panel

Your FieldPro 530si features:

 Easy-to-read control face and simple drop-in paper loading

Serial I/O and Power Connector

 Quickly prints a wide variety of tickets, receipts, and labels.
 IP54 rated for water and dust resistance... plus rated for repeated 6-foot drops to concrete
 Print speeds up to 5 ips
 Extensive fonts, character sets, bar codes and graphic capabilities
 Printer configuration is quick and easy with a web based interface
 Compatible with Windows, Windows Mobile and Android
 Emulations that allow the printer to be a drop-in replacement for nearly any mobile printer

For detailed specifications reference Appendix A – FieldPro 530si Printer Specifications.

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Quick Start Instructions

A. Paper Load

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Serial Cable

Pin Color Description

2 White Receive data (from Host)
3 Red Transmit data (from Printer)
5 Black Ground

Power Cable

Pin Color Description

5 Black Ground
8 Red Power

Control Panel

Power Button

Power Up
Power Down
Toggle IP over USB
on/off

Press & Release
Press & Hold
Press twice

Paper Feed Button

Advance paper
Print Setup Report

Press once
Press twice

Power & Status

(Green/Red)

Alert

(Red)

Indication

On

On

Booting up

On

Off

Ready

On

Flashing

Paper Error/Lid Open

Flashing

Off

Job is arriving

Flashing

Off

Job is printing

Flashing

Flashing

IP over USB active

Solid, Flashes Off Every 2

Seconds

Off

Wireless Personal Area Network

active

B. 9 Pin D-Connector Pin Out

Use table to connect Power and RS232 serial communication:

C. Power On

Printer automatically turns on when power is applied.

D. Control Panel

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E. Performing a Printer Self-Test

With power on, press the paper feed button twice quickly.

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Configuration

Configuration of the FP530si printer is done through a built-in web page. This allows you to configure
the printer from any device that has a browser and is compatible with your FP530si communication
capabilities.

1. Turn the printer ON.

2. Connect a USB cable between the printer and a PC.

3. To access the FP530si web page, push the Power button twice rapidly. This will put the printer
into Configuration mode.

4. When the printer is in Configuration mode the POWER and FAULT LEDs will flash together.
a. Open browser on your PC and type 169.254.200.1 into the address bar of the browser and hit

Enter - A login box should appear:

b. Use the dropdown box to select a language other than English.
c. Type “0000” and hit Enter- you should now be at the home page for FP530si Configuration.

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5. The main configuration screen of the FP530si:

This is an overview of the printer configuration. An AC plug will appear in the battery icon when the
printer is plugged into an external power source.

To return the printer to normal operating mode, double-click the Power button. The POWER LED will
be returned to a solid light.

At the top of the Main Page are selections to access the sub-menus.

Wherever the book icon appears in the printer configuration pages, click it to access the user

manual pages for help.

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A. Connectivity Parameters

This page allows you to setup the connection to your printer. Depending on the optional interface
installed, you will see either Bluetooth Config or WI-FI Config. In the detailed descriptions, an asterisk
(*) indicates the factory default value.

RS-232 Config:

Note: these values must match the host system serial port interface.

Baud Rate:

Possible values: 9600, 19200, 38400, 57600*, 115200

Sets communication speed between the printer and host.

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Handshake:

Possible values: Disabled*, Xon/Xoff

Sets the handshaking protocol.

Parity:

Possible values: Disable*, Even, Odd

Sets the Parity bit.

End of Job Timout:

Possible values: 0.5 through 9.5 seconds at .5 intervals

Sets the time the printer will wait to receive data betore considering the print job complete.

Bluetooth Config:

Paired Mode:

Possible values: UnPaired, Paired*

This feature allows Bluetooth pairing to occur between the printer and the connecting device whenever
Pairing is required by either device. Pairing requires that the PIN on the printer and the connecting
device exactly match each other.

Discoverability:

Possible Values: Off, On*

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This feature is used to set whether the printer may be discovered by other Bluetooth devices. It should
only be set to “Off” after the printer has been discovered and paired with a host computer.

PIN:

Possible Values: 0000*, Up to 16 Numeric Characters.

Note that this feature is only available if Pairing Mode is set to “Paired”. The PIN value must exactly
match the PIN value set in the Bluetooth manager on the host computer.

