Printronix SLPA8000, LPA8000, SLPA7000, SLPA7000r User Manual

User’s Manual

SLPA7000r Smart Label Printer Applicator
SLPA8000 Smart Label Printer Applicator
LPA8000 Label Printer Applicator

User’s Manual

SLPA7000r Smart Label Printer Applicator
SLPA8000 Smart Label Printer Applicator
LPA8000 Label Printer Applicator

IMPORTANT W ARRANTY INFORMA TION

SLPA (Smart Label Printer Applicator) WARRANTY

Printronix warrants to the purchaser that under normal use and service, this SLPA (excluding the
thermal printhead) purchased hereunder shall be free from defects in material and workmanship
for a period of ninety (90) days from the date of shipment from Printronix.

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 [phone] 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 SLPA. 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. Please contact the Printronix
Maintenance Contracts Group at [phone] for detailed service agreement information.

Model ____________ Setup Values

Software Version ___________________________

Touch-Blo Control ___________________________

Print Mode ___________________________

Apply Mode ___________________________

Print Darkness ___________________________

Machine Type ___________________________

Pinch Roller ___________________________

Random Stroke Delay ___________________________

Cycle Time Delay ___________________________

Cylinder Extend Time ___________________________

Vacuum Delay Time ___________________________

CPU Dip Switch Settings __________________________

SLPA Serial Number ___________________________

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 MHz (AWID 869) or 902 to 928 MHz (AWID 915)
Typical RF Power: 25 to 100 milliwatts
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.
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.

Tested To Comply
With FCC Standards

Printronix SLPA8000/7000

r

FOR HOME OR OFFICE USE

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 Equi pm ent. ”

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

Residential, commercial, and light industry.”

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

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

CE Symbol

Taiwan

T rademark Acknowledgements

Compatibility Software Copy righ t © 1989 Phoenix Technologies Ltd., All Rights Reserved.
Alien and Alien Technology are registered trademarks of Alien Technology Corporation.
Code V is a trademark of Quality Micro Systems, Inc.
EIA is a registered service mark of the Electronic Industries Association.
Epson is a registered trademark of Seiko Epson Corporation.
HP is a registered trademark of Hewlett-Packard Company.
IBM is a registered trademark of International Business Machines Corporation.
IGP, LinePrinter Plus, PGL, Printronix, and PSA are registered trademarks of Printronix, Inc.
IPDS is a trademark of International Business Machines Corporation.
LaserJet is a registered trademark of Hewlett-Packard Company.
Microsoft, MS-DOS, and Windows are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation.
PCL is a registered trademark of Hewlett-Packard Company.
PhoenixPage PCL 5 is a registered trademark of Phoenix Technologies Ltd.
PostScript is a registered trademark of Adobe Systems.
Proprinter is a registered trademark of International Business Machines Corporation.
QMS is a registered trademark of Quality Micro Systems, Inc.
TEC is a registered trademark of the Toshiba TEC Corporation.
Zebra is a registered trademark of Zebra Technologies Corporation.

Copyright 2004, 2006, Printronix, Inc.

9

1 Introduction......................................................... 15

Printronix Customer Support Center.................................................... 15

Printronix Supplies Department..................................................... 15

Corporate Offices.......................................................................... 16

Warnings And Special Information ...................................................... 17

Manual Conventions............................................................................ 17

The SLPA8000/7000r Series............................................................... 18

Standard Features ........................................................................18

Optional Features.......................................................................... 19

Thermal Printer Media................................................................... 20

Ribbons.........................................................................................20

Thermal Printer Technology.......................................................... 20

Overview..............................................................................................22

General Operation......................................................................... 22

Operating Specifications ............................................................... 23

Storage, Shipping, & Handling...................................................... 24

Safety................................................................................................... 25

Warnings And Cautions ................................................................ 25

Operating Precautions .................................................................. 26

Operational Safety ....................................... ...... ....... ...... ....... ...... . 26

Installing The SLPA ..................................... ....... ...... ....... ...... ....... ...... . 27

Unpacking Your SLPA ..................................................................27

Mounting The SLPA.................................................. ...... ....... ...... . 27

