QuickLabel Systems QLS-4100 Operation & Setup Manual

Digital Color Label Printer

Operation & Setup Guide

Part Number 22834667-EN-E

Revision 1.0

4/17

Firmware V 2.3

Specifications are subject to change without notice

___________________________________________

QuickLabel, An AstroNova™ Division

World Headquarters

600 East Greenwich Ave., West Warwick, RI 02893

Tel: [phone] Fax: [phone]

E-mail: [e-mail]

www.QuickLabel.com

___________________________________________

Technical Support

Tel: [phone]

[e-mail]

www.QuickLabel.com/support/

© 2017 AstroNova, Inc. All Rights Reserved

This manual is copyrighted with all rights reserved. No part of this manual
may be reproduced, transmitted, transcribed, stored in a retrieval system, or
translated into any language in any form by any means without written
permission of QuickLabel.

Trademarks

Microsoft Word™ and Windows™ are trademarks of Microsoft Corporation
PostScript™ and Adobe Illustrator™ are trademarks of Adobe Systems, Inc.
CorelDRAW!™ is a trademark of Corel Corporation
PCL™ is a trademark of Hewlett-Packard Corporation
Ethernet™ is a trademark of Xerox Corporation
QuickLabel® is a registered trademark of AstroNova, Inc.
Custom QuickLabel™ and RibbonRation™ are trademarks of AstroNova,
Inc.
UFST® is a trademark of Monotype Imaging Inc. registered in the United
States Patent and Trademark Office and may be registered in certain
jurisdictions.

Limited Warranty

QuickLabel, An AstroNova Division, warrants this product against defects in
materials or workmanship for a period of one year from the date of original
purchase. This warranty excludes printhead and print platen, which are
separately warranted. If the customer discovers a defect, this defect must be
reported promptly to QuickLabel.

QuickLabel will, at its option, repair or replace the defective component at
no additional charge. Repair parts and replacement parts will be furnished
on an exchange basis and will be either reconditioned or new. All replaced
parts become the property of QuickLabel. Travel, freight and other expenses
related to warranty repairs are not covered. Service Agreements are available
for purchase and may provide on-site service and/or loaner equipment.

QuickLabel warrants the printhead and the platen from the date of purchase
for a period of 90 days or for 1 million inches of thermal transfer ribbon,
whichever comes first, contingent upon the use of QuickLabel thermal
transfer ribbon. QuickLabel printheads are calibrated for use with
QuickLabel thermal transfer ribbon and perform optimally only when used
with this ribbon. This specific printhead warranty does not apply to
printheads damaged by accident, abuse, neglect, misapplication or the like.

This warranty is void if the product has been damaged by accident, abuse,
neglect or misapplication, or if the product has been improperly installed, or
if the product has been modified without the express written permission of
QuickLabel.

QuickLabel makes no warranty, either express or implied, with respect to
this product’s fitness for a particular purpose.

Obtaining Service

To obtain warranty service, call QuickLabel Technical Support at 401-828­4000 or Toll-Free in the USA and Canada at 877-757-7310. QuickLabel, An
AstroNova Division, is not responsible for products lost or damaged in
transit.

Contact Information for Factory Sales and Service Centers

QuickLabel USA and World Headquarters
600 East Greenwich Avenue
West Warwick, RI 02893 USA
Toll Free: [phone]
Toll-Free Sales: [phone]
Toll Free Technical Support: [phone]
Tel: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Web Site: www.QuickLabel.com
Sales E-mail: [e-mail]
Technical Support E-mail: [e-mail]

QuickLabel Canada

#111 – 3555 Isabelle, Brossard, QC J4Y 2R2 Canada
Tel: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Web Site: www.QuickLabel.ca
Sales e-mail: [e-mail]
Technical Support e-mail: [e-mail]

QuickLabel Deutschland

Senefelderstraße 1/ T6 D-63110 Rodgau
Tel. [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Web Site: www.QuickLabel.de
Sales e-mail: [e-mail]
Technical Support e-mail: [e-mail]

QuickLabel France

Parc Euclide
ZA la Clef de St Pierre
10A Rue Blaise Pascal
78990 ELANCOURT
Tel: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Web Site: www.QuickLabel.fr
Sales E-mail: [e-mail]
Technical Support E-mail:[e-mail]

QuickLabel United Kingdom

Westacott Way, Maidenhead
Berkshire, SL6 3RT
Tel: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Web Site: www.QuickLabel.co.uk
Sales e-mail: [e-mail]
Technical Support e-mail:[e-mail]

Ownership Information

Congratulations and thank you for your business. Your purchase of a quality
QuickLabel product is an investment in the finest of state-of-the-art printing
and labeling technology. Please use the spaces below to list the model
name/number and serial number of your product.

Model Name/Number: ____________________

Serial Number: ____________________

FCC Compliance Statement

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits of a
Class A digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are
designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference when
the equipment is operated in a residential environment. This equipment
generates, uses, and radiates radio frequency energy, and if not installed and
used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference.
However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur. If this
equipment does cause interference to radio or television reception, which can
be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged
to correct the interference by one of the following measures:

• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.

• Increase separation between the equipment and receiver.

• Connect the equipment to an outlet on a circuit different from which the

receiver is connected.

• Consult QuickLabel Technical Support.

Warning: Modifications not expressly approved by Quick Label could void
user authority to operate the equipment.

Canadian Compliance Statement

This Digital apparatus meets all the requirements of the Canadian
Interference-Causing Equipment Regulations.

Cet appareil numerique respecte les exigences du Reglement sur le material
broilleur du Canada.

ETL Certification

This product has met the United States of America and Canada electrical
product safety requirements and has earned the ETL Listed Mark.

RoHS Compliance

We declare that the QLS-4100 Xe complies with The European RoHS
Directive 2002/95/EC (Restriction of the Use of Certain Hazardous
Substances in Electrical and Electronic Equipment), as of 6/6/2007.

This declaration is based on information provided by suppliers based on
reasonable inquiry. This declaration is rendered invalid if the product is
altered by someone other than AstroNova, Inc.

Declaration of Conformity

Declaration de Conformité
Ubereinstimmungserklärung
Dichiarazione di Conformità

ID DoC-22834486

Manufacturer’s name and address
Nom et adresse du fabricant
Hersteller
Nome del costruttore

Model No.
Modele No.
Model Nr.
Modello No.

Standards to which conformity is declared
Standards auquel la conformité appartient
Normen für welche Übereinstimmung erklärt wird
Norme per le quali si dichiara la conformità

Application of Council Directives
Application des Decisions du Conseil
Anwendbar fur die Richtlinien
Applicazione delle Direttive del Comitato

AstroNova, Inc.
600 East Greenwich Avenue
West Warwick, RI 02893 USA

QLS-4100 Xe

Safety: UL 60950-1
CSA C22.2 No. 60950-1, Second Edition

EMC: CISPR 22 Ed. 6.0 2008
CISPR 24 Ed. 2.0 2010
IEC 61000-3-2 ed3.2 (2009-04)
IEC 61000-3-3 ed2.0 (2008-06)
IEC 61000-4-2:2008
IEC 61000-4-3:2006+ A1:2007+ A2:2010
IEC 61000-4-4:2004
IEC 61000-4-5:2005
IEC 61000-4-6:2003
IEC 61000-4-8:1993
IEC 61000-4-11:2000

2004/108/EC
2006/95/EC

I, the undersigned, hereby declare that the equipment specified above conforms to the above Directive and Standard.
Je, Soussigné, déclare que l’équipment spécifié ci-dessus est en conformité avec la directive et le standard ci-dessus.
Ich, der unterzeichnende erkläre hiermit, daß das oben beschriebene Gerät den vorgenannten Richtlinien und Normen entspricht.
Il sottoscritto dichiara che l’apparecchio sopra specificato è conforme alle Direttive e Norme sopra specificate.

Steven Holbrook
Quality Assurance Manager
AstroNova, Inc.

European Contact: Your local AstroNova, Inc. Sales and Service Office.
FRANCE - Parc Euclide, ZA la Clef de St Pierre, 10A Rue Blaise Pascal 78990 Elancourt

Tel: [phone], Fax: [phone]
GERMANY - Senefelderstrasse 1/T6, D-63110 Rodgau

Tel. [phone], Fax: [phone]
UNITED KINGDOM - Westacott Way, Maidenhead Berkshire, SL6 3RT

Tel: [phone], Fax: [phone]

Date of issue: 4/13/2017
Place of issue: West Warwick, RI

Table of Contents

Chapter 1: Quick Start ........................................................................... 1-1

QuickLabel media ...................................................................................................... 1-2

Quick Start Guide ...................................................................................................... 1-3

Chapter 2: Physical Setup ..................................................................... 2-1

Unpacking the Printer ............................................................................................... 2-2

Printer Orientation ..................................................................................................... 2-3

Features of the QLS-4100 Xe ..................................................................................... 2-4

Side view ................................................................................................................ 2-5

Rear Panel View .................................................................................................... 2-6

Installing the Media Unwind Mandrel ................................................................... 2-7

Power Connection ..................................................................................................... 2-8

Computer Connections ............................................................................................. 2-9

Centronics Parallel Port ........................................................................................ 2-9

RS-232 Serial Port ................................................................................................ 2-10

Ethernet Port and TCP/IP Communication ..................................................... 2-11

Print Servers ......................................................................................................... 2-12

Utility Port Connection ........................................................................................... 2-13

Compressed Air Connection .................................................................................. 2-14

Preparing the Air Regulator .............................................................................. 2-14

Connecting the Air Supply ................................................................................ 2-14

Chapter 3: Loading Media and Calibration ......................................... 3-1

Loading Thermal Transfer Ribbon .......................................................................... 3-2

Loading Label or Tag Media .................................................................................... 3-4

Adjusting the Media Sensor ..................................................................................... 3-7

Calibrating for Media Types .................................................................................... 3-8

Calibrating Gap Media ......................................................................................... 3-8

Calibrating Reflective Media ............................................................................. 3-11

Calibrating Continuous Media .......................................................................... 3-13

Calibrating Inverted Gap Media ....................................................................... 3-13

Chapter 4: Keypad Controls and Menus ............................................. 4-1

Keypad Layout and Functions ................................................................................. 4-2

Print/Pause ............................................................................................................. 4-3

Form Feed/Advance ............................................................................................. 4-3

Cancel ..................................................................................................................... 4-3

Menu Overview ......................................................................................................... 4-4

Ready State & Adjust Menu ..................................................................................... 4-9

Print Intensity ........................................................................................................ 4-9

QLS-4100 Xe i

Print Speed ........................................................................................................... 4-11

Print Line Adjustment ........................................................................................ 4-12

Cross Web Adjustment ....................................................................................... 4-14

Vertical Offset ...................................................................................................... 4-16

Horizontal Offset ................................................................................................. 4-17

Display Counter .................................................................................................. 4-19

Cut Offset ............................................................................................................. 4-20

Label Reprint ....................................................................................................... 4-21

Form Stop Adjust ................................................................................................ 4-21

Peel Delay ............................................................................................................. 4-22

Cal & Setup Menu .................................................................................................... 4-23

Calibrate ............................................................................................................... 4-23

Test Print .............................................................................................................. 4-24

Vertical Baseline .................................................................................................. 4-25

Horizontal Baseline ............................................................................................. 4-26

Printer Settings .................................................................................................... 4-27

Variable Maximum Gap ..................................................................................... 4-29

Cutter Baseline ..................................................................................................... 4-30

Operation Menu ....................................................................................................... 4-31

