Printronix SL5000r, SL5204R, SL5000r MP2, SL5206r MP2, SL5304R MP2 User Manual

User’s Manual

SL5000

r

and T5000

r

RFID Smart Label and Thermal Printers

TM TM

Software License Agreement

Your printer contains, among other software, Printronix operating software
including, but not limited to the Embedded Configurable Operating System
(the “eCos Software”) as embedded software. The terms of this Agreement
apply only to the eCos Software, and all other embedded software supplied
with the printer. You accept the terms of this Agreement by your initial use of
your printer.

1. Object Code License

Printronix grants you a nonexclusive license to use the Printronix Software,
the eCos Software and all other embedded software (collectively, the
“Embedded Software” or the “Software”) only in conjunction with the printer.
As the rightful possessor of the printer, you may make a reasonable number
of copies of the Software as necessary for backup, configuration, and
restoration of the printer. You must reproduce the copyright notice and any
other legend of ownership on each copy of the Software you make.

You may transfer possession of the Software and its media to another party
only with the transfer of the printer on which the Software is used. If you do
so, you must give the other party a copy of these terms and provide all user
documentation to that party. When you do so, you must destroy any copies of
Software not resident in the printer.

Your license for the Software terminates when you no longer rightfully
possess the printer. No other rights under this license are granted.

2. Source Code

A source code version of eCos Software is available under the terms of the
Red Hat eCos Public License v1.1 at www.printronix.com. Printronix grants
no rights whatsoever in the source code for the Printronix Software.

3. No Warranty

THE EMBEDDED SOFTWARE IS PROVIDED UNDER THIS LICENSE ON
AN “AS IS” BASIS, WITHOUT WARRANTY OF ANY KIND, EITHER
EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING, WITHOUT LIMITATION,
WARRANTIES THAT THE EMBEDDED SOFTWARE IS FREE OF
DEFECTS, MERCHANTABLE, FIT FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE OR
NON-INFRINGING. THE ENTIRE RISK AS TO THE QUALITY AND
PERFORMANCE OF THE EMBEDDED SOFTWARE IS WITH YOU.
SHOULD ANY OF THE EMBEDDED SOFTWARE PROVE DEFECTIVE IN
ANY RESPECT, YOU (NOT RED HAT, PRINTRONIX, ANY OTHER
CONTRIBUTOR OR ANY DISTRIBUTOR) ASSUME THE COST OF ANY
NECESSARY SERVICING, REPAIR OR CORRECTION. THIS DISCLAIMER
OF WARRANTY CONSTITUTES AN ESSENTIAL PART OF THIS LICENSE.
NO USE OF ANY OF THE EMBEDDED SOFTWARE IS AUTHORIZED
HEREUNDER EXCEPT UNDER THIS DISCLAIMER.

4. Conflicting Terms

You agree that this Agreement provides you no more rights with regards to
warranty, support, indemnity or liability terms with respect to Red Hat, Inc.,
Printronix Inc, or any contributor to the Embedded Software than that
provided by the Red Hat eCos Public License v.1.1 or any express warranty
that may be made by Printronix, Inc.

5. Limitation of Liability

UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES AND UNDER NO LEGAL THEORY,
WHETHER TORT (INCLUDING NEGLIGENCE), CONTRACT OR
OTHERWISE, SHALL RED HAT, PRINTRONIX, ANY OTHER
CONTRIBUTOR, OR ANY DISTRIBUTOR OF THE EMBEDDED
SOFTWARE, OR ANY PART THEREOF, OR ANY SUPPLIER OF ANY OF
SUCH PARTIES, BE LIABLE TO YOU OR ANY OTHER PERSON FOR ANY
INDIRECT, SPECIAL, INCIDENTAL, OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES OF
ANY CHARACTER INCLUDING, WITHOUT LIMITATION, DAMAGES FOR
LOSS OF GOODWILL, WORK STOPPAGE, COMPUTER FAILURE OR
MALFUNCTION. OR ANY AND ALL OTHER COMMERCIAL DAMAGES OR
LOSSES, EVEN IF SUCH PARTY SHALL HAVE BEEN INFORMED OF THE
POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES. THIS LIMITATION OF LIABILITY
SHALL NOT APPLY TO LIABILITY FOR DEATH OR PERSONAL INJURY
RESULTING FROM SUCH PARTY’S NEGLIGENCE TO THE EXTENT
APPLICABLE LAW PROHIBITS SUCH LIMITATION. SOME
JURISDICTIONS DO NOT ALLOW THE EXCLUSION OR LIMITATION OF
INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES SO THAT EXCLUSION
AND LIMITATION MAY NOT APPLY TO YOU.

6. U.S. Government Users

The Embedded Software is a “commercial item,” as that term is defined in 48
C.F.R. 2.101 (Oct 1995), consisting of “commercial computer software” and
“commercial computer software documentation,” as such terms are used in
48 C.F.R 12.212 (Sept. 1995). Consistent with 48 C.F.R. 12.212 and 48
C.F.R. 227.7202-1 through 227.7202-4 (June 1995), all U.S. Government End
Users acquire Covered Code with only those rights set forth herein.