Optional Mounting Accessories..................................................... 28

Mounting The Beacon........ ...... ....... ...... ....... ...... ....... ...... ....... ....... 2 8

Air, Power, And Communications Connections............................. 29

Adjusting The Voltage........ ...... ....................................... ....... ...... . 32

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

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

LCD............................................................................................... 34

Keypad..........................................................................................34

Key and Indicator Descriptions...................................................... 36

Pneumatic Control Valves And Gauges........................................ 38

Table Of Contents

10

Table of Contents

Setup ................................................................................................... 39

Threading The Label Roll.............................................................. 39

Loading Ribbon............................................................................. 47

Positioning The Air Jets ................................................................ 50

Removing Label Backing .............................................................. 51

SLPA System Configuration Parameters............................................. 51

System Adjustments............................................................................ 53

Printhead Pressure Adjustment .................................................... 53

Printhead Pressure Block Adjustments......................................... 54

Positioning The Media Sensors .................................................... 54

Sensing Different Media Types.....................................................56

Calibrating The Media Sensors..................................................... 61

Printing And Applying Labels............................................................... 66

Label Application (Positioning) Adjustments................................. 66

Adjusting The Cylinder Extend Time............................................. 68

The Print And Apply Process ........................................................ 69

3 Configuring The SLPA ........................................71

Overview.............................................................................................. 71

Setting SLPA Configuration Parameters ............................................. 71

Moving Within The Configuration Menu........................................ 71

Selecting A Menu Option .............................................................. 72

Changing SLPA Settings............................................................... 72

Saving A Configuration ............................................. ...... .............. 73

Auto Save Configuration ............................................................... 74

Specifying A Power-Up Configuration........................................... 75

Modifying A Saved Configuration.................................................. 75

Printing A Configuration ................................................................ 77

Loading A Saved Configuration .................................................... 77

Main Menu........................................................................................... 78

QUICK SETUP Menu .......................................................................... 85

QUICK SETUP Submenus............................................................ 86

CONFIG. CONTROL Menu ................................................................. 93

CONFIG. CONTROL Submenus .................................................. 94

MEDIA CONTROL Menu..................................................................... 96

MEDIA CONTROL Submenus...................................................... 98

CALIBRATE CTRL Menu .................................................................. 112

CALIBRATE CTRL Submenus.................................................... 113

PRINTER CONTROL Menu .................. ...... ....... ............................... 119

PRINTER CONTROL Submenus................. ...... ....... ...... ....... ..... 12 2

IGP/PGL SETUP ............................................................................... 132

IPG/PGL Setup Submenus......................................................... 135

Table of Contents

11

DIAGNOSTICS Menu........................................................................ 144

DIAGNOSTICS Submenus ......................................................... 145

PARALLEL PORT Menu.................................................................... 148

PARALLEL PORT Submenus..................................................... 149

SERIAL PORT Menu......................................................................... 152

SERIAL PORT Submenus .......................................................... 153

C/T PORT Menu................................................................................ 160

C/T PORT Submenus ................................................................. 160

ETHERNET ADDRESS Menu........................................................... 161

ETHERNET ADDRESS Submenus ............................................ 162

ETHERNET PARAMS Menu ............................................................. 163

ETHERNET PARAMS Submenus............................................... 164

WLAN ADDRESS Menu........................ ....................................... ..... 166

WLAN ADDRESS Submenus ......... ...... ....... ...... ....... ...... ............ 167

WLAN PARAMS Menu ....................................... ...... ....... ...... ............ 168

WLAN PARAMS Submenus..... ....... ...... ....... ...... ......................... 172

WLAN LEAP... ....... ...... ....... ...... ...... ....... ....................................... ..... 175

WLAN LEAP Submenus .................................... ....... ...... ....... ..... 175

BATTERY CONTROL........................................................................ 176

BATTERY CONTROL Submenus............................................... 177

DATE................................................................................................. 179

DATE Submenus ........................................................................ 179

Applicator Delay Menu....................................................................... 180

4 Interfaces.......................................................... 181

Overview............................................................................................ 181

Auto Switching................................................................................... 181

IEEE 1284 Parallel Interface.............................................................. 181