Pull Back ............................................................................................................... 4-31

Label Reprint ....................................................................................................... 4-34

Synchronize Labels ............................................................................................. 4-35

Ribbon Menu ............................................................................................................ 4-37

Ribbon Type ......................................................................................................... 4-37

Drop/Lift Adjust .................................................................................................. 4-38

Ribbon Sensor ...................................................................................................... 4-40

Communications Menu ........................................................................................... 4-41

Data Port ............................................................................................................... 4-41

Parallel Mode ....................................................................................................... 4-42

RS232 Baud Rate .................................................................................................. 4-43

RS232 Handshaking ............................................................................................ 4-44

TCP/IP: IP Address ............................................................................................. 4-45

TCP/IP Subnet Mask ........................................................................................... 4-46

TCP/IP Gateway .................................................................................................. 4-47

TCP/IP Connections ............................................................................................ 4-48

System Menu ............................................................................................................ 4-49

Display Counter .................................................................................................. 4-49

Memory Card - Write Protection ...................................................................... 4-50

Front Panel Lock/Unlock .................................................................................... 4-51

Memory Card - Formatting ............................................................................... 4-54

Time ...................................................................................................................... 4-55

ii QLS-4100 Xe

Date ....................................................................................................................... 4-56

Factory Reset ........................................................................................................ 4-57

Options Menu........................................................................................................... 4-59

Mirror Mode ........................................................................................................ 4-59

Cutter .................................................................................................................... 4-60

Cut Flag ................................................................................................................ 4-61

Pull Back - Enable/Disable ................................................................................. 4-63

Applicator ............................................................................................................ 4-65

Image Normalization .......................................................................................... 4-66

“No Air” Warning............................................................................................... 4-67

Ignore Host Commands ..................................................................................... 4-68

System Configuration ......................................................................................... 4-69

Print & Peel .......................................................................................................... 4-70

Chapter 5: Operation .............................................................................. 5-1

Printing with the QLS-4100 Xe ................................................................................. 5-2

Powering the Printer On ...................................................................................... 5-2

Operating Without Compressed Air .................................................................. 5-3

Memory Card Detection....................................................................................... 5-3

Printer Indicators ....................................................................................................... 5-4

Error Messages ........................................................................................................... 5-5

Color Alignment ........................................................................................................ 5-9

Common Adjustments and Tasks ......................................................................... 5-11

Test Patterns ........................................................................................................ 5-11

Print Line Adjustment ........................................................................................ 5-11

Cross Web Adjustment ...................................................................................... 5-11

Advancing the Media ......................................................................................... 5-11

Print Speed ........................................................................................................... 5-11

Evaluating Print Quality ......................................................................................... 5-12

Enabling and Disabling RibbonRation™ .............................................................. 5-14

Printing Labels ......................................................................................................... 5-15

Chapter 6: Advanced Adjustments ....................................................... 6-1

Printhead Tangency Alignment ............................................................................... 6-2

Printhead Angularity Adjustment .......................................................................... 6-3

Ribbon Wrinkling Adjustments ............................................................................... 6-4

Printhead & Drive Station Lift ................................................................................. 6-6

Vertical Baseline ......................................................................................................... 6-7

Horizontal Baseline ................................................................................................... 6-8

Chapter 7: Maintenance and Repair .................................................... 7-1

Recommended Tool List ........................................................................................... 7-2

Routine Cleaning ....................................................................................................... 7-3

QLS-4100 Xe iii

Printhead Replacement ............................................................................................. 7-5

Platen Replacement ................................................................................................... 7-7

Drive and Pinch Roller Replacement ...................................................................... 7-9

Drive roll replacement .......................................................................................... 7-9

Pinch Roller Replacement .................................................................................. 7-10

Changing the Fuse or Line Voltage ....................................................................... 7-11

Firmware Upgrades ................................................................................................. 7-12

Upgrading additional printers with the CompactFlash card ........................ 7-15

Chapter 8: Print & Peel .......................................................................... 8-1

Print & Peel System Overview ................................................................................. 8-2

Compatibility Notes .............................................................................................. 8-2

Compatible Media ................................................................................................. 8-3

Important Safety Features .................................................................................... 8-4

Print & Peel Installation ............................................................................................ 8-5

Refitting an Existing QLS-4100 Xe ...................................................................... 8-6

Installing the Print & Peel System ...................................................................... 8-8

Print & Peel Setup .................................................................................................... 8-11

Enabling/Disabling Print & Peel ............................................................................ 8-13

Printing and Peeling Labels .................................................................................... 8-15

Adjusting the Liner Guide ...................................................................................... 8-16

Liner Guide Adjustment Notes ......................................................................... 8-17

Print & Peel Adjustment Options .......................................................................... 8-19

Form Stop Adjust ................................................................................................ 8-19

Peel Delay ............................................................................................................. 8-20

Appendix A: Physical Data ................................................................... A-1

Appendix B: Specifications .................................................................. B-1

Appendix C: Replacement Parts .......................................................... C-1

®

Appendix D: Custom QuickLabel

setup ............................................ D-1

Appendix E: Windows Printer Driver Setup ........................................ E-1

Appendix F: Format error codes .......................................................... F-1

Appendix G: Menu Structure ............................................................... G-1

iv QLS-4100 Xe

Chapter 1:
Quick Start

Congratulations ! You have purchased QuickLabel’s best digital color label
printer - ever. The QLS-4100 Xe represents years of careful research and
development to perfect digital color label printing technology.

The QLS-4100 Xe represents . . .

QuickLabel’s Best Image Quality - Ever The all-new print station design
maintains a high degree of color registration - down to ± 1/2 dot throughout
an entire print run.

QuickLabel’s Enhanced RibbonRation™ system which further economizes
the use of ribbons making it even more cost-effective for long and short label
runs.

QuickLabel’s Easiest Printer to Use featuring a virtually adjustment free
platform that ensures consistent, smooth operation and repeatable print
quality, day after day.

QuickLabel’s Most Reliable Printer featuring industrial-grade, all-metal
construction, large rollers, long-life bearings, and highly accurate media
sensing just to name a few enhancements resulting in trouble-free operation.

This Operation and Setup Guide provides all the information you will need
to operate and maintain the QLS-4100 Xe. This Quick Start chapter provides
a step-by-step guide for experienced or trained users to quickly get up and
running.

QLS-4100 Xe 1-1

QuickLabel media

Your QLS-4100 Xe has been designed to provide optimal print quality only
when used with Genuine QuickLabel Labels, Tags and Thermal Transfer
Ribbon. QuickLabel Thermal Transfer Ribbon is formulated to provide the
most vibrant and durable image while helping to maintain long printhead
life.

QuickLabel offers a unique media purchase program called a Media
Requirements Contract (MRC). With an MRC, your media costs will be
tailored to annual usage, not individually-purchased quantity. The benefit to
you is fixed low pricing for the products you plan to purchase anyway. The
benefit to us is the ability to plan our production more efficiently. You will
also receive free printhead replacement for the duration of the contract.

Some benefits of an MRC include:

Flexible Ordering - Order what you need, when you need it. An MRC never
locks you into purchasing media you don’t want. There is no minimum
spending requirement, no frequency requirement, no advance payment, and
you may add new items at any time.

Freeze Your Costs - Your one-year commitment to purchase your ribbons
and labels commits us to sell you media only at the contracted price. And,
with an MRC your costs will remain fixed, so you can safely budget expenses
as far as a year in advance.

Free Printhead Replacement - As an added incentive, QuickLabel
guarantees you free and unlimited replacement of all printheads worn by
normal use during the life of your contract. You can be confident that your
printhead wear will be “normal” because you will be using only the ribbons
and labels for which your printer was designed.

Fast Delivery - Your MRC is designed to let you place your label and ribbon
orders as you need them, anywhere from a week to a year in advance of
shipping. You decide the products you need and leave the rest to us. Your
ribbon and labels will arrive on schedule so you never experience production
downtime.

Contact your QuickLabel Media Sales Specialist for more information or to
enroll in the MRC program.

1-2 Quick start

Quick Start Guide

If you are an experienced user of a QuickLabel Digital Color Printer or you
have attended QuickLabel College training, use this Quick Start Guide as a
reference to begin producing beautiful color labels immediately.

In general, these operations should be performed in the sequence listed
below, skipping over any items that may have been previously completed.

Page 2-2 Unpack the printer

Page 2-7 Install the media unwind mandrel

Page 2-8 Connect the AC power cord

Page 2-9 Connect the host computer interface

Page 2-14 Connect the compressed air source

Page 3-2 Load thermal transfer ribbon

Page 3-4 Load label or tag media

Page 3-7 Adjust the media sensor

Page 3-8 Calibrate the printer to the appropriate media type

Setup software parameters

Appendix D Printing from Custom QuickLabel

Appendix E Printing from a Windows application with the QuickLabel
Windows Printer Driver

QLS-4100 Xe 1-3

1-4 Quick start

Chapter 2:
Physical Setup

This chapter will help you to familiarize yourself with the orientation and
components of the QLS-4100 Xe. This chapter also covers the various
connections that need to be made to the printer before it can be operated.

This chapter provides the following information:

• Instructions on unpacking and orienting the printer

• An overview of the features and components of the printer

• Instructions for connecting power and communication cables to the

printer

• Instructions for connecting compressed air to the printer

QLS-4100 Xe 2-1

Unpacking the Printer

1 Remove the printer from the packing carton.

2 Ensure that the printer has suffered no visible signs of damage during

shipment.

3 Verify that the following items have been included in the packing carton:

• AC Power Cord

• Media Retainer

• Memory Card

• Warranty Registration Card

• Operation & Setup Guide

• Windows Printer Driver CD

Note: Retain all packaging should the printer need to be transported at a
later time.

2-2 Physical setup

Printer Orientation

The illustration below is provided to orient you to the QLS-4100 Xe printer.
The keypad and display is the printer’s user interface.

QLS-4100 Xe 2-3

Features of the QLS-4100 Xe

Facing the left side of the QLS-4100 Xe with its cover lifted, you can view the
media unwind, print stations, and related mechanical parts.

The items below identify the QLS-4100 Xe components as shown in the side­view illustration on the following page:

1 Media Retainer
2 Media Supply Mandrel
3 Thermal Transfer Ribbon Rewind - print station # 4
4 Thermal Transfer Ribbon Supply - print station # 4
5 Thermal Transfer Ribbon Rewind - print station # 3
6 Thermal Transfer Ribbon Supply - print station # 3
7 Thermal Transfer Ribbon Rewind - print station # 2
8 Thermal Transfer Ribbon Supply - print station # 2
9 Thermal Transfer Ribbon Rewind - print station # 1
10 Thermal Transfer Ribbon Supply - print station # 1
11 Print Station Lift Lever
12 Drive Roller Lift Lever
13 Drive Roller
14 Pinch Roller
15 Print Station # 1
16 Print Station # 2
17 Print Station # 3
18 Print Station # 4
19 Media Speed Roller
20 Media Sensor Assembly - Gap and Reflective
21 Lower Media Guide Roller
22 Media Dancer Arm
23 Upper Media Guide Roller

2-4 Physical setup

Side view

QLS-4100 Xe 2-5

Rear Panel View

Facing the rear panel of the printer, you will observe the air intake regulator,
power connection, and other interface connections as shown in the
illustration below.

Note: Interface options vary based on printer model.

2-6 Physical setup

Installing the Media Unwind Mandrel

Your QLS-4100 Xe was shipped with the media unwind mandrel uninstalled
to protect it from damage during transit. The mandrel is easily installed by
following the procedure outlined below.