7. Miscellaneous

This Agreement represents the complete agreement concerning subject
matter hereof. If any provision of this Agreement is held to be unenforceable.
This Agreement shall be governed by California law provisions (except to the
extent applicable law, if any, provides otherwise), excluding its conflict-of-law
provisions.

8. Red Hat Statement With Regards to eCos Software

Part of the software embedded in this product is eCos - Embedded
Configurable Operating System, a trademark of Red Hat. Portions created by
Red Hat are Copyright (C) 1998, 1999, 2000 Red Hat, Inc.
(http://www.redhat.com). All Rights Reserved.

THE SOFTWARE IN THIS PRODUCT WAS IN PART PROVIDED BY RED
HAT AND ANY EXPRESS OR IMPLIED WARRANTIES, INCLUDING, BUT
NOT LIMITED TO, THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANT ABILITY
AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE ARE DISCLAIMED. IN NO
EVENT SHALL THE AUTHOR BE LIABLE FOR ANY DIRECT, INDIRECT,
INCIDENTAL, SPECIAL, EXEMPLARY, OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES
(INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, PROCUREMENT OR SUBSTITUTE
GOODS OR SERVICES; LOSS OF USE, DATA, OR PROFITS; OR
BUSINESS INTERRUPTION) HOWEVER CAUSED AND ON ANY THEORY
OF LIABILITY, WHETHER IN CONTRACT, STRICT LIABILITY, OR TORT
(INCLUDING NEGLIGENCE OR OTHERWISE) ARISING IN ANY WAY OUT
OF THE USE OF THIS SOFTWARE, EVEN IF ADVISED OF THE
POSSIBLITY OF SUCH DAMAGE.

Limited Software Product Warranty

Printronix, Inc. warrants that for ninety (90) days after delivery, the Software
will perform in accordance with specifications published by Printronix, Inc.
Printronix, Inc. does not warrant that the Software is free from all bugs, errors
and omissions.

Remedy

Your exclusive remedy and the sole liability of Printronix, Inc. in connection
with the Software is replacement of defective software with a copy of the
same version and revision level.

Disclaimer of Warranties and Limitation of Remedies

1. THE PARTIES AGREE THAT ALL OTHER WARRANTIES, EXPRESS
OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING WARRANTIES OF FITNESS FOR A
PARTICULAR PURPOSE AND MERCHANTABILITY ARE EXCLUDED.
Printronix, Inc. does not warrant that the functions contained in the
Software will meet your requirements or that the operation of the Software
will be uninterrupted or error free. Printronix, Inc. reserves the right to
make changes and/or improvements in the Software without notice at any
time.

2. IN NO EVENT WILL PRINTRONIX, INC. BE LIABLE FOR LOST
PROFITS, LOST DATA, BUSINESS INTERRUPTIONS, OR ANY
OTHER DIRECT, INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL
DAMAGES ARISING OUT OF THE USE OF OR INABILITY TO USE
THIS PRODUCT, EVEN IF PRINTRONIX, INC. HAS BEEN ADVISED OF
THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES, OR ANY DAMAGES CAUSED
BY THE ABUSE OR MANIPULATION OF THE SOFTWARE. SOME
STATES DO NOT ALLOW THE EXCLUSION OR LIMITATION OF
LIABILITY FOR CONSEQUENTIAL OR INCIDENTAL DAMAGES, SO
THE ABOVE LIMITATION MAY NOT APPLY TO YOU.

3. Printronix, Inc. will not be liable for any loss or damage caused by delay in
furnishing a Software Product or any other performance under this
Agreement.

4. Our entire liability and your exclusive remedies for our liability of any kind
(including liability for negligence except liability for personal injury caused
solely by our negligence) for the Software Product covered by this
Agreement and all other performance or nonperformance by us under or
related to this Agreement are limited to the remedies specified by this
Agreement.

5. California law governs this Agreement.

Termination of License Agreement

This License shall continue until terminated. This license may be terminated
by agreement between you and Printronix, Inc. or by Printronix, Inc. If you fail
to comply with the terms of this License and such failure is not corrected
within thirty (30) days after notice. When this License is terminated, you shall
return to the place you obtained them, the printer and all copies of the
Software and documentation.

U.S. Government Restricted Rights

Use, duplication or disclosure by the government is subject to restrictions as
set forth in the Rights in Technical Data and Computer Software clause at
FAR 242.227-7013, subdivision (b) (3) (ii) or subparagraph (c) (1) (ii), as
appropriate. Further use, duplication or disclosure is subject to restrictions
applicable to restricted rights software as set forth in FAR 52.227-19 (c) (2).

Acknowledgement of Terms and Conditions

YOU ACKNOWLEDGE THAT YOU HAVE READ THIS AGREEMENT,
UNDERSTAND IT, AND AGREE TO BE BOUND BY ITS TERMS AND
CONDITIONS. NEITHER PARTY SHALL BE BOUND BY ANY STATEMENT
OR REPRESENTATION NOT CONTAINED IN THIS AGREEMENT. NO
CHANGE IN THIS AGREEMENT IS EFFECTIVE UNLESS WRITTEN AND
SIGNED BY PROPERLY AUTHORIZED REPRESENTATIVES OF EACH
PARTY. BY USING THIS PRINTER, YOU AGREE TO ACCEPT THE TERMS
AND CONDITIONS OF THIS AGREEMENT.