Compatibility Mode...................................................................... 182

Nibble Mode................................................................................ 182

Byte Mode.................... ...... ...... ....... ...... ....... ............................... 182

Signals ........................................................................................ 182

Terminating Resistor Configurations........................................... 184

RS-232 Serial Interface ..................................................................... 185

USB ................................................................................................... 186

5 Preventive Maintenance ................................... 187

Cleaning............................................................................................. 187

General Cleaning ........................................................................ 187

Cleaning The Printhead, Platen Roller And Media Sensors........ 189

Cleaning Procedure ..................................... ...... ....... ...... ....... ..... 189

Cleaning The Applicator Pad ...................................................... 190

Cleaning/Replacing The Vacuum Generator............................... 191

Cleaning Schedule ....... ...... ...... ....................................... ....... ..... 192

12

Table of Contents

6 Troubleshooting ................................................193

Introduction........................................................................................ 193

What You Should Know About Print Quality ............................... 193

How To Maximize Printhead Life ................................................ 194

Troubleshooting At A Glance ...................................................... 194

How To Troubleshoot ...................... ...... ...... ....... ...... ....... ...... ....... ..... 19 5

Printer Tests................................................................................ 196

To Print A Test Label .................................................................. 196

Troubleshooting Display Messages................................................... 197

List Of Messages ......... ...... ....... ...... ....................................... ..... 19 8

Troubleshooting Other Symptoms..................................................... 225

General Symptom List................................................................. 225

A Specifications.................................................... 245

Applicator Orientation........................................................................ 245

Product Distance Variation ................................................................ 245

Application Rate................................................................................. 245

Printing............................................................................................... 246

Media................................................................................................. 247

Ribbon ............................................................................................... 248

Electrical............................................................................................ 249

Pneumatic.......................................................................................... 249

Environmental.................................................................................... 250

Physical ............................................................................................. 250

Connections....................................................................................... 251

Communications Interface................................................................. 251

B Options.............................................................. 253

Beacon Package Options.................................................................. 253

Fault/Warning Beacon Package.................................................. 253

Label On Pad Sensor.................................................................. 253

Mounting The Beacon............... ...... ...... ....... ...... ....... ...... ....... ..... 25 4

Mounting Accessories.. ....... ...... ....... ...... ...... ....... ...... ....... ...... ....... ..... 25 5

U-Arm And Accessories............ ...... ...... ...................................... 25 5

Mounting Stand.................. ....... ...... ...... ....... ...... ....... ...... ............ 256

Low Label Sensor.............................................................................. 257

Product Sensor.................................................................................. 258

Application Options............................................................................ 260

Cylinder Stroke Lengths.............................................................. 260

Soft Pad ...................................................................................... 260

Random Stroke Sensor............................................................... 260

Table of Contents

13

C Downloading Software...................................... 261

Loading Flash Memory ...................................................................... 261

Loading Software With The Firmware Download Utility .............. 262

Loading Through The Parallel Or Serial Port Using DOS........... 263

Loading Software If Flash Contains Only Boot Code.................. 265

Loading Software Through The NIC............................................ 266

Downloading Optional Fonts To Flash Memory .......................... 268

Downloading TrueType Fonts ..................................................... 270

Printronix Windows Driver........................................................... 271

Create And Send Download File – Online (PGL Only)................ 271

Create And Send Download File – Download Mode...................272

Using PTX_SETUP..................................................................... 272

Labeling Applications .................................................................. 272

Using Downloaded TrueType Fonts............................................ 273

14

Table of Contents

15

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 SLPA)

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

• Configuration printout (see “Printing A Configuration” on page 77)

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

• 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 Dep artment

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

16

Chapter 1 Printronix Customer Support Center

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

Corporate Offices

17

W arnings And Sp ecial 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 SLPA or related equipment.

IMPORTANT

Information vital to proper operation of the SLPA.
NOTE: Information and helpful tips about SLPA operation.

Manual Conventions

• Control panel keys are printed in bold letters.

Example: Press the Pause key to take the SLPA offline.

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

the control panel directly below the key).

Example: Press the

↵ to select it.