Tools Needed:
1/8” Allen Wrench

1 Slide the media unwind mandrel onto the shaft until the back plate

flange is seated firmly against the collar located on the inside of the shaft.
The outside of the shaft should be flush with the surface of the mandrel.

2 Firmly tighten the supplied Allen set screw against the shaft.

QLS-4100 Xe 2-7

Power Connection

1 Locate the AC Power Input at the bottom of the rear panel.

2 Plug the power cord into the printer. Be sure to use only the AC Power

Cord supplied with the printer. Ensure that the power switch is in the
OFF position before proceeding to the next step.

3 Connect the opposite end of the AC Power Cord into an earth grounded

AC receptacle. Do not power the printer on until you have finished
making the remaining connections described in this chapter.

Warning: Do not use any type of receptacle adapter or AC Power Cord that
has not been supplied with the unit. Doing so can result in damage to the
printer.

Note: The printer has been set at the factory for the correct line voltage for
your country. The voltage setting can be viewed in a window at the top of
the AC Power Input. If this setting needs to be changed, refer to the
procedure in Chapter 7 of this manual.

Note: It is recommended that an AC line conditioner / surge suppressor is
used. Select a unit that is capable of handling the power requirements of the
printer and protecting from surges and spikes. A VA rating of at least 1350
VA is required.

2-8 Physical setup

Computer Connections

The parallel or Ethernet interfaces are the primary methods of sending data
from the host computer to the printer.

Note: Interface options vary based on printer model.

The RS-232 Serial Port is a secondary method of sending data to the printer.
Data transmission via the serial port is much slower and not recommended.

An Ethernet connection provides a high-speed, bi-directional connection to
the printer in networked environments.

Centronics Parallel Port

1 Using the parallel cable supplied with the printer, connect the larger

connector to the parallel port on the printer.

Note: Only the supplied parallel or high-speed IEEE-1284 parallel cable
should be used to ensure reliable performance. This cable should be
stamped with an “IEEE-1284” marking to indicate that it is a high-speed
parallel cable.

2 Lock the two metal rings on the parallel port into the connector to secure

it to the printer.

3 Connect the opposite end of the parallel cable to the host computer. Be

sure to note which port (LPT1, LPT2, etc.) you have connected the
printer to as this will later be needed for driver or software setup.

Note: The maximum recommended parallel cable length is 10 feet (3 m).

QLS-4100 Xe 2-9

RS-232 Serial Port

5

1

9

6

1 Using a standard (straight through connection) RS-232 serial cable,

connect the appropriate mating end of the cable into the printer.

2 Tighten the cable securing screws into the serial port to secure the cable

to the printer.

3 Connect the opposite end of the serial cable to the host computer. Be sure

to note which port (COM1, COM2, etc.) you have connected the printer
to as this will later be needed for software setup.

Pin Assignments
Pin Signal

1 N/C
2 TXD
3 RXD
4 DTR
5 GND
6 DSR
7 RTS
8 CTS
9 N/C

Note: The maximum RS-232 serial cable length is dependent on the
communication parameters being used. For best performance and reliability,
only serial cables supplied by QuickLabel should be used.

2-10 Physical setup

Ethernet Port and TCP/IP Communication

The QLS-4100 Xe is a 10Base-T device that provides a 10Mbps ethernet
connection. Using hubs and routers, the printer can be connected directly
into a network using standard Category 5 (CAT5) cable or similar with a
RJ-45 connector.

TCP/IP (Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol) communication
provides a direct link to the QLS-4100 Xe printer via the ethernet port. Using
standard twisted-pair wiring, the printer can be connected to your existing
network and shared by all network users.

This method of communication provides a fast, bi-directional, real-time link
to the printer. However, it does not provide print server functionality. If you
require print server functionality and protocols other than TCP/IP, refer to
the following section for print server information.

Every ethernet device on the network contains a unique ethernet address
known as the MAC address. This address is programmed at the factory and
cannot be modified. Additionally, each device contains a TCP/IP layer
identified by a configurable IP address. Every TCP/IP device on the network
contains a unique IP address.

Your network administrator must assign IP addresses for your QLS-4100 Xe
printers. This is a common task performed on computers, printers, fax
machines, etc. to identify the devices by their unique IP addresses. The
QLS-4100 Xe printer does not support Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol
(DHCP), which automatically assigns an IP address to each device on the
network.

For simple printer/computer networks, you can assign IP addresses and
subnet masks manually and ensure that all devices are identified by unique
addresses. The default gateway address can remain at the default factory
setting of 0.0.0.0.

For detailed information on the topic of networking, refer to documentation
applicable to your network environment and/or contact your network
administrator.

QLS-4100 Xe 2-11

Print Servers

The QLS-4100 Xe can be connected to a Local Area Network (LAN) using an
appropriate external print server.

The print server must be capable of passing ASCII data to the printer
without corrupting or modifying the data stream. Any printer language
emulations such as PostScript™ or PCL™ should be disabled.

QuickLabel can supply a compatible print server to be used in PC-based or
midrange/mainframe-based host environments. Please contact QuickLabel
for additional information.

QuickLabel PS-ENET Print Server for Windows Networks.

QuickLabel Print Server for AS/400 Networks.

2-12 Physical setup

Utility Port Connection

On the rear panel of the printer, the Utility Port permits connection to
external devices such as the optional QuickLabel Cutter and Cutter/Stacker
or a label applicator system. The assignment of pin functions on the utility
port depends on the mode of operation. For information regarding
applicator mode operation, please contact QuickLabel.

Warning: Exceeding the limits of the utility port signals can result in damage
to the printer.

Standard Mode
Pin Signal Notes

1 N/C
2 Ground
3 Cutter On/Off Output (1=on 0=off)
4 5 VDC 1A max
5 Cutter Error Input (1=error 0=no error)
6 Cutter Pulse 4-6 ms pulse output
7 N/C
8 Pause Input
(1=print 0=pause)
9 Error

Applicator Mode
Pin Signal Notes

1 N/C
2 Ground
3 Printing Output (1=printing)
4 N/C
5 N/C
6 N/C
7 N/C
8 Go Input (1=initiate print)
9 Skip/Apply Output (1=apply 0=skip)

Notes: If you are using a cutter or cutter/stacker, refer to the unit’s setup and
operation manual for information on setting up the unit with your printer.

5

1

9

6

Functionality may be modified via host commands. For information, see the
QuickLabel Programmer's Reference (PN 22834615-EN-E).

QLS-4100 Xe 2-13

Compressed Air Connection

Preparing the Air Regulator

When you receive the QLS-4100 Xe Printer, the Air Regulator is ready for
operation. The air pressure regulator has been set at the factory for the
proper air pressure. You only need to connect your in-house air supply to the
printer.

QuickLabel can supply you with a portable, quiet air compressor suitable for
office use should you not have a source of compressed air.

Connecting the Air Supply

1 Obtain a suitable source of in-house air. This air should be dry, clean,

and oil-free. Be sure to turn off the supply of air to this connection before
making any connections.

2 Attach an appropriate threaded fitting to the Air Intake Regulator using

Teflon tape on the threads to seal the fitting.

3 Attach your in-house air source to the Air Intake Regulator.

4 Turn on the supply of air to this connection.

5 Check the indicator dial to ensure that the regulator is set to 70 PSI.

6 If adjustment is required, pull down on the regulator knob to unlock it

and turn the knob until the desired pressure level is reached:

• Turn the knob clockwise to increase air pressure

• Turn the knob counterclockwise to decrease air pressure

7 When finished adjusting the pressure, push the regulator knob upwards

to lock it into place.

Note: The QLS-4100 Xe can be used without compressed air, but the
RibbonRation system cannot be used. Refer to Chapter 5 for information on
how to disable the RibbonRation system.

2-14 Physical setup

Chapter 3:
Loading Media
and Calibration

Now that your QLS-4100 Xe is unpacked and all connections have been
made to the printer, you are ready to load label or tag stock, thermal transfer
ribbon, and calibrate the printer in preparation for printing.

This chapter provides the following information:

• Instructions on loading thermal transfer ribbon

• Instructions on loading label or tag stock

• Instructions on calibrating the printer for the installed media

QLS-4100 Xe 3-1

Loading Thermal Transfer Ribbon

The QLS-4100 Xe is capable of printing using Spot Color or Process Color
thermal transfer ribbons.

When using Spot Color ribbons, each of the four stations prints a fully
saturated color. Any color can be installed on any print station and the
location of each color is defined in Custom QuickLabel software or the
QuickLabel Windows Printer Driver.

When using Process Color ribbons, each of the print stations prints a dot
pattern of a primary color (Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, or Black). These primary
colors overlap each other on the label to produce a wide range of colors.
Process Color ribbon must be installed on specific print stations as defined
below. CMYK printing is commonly used while some specific applications
may call for KCMY printing where the black ribbon is printed last.

CMYK KCMY
Print Station 1 Cyan Black
Print Station 2 Magenta Cyan
Print Station 3 Yellow Magenta
Print Station 4 Black Yellow

As an aid, a threading diagram displaying the thermal transfer ribbon path is
printed on the center plate of the printer.

3-2 Loading media and calibration

To load thermal transfer ribbon on each print station:

1 Fully seat a roll of coated-side-in ribbon on the print station’s Supply

Mandrel. You will feel resistance as the spring clip on the mandrel
secures the roll. Ensure that the ribbon unwinds to the right and under
the roll.

2 Fully seat an empty cardboard takeup core on the associated Rewind

Mandrel.

3 Flip the Print Station Lift Lever counterclockwise to open the printhead.

4 Thread the ribbon over the ribbon guide roller located closest to the

Rewind Mandrel, then downward towards the print station.

5 Thread the ribbon around the lower print station ribbon guide roller and

under the print station.

6 Continue to thread the ribbon up around the front edge of the printhead

then between the ribbon guide roller at the front of the print station and
the anti-static brush support shaft.

7 Finally, wrap the ribbon up and over the empty takeup core. Secure the

end of the ribbon with a small piece of adhesive tape.

8 Turn the ribbon rewind knob clockwise to take up any slack in the

ribbon.

9 Flip the Print Station Lift Lever clockwise to close the printhead.

10 Repeat this process to install ribbon on each of the print stations.

QLS-4100 Xe 3-3

Loading Label or Tag Media

The QLS-4100 Xe is capable of printing on a wide variety of media types and
sizes and is designed to accept media up to a 12” OD (outside diameter) roll
capacity on a 3” ID (inside diameter) core.

The QLS-4100 Xe positions the printed image correctly by utilizing either a
transmissive or reflective sensor to detect the beginning of a label or tag. In
some applications, a continuous media without notches or reflective marks
can be used, and the length of the printed image is dictated by software.

When using the transmissive method of sensing, the media should have at
least a 0.125” (3 mm) gap or notch. When using a reflective sensing method,
the media should have a 0.078” (2 mm) solid black reflective mark on the
back that extends a minimum of 0.5” (12 mm) from the inside edge of the
media.

As an aid, a threading diagram showing the media path is printed on the
center plate of the printer.

To load label or tag media:

1 Lift the printer’s cover.

2 Flip each Print Station Lift Lever counterclockwise to open the

printheads.

3-4 Loading media and calibration

3 Flip the Drive Roller Lift Lever clockwise to open the drive roller.

4 Remove the Media Retainer from the media supply mandrel by first

loosening the small nylon retaining screw then sliding the Media
Retainer away from the printer and off the mandrel.