Connection:
Possible Values: Printer*, Personal Area Network

This feature selects the role of the printer’s interface in the Bluetooth network.

In Printer mode, the printer behaves as a regular Bluetooth device.
In Personal Area Network mode, the printer behaves similar to a WiFi access point.

The Power LED will flash off every two seconds while in this mode.
After pairing with the printer, the host Bluetooth icon will appear different, indicating that an access point
is present.

Some hosts require an extra connect step after pairing. After connecting, the printer will issue

an IP address to the host and the host can communicate to the printer as if it were a WiFi printer. The

printer’s address to the host is always 169.254.200.1.

In the host device’s browser (if equipped) this address may be entered in the address bar to access the

printer web page.

Personal Area Network mode can also be activated outside of the printer web page.

To enter Personal Area Network mode, press and hold the Power and Paper Feed buttons until the
Power and Alert LEDs light. Release both buttons, and the printer will restart in Personal Area Network
mode. To exit Personal Area Network mode, press and hold the Power and Paper Feed buttons until
the Power and Alert LEDs light. Release both buttons, and the printer will restart in normal Bluetooth
mode.

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WI-FI Config:

Wireless Configuration

This will display the current Wi-Fi configuration:
IP Address – user defined. If Static Address Method is selected, type in the address the printer will use on the

network.

SubNetMask – user defined. If Static Address Method is selected, type in the subnet mark of the network.
GateWay – user defined. If Static Address Method is selected, type in the gateway address of the network.

WiFi Port – user defined. Type in the IP port to be used by the printer. (default value = 8023)

Address Method – user selectable

Static – printer will always connect to the network using the IP address defined.
DHCP – printer will acquire an IP address from your network DHCP server

Personal Area Network –The printer will broadcast itself as a network connection. The Power LED will
flash off every two seconds while in this mode. The SSID will be the serial number of the printer.

When connecting to the printer, the passphrase is the printer’s serial number.
Personal Area Network mode can also be activated outside of the printer web page.

To enter Personal Area Network mode, press and hold the Power and Paper Feed buttons until the
Power and Alert LEDs light. Release both buttons, and the printer will restart in Personal Area Network
mode. To exit Personal Area Network mode, press and hold the Power and Paper Feed buttons until
the Power and Alert LEDs light. Release both buttons, and the printer will restart in normal WiFi mode.

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Available Networks – access points detected by the printer will be displayed. Select Add/Connect to use one

of these access points.

Previously Connected Networks – access points detected by the printer or added through Add/Edit

Network will be displayed. Select Connect to use one of these access points, or Remove to delete it from
printer.

Currently Configured Networks – access points added through Add/Edit. They may not have been

connected yet. Select Remove to delete access point from printer.

Set Date – Some Enterprise network connections require this setting. Simply enter the current year.
Add/Edit Network

Enter the SSID of a network connection. If authentication is used select the authentication type. Click Next.
The following form will change depending on the authentication type:

WPA-PSK

Enter the password for the network connection.

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WPA-EAP or IEEE8021X

These are Enterprise network settings. Consult your server manual for recommended settings.

Upload Digital Certificate

If your enterprise network uses digital certificates as another form of authentication, you can upload the
certificates here.

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B. Image Parameters

This page allows you to make selections about the image to be printed.

Current Emulation:

Possible Values: PRINTEK*, ZPL, CPCL, ESCPOS, IPL, AUTOIMAGE, PDF, POSTSCRIPT, IMAGE

The FP530si printer is capable of using several different emulation modes. This feature sets the family of printer
commands that may be used by a host application program to control the various capabilities of the printer. The
printer will only respond to commands valid for the currently selected emulation. For more information, please
refer to the Integrator’s Guide.

Besides the popular printer languages to choose from, the following selections allow the FP530si to print many
other file formats directly, without the need for a driver.

AUTOIMAGE – selected when mixed PDF and POSTSCRIPT images are sent to the printer. The printer will
determine which type of file has been sent. This can increase printer response time.

PDF – When in this mode the printer will directly print Portable Document Files (PDF).
POSTSCRIPT – When in this mode the printer will directly print Postscript formatted files (.ps). You can also

use a generic Postscript driver to print when in this mode.
IMAGE – selected if just image files are being sent to the printer. When in this mode the printer will directly print

the following file types: .png, .jpg, .bmp, .pbm, .svg, .tiff

Default Font:

The FP530si has the ability to use True Type Fonts. All True Type Fonts loaded into printer memory are listed
here. When using emulations that do not specify the font for each line of text, select the font you would like to
use as the default font. All print jobs will use the default font unless a command is sent to the printer to use
another font.