Communication Notices

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 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.

Unauthorized changes or modifications could void the user’s authority to
operate the equipment.

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.

Any change or modification to this product voids the user’s authority to
operate it per FCC Part 15 Subpart A Section 15.21 regulations.

This product contains an intentional radiator with the following parameters:
Operating Frequency:869.525 (AWID 869) or 902 to 928 MHz (AWID 915)
Typical RF Power: 25 to 100 milliwatts (SL5x04 MP) or 25 to 205 milliwatts
(SL5x04 C1)
Maximum RF Power: 1 Watt under abnormal conditions

Canada

This Class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003 and
RSS 210.

Cet appareil numérique de la classe B est conforme à la norme NMB-003
du Canada.

Tested To Comply
With FCC Standards

Printronix SL5000

r

and T5000

r

FOR HOME OR OFFICE USE

Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device may not
cause interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference,
including interference that may cause undesired operation of the device.

This device has been designed to operate with the antennas listed below, and
having a maximum gain of –18 dBi. Antennas not included in this list or having
a gain greater than –18 dBi dB are strictly prohibited for use with this device.
The required antenna impedance is 50 ohms.

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 permitted for successful communication.

CE Notice (European Union)

Marking by the CE symbol indicates compliance of this Printronix system to
the EMC Directive and the Low Voltage Directive of the European Union.
Such marking is indicative that this Printronix system meets the following
technical standards:

• EN 300 220-1 (2000), Electromagnetic Compatibility and Radio Spectrum

Matters; Short Range Devices; Radio equipment to be used in the
25 MHz to 1000 MHz frequency range with power levels ranging up to
500 mW.

• EN 55022 — “Limits and Methods of Measurement of Radio Interference

Characteristics of Information Technology Equipment.”

• EN 50082-1: 1992 — “Electromagnetic compatibility—Generic immunity

standard Part 1: Residential, commercial, and light industry.”

• EN 60950 — “Safety of Information Technology Equipment.”

This printer is a Class B product for use in a typical Class B domestic
environment.

CE Symbol

Taiwan

IMPORTANT WARRANTY INFORMATION

PRINTER WARRANTY

Printronix® warrants to the purchaser that under normal use and service, this
printer (excluding the thermal printhead) purchased hereunder shall be free
from defects in material and workmanship for a period of one year from the
date of shipment from Printronix. (In the United States and Canada, this
period provides for onsite support service in the first 90 days of ownership,
with return-to-factory service provided from the 91st day of ownership until the
end of one year, costs of shipping to be borne by the purchaser.)

Consumable items such as media and ribbons are not covered under this
warranty. This warranty does not cover equipment or parts that have been
misused, altered, or used for purposes other than those for which they were
manufactured. This warranty also does not cover loss, shipping damage,
damage resulting from accident or damages resulting from unauthorized
service.

THERMAL PRINTHEAD

Printronix warrants the printhead for a period of one hundred eighty (180)
days, or 1,000,000 linear inches for direct thermal use, or 2,000,000 linear
inches for thermal transfer use, whichever comes first. The warranty does not
cover printheads that have been misused, damaged due to improper
cleaning, or damaged due to use of improper ribbons or media.

SUPPLIES

For the nearest Printronix full-service distributor that carries Printronix
genuine supplies, please call 1-800-733-1900 or fax [phone].
Supplies design, specification, and selection are integral to the development
of any computer imaging system. Printronix's extensive manufacturing and
research capabilities, along with years of experience in the design of printers
and their applications, assures that you will receive the exact materials that
you require to maximize the performance of your Printronix printer. For more
information, call the Printronix Customer Solutions Center at [phone]
or access the Printronix website at http://www.printronix.com.

ON-SITE MAINTENANCE SERVICE

Printronix offers on-site support services in the United States and Canada.
Please contact the Printronix Maintenance Contracts Group at 800-854-6463

- option 1 for detailed service agreement information.

RFID

Intended use: non-specific short range device operating in the band 869.4 to

869.95 MHz for Home and Office environment in E.E.A and Switzerland.

Wireless Ethernet

Intended use: Low Power 802.11b/g radio LAN product operating indoor in

2.4 GHz bands for Home and Office environment in E.E.A and Switzerland.

Lithium Battery

WARNING

The controller board contains a lithium battery sealed inside the real­time clock chip. Do not disassemble the chip to replace the battery. Do
not dispose of the chip by incineration. Failure to comply may cause the
battery to explode. Contact your local waste agency for the correct
disposal procedure.

Printronix makes no representations or warranties of any kind regarding this
material, including, but not limited to, implied warranties of merchantability
and fitness for a particular purpose. Printronix shall not be held responsible
for errors contained herein or any omissions from this material or for any
damages, whether direct, indirect, incidental or consequential, in connection
with the furnishing, distribution, performance or use of this material. The
information in this manual is subject to change without notice.

This document contains proprietary information protected by copyright. No
part of this document may be reproduced, copied, translated or incorporated
in any other material in any form or by any means, whether manual, graphic,
electronic, mechanical or otherwise, without the prior written consent of
Printronix.

COPYRIGHT © 2007 PRINTRONIX, INC. All rights reserved.