• 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

18

Chapter 1 The SLPA8000/7000r Series

The SLPA8000/7000r Se ries

The SLPA8000 and 7000r Series are families of Smart label printer
applicators (direct thermal and thermal transfer) designed to print, encode,
and apply labels and tags from any MS-DOS

®

, Windows®, or ASCII-based

computer.
Printronix Dynamic Print Control provides exceptional print quality. A circuit

monitors the data to be printed and automatically adjusts the energy applied
to the thermal printhead for maximum performance.

The SLPA can communicate with the host computer via RS-232 and RS-422
serial, Centronics

®

-compatible parallel, IEEE® 1284 compliant parallel, and
(optionally) coax/twinax, ethernet 10/100Base-T, or wireless ethernet host
connections. The interface cable needed to connect the SLPA to the host
device is supplied by the user.

St andard Fea tures

• 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 and IGP/VGL. Provides printer system

commands for text, barcodes, graphics, lines, and boxes.

• 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
allows the SLPA8000/7000r to function in virtually all legacy ZPL™,
TEC, IPL, SGL, and DGL application environments without requiring
modification to host data stream.

• Thermal Transfer and Direct Thermal Printing: On all SLPAs

(except -DT models, which print only in direct thermal mode)

• Bar Codes: Support for over 20 types of bar codes

• Resident Fonts: OCRA, OCRB, Courier, Letter Gothic, and

CG Triumvirate Bold Condensed

• Download: Forms, fonts, and graphics into SLPA memory

• High Resolution Printhead: For sharp graphics and text

• Tear-Off Mode: For positioning the label at the peel bar

• 32MB Flash memory

• 8MB DRAM memory

• 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

19

• Standard interfaces:

• Serial: RS-232

• USB 2.0 Universal Serial Bus

• Parallel: Centronics

®

-compatible paralle l, IEE E® 1284 compliant

parallel

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

supplied by the user.

Optional Features

The following options are also available:

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

SLPA memory. Once loaded, these fonts are accessed in the same way
as the resident fonts. See Table 15 on page 268 for a list of optional fonts.

• Memory Expansion (for non-IPDS SLPAs only):

• 16MB DRAM SIMM (single in-line memory module): Provides

additional memory to accommodate long label formats. Replaces
standard 8 MB Flash SIMM.

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

system using a coaxial or twinaxial interface.

• Network Interface Card (NIC): This option allows you to attach the SLPA

to a LAN (Local Area Network) rather than attaching it directly to a host
computer.

NIC adapters are available as an internally installed option, mounted
inside the SLPA with the 10/100Base-T (UTP) connection only.

NOTE: In this manual, the terms “Network Interface Card” (or “NIC”) and

“Ethernet” are used interchangeably.

• Wireless NIC: This card provides wireless 802.11b connectivity without

expensive cabling and reconfigurations required from a wired network.

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

SLPA 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 SLPA must have a coax/twinax
interface or NIC, 300 dpi printhead, 16 MB DRAM, and 10 MB flash
memory installed to support this field-installed option.

• TN5250/TN3270: Enables your SLPA 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 twinax/coax emulation to be
printed through the NIC.

• RS-422: Serial interface option.

20

Chapter 1 The SLPA8000/7000r Series

Thermal Printer Media

Because there are two modes of operation, there are two kinds of thermal
printer paper:

• Direct thermal paper: This paper is coated with chemicals that act as

accelerators, ink, and ink binders. In direct thermal mode, the heat from
the thermal printhead contacts the paper and causes a chemical reaction
on the surface of the paper.

• Thermal transfer paper: This film or synthetic paper substitute is

designed to accept transferred images well and to resist scratching. Most
thermal transfer papers can be die-cut for easy label applications.
Printronix offers a selection of thermal transfer paper sizes and face
stocks, which ensures high print quality and long life when used with
Printronix ribbons.

Ribbons

Use only Printronix Genuine Thermal Ribbons in this SLPA. Printronix thermal
ribbons are engineered to enhance thermal printing capabilities and to
prevent premature wear of the printhead.

Thermal Printer Technology

Unlike a dot matrix, laser, or LED printhead printer, a thermal printer has a
printhead containing heating elements that are used with paper or a ribbon
specially designed for use with a heated printhead. The SLPA uses an inline
thermal printhead, which produces high resolution output quickly and
efficiently.