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Chars Per Inch and Default Text Line Spacing:

NOTE: These settings only function in Printek Emulation

This determines how large the characters are and how many characters will print in a one inch space. The
higher the number, the greater the number of lines per vertical inch of print.

Line Wrapping:

Possible Values: OFF*, ON

Determines how a line of text is handled.
OFF – data that is longer than the line length will be truncated

ON – data that is longer than the line length will be printed on the next line.

Input File Size:

Possible values: 3 inch*, 4 inch

If your print job was originally written to print to 4” printer, select 4 inch and the printer will automatically scale
the print job to print on the 3” printer.

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C. Device Config

This page allows you to set certain hardware parameters on the printer.

Login Password

This allows the printer webpage password to be changed.

Units

Select between inches or millimeters. If you change units, do so before entering other settings.

Max Paper Speed

Possible values: 1.0 to 5.5 ips, Default = 5.0

When using labels or heavy paper stock, you may need to decrease the paper speed to prevent paper jams.

Mark Seeking

Possible values: Off*, Front, Rear, Gap. (Note: Rear and Gap are available only on 530si models).

Set the value when using regular or label media with black alignment marks or label media with gaps between
the labels

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Sensor Brightness

Possible values 0-100%. This displays the reflectivity or light transmission of the media, depending on the
setting for Mark Seeking. This value is updated once per second.

Note: Before adjusting black mark thresholds, set Mark Width to match the width of the black mark or
label gap on your media.

Front Paper Sensor Threshold

When using paper with a black on the front adjust this setting to insure the paper stops at the black mark.

1. With the lid closed and the black mark not over the front paper sensor, note the Sensor Brightness.

2. Open the paper lid and hold the paper against the front paper sensor so that the black mark is over the
sensor. Note the Sensor Brightness.

3. Set Threshold = black mark brightness + ((paper brightness – black mark brightness) / 2) and click Submit
Changes. Example: black mark brightness = 10%, paper brightness = 80%.

Threshold = 10% + ((80% - 10%) / 2) = 45%.

4. Close lid and press paper feed. The paper should stop with the bottom of the form at the tearbar.

Rear Paper Sensor Threshold (FP530si models only)

This is set the same as the front paper threshold, but using the rear (in lid) paper sensor and the Rear Sensor
Brightness.

Gap Paper Sensor Threshold (FP530si models only)

When using labels without a Black Mark, adjust this setting to insure the label stops at the gap in between
labels.

1. Remove 2 labels from the backing paper, and close the lid so the backing is over the paper sensor. Note
Sensor Brightness for Gap.

2. Open the lid and close it so a label is over the paper sensor. Note Sensor Brightness for Gap.

3. Set Gap Threshold = label brightness + ((backing brightness – label brightness) / 2) and click Submit
Changes.

4. Close lid and press paper feed. The paper should stop with the bottom of the form at the tearbar.

Backup Distance Before Printing

Used with Mark Seek. User defined. This is the distance the printer will pull in the paper before starting to print.

Max Mark Search Distance

Used with Mark Seek. User defined. This is the distance the printer will advance paper to seek the mark before
displaying a Paper Out condition.

Stop Distance after Mark

Use with Mark Seeking. User defined. This is the distance the printer will advance the paper after the mark is
detected.

Left Margin

Setting this value will tell the printer how far from the left edge of the paper to start the print job.

Contrast

Possible values 0 – 10. Default value is 5

The lower the value the lighter the print. The higher the value the darker the print.

Paper Energy Values

This is a locked value. These settings are supplied by the paper manufacturer. The default settings cover most
grades of paper. If you are using non-standard paper consult the paper manufacturer for recommended
settings.

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D. Fonts

Upload Font File

Truetype Fonts (.ttf, .otf, .ttc and .bdf) can be uploaded here.
Languages like ZPL and CPCL can use the fonts by referring to them by their Font Family Name.
Printek emulation uses the Index value when selecting a font.