Trademark Acknowledgements

Printronix, IGP, Auto Label Mapping, LinePrinter Plus, PGL, and PrintNet are
registered trademarks of Printronix, Inc.

ThermaLine, T5000

r

, and SL5000r is a trademark of Printronix.

HP is a registered trademark of Hewlett-Packard Company.

Code V is a trademark of QMS, Inc.

QMS is a registered trademark of Quality Micro Systems, Inc.

IBM is registered trademark of International Business Machines Corp.

MS-DOS and Windows are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation.

Centronics is a registered trademark of Genicom Corporation.

IEEE is a registered service mark of the Institute of Electrical and Electronic
Engineers, Inc.

ANSI is a registered trademark of American National Standards Institute, Inc.

EIA is a registered service mark of Electronic Industries Association.

ZPL, ZPL II, and Zebra are registered trademarks of Zebra Technologies
Corporation.

TEC is a registered trademark of the Toshiba TEC Corporation.

Intermec is a registered trademark of the Intermec Technologies Corporation.

SATO is a registered trademark of SATO America, Inc.

DPL is a trademark and Datamax is a registered trademark of Datamax
Technologies Corporation.

Copyright 2002, 2007, Printronix, Inc.

1 Introduction ......................................................... 19

Printronix Customer Support Center.................................................... 19

Printronix Supplies Department..................................................... 19

Corporate Offices .......................................................................... 20

Training Available On Printronix Products ........................................... 20

Warnings And Special Information ...................................................... 21

Manual Conventions ............................................................................ 21

The SL5000r/T5000r

Series RFID/Label Printer.................................. 22

Standard Features ........................................................................ 23

Optional Features.......................................................................... 24

Thermal Printer Technology ................................................................ 25

The Printing Process ..................................................................... 25

Dynamic Print Control ................................................................... 26

Thermal Consumables......................................................................... 26

Media Selection............................................................................. 26

Ribbons ......................................................................................... 26

Setting Up The Printer ......................................................................... 27

Unpacking The Printer .................................................................. 27

Installation ..................................................................................... 29

2 Operation ............................................................ 33

Controls And Indicators ....................................................................... 33

Power Switch ................................................................................ 33

Control Panel ................................................................................ 33

Powering On The Printer............................................................... 37

Operating Modes........................................................................... 37

Media Handling Modes ........................................................................ 37

Loading Media And Ribbon ................................................................. 38

Loading Roll Media ....................................................................... 39

Loading Fanfold Media.................................................................. 46

Loading Ribbon ............................................................................. 51

Using The Optional Internal Rewinder................................................. 54

Batch Rewind Mode ...................................................................... 54

Label Peel-Off ............................................................................... 60

Removing The Media Guide.......................................................... 63

Table of Contents

Table of Contents

Printing Adjustments............................................................................ 64

Printhead Pressure Adjustment .................................................... 64

Printhead Pressure Block Adjustments ......................................... 65

Positioning The Media Sensors .................................................... 66

Sensing Different Media Types ..................................................... 71

Running Auto Calibrate ................................................................. 72

Running Media Profile ................................................................... 74

Running Manual Calibrate............................................................. 79

Cleaning............................................................................................... 80

Exterior.......................................................................................... 80

Interior ........................................................................................... 80

General Cleaning .......................................................................... 80

Cleaning The Printhead, Platen Roller And Media Sensors ......... 80

3 Configuring The Printer ....................................... 85

Overview.............................................................................................. 85

Setting Printer Configuration Parameters ..................................... 85

Moving Within The Configuration Menu ........................................ 85

Selecting A Menu Option .............................................................. 86

Changing Printer Settings ............................................................. 87

Saving A Configuration ................................................................. 88

Auto Save Configuration ............................................................... 89

Specifying A Power-Up Configuration ........................................... 90

Modifying A Saved Configuration .................................................. 91

Printing A Configuration ................................................................ 93

Loading A Saved Configuration .................................................... 93

Menu Overview.................................................................................... 94

Main Menu ........................................................................................... 95

QUICK SETUP .................................................................................. 106

QUICK SETUP Submenus.......................................................... 107

CONFIG. CONTROL ......................................................................... 115

CONFIG. CONTROL Submenus ................................................ 116

MEDIA CONTROL............................................................................. 118

MEDIA CONTROL Submenus .................................................... 119

CALIBRATE CTRL ............................................................................ 138

CALIBRATE CTRL Submenus.................................................... 139

PRINTER CONTROL ........................................................................ 146

PRINTER CONTROL Submenus................................................ 148

EMULATIONS ................................................................................... 158

Overview ..................................................................................... 158

COAX SETUP.................................................................................... 162

TWINAX SETUP................................................................................ 165

Table of Contents

SPC COAX SETUP ........................................................................... 167

SPC TWINAX SETUP ....................................................................... 168

IPDS SETUP ..................................................................................... 169

TN3270 SETUP ................................................................................. 173

TN5250 SETUP ................................................................................. 175

IGP/PGL SETUP ............................................................................... 177

IGP/VGL SETUP ............................................................................... 179

P-SERIES SETUP ............................................................................. 181

P-SER XQ SETUP............................................................................. 183

SERIAL MATRIX SETUP .................................................................. 185

PROPRINTER XL SETUP................................................................. 187

EPSON FX SETUP............................................................................ 189

Emulation Submenus......................................................................... 191