The Printing Process

The thermal printhead allows two modes of operation:

• Direct Thermal Mode: The thermal printhead selectively heats tiny

rectangular

dots on its surface. When the heated dots contact specially
coated thermal paper, the dyes and developers in the coating react to the
heat and develop an image. This mode of printing is often used for short­term labeling applica tio n s.

• Thermal Transfer Mode: The heated dots contact a thermal ribbon; the

thermal ribbon reacts to the heat by bonding the image to the paper. This
method is especially suitable for print applications requiring long-term
storage, abrasion resistance, durability in extreme environmental
conditions, and resistance to tampering. (Models designated -DT do not
print in this mode.)

Thermal Printer Technology

21

Dynamic Print Control

Print quality in thermal printers depends on how well the thermal ribbon and
thermal transfer paper respond to the heat of the thermal printhead. The
thermal printhead must reach a specific temperature to print, then must cool
down in the shortest possible time after printing. Print quality therefore
depends on precise control of the energy supplied to the thermal dots. If
uneven print density occurs, it is usually caused by the stored heat from dots
printed previously.

The SLPA uses Dynamic Print Control technology to ensure even print
density. Dynamic Print Control is printer software that monitors and adjusts
printhead temperatures. Based on stored results of previously printed dots,
the printer predicts the amount of heat required to print subsequent dots and
regulates the electrical energy applied to the printhead. This prevents uneven
print density and permits the printing of narrow-ladder bar codes and vertical
grid lines that are absolutely straight.

22

Chapter 1 Overview

Overview

General Operation

Figure 1. SLPA Dimensions

This document contains information and instructions for the Printronix Smart
Label Printer Applicator (SLPA). The SLPA can print label patterns up to 4.1
inches (104 mm) wide and applies them by means of a pneumatic applicator
system, although optional methods of applying the label are available by
design. The

User’s Manual

contains information on setup, operation, and
menu configurations, as well as adjustments and basic maintenance
procedures the operator can per form.

The SLPA is both a direct thermal and thermal transfer label printer. The
SLPA can be positioned for top, side, or bottom applications and mounted
using the mounting holes in either the base or sides.

NOTE: Specify the orientation of the SLPA when ordering. If the system is to

be used for bottom applications, custom work may be needed.

The SLPA is an integrated unit composed of the following modules:

• Label printer engine

• Label apply system

• GPIO control system

• Control panel (comprised of air controls, Liquid Crystal Display (LCD),

touch keypad/display, and air pressure gauges)

• Label supply

• Backing rewind system

These systems are packaged into a metal frame with an aluminum cover
enclosing the rest of the system. The metal frame is used for component
mounting, and all system controls are located on this frame.

Operating Specifications

23

Operating Specifications

Operating Environment

The SLPA is designed for general use in warehouse and industrial
environments. It should not be exposed to liquids or damaging chemical
vapors, and will function properly in environments with an ambient
temperature between 40

o

to 100o F (4o to 38o C). Minimizing unnecessary

exposure to dirt and dust is also recommended.
NOTE: Optional enclosures may be purchased to protect the products in

unusually harsh environments.

Power Requirement s

A properly grounded, dedicated line supplying either:
115 VAC +

10%, single phase @ 50 - 60 Hz
or
230 VAC +

10%, single phase @ 50 - 60 Hz.

CAUTION

It is recommended that you isolate the SLPA from its power supply by
means of a surge suppressor to minimize any potential damage to the
equipment.

A suppressor which limits voltage to 400V and has a response time of
1-5ns is highly recommended.

Air Supply

The applicator system works with a regulated 80 to 100 psi (550 to 690 kPa)
air supply that is dust and oil free. A filter is provided that is equipped with a
mist separator to remove any condensation that builds in the line.

CAUTION

The pneumatic supply line should also be dedicated to maintain the
appropriate pressure range, thereby providing relief against excess
pressure. Providing such protection should prevent the supply pr essure
from exceeding 135 psi (931 kPA).

24

Chapter 1 Overview

Storage, Shipping, & Handling

Storage

• Store the SLPA in a clean dry area.