Font Aliases

Languages like ZPL and CPCL can use an uploaded Font Alias Table so legacy jobs can have their font names
mapped to other uploaded fonts. Contact Printek Technical Support at [phone] for more information.

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E. Graphics

This menu will allow you to load a graphics file into printer memory for use in creating your output. For instance,
logos can be stored for recall and use by your host program (see Integrator’s Guide for more details).

Upload File

Select the graphics file to load into printer memory. Acceptable graphics formats are .jpeg, .pbm, .pcx, .bmp,
.png and .svg.

Set Width

Select the width you want to use to display your logo: full width, half width, or quarter width.

Set index

Depending on the Index value used, you can automatically print the graphics file as a header (prints at the
beginning of the print job), footer (prints at the end of a print job) or use the graphics print command to print
anywhere on your receipt or label. See Integrator’s Guide for more information on graphics commands.

When selecting header, the graphics file will automatically print the logo at the beginning of each print job.
When selecting footer, the graphics file will automatically print the logo at the end of each print job.

You must set each of these values before selecting Upload Logo or the default values will be associated with
your image.

Current Logo Mapping

Once uploaded into the printer memory, your image and settings will be displayed here.

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F. Update Printer Firmware, Upload Files to Printer Memory

Printer Application Updates, OEM information and Manuals and more can be uploaded here. Contact Printek
Technical Support at [phone] for more information.

G. Reset Printer Configuration to Factory Defaults (Safe Mode)

Printer settings can be restored to factory configurations.
Note that WIFI network configurations will be lost when Network Config to Factory Defaults is checked.

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Printing Modes

There are two fundamental printing modes with mobile printers.

A. ASCII Based Print Jobs

The host sends the print job as a series of lines of characters, some of which represent the
text to be printed, while other portions are command codes which tell the printer which font
to use, where to locate the text, what barcodes to use, etc. These text-based files are
encoded in a print language specific to the target printer.

The FP530si understands ASCII based jobs in several different print languages. Refer to
the Appendix or the Integrator’s Guide for the list of print languages supported.

B. Graphic Based Print Jobs

The host assembles the printed image as a series of lines of dots, and transmits this image
as a sequence of data bytes that represent the dot patterns assembled. Often these jobs or
files have some control characters on the front end and / or rear end of the dot pattern bytes
to define their format, help control pagination, etc.

Windows drivers in particular encode the image as a graphic based print job before it is
passed along to the printer.

In addition to accepting graphic jobs from its Windows driver, the FP530si can accept and
print directly many other graphic image file types. This opens up the option to print job
images from a variety of devices for which drivers or print utilities don’t exist, such as some
tablets and smartphones.

Please see the Integrator’s Guide or your system integrator for more details.

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Integrating the Printer into your Business Applications
Step by Step – Creating a Link from Host to Printer

A. Windows Desktop Computers
Print Drivers

You may download the appropriate Windows driver from our website. Install the printer driver by the
standard method for your version of Windows.

I. SERIAL

a) Install the printer driver onto your host before connecting the printer. Follow prompts

displayed during installation.
b) Plug the printer into a serial port on your host system using data/power cable.
c) Using the “Add Printer” wizard, install the printer using the driver file obtained from Printek

and the serial COM port number that the printer is connected to.
d) After the printer driver installs, the printer will appear as “Printek 3-inch printer” under the

“Printers and Faxes” heading of your Windows “Devices and Printers” screen.

II. USB

e) Install the printer driver onto your host before connecting the printer. Follow prompts

displayed during installation.
f) Plug the printer into a USB port on your host system using a mini-USB cable.
g) The printer will appear in the “Unspecified” devices section. Right click on the icon.
h) In the popup window, select the Hardware tab. Note the USB port number displayed.
i) Using the “Add Printer” wizard, install the printer using the driver file obtained from Printek

and the USB port number noted above.
j) After the printer driver installs, the printer will appear as “Printek 3-inch printer” under the

“Printers and Faxes” heading of your Windows “Devices and Printers” screen.

III. Bluetooth – General

a) Turn on printer. Make sure Bluetooth on your host device is turned ON.
b) Your host Bluetooth manager may automatically scan for new devices, or you may need to

tell it to scan. The discover name of the FP530si printer will be “FP530si-XXXxxxxx”,

where XXXxxxxx = the Printer Serial Number.
c) For Pairing, the default passkey is “0000”.