DIAGNOSTICS .................................................................................. 238

DIAGNOSTICS Submenus ......................................................... 239

PARALLEL PORT.............................................................................. 242

PARALLEL PORT Submenus ..................................................... 243

SERIAL PORT ................................................................................... 246

SERIAL PORT Submenus .......................................................... 247

C/T PORT .......................................................................................... 254

C/T PORT Submenus ................................................................. 254

USB PORT ........................................................................................ 255

USB Port Submenu ..................................................................... 255

ETHERNET PORT ............................................................................ 256

ETHERNET PORT Submenu...................................................... 256

ETHERNET ADDRESS ..................................................................... 257

ETHERNET ADDRESS Submenus ............................................ 258

ETHERNET PARAMS ....................................................................... 259

ETHERNET PARAMS Submenus............................................... 260

WLAN ADDRESS .............................................................................. 262

WLAN ADDRESS Submenus ..................................................... 263

WLAN PARAMS ................................................................................ 264

WLAN PARAMS Submenus........................................................ 266

KERBEROS PARAMS....................................................................... 270

KERBEROS PARAMS Submenus .............................................. 270

WLAN LEAP ...................................................................................... 273

WLAN LEAP Submenus ............................................................. 273

BATTERY CONTROL........................................................................ 274

BATTERY CONTROL Submenus ............................................... 275

PRINTER MGMT ............................................................................... 277

PRINTER MGMT Submenus ...................................................... 277

Table of Contents

DATE ................................................................................................. 278

Date Submenus .......................................................................... 278

4 Downloading Software ...................................... 279

Loading Flash Memory ...................................................................... 279

Downloading Software With The Firmware Download Utility............. 280

Downloading Software Through The Parallel Port............................. 281

Downloading Software Through The NIC .......................................... 283

Downloading Software Through The NIC Using FTP ........................ 284

Downloading Software Through The USB Port ................................. 286

Downloading Software If Flash Contains Only Boot Or Corrupt

Code .................................................................................................. 287

Using TrueType Fonts ....................................................................... 289

Downloading TrueType Fonts............................................................ 289

Printronix Windows Driver........................................................... 290

PGL Emulation (Online) .............................................................. 290

Download Mode .......................................................................... 291

PTX_SETUP ............................................................................... 293

Labeling Applications .................................................................. 293

Select And Print Downloaded TrueType Fonts.................................. 293

5 Interfaces .......................................................... 295

Overview............................................................................................ 295

Auto Switching ................................................................................... 295

Centronics Parallel Interface.............................................................. 296

Centronics Parallel Interface Signals .......................................... 297

IEEE 1284 Parallel Interface.............................................................. 297

Compatibility Mode...................................................................... 297

Nibble Mode ................................................................................ 298

Byte Mode ................................................................................... 298

Signals ........................................................................................ 298

Terminating Resistor Configurations........................................... 300

RS-232 And Optional RS-422 Serial Interfaces................................. 301

RS-232 ........................................................................................ 301

RS-422 ........................................................................................ 302

USB ................................................................................................... 302

Table of Contents

6 Diagnostics And Troubleshooting ..................... 303

Printer Tests ...................................................................................... 303

Troubleshooting Common Situations................................................. 303

Improving Processing Time......................................................... 304

Data Exchange............................................................................ 304

Controlling Print Quality............................................................... 306

Determining Printhead Wear ....................................................... 307

Replacing The Printhead ................................................................... 308

Restore The Printer To Operation ..................................................... 310

Solving Other Printer Problems................................................... 311

Printer Alarms ............................................................................. 318

Fault Messages ........................................................................... 318

A Specifications.................................................... 347

Print Method ................................................................................ 347

Media .......................................................................................... 348

Ribbon ......................................................................................... 350

Indicators And Switches .............................................................. 350

Memory ....................................................................................... 350

Media Cutter Option .................................................................... 351

Host Interfaces ............................................................................ 351

Power .......................................................................................... 352

Environmental ............................................................................. 352

Physical ....................................................................................... 353

Acoustic Specifications ............................................................... 353

Maximum Page Length ............................................................... 353

B Printer Options .................................................. 355

Hardware Options.............................................................................. 355

Interface Options ......................................................................... 356

Supplies And Accessories ................................................................. 358

Genuine Printronix Thermal Transfer Ribbons............................ 358

Genuine Printronix Media............................................................ 359

Accessories ................................................................................. 361

C ASCII Control Codes......................................... 363

D Media Cutter Installation ................................... 365

Prepare The Printer ........................................................................... 365

Installing The Cutter........................................................................... 366

Restore The Printer To Operation ............................................... 367

Removing The Media Cutter.............................................................. 368

Table of Contents

E Media Cutter Tray Installation ........................... 369

Assembling The Media Cutter Tray ................................................... 369

Installing The Media Cutter Tray........................................................ 370

F Glossary ............................................................ 373

19

1 Introduction

Printronix Customer Support Center

IMPORTANT

Please have the following information available prior to calling the
Printronix Customer Support Center:

• Model number

• Serial number (located on the back of the printer)

• Installed options (i.e., interface and host type if applicable to the problem)

• Configuration printout: See “Printing A Configuration” in the

Quick Setup

Guide

• Is the problem with a new install or an existing printer?