• Storage temperatures should be between -40

o

to 150o F (-40o to 65o C).

• Do not store the SLPA with labels or printing ribbon installed.

• Store the SLPA in its original packaging if possible.

Shipping

• Observe storage conditions when shipping. Retain the shipping materials

if the SLPA is intended to be moved from site to site.

• If the original packing is not available, ensure sufficient padding/

protection for the printhead, applicator, label rollers, and rear cover.

• Carefully inspect the SLPA packagi ng upon rece ip t. If damage from

dropping, crushing, or punctures occurred, contact the carrier directly and
specify the nature of the damage.

Handling

• When handling the SLPA, do not rest or pivot it such that pr essu re may

be applied to the printhead assembly.

• Do not lift or pull the SLPA by gripping the applicator pad, the pneumatic

tubing, the printhead assembly, or any of the rollers which are located on
the front of the it.

NOTE: It is possible to manually position the applicator pad. Ensure that the

applicator pad is in the full up position to prevent any damage from
occurring when the SLPA is moved.

Warnings And Cautions

25

Safety

War nings And Cautions

WARNING

Printronix has provided the necessary guards and warnings within the
confines of the SLPA, but cannot anticipate each customer’s individual
installation and operational environments. It is the customer’s
responsibility to provide in-house safety guards to provide adequate
worker safety for their respective production settings.

WARNING

An input signal from the product sensor activates the SLPA when it is
powered on. Make certain that protective guards are properly secured
and that materials are clear of the applicator pad/printhead assembly
before powering on the SLPA.

WARNING

This manual includes instructions on basic operation and preventative
maintenance only. Only qualified technicians should perform service
procedures, i.e, procedures requiring access to the rear compartment or
power entry module of the SLPA.

WARNING

Both surge protection for the electrical supply and pressure relief for
the pneumatic supply are strongly recommended. Failure to properly
protect against extreme fluctuations in the supply sources could result
in operator injury or damage to equipment.

CAUTION

Power off the SLPA and disconnect both the power source and the air
supply prior to doing any maintenance, adjustments, and/or parts
replacement which do not require these systems to be powered on.

CAUTION

Read and become familiar with all of the instructions in this manual
before proceeding to operate the SLPA.

CAUTION

Any external communications cables to be used with the SLPA must be
properly shielded and grounded. Failure to provide proper shielding or
grounding for these cables could result in malfunctioning or damage to
the SLPA.

CAUTION

When handling the SLPA, do not rest or pivot it such that pressure may
be applied to the printhead assembly.

26

Chapter 1 Safety

Operating Precautions

Proper operation of the SLPA depends upon timely maintenance and
appropriate operation. Always observe the following precautions:

• Use label stock which is designed for use with the SLPA. Printronix

supplied replacement stock is recommended.

• Ensure that a regulated air supply is used for the pneumatic system. Use

the appropriate filters for the removal of dirt, oil, and excessive moisture.

• Secure all protective guards, covers, and enclosures prior to operating

the SLPA. Ensure proper mounting of the SLPA prior to use.

• Do not attempt to operate an SLPA from a power source other than that

for which it was designed. Do not use any of the SLPA’s components to
power or operate any equipment except those they are intended to
operate.

• Use only Printronix replacement parts for maintenance and repair.

• You must have this manual to perform any maintenance. Use only the

appropriate tools and ensure that maintenance workers are properly
grounded if work is being performed on the circuitry.

• Do not use objects other than a finger to operate buttons on the keypad.

• Sound pressure levels indicated a maximum reading of 81 ±1dB(A).

Sound levels were determined based on SLPAs of similar design and
assembled with a 3 x 4 inch applicator pad. Readings were taken in a low
noise environment, at approximately 1.0 meter.

NOTE: Sound levels may vary depending upon the mounting of the SLPA,

the surface to which a label is applied, and the environment in which it
is used. The size of the applicator pad can also affect sound levels, in
that larger pads can produce greater noise when applying labels.

Operational Safe ty

WARNING

The addition of custom safety guards in the vicinity of the label
applicator is essential to the safe operation of the SLPA. Due to the
variety of potential assembly line setups, Printronix cannot provide
sufficient guarding in a standard package. The addition of such guards
is the responsibility of the buyer.