Note: Bluetooth host devices pair after discovery, but only connect to Bluetooth printers

when the host application has asked it to print.

IV. Bluetooth – Windows 7 and above

a) Turn on printer. Make sure Bluetooth on your host device is turned ON.
b) Open the “Devices and Printers” folder.

c) Select “Add a Device”. The printer will display using the discover name listed above.
d) Select the printer from the list of devices.
e) Select “Enter the Device’s Pairing Code”. The default pairing code is “0000”.

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f) A window will display informing you the device was successfully added, and the printer

name will appear in the devices list. Close this.
g) Printer now appears under “Printer and Faxes” heading of the “Devices and Printers”

screen, as “FP530si-serial #”. The icon may show that it is still configuring.
h) Right click on the printer name or icon and select Properties. Select “Services” tab and

deselect all items except for “SPP”.
i) Now select “Hardware” tab. A virtual com port number will be listed here – make note of

this COM Port number. Use this Com Port number when setting up the printer driver,

under the “port settings”.
j) Install the printer driver. Using the “Add Printer” wizard, install the printer using the driver

file obtained from Printek and the COM port number noted above.
k) After the printer driver installs, the printer will appear as “FP530si-serial #” under the

“Printers and Faxes” heading of your Windows “Devices and Printers” screen.

V. Wi-Fi

Note: The following instructions are fundamentally the same for an Infrastructure or Wi-Fi Direct (peer

to peer) setup. They also assume that you have already configured your Wi-Fi interface via the
FP530si printer web page (see the section on Configuration).

a) Perform a configuration printout to verify the printer Wi-Fi setup and to record the IP

address assigned and the Port number.
b) Install the printer as a local printer using the USB instructions above.
c) In the “Devices and Printers” screen, right click the printer icon representing your mobile

printer.
d) Under Printer Properties, select the Ports tab, then select “Add a Port”
e) In the new dialog box which appears, select “Standard TCP/IP ports”; this will open the

Standard TCP/IP Printer Port wizard.
f) Follow the on-screen prompts in this wizard. You’ll use the IP address recorded above to

set up the port. In the same screen you can also name the port something familiar and

relevant, and this will appear as the name of the printer to the user.
g) After the port is detected, it will be displayed as a “generic network card” – accept this by

clicking Next / Finish.
h) After you are finished adding the port, Windows will report it as a “Standard TCP/IP port”;

click OK to accept this.
i) Close the Printer Port window.
j) Now in the Printer Properties dialog box your IP address (or the familiar name you

assigned above) will appear in the list of ports available. Select it to configure the port.
k) Windows defaults standard TCP/IP ports to port number 9100. The FP530si Wi-Fi port

number is internally set to 8023. Change the port number to 8023 in the Windows screen

and click OK.
l) Click “Apply” in the Printer Properties box.
m) Your FP530si printer driver should now be properly coupled to the Wi-Fi parameters you

have chosen.

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B. Windows Tablets and Smartphones

This feature and/or specific directions for use were not available as of this printing.

C. Android Tablets & Smart phones

I. Bluetooth

a) Turn on printer. Make sure Bluetooth on your host device is turned ON.
b) Your host Bluetooth manager may automatically scan for new devices, or you may need to

tell it to scan. The discover name of the FP530si printer will be “FP530si-XXXxxxxx”,

where XXXxxxxx = the Printer Serial Number.
c) For Pairing, the default passkey is “0000”.
d) The printer should appear in your paired devices list.

Note: Android devices pair after discovery, but only connect to Bluetooth printers when the
host application has asked it to print.

II. Wi- Fi

This feature and/or specific directions for use were not available as of this printing.

D. Apple™ Tablets & Smartphones

Bluetooth I.

This feature and/or specific directions for use were not available as of this printing.

Wi-Fi II.

This feature and/or specific directions for use were not available as of this printing.

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Media

A. Standard Media

Printek offers a variety of media types. See Appendix D for detailed descriptions and ordering
information. You may also visit our website or contact your PrintekMobile sales representative for a
complete and up to date description of our consumables and accessory products.

B. Black Mark Media Position

For automatic ticket printing, the Black Mark should be positioned as shown in the figure below.
When using Mark Sensing mode (see Configuration, earlier in this document), FieldPro printers will
automatically position the output for tear-off and printing following a Form Feed command or by
pressing the Paper Feed button.