• Description of the problem (be specific)

• Good and bad samples that clearly show the problem (faxing of these

samples may be required)

Americas [phone]

Europe, Middle East, and Africa (31) 24 6489 311

Asia Pacific (65) 6548 4114

http://www.printronix.com/support.aspx

Printronix Supplies Department

Contact the Printronix Supplies Department for genuine Printronix supplies.

Americas [phone]

Europe, Middle East, and Africa (33) 1 46 25 1900

Asia Pacific (65) 6548 4116

or (65) 6548 4182

http://www.printronix.com/supplies-parts.aspx

20

Chapter 1 Training Available On Printronix Products

Corporate Offices

Printronix, Inc.
14600 Myford Road
P.O. Box 19559
Irvine, CA 92623-9559
Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]

Printronix, Inc.
Nederland BV
P.O. Box 163, Nieuweweg 283
NL-6600 Ad Wijchen
The Netherlands
Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]

Printronix Schweiz GmbH
42 Changi South Street 1
Changi South Industrial Estate
Singapore 486763
Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]

Visit the Printronix web site at www.printronix.com

Training Available On Printronix Products

Printronix offers Product Maintenance Training Classes designed to enhance
the knowledge of your service personnel. Led by Printronix’ staff of highly
trained, experienced instructors, these structured classes include:

• Hands-on work with the product

• Theory of operation

• Diagnosis of equipment failures

• Preventive and corrective maintenance requirements and procedures.

Customized classes designed to meet your specific needs are available upon
request. Call Customer Training at [phone] or visit the Printronix
website at www.printronix.com.

Corporate Offices

21

Warnings And Special Information

For your safety and to protect valuable equipment, read and comply with all
information highlighted under special headings:

WARNING

Conditions that could harm you and damage the equipment.

WARNING

Achten Sie auf folgendes, um keine Personen in Gefahr zu bringen bzw.
das Gerät zu beschädigen.

WARNING

Condiciones que pueden causar daños a personas y equipos.

WARNING

Conditions à respecter pour éviter tout danger corporel et dommage
matériel.

WARNING

Condizioni che possono arrecare danni alle persone e alle
apparecchiature.

CAUTION

Conditions that could damage the printer or related equipment.

IMPORTANT

Information vital to proper operation of the printer.

NOTE: Information and helpful tips about printer operation.

Manual Conventions

• Operator panel keys are printed in uppercase letters.

Example: Press the PAUSE key and then press ENTER.

• Operator panel keys are often shown by their symbol or icon (located on

the control panel directly below the key).

Example: Press the

↵ key for ENTER.

• Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) messages are printed in uppercase letters

inside quotation marks ( “ ” ).

Example: When “OFFLINE” appears on the LCD, you may release the
PAUSE key.

• LCD fault messages display the specific fault in uppercase letters on the

top line. A corrective action in upper and lowercase letters displays on the
bottom line.

Example: PAPER OUT

Load Paper

• Key combinations are indicated by the + (plus) symbol.

Example: Press ↑ + ↓ means

Press the Up ↑ key and the Down ↓ key at

the same time.

Warnings And Special Information

22

Chapter 1 The SL5000r/T5000r

Series RFID/Label Printer

The SL5000r/T5000r Series RFID/Label Printer

NOTE: As used in this manual, the terms “T5000r” and “printer” refer to all

models within the series. “SL” refers to all SmartLine RFID models.

The T5000r series consists of a family of high quality, direct thermal and
thermal transfer printers specifically designed for printing labels and tags from
any MS-DOS

®

, Windows®, ASCII, or EBCDIC (with the Coax/Twinax option)

based compatible computer.

The T5000r, Smart Ready, and SmartLine series are comprised of the
products detailed in Table 1.

NOTE: All 4” models are Smart Ready.

* Direct Thermal only 4 inch models (no ribbon transfer support)

Table 1. The T5000

r

, Smart Ready, and SmartLine Series

Model

Max Print

Speed (ips)

Printing

Density (dpi)

Max Print

Width (inches)

T5204r

10 203 4.1

T5204r DT* 10 203 4.1

SL5204r MP2 10 203 4.1

T5304r

8 300 4.1

T5304r DT* 8 300 4.1

SL5304r

8 300 4.1

SL5304r MP2 8 300 4.1

T5206r

10 203 6.6

SL5206r MP2 10 203 6.6

T5306r

8 300 6.6

SL5306r MP2 8 300 6.6

T5208r

8 203 8.5

T5308r

6 300 8.5

Standard Features

23

Standard Features

• Emulations:

• Printronix LinePrinter Plus

®

(LP+). Provides direct compatibility with
Printronix P-Series printers, Epson FX-1050, Proprinter IIIXL, and
Serial Matrix Printers.

• Printronix IGP

®

/PGL®. Provides printer system commands for text,

barcodes, graphics, lines, and boxes.

• Printronix IGP

®

/VGL. Emulates the QMS Code V™ Version II
programming language to produce on-line forms, bar codes, and
alphanumeric text generation in both normal and high resolution.