WARNING

The SLPA should be powered off during any operation in which a
worker may be exposed to a hazardous zone. If it is necessary that the
SLPA remain powered on, make certain that the Pause button is pressed
and the product sensor is disconnected.

Unpacking Your SLPA

27

Installing The SLPA

Unpacking Your SLPA

The SLPA has been securely packaged for protection during transportation.
Once received, follow the steps outlined below to ensure that the SLPA is not
damaged.

1. Remove the top layer of protective paper from the SLPA.

2. Lift the SLPA from the protective bottom layer of the box.

CAUTION

Do not lift or pull the SLPA by gripping the applicator pad, the
pneumatic tubing, the printhead assembly or ANY ROLLERS which are
located on the front of it.

3. Save the shipping container and protective layers of paper to ensure

proper return shipping to Printronix, if necessary.

4. Organize all items as they are unpacked from their containers. Carefully

inspect each item for signs of damage. Make certain that all parts
(options) requested are received with the order.

5. Consult the enclosed packing slip for contact information if any item is

missing or broken.

Mounting The SLPA

The mounting method for the SLPA allows for side, top, or bottom
applications.

NOTE: Specify the orientation of the SLPA when ordering. If the system is to

be used for bottom applications, custom work may be needed.

If the bottom base plate is used, the SLPA can easily be mounted to any flat
surface using the four 3/8 - 16 UNC holes provided. If the SLPA is mounted
using the 0.39 inch diameter holes provided on the side panels, special
fixturing may be needed to prevent potential damage to the connectors and
cabling in those areas.

To facilitate access to the control panel, the SLPA should be mounted at a
height between 2.0 feet (0.6 m) to 6.2 feet (1.9 m) above service level.

28

Chapter 1 Install in g The SLPA

Figure 2. Mounting Hole Configuration

CAUTION

The mounting plates of the SLPA are 0.375 inches (9.25 mm) thick.
When mounting the SLPA, use screws that will secure the assembly into
place but will not penetrate deeper than 1/2 inch (12.7 mm) in the SLPA.

IMPORTANT

Retain cap screws in mounting holes that are not to be utilized.

Optional Mounting Accesso ries

See “Mounting Accessories” on page 255.

Mounting The Beacon

See “Mounting The Beacon” on page 254.

Air, Power, And Communications Connections

29

Air , Power, And Communications Connections

CAUTION

Any external communications cables to be used with the SLPA must be
properly shielded and grounded. Failure to provide proper shielding or
grounding for these cables could result in malfunctioning or damage to
the SLPA.

After mounting the SLPA, conne ct the system as fol low s:

Figure 3. Interface Panels

1. Connect the pad home sensors mounted on the air cylinder to the pad

home port on the interface side panel. (Figure 3.)

2. Connect the interface cable to the serial data port.

3. Connect the opposite end of the interface cable to the serial

communications port of the host which will provide data.

4. Connect the product sensor connector to the trigger port.
NOTE: The I/O port is used to communicate with the SLPA’s GPIO inputs

and outputs if the optional fault/warning applicator control package is
installed.

5. If you have the IEEE-1284 parallel communications cable option, attach it

to the data port.

Beacon

Port

Pad Home

Port

Interface Connections Between the
SLPA and External Equipment

Connections to the Controller Board

30

Chapter 1 Install in g The SLPA

Figure 4. Air Filter

6. If you have a fault warning beacon, connect it to the beacon port.
(Figure 3.)

The fault warning beacon can also be mounted remotely from the SLPA.
(An optional 12 feet cable extension is available.)

7. Mount the air filter according to requirements.

NOTE: Customer must provide the necessary mounting for the air filter

supplied with the system.

8. Connect the air supply hose to the air supply connector marked IN.
(Figure 4.)

9. Connect the air hose to the quick connect air fitting marked OUT.

To Air

Supply

Hose

Air Hose to
SLPA

Air Pressure

Adjustment Knob

IN
Air Supply
Connector

OUT

Quick

Connect

Air Fitting

Air Pressure

Gauge