5 Orient the roll so that the labels are coming off the top and to the right.

Using the media retainer to push the roll, slide the roll onto the mandrel
until it is firmly seated against the back plate. You will feel resistance as
the spring clip on the mandrel secures the roll.

Note: If the media is not fully seated against the back plate, an unprinted
vertical area or void will appear on the printed label.

6 Ensure that the Media Retainer is firmly against the media roll and hand-

tighten the nylon retaining screw to secure the Media Retainer to the
mandrel.

7 Lift the Media Dancer Arm to the right and upwards to relieve back-

tension on the media supply roll. Unroll approximately a 3-foot length of
media.

8 Thread the media down and to the left, then around the Media Dancer

Arm.

9 Remove the Media Guide Collar from the lower Media Guide Roller.

10 Continue to thread the media over and around the Upper Media Guide

Roller then under and around the Lower Media Guide Roller.

11 Thread the media through the Media Sensor Assembly and then through

the Media Travel Roller assembly.

QLS-4100 Xe 3-5

12 Continue to thread the media through each of the print stations over the

platen rollers.

13 Finally, thread the media between the drive roller and pinch roller so

that it exits from the front of the printer.

14 Ensure that the media rests against each of the four Media Guide Rollers

located just behind the print stations on center plate.

15 Flip each Print Station Lift Lever clockwise to close the printheads.

16 Flip the Drive Roller Lift Lever counterclockwise to close the drive roller.

17 Reinstall the Media Guide Collar until it just rests against the outer edge

of the media.

3-6 Loading media and calibration

Adjusting the Media Sensor

The QLS-4100 Xe is equipped with two intelligent media sensors. One sensor
is used for gap, or notched media types, and the other is used for reflective
media types. Under normal operation, the sensor has to be calibrated to the
media type being used only once. When changing from gap to reflective
media types or vice-versa, a re-calibration is required.

The Gap/Notch Sensor is positioned above the media on a movable shaft
which can be adjusted out up to 2.5“ (64 mm) from the inside edge of the
media. The Reflective Sensor is positioned below the media in a position fixed
at 6 mm from the inside edge of the media.

Before calibrating the printer for gap or notched media, you must adjust the
position of the sensor so that it clearly “sees” the gap or notch. The
illustration below shows how to adjust the sensor.

To adjust the media sensor:

1 Turn the knob clockwise to move the sensor toward the outside edge.

2 Turn the knob counterclockwise to move the sensor toward the inside

edge.

QLS-4100 Xe 3-7

Calibrating for Media Types

Calibrating the printer for the type of media being used is essential and is the
first procedure that must be performed prior to printing and whenever the
media type is changed. If the printer is not properly calibrated, any of the
following may occur:

• Printer will not initiate printing

• Media advances but no image is printed

• Printer will report a Media Out error

• Image placement is incorrect or the printed image is clipped

• Custom QuickLabel software reports an error

The calibration process automatically senses any gap, notch, or index mark
on the media. This allows the printer to position widely varying types of
media automatically and correctly. The printer stores the last calibration in
non-volatile memory.

The printer’s internal label queue is reset during the calibration process. Any
labels pending in the queue are terminated. Use the procedures on the
following pages to perform a media calibration.

Note: Calibration need not be performed frequently if you use the same type
of label or tag material, regardless of size.

Calibrating Gap Media

1 Lift each of the printheads for this calibration routine in order to

conserve ribbon. Leave the drive roller engaged.

2 Remove a label from the liner between the Media Dancer Arm and the

Upper Media Guide Roller (skip this step if using notched or hole-punched
media).

3 Press the PRINT/PAUSE key until the printer is in a paused state.

4 Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Cal & Setup menu is

displayed, then press the SELECT key.

Pause: Cal & Setup
Press SELECT

5 Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Calibrate menu is displayed.

3-8 Loading media and calibration

6 Press the + or - key until Gap is displayed.

Calibrate

Gap

7 Press the SELECT key. The display will show the following prompt:

Place Liner @ Sensor
Then Press Select

8 Press and hold the FORM FEED/ADVANCE key until the liner is inside

the sensor bracket. On notched media, temporarily slide the media out so
that it is completely clear of the sensor assembly.

9 Press the SELECT key. The display will show the following prompt:

Place Media @ Sensor
Then Press Select

10 Press and hold the FORM FEED/ADVANCE key until the next label is

inside the Gap sensor.

11 Press the SELECT key. The display will show the following prompt:

Place Gap @ Arrow
Then Press Select

12 Press and hold the FORM FEED/ADVANCE key until the next gap is

positioned behind the Media Sensor Assembly and in close proximity to
the guide arrow indicated on the center plate.

13 Press the SELECT key. The following message will be displayed:

Gap
Calibration OK

If calibration was unsuccessful, the following message will be displayed:

QLS-4100 Xe 3-9

Gap
Calibration Bad

The user must re-initiate the calibration procedure.

14 After successful calibration, press the PRINT/PAUSE key to return the

printer to a Ready state.

Note: The QLS-4100 Xe is capable of sensing media with a maximum gap
or notch size of 50 mm.

3-10 Loading media and calibration

Calibrating Reflective Media

1 Lift each of the printheads for this calibration routine in order to

conserve ribbon. Disengage the drive roller by turning the Drive Roll Lift
Lever clockwise.

2 Position the reflective mark so that the red light from the reflective

sensor passes through the mark. The light will typically pass through
most media allowing you to view the mark from above. On more opaque
media, you may have to view the mark from the bottom.

3 Engage the drive roller by turning the Drive Roll Lift Lever

counterclockwise.

4 Press the PRINT/PAUSE key until the printer is in a paused state.

5 Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Cal & Setup menu is

displayed, then press the SELECT key.

Pause: Cal & Setup
Press SELECT

6 Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Calibrate menu is displayed.

7 Press the + or - key until Reflective is displayed.

Calibrate

Reflective

8 Press the SELECT key. The display will show the following prompt:

Place Mark @ Sensor
Then Press Select

9 Press the SELECT key again. The display will show the following

prompt:

Place Media @ Sensor
Then Press Select

QLS-4100 Xe 3-11

10 Reposition the media by pressing and holding the FORM

FEED/ADVANCE key until the red light no longer shines through the
mark but through the media.

11 Press the SELECT key. The display will show the following prompt:

Place Mark @ Arrow
Then Press Select

12 Press and hold the FORM FEED/ADVANCE key until the reflective mark

is positioned behind the Media Sensor Assembly and in close proximity
to the guide arrow indicated on the center plate.

13 Press the SELECT key. If calibration was successful, the following

message will be displayed:

Reflective
Calibration OK

If calibration was unsuccessful, the following message will be displayed:

Reflective
Calibration Bad

The user must re-initiate the calibration procedure.

14 After successful calibration, press the PRINT/PAUSE key to return the

printer to a Ready state.

3-12 Loading media and calibration

Calibrating Continuous Media

1 Press the PRINT/PAUSE key until the printer is in a paused state.

2 Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Cal & Setup menu is

displayed, then press the SELECT key.

Pause: Cal & Setup
Press SELECT

3 Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Calibrate menu is displayed.

4 Press the + or - key until Continuous is displayed.

Calibrate
Continuous

5 Press the SELECT key. The printer will feed a short length of media and

will then be calibrated for continuous media. The display will show the
following prompt:

Continuous
Media Calibrated

6 Press the PRINT/PAUSE key to return the printer to a Ready state.

Calibrating Inverted Gap Media

Some examples of inverted gap media include clear labels with an opaque
liner, a material which has sensing marks on the label itself, or a material on
which you must sense on a preprinted image.

When using media of this type, the printer is calibrated using the Gap
Calibration method outlined previously in this chapter.

The only difference in the procedure is that you would align the sensing
mark when the printer prompts for placement of the liner or gap.

QLS-4100 Xe 3-13

3-14 Loading media and calibration

Chapter 4:
Keypad Controls
and Menus

The QLS-4100 Xe features an intuitive control panel consisting of a backlit
LCD display, status LED indicators, and a multi-function keypad. The
control panel permits the user to change settings and make adjustments on­the-fly without the need for a host computer.

This chapter provides the following information:

• Information on the layout and function of the keypad

• An overview of menu functions and range of settings

• Detailed descriptions for each menu function

QLS-4100 Xe 4-1

Keypad Layout and Functions

The keypad buttons perform the following general functions.

PRINT/PAUSE

FORM FEED/ADVANCE

CANCEL

PREVIOUS/NEXT

+

-

SELECT

Toggles the printer between Ready and Pause
states

Pauses or resumes printing

If viewing a sub-menu, returns you to main
Pause menu

When the printer is in a Pause state, feeds the
media by one calibrated label length each time
the key is pressed, or continually advances the
media when the key is held

Cancels the current label(s) or test pattern

Cycles the display though menu choices

Displays current settings for various printer
parameters

Increases values within menus

Decreases values within menus

Accepts the displayed setting

Pressing select twice returns user to top-level
menu

4-2 Keypad controls and menus

Print/Pause

When the printer is idle (i.e. not printing labels), the PRINT/PAUSE key will
toggle the printer between a Ready state and a Pause state as indicated on
the display. While the printer is printing labels, pressing the PRINT/PAUSE
key will put the printer in a Pause state and label printing will halt until the
PRINT/PAUSE key is pressed again.

Ready state:

Ready

Pause state:

Pause

Certain function menus are only available when the printer is in the Pause
state, as described in the following sections.

Form Feed/Advance

The FORM FEED/ADVANCE key serves two functions. If the key is pressed
momentarily and released, the printer will advance the media by one
calibrated media length. If the key is pressed and held, the printer will
advance media until the key is released.

Cancel

While a batch of labels or the test pattern is being printed, pressing the
CANCEL key will display the following message:

Deletes all labels
SELECT to confirm

Pressing SELECT will immediately cease printing, canceling any pending
batches from memory and will return the printer to a Ready state.

QLS-4100 Xe 4-3

Menu Overview

The following list outlines all of the menus that are accessible via the user
interface. Some menus, as noted, are only accessible when the printer has
been paused using the PRINT/PAUSE key. Some menus, like the Cutter
menus, are only available when a specific option is enabled or in use.

The menus are organized in two levels. Top-level menus include Adjust, Cal
& Setup, Operation, Ribbon, Communications, System, and Options. By
choosing a top-level menu and pressing the SELECT key, you can scroll
though functions related to the top-level menu. Pressing the SELECT key
twice returns you to the top-level menu.

Note: For a detailed illustration of the printer menu structure, refer to
Appendix G: Menu structure.

Ready State &
Adjust Menu

Intensity Adjusts the printhead intensity. Possible values

Speed Adjusts the print speed. Possible values range from

Print Line Adj Adjusts the print line for printheads 1 - 3. Possible

Cross Web Adj Adjusts the cross web for printheads 1 – 4. Possible

Vertical Offset Adjusts the print registration vertically. Possible

Horizontal Offset Adjusts the print registration horizontally. Possible

Display Cntrs Adjusts the display of the label counter. Possible

Cut Offset Available if cutter is enabled. Adjusts the position

Options are available in a Ready or Pause state.

range from 1 – 32.

2 – 7 inches per second.

values range from -240 to +240.

values range from <-16 to -> 16 dots.

values range from -1200 to +1200 dots.

values range from <-1200 to -> 1200 dots.

values are Off, Batch, or Total.

of the cut line. Possible values range from -1200 to
+1200 dots.

4-4 Keypad controls and menus

Label Reprint Reprints up to 999 copies of the last label printed, if

using the Windows print driver. (Available only
from Ready state)

Form Stop Adjust This option is available only in Print & Peel single

label mode. See Chapter 8: Print & Peel for more
information.