• ZGL, TGL, IGL, STGL, and DGL Interpreters: PPI/ZGL (Zebra

®

),

PPI/TGL (TEC

®

), PPI/IGL (Intermec®), PPI/STGL (SATO®), and

PPI/DGL (Datamax

®

) interpreters are powerful integration tools that
allow the SL5000r/T5000r to function in virtually all legacy ZPL, TEC,
IPL, SATO, and DPL™ application environments without requiring
modification to host data stream.

• Thermal Transfer and Direct Thermal Printing: On all printers (except

DT models, which print only in thermal mode).

• Standard Interfaces:

• Serial: RS-232

• USB 2.0 Universal Serial Bus

• Parallel: Centronics

®

-compatible parallel, IEEE® 1284 compliant

parallel

NOTE: The interface cable needed to connect the printer to the host device is

supplied by the user.

• Bar Codes: Supports over 20 types of bar codes.

• Download: Fonts, forms, and graphics to printer memory.

• Resident Fonts: Letter Gothic Bold (#93779), Courier Bold (#93952),

CG Triumvirate Bold Condensed (#92250), OCR-A (#90993),
OCR-B (#91409), CG Triumverate (#92244), CG Triumverate Bold
(#92248), and CG Times (#92500).

• High Resolution Printhead: For sharp graphics and text.

• Label Taken Sensor: Detects removal of labels in Tear-Off mode (and in

Peel-Off mode when optional rewinder is installed).

• Tear-Off Mode: Positions the label at the tear-off position and detects its

removal before printing the next label.

• Tear-Off Strip Mode: Prints a specified number of labels and positions

the last label at the tear-off position.

• 32MB DRAM memory (fixed).

• 8MB Flash memory (SIMM).

24

Chapter 1 The SL5000r/T5000r

Series RFID/Label Printer

• Auto Label Mapping

®

: For compatibility with programs written for

Printronix line matrix printers.

• Ventless System: For operation in environments with airborne

particulate matter without compromising performance.

Optional Features

Ask your authorized representative about the following enhancement options:

• Coax/Twinax Host Interface: Provides connection to a host computer

system using a coaxial or twinaxial interface.

• Fonts: A selection of purchasable fonts can be loaded from the host

computer into printer memory.

• GPIO (General Purpose Input/Output): Enables a T5000r printer to

interface with an external device such as a label applicator system. GPIO
is available as a factory option or field installable kit that also includes a
mating connector for field interface, installation instructions, and operation
manual.

• Internal Label Rewinder: In label peel-off mode, peels off labels one at a

time before printing the next label and rewinds the liner into a discardable
roll. In batch rewind mode, rewinds printed labels into a removable roll.

• IPDS: Available for coax/twinax, a NIC, or a combination of both. The

printer may be ordered with this option installed and the required
hardware to support it, or it can be field installed by an authorized service
representative at a later date. The printer must have a coax/twinax
interface or NIC, and 300 dpi printhead installed to support this field
installed option.

NOTE: RFID is not supported in IPDS applications.

• Media Cutter: Automatically cuts printed media when the media exits the

printer. Available for 4, 6, and 8 inch printers.

• Media Cutter Tray: Used with the media cutter option to catch and collect

the cut media in a bin.

• Memory Expansion: 16MB Flash SIMM replaces standard 8MB Flash

SIMM to provide additional memory for fonts, forms, and logos.

• Network Interface Card (NIC): The 10/100BaseT NIC connectivity

option provides wired networks in either an internal or external option that
allows you to attach the printer to a LAN (Local Area Network) instead of
directly to a host computer. The PrintNet Enterprise Suite (PNE) remote
management software is standard with this option.

• NIC, Wireless: This card provides wireless 802.11b/g connectivity

without expensive cabling and reconfigurations required from a wired
network. PNE is standard with this option.

The Printing Process

25

• Online Barcode Validator: Analyzes each bar code to ensure it meets

stringent scanning standards. This inspection validates the symbology
specifications of both linear and PDF417 bar code images. Bad bar code
labels are cancelled and good replacement labels are printed
automatically.

• Power Cart: The power cart is an ergonomically designed cart with

durable steel frame and battery support systems for maximum
maneuverability. The combination of the wireless T5000r and the rugged
power cart delivers a mobile on demand bar code printing system.

• RFID Encoder: The RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) encoder

reads and writes information to smart labels (with embedded RFID tags).

NOTE: The RFID encoder is standard on the SL5000r, and optional for the

T5000r.

• RS-422: Serial interface option.

• TN5250/TN3270: Enables your printer to communicate with an IBM host

through a NIC using the 5250/3270 datastream. This feature allows you
to use an application generated for the coax/twinax emulation to be
printed through the NIC.

NOTE: RFID is not supported by TN5250/3270 applications.

For more information about printer options, see Appendix B.

Thermal Printer Technology

Quiet and fast, with excellent print quality, your multifunction thermal printer
uses an inline thermal printhead. The thermal printer operates differently from
a line matrix or laser printer, because the thermal printer uses a printhead with
heating elements and special paper or ribbon.

The Printing Process

The thermal printhead allows two modes of operation:

• Direct Thermal

During

direct

thermal printing, the thermal printhead selectively heats

small, rectangular

thermal

dots. When these contact the coated thermal
paper, the dyes and developers in the coating react to the heat and
develop an image. This mode of printing is generally used for short-term
labeling applications.