For non-automatic paper positioning, refer to the Integrator’s Guide for sensing and positioning
commands.

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Maintenance and Troubleshooting

A. Cleaning

In normal environments, the printer should be cleaned after printing a few rolls of paper or if there are
voids in the printout. For optimum performance and life, you should clean the Print Head and Platen
Roller whenever you load new paper.

To clean the printer areas as described below, use a Thermal Head Cleaning Pen and MCR Cleaning
Card available from Printek, or you may use cotton swabs moistened with isopropyl alcohol.

 Turn the printer off. Open the Paper Door and remove the paper.
 Using a Thermal Head Cleaning Pen, clean the white ceramic surface on the Print Head.

Caution: Do not use sharp objects to clean the print head. This may damage the printer and

require service. Such damage is not covered under warranty.

 Clean the Black Mark Sensor below the print head.
 Clean the Tear Bar.
 Clean the Platen Roller. Turn the Platen Roller with your finger to clean the entire surface.
 If a Magnetic Card Reader is installed, pass and MCR Cleaning Card through the MCR slot to

clean the head.

You may also experience a buildup of paper dust in the printer. This may be removed using a can of
compressed air or by vacuuming.

To clean the exterior of the printer, turn the printer off and use a soft cloth moistened with a mild
detergent.

B. Troubleshooting

When encountering problems, the cause may be the printer or may sometimes be due to other
problems with your system. Please review the following tables to solve common problems you may
encounter with your printer. You may also visit www.printek.com for additional “FAQ’s” that may
assist you.

If you are still unable to solve your problem, please contact the company from whom you purchased
your printer since they are most familiar with your systems. If they are unable to help you, please
contact Printek Technical Support at [phone].

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Error Indicator

Possible Cause

Solution

Flashes

Paper Out or Paper Door not fully
closed

Make sure the door is fully
closed by opening the door
and closing it again until the

door “clicks” closed. Check

the platen roller for damage.

Stays On, With Alarm

Print job too large for printer
memory

Divide long documents into
individual pages.
Printer power must be cycled
to clear error.

Problem

Possible Cause

Solution

Printer will not turn on.
D-connector not plugged in

Remove and reinstall the 9­pin D-connector on the side
of the printer

No power

Check pin 8 of the D-connect
for positive voltage.

Printer turns itself off.

Not enough power is being
supplied to the printer.

Check pin 8 of the D­connector for positive
voltage.

Electrostatic discharge

May occur in extreme low
humidity conditions. Turn
printer back on with power
button.

Poor print quality.

Print head dirty

Clean print head. Refer to

“Maintenance” section of this

document.

Poor quality or “old” paper

Verify paper from approved
source. Try new roll of
paper.

Obstruction in paper path, or
paper improperly installed

Check paper path and

reinstall paper (see “Quick

Start Instructions”).

Paper not feeding.

Poor quality paper

Verify paper from approved
source.

Paper Door not fully closed

Verify door is closed.

Dirty Black Mark/Paper
Sensor

Clean Sensor as described
in “Maintenance” section of
this document.

General Error Conditions I.

Whenever the printer detects an error condition the Alert (red) Indicator will either flash or stay on. In
some cases the audible alarm will also sound. Please refer to the following table for a list of what
causes these conditions and how they may be corrected.

Fault Description and Resolution II.

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Problem

Possible Cause

Solution

Paper does not advance to
black mark reliably.

Black Mark density/contrast

Adjust Mark Sensitivity as
described in Device Settings
Menu .

Poor quality paper

Verify paper from approved
source.

Paper not feeding reliably or
print is compressed vertically

Heavy or thick forms;
specialty paper with slick
finish

Lower the Max Paper Speed
as described in Device
Config Menu .

Paper Door not fully closed

Verify door is closed.

Print Garbled.
Improper Interface

configuration

Verify printer and host
settings match.

Paper Door not fully closed

Verify door is closed.

Printer will not print.

Paper not loaded correctly

Check paper path and
reinstall paper (see “Quick

Start Instructions”).

Improper Interface
configuration

Verify printer and host
settings match. Print a self­test to verify printer settings
and to verify printer is
functioning properly.

C. Obtaining Service

If service is required for your printer, please contact the company where you purchased your printer.
If they are unable to assist you, contact Printek Customer Service at [phone] to obtain a

Return Authorization Number. Printers without Return Authorization will not be accepted.