Peel Delay This option is available only in Print & Peel modes.

See Chapter 8: Print & Peel for more information.

Cal & Setup Menu Options are available in a Pause state only.

Calibrate Calibrates the printer to media type. Possible

values are Gap, Reflective, or Continuous.

Test Print Prints test patterns. Possible values are:

Test Pattern 1”, 2”, 3”, 4”, 5”
Block Pattern (All)
Proc. Block (CMYK)
Proc. Block (KCMY)
Horiz. Line Pattern
Large Blocks 1”, 2”, 3”, 4”, 5”

Vertical Baseline Synchronizes the vertical registration across

multiple QLS-4100 Xe printers. Possible values
range from -120 to +120 dots.

Horizontal Baseline Synchronizes the horizontal registration across

multiple QLS-4100 Xe printers. Possible values
range from <-120 to -> 120 dots.

Printer Settings Prints all of the current settings for the printer.

Maximum Gap Sets the maximum gap between labels to a value

between 1-200mm.

Cutter Baseline Applicable if cutter is enabled. Adjusts the position

of the cut line with respect to Cut Offset. Possible
values range from -120 to +120 dots.

QLS-4100 Xe 4-5

Operation Menu Options are available in a Pause state only.

Pull Back Requires special hardware. Contact QuickLabel for

more information on this function.

Label Reprint Reprints up to 999 copies of the last label printed, if

using the Windows print driver.

Synchronize Labels Synchronizes labels when using printer/applicator

or Print & Peel.

Ribbon Menu Options are available in a Pause state only.

Ribbon Type Selects printhead intensity tailored to a specific

media type. Possible values are Standard and
Resin/Synthetic.

Drop/Lift Adjust Adjust the drop and lift point for printheads 1 – 4.

Possible values are 0 to +40 mm.

Ribbon Sensor Used by QuickLabel technicians when performing

factory diagnostics. Possible values are Enabled
and Disabled, but in general use, the sensor should
always be enabled.

Communications

Options are available in a Pause state only.

Menu

Data Port Selects the data input interface used by the printer.

Possible values are Parallel, Serial, or Ethernet.

Parallel Mode Specifies the mode of connection for the parallel

port. Possible values are Auto or Standard.

RS232 Baud Rate Specifies a baud rate for the RS232 serial port.

Possible values are 4800, 9600, 19200, or 38400.

RS232 Handshaking Specifies a handshaking method for the RS 232

serial port. Possible values are Hardware or
XON/XOFF.

TCP/IP Address Specifies the IP address of the printer for ethernet

purposes.

4-6 Keypad controls and menus

TCP/IP Subnet Mask Specifies the subnet mask.

TCP/IP Gateway Specifies the default gateway.

TCP/IP Connections Specifies whether the TCP/IP status socket is

enabled. Possible values are One (disabled) and
Two (enabled).

System Menu Options are available in a Pause state only.

Display Cntr Adjusts the display of the label counter. Possible

values are Off, Batch, or Total.

Memory Card Selects whether to write-protect the memory card.

Possible values are Write Protect ON or Write
Protect OFF.

Format Memory Card Formats the memory card.

Front Panel

Locks/Unlocks the front panel with a password.

Lock/Unlock

Time Sets up the time on the built-in, real-time clock.

Date Sets up the date on the built-in, real-time clock.

Factory Reset Returns the printer settings to the factory defaults.

Options Menu Options are available in a Pause state only.

Mirror Mode Activates mirror mode. Possible values are ON or

OFF.

Cutter Activates the cutter accessory. Possible values are

Enabled or Disabled.

Cut Flag Activates the cut flag. Possible values are ON or

OFF. This option is available only if the cutter is
enabled.

Pull Back Enables/disables the pull back function. Possible

values are Disabled, Enabled (Manual), or Enabled
(Auto). This option requires special hardware.
Contact QuickLabel for more information.

QLS-4100 Xe 4-7

Applicator Activates the label applicator mode. Possible

values are Enabled 1, Enabled 2, or Disabled.

Ignore Host
Commands

Ignores all Speed, Intensity, Vertical Offset, and
Horizontal Offset commands issued by the host
computer.

“No Air” Warning Enables/disables the “No Air” warning that

appears at startup if air is not connected to the
printer.

Image Normalization Prevents variations in print intensity that occur

with some labels.

System Configuration Enables/disables custom operating modes.

Print & Peel Mode Enables/disables Print & Peel mode and

corresponding menu items. Possible values are Off,
Multiple Label, and Single Label.

See Chapter 8: Print & Peel for more information.

4-8 Keypad controls and menus

Ready State & Adjust Menu

Options in this category are accessed in two ways. You can access these
options by pressing the NEXT or PREVIOUS keys while the printer is in a
Ready state, or you can pause the printer and access them via the Adjust
menu. The following sections detail each of the features within this menu
category.

Print Intensity

The printhead intensity determines the temperature of the printhead heating
elements. The amount of heat applied to the thermal transfer ribbon
determines the darkness of the print. The amount of heat that is actually
applied to the film by the printhead is determined by two factors:

• Length of time that power is applied to the printhead

• Rate at which the media is traveling under the printhead

The print intensity setting determines the first factor and the second is
controlled by the print speed. The printer has 32 discrete heat settings. A
setting of 1 is the coolest setting, resulting in the lightest print. A setting of 32
is the hottest setting, resulting in the darkest print. The appropriate heat
setting will vary depending on the media and ribbons being used as well as
the print speed setting. As a general guideline, the ribbon types listed below
will function best in the following print intensity ranges:

Ribbon Type Range

Wax 1 - 12
Wax / Resin 10 - 20
Resin 16 - 32

In general, lower-quality media that requires more heat to produce a
satisfactory image is less advantageous in terms of speed and performance
than higher-quality media that images easily and quickly at lower
temperatures. If you use media that requires more heat, it is recommended
that you set the print speed to a slower rate.

Note: Some thermal transfer ribbon (typically, Resin type) reacts differently,
actually printing lighter if too much heat is applied. This is a result of over­burning the ink. If this occurs, decreasing the heat will darken the printed
image.

QLS-4100 Xe 4-9

To set printhead intensity via the front panel:

1 If the printer is in a Ready state, proceed to the next step.

If the printer is in a Pause state, press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until
the Adjust menu is displayed. Then press the SELECT key.

Pause: Adjust

Press SELECT

2 Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Intensity menu for the print

station you want to adjust is displayed.

Intensity

Head 1 = 16

Note: Head 1 is the station closest to the media exit. Heads 2, 3, and 4 are
positioned sequentially behind head 1.

3 With the desired print station appearing on the display, press the + or –

key until the print intensity setting you want is displayed. Intensity
settings range from 1 to 32.

Note: In most cases, higher intensities result in darker prints. Similarly,
lower intensities generally result in lighter prints.

4 Press the SELECT key to confirm your choice.

4-10 Keypad controls and menus

Print Speed

This function allows you to choose the printing speed. The printer is capable
of printing at speeds of 2 – 7 in/s (inches per second) in 1 in/s increments.

To set the print speed via the front panel:

1 If the printer is in a Ready state, proceed to the next step.

If the printer is in a Pause state, press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until
the Adjust menu is displayed. Then press the SELECT key.

Pause: Adjust

Press SELECT

2 Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Speed menu is displayed.

Speed

3 in/s

3 Press the + or – key until the desired print speed is displayed. Available

print speeds are 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, or 7 inches per second.

4 Press the SELECT key to confirm your choice.

Note: Setting the print speed via software will always override this

setting. You can set the print speed via Custom QuickLabel or the
QuickLabel Windows Printer Driver.

Note: The printer’s maximum speed will depend on the content of the
format. For example, formats with incrementing or database fields may
have to be printed at slower speeds.

QLS-4100 Xe 4-11

Print Line Adjustment

Print line adjustments allow you to align the printing of each of the four
print stations to obtain accurate color registration in the media travel
direction.

These adjustments are made for print stations 1, 2, and 3 using print station 4
as a stationary reference. As such, there is no print line adjustment available
for print station 4.

Print line adjustments are used to compensate for minor variations in
printhead or media positions, and may be needed when media is changed or
a printhead is replaced.

Once this procedure has been performed, it rarely needs to be repeated
during normal operation. Print line adjustments are best performed
dynamically while the QLS-4100 Xe is printing a block test pattern.

To perform a print line adjustment:

1 Select the slowest print speed for the adjustment process to conserve

media and ribbon. For more information on changing print speed, refer
to the print adjustment menu functions described in this chapter.

2 Print the Proc. Block Pattern (CMYK) test pattern. For more information

on printing the test pattern, refer to the cal & setup menu functions
described in this chapter.

Printing will continue throughout the adjustment process until the
printer is paused or the operating state of the printer is changed. The
pattern on the test labels will show each of the current print stations
providing a visual indication of how much adjustment each print station
location needs.

3 If the printer is in a Ready state, proceed to the next step.

If the printer is in a Pause state, press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until
the Adjust menu is displayed. Then press the SELECT key.

Pause: Adjust

Press SELECT

4-12 Keypad controls and menus

4 Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Print Line Adj menu for the

printhead you want to adjust is displayed.

Print Line Adj

Head 1 = +0

5 Press the + or – key to shift the selected print position in the desired

direction. Increasingly positive values will move the print position up on
the label. Increasingly negative values will move the print position down
on the label.

6 When you are satisfied with the position, press the SELECT key to

confirm your choice.

7 Repeat steps 4 – 6 until each of the printed bars for stations 1, 2, and 3 are

properly aligned with the bars for station 4.

Note: An efficient way to shift the print line for a given print station is to
measure the variation from the reference bar in the test pattern.

Recall that print stations 1, 2, and 3 are adjusted while referencing print
station 4. For example, if the bar printed on station 1 is measured to be
misaligned with the reference bar printed on station 4 by 2 millimeters, you
know that you need to shift station 1 by 24 pixels.

The direction of misalignment will dictate whether you move the print line
+24 or -24. Negative values adjust the line on the label away from the printer;
positive values adjust the line toward the printer.

QLS-4100 Xe 4-13

Cross Web Adjustment

Cross Web Adjustments allow you to align the printing of each of the four
print stations to obtain accurate color registration across the width of the
label. These adjustments can be made for print stations 1, 2, 3 and 4. One
print station is typically used as a reference and left unchanged while the
other three stations are adjusted relative to the reference station.

Cross web adjustments are used to compensate for minor variations in
printhead position, and may be needed when a printhead is replaced.

This procedure is typically performed in conjunction with a Print Line
Adjustment. Once this procedure has been performed, it rarely needs to be
repeated during normal operation. Cross web adjustments are best
performed dynamically while the QLS-4100 Xe is printing a block test
pattern.

To perform a cross web adjustment:

1 Select the slowest print speed for the adjustment process to conserve

media and ribbon. For more information on changing print speed, refer
to the print adjustment menu functions described in this chapter.

2 Print the Proc. Block Pattern (CMYK). For more information on printing

the test pattern, refer to the calibration & setup menu functions described
in this chapter.

Printing will continue throughout the adjustment process until the
printer is paused or the operating state of the printer is changed. The
pattern on the test labels will show each of the current print stations
providing a visual indication of how much adjustment each print station
location needs.

3 If the printer is in a Ready state, proceed to the next step.

If the printer is in a Pause state, press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until
the Adjust menu is displayed. Then press the SELECT key.