• Thermal Transfer

During thermal

transfer

printing, the heated thermal dots contact a
thermal ribbon. The heat reacts with the ribbon and bonds the image to
the paper. This method is used especially for abrasive, long-storage
applications and for specialized applications, such as in extreme
environmental conditions or where tamper-proofing is required.

NOTE: Thermal transfer is not supported on 4 inch DT model printers.

26

Chapter 1 Thermal Consumables

Dynamic Print Control

Dynamic print control is a unique feature of your thermal printer that provides
excellent print quality by preventing unevenness of print density.

Print quality largely depends on how the thermal paper or the thermal ribbon
and thermal transfer paper responds to the heat of the thermal printhead.
During printing, the thermal printhead must reach a set temperature in the
shortest possible time. Then it must cool down to the original temperature in
the shortest possible time after printing. Thus print quality is dependent on the
precise control of the energy supplied to the thermal dots.

The dynamic print control is a method for predicting the quantity of heat
required to print dots based on the results of the previous printing. This
prevents unevenness of print density and results in the printing of narrow­ladder bar codes or vertical grid lines that are straight from the microscopic
viewpoint.

Thermal Consumables

Media Selection

Since there are two print modes of operation, there are two kinds of thermal
media:

• Direct thermal media

• Thermal transfer media

Direct thermal media is paper coated with special chemicals that act as an
accelerator, acceptor dye, and binder. During direct thermal mode, the heat
from the thermal printhead contacts the paper and causes a chemical
reaction.

Thermal transfer media requires ribbon. A wide range of Printronix thermal
transfer media is available, such as film or synthetic paper substitutes. Most
of these media options can be die-cut for easy label applications. The wide
selection of media sizes and face stocks have been tested with Printronix
ribbons for print quality and usage. Consult your Genuine Printronix Supplies
Catalog, call the Printronix Customer Solutions Center at [phone], or
access the Printronix web page at www.printronix.com.

NOTE: The term “media” used in this manual refers to all the different kinds

of paper or tag stock that can be used in the printer.

See “Genuine Printronix Media” on page 359 for more information.

Ribbons

Printronix offers a wide range of ribbons specifically engineered to enhance
printing capabilities and to prevent premature printhead wear. Therefore, you
should use a Genuine Printronix Thermal Ribbon in your printer.

See “Genuine Printronix Thermal Transfer Ribbons” on page 358 for more
information.

Unpacking The Printer

27

Setting Up The Printer

Unpacking The Printer

The printer is shipped in a carton and protective bag. The top lid of the carton
has instructions for removing the internal packing material. Keep all packing
material in case repacking is required.

CAUTION

Avoid touching the electrical connectors to prevent electrostatic
discharge damage while setting up the printer. The discharge of
accumulated electrostatic energy can damage or destroy the printhead
or electronic components used in this device.

CAUTION

Do not place the printer on its backside during unpacking or handling,
because you may damage the printer interface connector.

1. Remove the tape strips from the media cover. Lift open the media cover.

2. Remove the tape securing the foam pad to the inside of the media cover.

3. Remove the foam pad between the front door and the frame.

Tape Strips (2)

Foam Pads (2)

Media Cover

Frame

28

Chapter 1 Setting Up The Printer

4. Remove the foam pad between the pivoting deck and the frame.

5. Open the pivoting deck by rotating the blue deck lock lever fully
clockwise.

6. Remove the foam pad from between the printhead and the platen (rubber
roller).

7. Close the pivoting deck and media cover.

Foam

Foam Pad

Deck Lock
Lever

Pivoting Deck

Platen

Printhead

Installation

29

Installation

The following sections will guide you through the printer installation process.

1. Place the printer on a flat level surface that allows easy access to all sides
of the printer.

CAUTION

Never operate the printer while it is resting on its side or upside down.

2. Check that the printer power switch is in the OFF (O) position.

WARNING

Failure to properly ground the printer may result in electric shock to the
operator.

In compliance with international safety standards, this printer has been
equipped with a three-pronged power cord. When inserted in a correctly
wired power outlet, the ground conductor will ensure that the printer
chassis is at ground (earth) potential. Do not use adapter plugs or
remove the grounding prong from the cable plug. If an extension cord is
required, ensure that a three-wire cable with a properly grounded plug is
used.

3. Attach the AC power cord to the AC power receptacle in the back of the
printer.

CAUTION

Verify the required voltage on the printer’s model number label on the
rear of the printer.

4. Attach the AC power cord to a grounded (three prong) electrical outlet of
the proper voltage.

30

Chapter 1 Setting Up The Printer

5. Attach Interface:

a. Parallel Interface

Attach a suitable parallel printer cable from the computer to the
Centronics/IEEE 1284 interface connector at the back of the printer.
Snap the bail locks to the Centronics connector to secure the
interface cable to the printer.

b. Serial Interface

Attach a suitable serial printer cable from the computer to the DB-9
RS-232 serial interface connector at the back of the printer. For
additional information on serial cable wiring, refer to “Diagnostics And
Troubleshooting” on page 303.

NOTE: The printer supports simultaneous connection of the parallel, serial,

and USB interfaces using the Auto Switching feature. Auto Switching
is described on page 295.

Parallel Interface

Serial Interface

Debug Interface

Standard Interface Panel

USB Connection

Status LEDs