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Printing Specifications

Printing Method: Direct thermal.
Printing Resolution: 203 dpi (8 dots per
mm).
Printing Speed: Up to 5 ips.
Printing Width: Up to 2.8 inches (72
mm).

Fonts/Characters/Bar Codes

Fonts: Virtually all TrueType fonts, from
6 cpi to 34 cpi depending on emulation
chosen, plus scaling.
Unicode support for international
characters.
Bar Codes: Virtually all 1D and 2D
codes supported, depending on
emulation chosen.
Downloadable firmware, fonts,
graphics, and logos.

Connectivity

Standard (All Units): RS232 and
USB(via USB to RS232 cable only)
Wireless Options:

Bluetooth® 4.0

Wi-Fi 802.11b/g/n compatible

Software

Drivers and Utilities: Drivers for WIN 7,
WIN 8, WIN 10.
Compatible with Windows Mobile and
Android. Native App and Web printing.

Printer Setup via internal web page,
access with browser from any host
(tablets and smartphones included).

Emulations: Emulates many popular
printer brands and languages including:
Zebra CPCL and ZPL, and ESC POS.
Firmware can be upgraded as new
emulations become available.

Print Media

Paper Type: Direct Thermal Roll.
Roll Size: Maximum roll diameter 2.0”

(51 mm), roll widths up to 3.125” (80

mm).

Roll Capacity: Approx. 94’ 28.6 m),
creating 188 6” long receipts.
Core Size: 0.75” Recommended (19

mm).

Electronics/Power

Ruggedized screw down type DB-9
connector for power and I/O.

9-32 VDC in-vehicle power.
Auto ON/OFF with vehicle power.

Physical Specifications

L x W x H: 6.5” x 5” x 4” (16.5 x 12.7 x

10.16 cm).
Weight: 25.6 ounces

Environmental Specifications

Operating Temp: -30° to 182°F (-40° to
85°C).
Storage Temp: -4° to 140°F (-20° to
60°C).
Humidity: 10% to 90% RH (non­condensing).
Rated IP54 per IEC 529

Operator Controls and
Indicators

LED indicators for general fault, power
status indication. Buttons for power and
paper feed. Sensors for paper out,
black mark detection, and door open. r.

Memory Capacity

256 MB Flash, 512 MB DDR2.
Standard memory supports large and
graphic intensive print jobs.

Durability and Reliability

Survives multiple 4 foot drops to
concrete (each face) per IEC 68-2.

Viberation Resistance: 9.8Grms
24 to 2000 Hz

MTBF: 10,000 hours in normal use.

Regulatory Approvals

FCC Class B, CE mark, RoHS, UL
listed AC adapters.

Warranty

2-year printer warranty on the entire
printer—case and print head included.

Options and Accessories

Media in Case Quantities
Serial cable with unterminated

power leads (various lengths)
USB to RS-232 cable with

unterminated leads (various lengths)
Various RAM Mount components

available.

APPENDIX

A. Appendix A – FieldPro 530si Printer Specifications

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802.11

Wireless networking communication standards created by IEEE.

Ad-Hoc

A Wi-Fi network consisting of only stations (no access point). Same as Peer-to­Peer.

authentication

The process a Wi-Fi station uses to identify itself to another station.

baud rate

The rate at which characters are transmitted over a serial interface. This is also
often referred to as bits per second.

Bluetooth

A definition for short range radio frequency communications.

client

Any node on a network that requests services from another node (server).

character pitch

The horizontal spacing of characters. Measured in cpi.

cpi

Characters per inch.

default

Value or configuration assumed when the printer is powered on or reset.

DHCP

Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol. A method used to centrally control the
assignment of IP addresses on a network.

dpi

Dots per inch. Generally used to refer to graphics density or resolution.

font

A group of characters of a given shape or style.

infrastructure

A Wi-Fi network consisting of stations connecting to a wired network or other
stations via an access point.

interface

The connection between the printer and the host computer.

IP

Internet Protocol. A specification for packets, or datagrams, of data and an
addressing method to allow the exchange of data with another system. Must be
combined with another protocol such as TCP to create a complete connection
with the other system.

LAN

Local Area Network.