Pause: Adjust

Press SELECT

4-14 Keypad controls and menus

4 Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Cross Web Adj menu for the

printhead you want to adjust is displayed.

Cross Web Adj

Head 1 = <-2

5 Press the + or – key to shift the selected print position in the desired

direction.

The value range is <16 to 16>. The direction of the arrow indicates the
position of the print relative to the center of the printhead. The total
range is 32 dots with 16 dots to the left and right of the printhead center.

6 When you are satisfied with the position, press the SELECT key to

confirm your choice.

7 Continue making adjustments until you observe that the blocks in the

test pattern are horizontally aligned.

When all the blocks are aligned in the media travel and the cross web
directions, and the black block prints without any color shadows, the
color alignment is optimal.

QLS-4100 Xe 4-15

Vertical Offset

By default, when printing on media with registration marks (gaps, reflective
marks, etc.), the printer will place the label image area between the
registration marks. You can vertically adjust the print registration in fine
increments to move the printed image relative to the sensor mark.

Adjusting the vertical offset affects each of the four print stations at the same
time. To adjust the print stations individually, refer to the section on print
line adjustments.

To set the vertical offset via the front panel:

1 If the printer is in a Ready state, proceed to the next step.

If the printer is in a Pause state, press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until
the Adjust menu is displayed. Then press the SELECT key.

Pause: Adjust

Press SELECT

2 Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Vertical Offset menu is

displayed.

Vertical

Offset = + 16

3 Press the + or – key until the desired vertical offset setting is displayed.

Offset settings range from – 1200 to + 1200 pixels (or dots). On the
QLS-4100 Xe, there are 12 pixels per millimeter.

4-16 Keypad controls and menus

Negative values move the image down on the label (out away from the
printer). Positive values move the image up the label (in toward the
printer).

4 Press the SELECT key to confirm your choice.

Note: Setting the offset via software will always override this setting. You

can set the offset via Custom QuickLabel or the QuickLabel Windows Printer
driver.

Horizontal Offset

You can horizontally adjust the print registration in fine increments to move
the printed image.

Adjusting the horizontal offset affects each of the four print stations at the
same time. To adjust the print stations individually, refer to the section on
cross web adjustments.

To set the horizontal offset via the front panel:

1 If the printer is in a Ready state, proceed to the next step.

If the printer is in a Pause state, press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until
the Adjust menu is displayed. Then press the SELECT key.

Pause: Adjust

Press SELECT

2 Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Horizontal Offset menu is

displayed.

Horizontal

Offset = < 16

QLS-4100 Xe 4-17

3 Press the + or – key until the desired horizontal offset setting is

displayed.

Offset settings range from <– 1200 to -> 1200 pixels (or dots). On the
QLS-4100 Xe, there are 12 pixels per millimeter. The final image position
will be constrained by the label width.

4 Press the SELECT key to confirm your choice.

Partially printed labels under the printheads will finish printing using
the previous offset to ensure color alignment. During this time, you
cannot adjust the cross web or horizontal offset values. The new
horizontal adjustment will affect subsequent labels.

Note: Setting the offset via software will always override this setting. You
can set the offset via Custom QuickLabel.

4-18 Keypad controls and menus

Display Counter

The printer can dynamically display either the ongoing total number of
labels that have been printed since the printer was last powered up or the
number of labels that have been printed within any specific batch or print
job. The printer’s label counting feature can also be turned off.

Note: The counter will disappear while menus are being navigated during
printing. The counter will be displayed and updated when the QLS-4100 Xe
resumes printing labels.

To set up the counter:

1 If the printer is in a Ready state, proceed to the next step.

If the printer is in a Pause state, press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until
the System menu is displayed. Then press the SELECT key.

Pause: System

Press SELECT

2 Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Display Cntrs menu is

displayed.

Display Cntr

Off

3 Press the + or – key until the desired counter setting is displayed. The

following options are available.

Off – No counter is displayed.
Total – Count of labels printed since last power on is displayed
Batch – Count of labels printed in current batch is displayed

The selected counter mode will now appear on the display while
printing.

QLS-4100 Xe 4-19

Cut Offset

When printing on media with registration marks (gaps, reflective marks,
etc.), the printer will place the label image area between the registration
marks. If necessary, you can adjust the location of the cut line relative to the
printed image. The cut offset can be used to move the cut line forward or
backward with respect to the top of the label.

To adjust the cut position:

1 If the printer is in a Ready state, proceed to the next step.

If the printer is in a Pause state, press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until
the Adjust menu is displayed. Then press the SELECT key.

Pause: Adjust

Press SELECT

2 Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Cut Offset menu is

displayed.

Cut Offset

+0

3 Press the + or – key until the desired cut offset setting is displayed.

Cut offset settings are –1200 through +1200 dots. Negative values move
the cut line toward the bottom of the tag. Positive values move the cut
line toward the top of the tag.

4 Press the SELECT key to confirm your choice.

Note: Setting the cut offset via software will always override this setting. You

can set the cut offset via Custom QuickLabel or the QuickLabel Windows
Printer driver.

Note: The vertical offset will affect the cut offset. As a rule, the vertical offset
should be set first.

4-20 Keypad controls and menus

Label Reprint

When using the QuickLabel Printer Driver for Windows to print to the QLS­4100 Xe, data is transmitted from the PC software application to the printer
as a bitmapped image. You can use the Reprint option to quickly print any
quantity of the last label printed.

To reprint labels:

1 If the printer is in a Ready state, proceed to the next step.

If the printer is in a Pause state, press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until
the Operation menu is displayed. Then press the SELECT key.

Pause: Operation

Press SELECT

2 Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Label Reprint menu is

displayed.

Label Reprint

Copies = 1

3 Press the + or – key to specify the number of the last labels you wish to

reprint. You can reprint up to 999 copies.

4 Press the SELECT key. The quantity you specified will be printed.

Form Stop Adjust

When labels are printed, they are advanced from the front of the printer for
removal. In Print & Peel single label mode, you can increase/decrease the
distance labels are advanced after printing.

Note: This option is available only in Print & Peel single label mode. For
more information about Print & Peel, refer to Chapter 8: Print & Peel.

QLS-4100 Xe 4-21

Peel Delay

When labels are printed, they are advanced from the front of the printer for
removal. After you remove a label, the printer will wait for a specified
amount of time before performing the next action (pulling media back,
advancing another label, etc.). You can adjust this time if necessary.

Note: This option is available only in Print & Peel modes. For more
information about Print & Peel, refer to Chapter 8: Print & Peel.

4-22 Keypad controls and menus

Cal & Setup Menu

Calibration & setup options are accessed via the Cal & Setup menu. The
following sections detail each of the features within this menu category.

Calibrate

Calibrating the printer for the type of media being used is essential and is the
first procedure that must be performed prior to printing and whenever the
media type is changed. If the printer is not properly calibrated, any of the
following may occur:

• Printer will not initiate printing

• Media advances but no image is printed

• Printer will report a Media Out error

• Image placement is incorrect or the printed image is clipped

• Custom QuickLabel software reports an error

The calibration process automatically senses any gap, notch or index mark
on the media. This allows the printer to position widely varying types of
media automatically and correctly. The printer stores the last calibration in
non-volatile memory. The printer’s internal label queue is reset during the
calibration process. Any labels pending in the queue are terminated.

Refer to the calibration procedures outlined in Chapter 3 for detailed
information about calibrating the printer.

QLS-4100 Xe 4-23

Test Print

The QLS-4100 Xe is equipped with a number of built-in test patterns used for
checking color alignment, print quality, and printhead integrity.

To perform a test print:

1 If the printer is in a Ready state, press the PRINT/PAUSE key to pause

the printer.

2 Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Cal & Setup menu is

displayed. Then press the SELECT key.

Pause: Cal & Setup

Press SELECT

3 Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Test Print menu is displayed.

Test Print

Test Pattern = 1 in.

4 Press the + or – key until the test pattern is displayed. The following test

patterns are available.

Test Pattern 1” to 5” – Prints a crosshatch pattern to check print quality.

Block Pattern (All) – Prints a spot color block pattern used for color

alignment.

Proc. Block (CMYK) – Prints a process block pattern used for color
alignment.

Proc. Block (KCMY) – Prints a process block pattern used for color
alignment.

Horiz. Line Pattern – Used to check printhead angularity.

Large Blocks 1” to 5” – Prints a solid block of each color.

5 Press the SELECT key to confirm your choice.

The printer will immediately begin to print labels showing the selected
test pattern. Printing will continue until the printer is paused or the
CANCEL key is pressed.

4-24 Keypad controls and menus

Vertical Baseline

This function is used to synchronize printing when using multiple
QLS-4100 Xe printers. If you are sending the same image file to two or more
printers and notice that the image prints in different vertical locations, you
can use this function to move the vertical baseline of a printer.

To adjust the vertical baseline:

1 If the printer is in a Ready state, press the PRINT/PAUSE key to pause

the printer.

2 Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Cal & Setup menu is

displayed. Then press the SELECT key.

Pause: Cal & Setup

Press SELECT

3 Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Vertical Baseline menu is

displayed.

Vertical Baseline

Baseline = +0

4 Press the + or – key until the desired baseline setting is displayed.

Baseline settings range from -120 through +120 dots.

5 Press the SELECT key to confirm the baseline.

6 Repeat this process on each printer requiring a baseline adjustment.

QLS-4100 Xe 4-25

Horizontal Baseline

This function is used to synchronize printing when using multiple
QLS-4100 Xe printers. If you are sending the same image file to two or more
printers and notice that the image prints in different horizontal locations,
you can use this function to move the horizontal baseline of a printer.

To adjust the horizontal baseline:

1 If the printer is in a Ready state, press the PRINT/PAUSE key to pause

the printer.

2 Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Cal & Setup menu is

displayed. Then press the SELECT key.

Pause: Cal & Setup

Press SELECT

3 Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Horizontal Baseline menu is

displayed.

Horizontal Baseline

Baseline = 0

4 Press the + or – key until the desired baseline setting is displayed.

Baseline settings range from <-120 through -> 120 dots.

5 Press the SELECT key to confirm the baseline.

6 Repeat this process on each printer requiring a baseline adjustment.

4-26 Keypad controls and menus

Printer Settings

This function prints all of the current settings of the printer using the
printhead of your choice.

To print current printer settings:

1 If the printer is in a Ready state, press the PRINT/PAUSE key to pause

the printer.

2 Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Cal & Setup menu is

displayed. Then press the SELECT key.

Pause: Cal & Setup

Press SELECT

3 Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Printer Settings menu is

displayed.

Printer Settings

Print With Head 1

4 Press the + or – key to specify the printhead that will be used to print the

settings.

5 Press the SELECT key to print out a listing of current settings for the

QLS-4100 Xe.

QLS-4100 Xe 4-27

The sample report shown below indicates the type of information that
will be printed.

QLS-4100 Xe Settings:

SPEED = 2 INCHES/SEC
INTENSITY (1, 2, 3, 4): 15, 15, 15, 15
OFFSET: V = 0 (0), H = 0 (0), C = 0
PRINT LINE ADJ (1, 2, 3): -23, -9, -8
CROSS WEB ADJ (1, 2, 3, 4): 0, 0, < 7, <8
DROP/LIFT (1, 2, 3, 4): 12, 12, 12, 12
CONTINUOUS MEDIA 100 mm (1200 pixels)
CALIBRATION: YES (gap = 38 pixels)
COMPACT FLASH: NO
v01.4 (0x00:00:00:1D) (fmt err = 0)
MEDIA USE: (101) 198 meters
FILM 1 USE: (56) 56 meters
FILM 2 USE: (167) 167 meters
FILM 3 USE: (146) 146 meters
FILM 4 USE: (80) 80 meters
HEAD 1 USE: (31) 31 times
HEAD 2 USE: (54) 54 times
HEAD 3 USE: (42) 42 times
HEAD 4 USE: (20) 20 times

Notes: The OFFSET line displays the vertical offset, vertical baseline
(in parentheses), horizontal offset, horizontal baseline (in parentheses),
and the cut offset.

The “fmt err” value reports the last format error generated. This value
will be 0 if no format errors have occurred since power-up.

4-28 Keypad controls and menus

Variable Maximum Gap

This function allows you to set the maximum gap between labels to a value
between 1-200mm. This feature is useful when using small labels (< 50mm
long) and can be used to ensure that a missing label on the roll will not go
undetected.

To adjust the maximum gap:

1 If the printer is in a Ready state, press the PRINT/PAUSE key to pause

the printer.

2 Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Cal & Setup menu is

displayed. Then press the SELECT key.

Pause: Cal & Setup

Press SELECT

3 Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Maximum Gap menu is

displayed.

Maximum Gap (mm)

Max Gap = 200

4 Press the + or – key to set the maximum gap from 1-200mm.

5 Press the SELECT key to confirm.

QLS-4100 Xe 4-29

Cutter Baseline

This function is used to synchronize printing when using multiple
cutters. If you are sending the same image file to two or more printers/cutters
and notice that the cutter cuts in different vertical locations, you can use this
function to move the vertical baseline of a cutter.

Cutter baseline adjusts the position of the cut line with respect to Cut Offset.
Possible values range from -120 to +120 dots.

To adjust the cutter baseline:

1 If the printer is in a Ready state, press the PRINT/PAUSE key to pause

the printer.

2 Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Cal & Setup menu is

displayed. Then press the SELECT key.

Pause: Cal & Setup

Press SELECT

3 Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Cutter Baseline menu is

displayed.

Cutter Baseline

Baseline = 0

4 Press the + or – key until the desired baseline setting is displayed.

Baseline settings range from -120 through +120 dots. Negative values
move the cut line toward the bottom of the tag. Positive values move the
cut line toward the top of the tag.

5 Press the SELECT key to confirm the baseline.

4-30 Keypad controls and menus

Operation Menu

Operation options are accessed via the Operation menu. The following
sections detail each of the features within this menu category.

Pull Back

When the QLS-4100 Xe stops printing, a section of blank media will extend
from the printhead near the rear of the printer (print station #4) to the front
of the printer. When you start printing again, this section of blank media will
be advanced out of the QLS-4100 Xe as printing begins.

The pull back function allows you to pull back the blank media section.
When the next print job begins, the section will be used for printing. This
feature requires a compressed air connection and special hardware. It should
only be used in applications that have been pre-qualified by QuickLabel.

Contact QuickLabel for more information on the pull back function.

The pull back function provides two modes:

Pull Back (Manual) - In Manual mode, there are two ways to activate a
media pull back. One method involves selecting it from the Operation
menu. Alternately, the FORM FEED button can be used to quickly
activate the media pull back function.

Pull Back (Auto) - In Automatic mode, the printer automatically
performs the pull back operation after a queue is finished printing.

Note: The pull back feature must be enabled before use. The Pull Back
Enable/Disable function is available from the Options menu.

QLS-4100 Xe 4-31

To activate manual media pull back with the Operation menu:

1 If the printer is in a Ready state, press the PRINT/PAUSE key to pause

the printer.

2 Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Operation menu is

displayed. Then press the SELECT key.

Pause: Operation

Press SELECT

3 Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Pull Back menu is displayed.

Pull Back

Press SELECT

4 Press the SELECT key. A message will be displayed to confirm Pull Back

operation.

Pull Back

SELECT to confirm

5 Press the SELECT key.

The printer will begin rewinding media until the last unprinted label is
positioned just behind the media sensor.

If a Pull Back operation has been requested and a print batch has not
been sent to the printer or the media has been moved in any way (i.e.
Form Feed, Calibrate, Test Print, etc.) the following error message will be
displayed.

Pull Back Off

Media Moved / No Batch

4-32 Keypad controls and menus

To activate manual media pull back with the FORM FEED button:

1 While the printer is in a Ready state, press the FORM FEED key.

The printer will begin rewinding media until the last unprinted label is
positioned just behind the media sensor.

If a Pull Back operation has been requested and a print batch has not
been sent to the printer or the media has been moved in any way (i.e.
Form Feed, Calibrate, Test Print, etc.) the following error message will be
displayed.

Pull Back Off

Media Moved / No Batch

Note: The FORM FEED key will activate the pull back feature only when
the printer is in the Ready state. If the printer is paused, the FORM FEED
key will operate normally, advancing the media when pressed.

To activate automatic media pull back:

In Automatic mode, the printer automatically performs the pull back
operation after a queue is finished printing. No manual intervention is
necessary.

QLS-4100 Xe 4-33

Label Reprint

When using the QuickLabel Printer Driver for Windows to print to the QLS­4100 Xe, data is transmitted from the PC software application to the printer
as a bitmapped image. You can use the Reprint option to quickly print any
quantity of the last label printed.

To reprint labels:

1 If the printer is in a Ready state, proceed to the next step.

If the printer is in a Pause state, press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until
the Operation menu is displayed. Then press the SELECT key.

Pause: Operation

Press SELECT

2 Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Label Reprint menu is

displayed.

Label Reprint

Copies = 1

3 Press the + or – key to specify the number of the last labels you wish to

reprint. You can reprint up to 999 copies.

4 Press the SELECT key. The quantity you specified will be printed.

4-34 Keypad controls and menus

Synchronize Labels

This function applies only to users integrating the printer with a label
applicator or Print & Peel (Multiple Label mode) system. The synchronize
labels function synchronizes the printing of labels with the label applicator or
Print & Peel base. This process is an initialization of the printer and media. A
synchronization must be performed after the following conditions:

• Power up

• Media out, after the media has been replaced

• Thermal Transfer Ribbon out, after the ribbon has been replaced

• After running the test pattern

• After performing a media calibration

• After performing a form feed

• After performing a media advance

Note: You should never perform calibration, form feed, media advance, or
test pattern functions while labels are printing. Any of these operations will
clear all label formats from the internal queue and require synchronization.

To synchronize labels:

1 When the printer is in the “Applicator Paused” or “Print & Peel Paused”

state, press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Operation menu is
displayed. Then press the SELECT key.

Pause: Operation

Press SELECT

2 Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Synchronize Labels menu is

displayed.

Synchronize Labels

Press SELECT

QLS-4100 Xe 4-35

3 Press the SELECT key. The printer will feed one or two labels and then

be ready for applicator mode or Print & Peel Multiple Label mode
operation. If no labels feed, the printer did not require synchronization.

• If the following message appears, the front panel pause is enabled

and the synchronize function will not operate. The printer must be in
the “Applicator Paused” or “Print & Peel Paused” state to perform
the synchronize function.

Cannot Synchronize

Printer Is Paused

• If the following message appears, the printer is calibrated for

continuous media. Continuous media cannot be used with a label
applicator system.

Cannot Synchronize

Continuous Media Cal

4-36 Keypad controls and menus

Ribbon Menu

Ribbon options are accessed via the Ribbon menu. The following sections
detail each of the features within this menu category.

Ribbon Type

Selecting a ribbon type allows you to select a printhead heat and history
profile that has been tailored to a specific media and ribbon combination.
This feature enables the QLS-4100 Xe to print on an even wider range of
specialty materials.

To change the ribbon type:

1 If the printer is in a Ready state, press the PRINT/PAUSE key to pause

the printer.

2 Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Ribbon menu is displayed.

Then press the SELECT key.

Pause: Ribbon

Press SELECT

3 Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Ribbon Type menu is

displayed.

Ribbon Type

Standard

4 Press the + or – key until the desired ribbon type is displayed. You can

choose from standard or resin/synthetic ribbon.

5 Press the SELECT key to confirm your ribbon choice.

Note: The standard profile should be selected for most applications unless

otherwise specified by QuickLabel.

QLS-4100 Xe 4-37

Drop/Lift Adjust

The QLS-4100 Xe is equipped with QuickLabel’s patented RibbonRation™
technology. This feature automatically determines when to enable or disable
each of the four print stations, thus consuming thermal transfer ribbon only
when a particular color is needed.

In some cases, multiple drop/lift points will be used on individual labels. The
number of drops and lifts depends on the size of the label. The following
diagram illustrates sample drop/lift points, and the resulting ribbon savings,
for a particular print station.

The Drop/Lift Adjust function enables you to fine tune the point at which a
printhead will drop for printing of a subsequent color. In some applications,
dropping the printhead earlier results in smoother color application and
reduces the tendency for film wrinkle.

Note: In most cases, the default drop values will be optimal. However, if film
wrinkling seems excessive, use the following procedure to change the drop
point of the corresponding print station.

4-38 Keypad controls and menus

To use the Drop/Lift Adjust function:

1 If the printer is in a Ready state, press the PRINT/PAUSE key to pause

the printer.

2 Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Ribbon menu is displayed.

Then press the SELECT key.

Pause: Ribbon

Press SELECT

3 Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Drop/Lift Adjust menu for

the desired printhead is displayed.

Drop/Lift Adjust

Head 3 = 6

4 Press the + or – key until the desired drop setting is displayed. Drop

settings range from 0 to 40 mm. The default value is 6. Increasing this
value will cause the printhead to drop sooner, and decreasing the value
will cause the printhead to drop later.

5 Press the SELECT key to confirm your choice.

Any changes will take effect only after a new label is sent.

QLS-4100 Xe 4-39

Ribbon Sensor

This function is for use by QuickLabel technicians when performing
diagnostics at the factory. In general use, the Ribbon Sensor should always
be enabled.

To adjust the ribbon sensor:

1 If the printer is in a Ready state, press the PRINT/PAUSE key to pause

the printer.

2 Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Ribbon menu is displayed.

Then press the SELECT key.

Pause: Ribbon

Press SELECT

3 Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Ribbon Sensor menu is

displayed.

Ribbon Sensor

Enabled

4 Press the + or – key until the desired sensor setting is displayed.

Available options are Enabled or Disabled. Under normal operating
conditions, the sensor should be enabled.

5 Press the SELECT key to confirm your choice.

Caution: This capability is intended for factory diagnostics only. Do not

disable the sensor. Use of the printer with the ribbon sensor disabled could
result in damage to the printhead (due to overheating) and/or poor print
quality.

4-40 Keypad controls and menus

Communications Menu

Communications options are accessed via the Communications menu. The
following sections detail each of the features within this menu category.

Data Port

The host computer transfers label formats, images, and fonts to the printer
via a designated data port. The host computer transfers information about
the printer’s status via a status port.

Either the parallel port, serial port, or Ethernet connection can be used as the
data port. Only one of these communication channels be used as the data
port; the others are used as status ports. However, a data port can also be
used as a status port if the channel is bi-directional, which means it can
transmit and receive data.

You can change the data port using the Data Port menu option.

Note: If data port-specific commands are received via the status port, an
error will occur.

Data Port Error

Check Comm Setup

To select a data port:

1 If the printer is in a Ready state, press the PRINT/PAUSE key to pause

the printer.

2 Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Communications menu is

displayed. Then press the SELECT key.

Pause: Communications

Press SELECT

3 Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Data Port menu is displayed.

Data Port

Parallel

QLS-4100 Xe 4-41

4 Press the + or – key until the desired data port is displayed. Available

options are Parallel, Serial, or Ethernet.