LED

Light emitting diode.

lpi

Lines per inch.

margin

An area along any edge of a form where data may not be printed.

Peer-to-Peer

A network consisting of only stations (no access point or central server). Same
as Ad-Hoc.

Glossary of Terms

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reset

Initialization of various operating features of the printer to the value or state
assumed when the printer is powered on.

server

Any node on a network that provides services to another node (client).

SSID

Service Set Identifier. An identifier attached to packets on a Wi-Fi network that
identify the particular network the packets are intended for.

TCP

Transmission Control Protocol. A specification that controls the connection
between systems on a network.

top of form

The vertical position where the first line is printed on the paper. Also the position
the paper is advanced to when a form feed (FF) character is received from the
host or the Form Feed button is pressed on the printer's control panel.

USB

Universal Serial Bus.

WAN

Wide Area Network. Refers to connections that allow one LAN to communicate
with another LAN(s).

WEP

Wired Equivalent Privacy. A security protocol for wireless LANs designed to
provide data security similar to a wired LAN.

Wi-Fi

Refers to any of the IEEE 802.11 standards.

WLAN

Wireless Local Area Network. A LAN made up of wireless nodes.

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Index

802.11, 28
Add Enterprise Network, 9
Add Personal Network, 9
Address Method, 9
Ad-Hoc, 28
Alert, 6
Android, 3, 17
Android Tablets & Smart

phones, 17
Apple, 3, 18
authentication, 28
Available Networks, 9
Backup Distance Before

Printing, 12
battery, 3, 5, 7, 20, 21, 22,

23
Battery Care, 20
Battery Disposal, ii
Battery Installation, 5
baud rate, 28
Bluetooth, ii, 2, 8, 9, 16, 17,

18, 28
Canadian Department of

Communications Radio

Interference Statement, i
character pitch, 28
Charge Battery, 5
Charging the Battery, 20
Cleaning, 20, 27
client, 28
Com Port, 16
Configuration, 7, 19, 28
Connectivity Parameters, 8
Contrast, 12
Control Panel, 6
CPCL, ii, 10
cpi, 28
Current Emulation, 10
Current Logo Mapping, 13
Current Printer Config, 9
default, 28
Default Font, 10
Default Text Line Spacing,

10

Device Config, 11
DHCP, 28
discover name, 16, 18
Discoverablity, 9
dpi, 28
driver, 16
Drivers, 16
Fault Description and

Resolution, 22
FCC Part 15 Class B, i
features, 29
form, 29
Front Paper Sensor

Threshold, 11
Gap Paper Sensor

Threshold, 12
GateWay, 9
General Error Conditions, 22
Graphics, 13
IMAGE, 10
Image Parameters, 10
infrastructure, 28
interface, 28
IP Address, 9
IP54, 3
LAN, 28
LED, 28
Left Margin, 12
lpi, 28
Maintenance, 2, 20, 23, 24
margin, 28
Mark Seeking, 11, 12
Max Mark Search Distance,

12
Max Paper Speed, 11, 23
Maximum Battery Life, 20
Media, 2, 19, 25, 26, 27
Mounting Options, 27
MT3, 10
Obtaining Service, 24
Paired Mode, 8
pairing code, 16
Paper Energy Values, 12
Paper Feed Button, 6

Paper Load, 4
passkey, 16, 18
PDF, 10
Peer-to-Peer, 28
PIN, 8, 9
POSTSCRIPT, 10
power, i, ii
Power Button, 6
Power On, 5
Quick Start Instructions, 4
Rear Paper Sensor

Threshold, 12
reset, 29
Role Policy, 8
Safety Information, 21
Security, 8
Self-Test, 6, 21
server, 29
Set index, 13
Set Width, 13
Specifications, 2, 3, 25, 26
SSID, 29
Stop Distance after Mark, 12
SubNetMask, 9
Supplies and Accessories, 2,

27
TCP, 29
Testing the Power Adapter

and Battery, 21
Troubleshooting, 2, 20, 21,

22
Units, 11
Upload Digital Certificate, 9
Upload File, 13
USB, 16, 29
USB port, 2, 16
WAN, 29
web page, 7
WEP, 29
Wi-Fi, ii, 2, 17, 28, 29
WI-FI Config, 8, 9
Wifi Port, 9
Windows, ii, 3, 15, 16, 17
WLAN, 29

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