5 Press the SELECT key to confirm your choice.

Parallel Mode

If you are using the parallel port to connect the printer to a host computer,
you can select a parallel port mode. The parallel port mode determines the
method of communication used between the host and the printer.

Note: This option is only available on printers with a parallel port.

The default setting is Auto mode. Auto mode attempts to communicate via
an ECP (Extended Capabilities Port) connection. If it cannot communicate via
this method, it will automatically switch to standard mode, which uses a
common Centronics method of communication.

The supplied parallel or high-speed IEEE-1284 parallel cable should be used
to ensure reliable performance.

To select a parallel mode:

1 If the printer is in a Ready state, press the PRINT/PAUSE key to pause

the printer.

2 Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Communications menu is

displayed. Then press the SELECT key.

Pause: Communications

Press SELECT

3 Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Data Port menu is displayed.

Parallel Mode

Auto

4 Press the + or – key until the desired parallel mode is displayed.

Available options are Auto, or Standard.

5 Press the SELECT key to confirm your choice.

4-42 Keypad controls and menus

RS232 Baud Rate

If you are using the RS232 serial port connection, you can configure the
printer to use one of four specific baud rates.

To select a baud rate:

1 If the printer is in a Ready state, press the PRINT/PAUSE key to pause

the printer.

2 Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Communications menu is

displayed. Then press the SELECT key.

Pause: Communications

Press SELECT

3 Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the RS232 Baud Rate menu is

displayed.

RS232 Baud Rate

19200

4 Press the + or – key until the desired baud rate is displayed. Available

options are 4800, 9600, 19200, or 38400.

5 Press the SELECT key to confirm your baud rate choice.

QLS-4100 Xe 4-43

RS232 Handshaking

If you are using the RS232 serial port connection, you can configure the
printer handshaking method.

To select a handshaking method:

1 If the printer is in a Ready state, press the PRINT/PAUSE key to pause

the printer.

2 Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Communications menu is

displayed. Then press the SELECT key.

Pause: Communications

Press SELECT

3 Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the RS232 Handshaking menu is

displayed.

RS232 Handshaking

Hardware

4 Press the + or – key until the desired handshaking method is displayed.

Available options are Hardware or XON/XOFF.

5 Press the SELECT key to confirm your handshaking choice.

4-44 Keypad controls and menus

TCP/IP: IP Address

A TCP/IP address uniquely identifies each device connected to your
network. If you are using ethernet to connect your printer to a network, you
will need to assign a TCP/IP address to your QLS-4100 Xe printer.

The default TCP/IP address is 192.168.255.1.

Note: For more detailed information on the topic of networking, refer to the
documentation applicable to your network environment and/or contact your
network administrator.

To set the TCP/IP address:

1 If the printer is in a Ready state, press the PRINT/PAUSE key to pause

the printer.

2 Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Communications menu is

displayed. Then press the SELECT key.

Pause: Communications

Press SELECT

3 Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the TCP/IP Address menu is

displayed.

TCP/IP Address

192.168.255.1

4 Press the + or – key to increase or decrease the first number in the

address, then press the SELECT key.

Press the + or – key to increase or decrease the second number in the
address, then press the SELECT key.

Press the + or – key to increase or decrease the third number in the
address, then press the SELECT key.

Press the + or – key to increase or decrease the fourth number in the
address, then press the SELECT key.

5 Press the SELECT key to confirm the TCP/IP address.

QLS-4100 Xe 4-45

TCP/IP Subnet Mask

You will use the TCP/IP Subnet Mask option in the Communications menu
to set a subnet mask for the QLS-4100 Xe printer.

The default subnet mask is 255.255.255.1.

Note: For more detailed information on the topic of networking, refer to the
documentation applicable to your network environment and/or contact your
network administrator.

To set the TCP/IP subnet mask:

1 If the printer is in a Ready state, press the PRINT/PAUSE key to pause

the printer.

2 Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Communications menu is

displayed. Then press the SELECT key.

Pause: Communications

Press SELECT

3 Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the TCP/IP Subnet Mask menu

is displayed.

TCP/IP Subnet Mask

255.255.255.1

4 Press the + or – key to increase or decrease the first number in the

address, then press the SELECT key.

Press the + or – key to increase or decrease the second number in the
address, then press the SELECT key.

Press the + or – key to increase or decrease the third number in the
address, then press the SELECT key.

Press the + or – key to increase or decrease the fourth number in the
address, then press the SELECT key.

5 Press the SELECT key to confirm the TCP/IP subnet mask.

4-46 Keypad controls and menus

TCP/IP Gateway

You will use the TCP/IP Gateway option in the Communications menu to set
a subnet mask for the QLS-4100 Xe printer.

The default gateway is 0.0.0.0.

Note: For more detailed information on the topic of networking, refer to the
documentation applicable to your network environment and/or contact your
network administrator.

To set the TCP/IP gateway:

1 If the printer is in a Ready state, press the PRINT/PAUSE key to pause

the printer.

2 Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Communications menu is

displayed. Then press the SELECT key.

Pause: Communications

Press SELECT

3 Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the TCP/IP Gateway menu is

displayed.

TCP/IP Gateway

0.0.0.0

4 Press the + or – key to increase or decrease the first number in the

address, then press the SELECT key.

Press the + or – key to increase or decrease the second number in the
address, then press the SELECT key.

Press the + or – key to increase or decrease the third number in the
address, then press the SELECT key.

Press the + or – key to increase or decrease the fourth number in the
address, then press the SELECT key.

5 Press the SELECT key to confirm the TCP/IP gateway.

QLS-4100 Xe 4-47

TCP/IP Connections

You will use the TCP/IP Connections option in the Communications menu to
select whether the TCP/IP status socket is enabled. By default, the status
socket is enabled.

Note: If you are using Custom QuickLabel in bidirectional communication
mode, the TCP/IP status socket must be enabled.

For more detailed information on the topic of networking, refer to the
documentation applicable to your network environment and/or contact your
network administrator.

To set the TCP/IP connections option:

1 If the printer is in a Ready state, press the PRINT/PAUSE key to pause

the printer.

2 Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Communications menu is

displayed. Then press the SELECT key.

Pause: Communications

Press SELECT

3 Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the TCP/IP Connections menu is

displayed.

TCP/IP Connections

Two

4 Press the + or – key to change the value.

• One - If you select this option, the TCP/IP status socket will be

disabled.

• Two - If you select this option, the TCP/IP status socket will be

enabled.

Note: On some printer models, the port number selection is indicated in
parentheses (2864 or 9100).

5 Press the SELECT key to confirm the TCP/IP connection option.

4-48 Keypad controls and menus

System Menu

System options are accessed via the System menu. The following sections
detail each of the features within this menu category.

Display Counter

The printer can dynamically display either the ongoing total number of
labels that have been printed since the printer was last powered up or the
number of labels that have been printed within any specific batch or print
job. The printer’s label counting feature can also be turned off.

To set up the counter:

1 If the printer is in a Ready state, proceed to the next step.

If the printer is in a Pause state, press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until
the System menu is displayed. Then press the SELECT key.

Pause: System

Press SELECT

2 Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Display Cntrs menu is

displayed.

Display Cntr

Off

3 Press the + or – key until the desired counter setting is displayed. The

following options are available.

Off – No counter is displayed.
Total – Count of labels printed since last power on is displayed
Batch – Count of labels printed in current batch is displayed

The selected counter mode will now appear on the display while
printing.

QLS-4100 Xe 4-49

Memory Card - Write Protection

Memory cards allow you to save fonts, bitmap images, and other
configuration information in a portable format. Memory cards use non­volatile memory, so the contents of the card remain intact even after the
printer is powered off.

You can write protect memory cards to prevent contents from being
accidentally erased while using the printer. However, write protection will
not protect the memory card data if the card is used with a PC reader.

To write protect the memory card:

1 If the printer is in a Ready state, press the PRINT/PAUSE key to pause

the printer.

2 Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the System menu is displayed.

Then press the SELECT key.

Pause: System

Press SELECT

3 Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Memory Card menu is

displayed.

Memory Card

Write Protect ON

4 Press the + or – key until the desired memory card protection setting is

displayed. Possible settings are On or Off.

5 Press the SELECT key to confirm your choice.

4-50 Keypad controls and menus

Front Panel Lock/Unlock

The Front Panel Lock/Unlock feature allows you to lock the menu,
preventing unauthorized users from modifying printer settings. The front
panel is locked and unlocked with a user-defined four-digit password.

When the front panel is locked, users can scroll through the menus, but
cannot make any changes. The only available features are PRINT/PAUSE,
FORM FEED/ADVANCE, Printer Settings, and Front Panel Unlock.

An “X” character will appear on the Ready and Pause displays to indicate
the front panel is locked.

Ready X

Pause X

To lock the front panel:

1 If the printer is in a Ready state, press the PRINT/PAUSE key to pause

the printer.

2 Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the System menu is displayed.

Then press the SELECT key.

Pause: System

Press SELECT

3 Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Front Panel Lock menu is

displayed.

Front Panel Lock

0000

QLS-4100 Xe 4-51

4 Press the + or – key to increase or decrease the first number in the

password, then press the SELECT key.

Press the + or – key to increase or decrease the second number in the
password, then press the SELECT key.

Press the + or – key to increase or decrease the third number in the
password, then press the SELECT key.

Press the + or – key to increase or decrease the fourth number in the
password, then press the SELECT key.

5 Press the SELECT key to lock the front panel using the specified

password.

To unlock the front panel:

1 If the locked printer is in a Ready state, press the PRINT/PAUSE key to

pause the printer.

2 Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the System menu is displayed.

Then press the SELECT key.

Pause: System

Press SELECT

3 Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Front Panel Unlock menu is

displayed.

Front Panel Unlock

0000

4-52 Keypad controls and menus

4 Press the + or – key to increase or decrease the first number in the

password, then press the SELECT key.

Press the + or – key to increase or decrease the second number in the
password, then press the SELECT key.

Press the + or – key to increase or decrease the third number in the
password, then press the SELECT key.

Press the + or – key to increase or decrease the fourth number in the
password, then press the SELECT key.

5 Press the SELECT key to unlock the front panel using the appropriate

password.

QLS-4100 Xe 4-53

Memory Card - Formatting

Memory cards must be formatted before they can be used. If you have a
memory card inserted in the memory card slot, which is located on the rear
panel, use the following instructions to format the card. The memory card
write protection setting must be off to allow memory card formatting.

Note: Use caution when formatting memory cards. Formatting a memory
card permanently erases all data on the card.

To format the memory card:

1 If the printer is in a Ready state, press the PRINT/PAUSE key to pause

the printer.

2 Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the System menu is displayed.

Then press the SELECT key.

Pause: System

Press SELECT

3 Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Format Memory Card menu

is displayed.

Format Memory Card

Press SELECT

4 Press the SELECT key. A confirmation message will be displayed before

the memory card is formatted.

Volume: QLSXE_00

SELECT to Confirm

5 To confirm the formatting, press the SELECT key. To cancel formatting

and return to the main Pause menu, press the PRINT/PAUSE key. When
you confirm formatting, a status message will display.

Format Complete

4-54 Keypad controls and menus

Time

The QLS-4100 Xe provides a built-in, real-time clock that is used for
displaying the time and date. It is also used to provide a time/date stamp for
fonts and images. You will use the Time menu option to set the time for the
clock.

To set the time:

1 If the printer is in a Ready state, press the PRINT/PAUSE key to pause

the printer.

2 Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the System menu is displayed.

Then press the SELECT key.

Pause: System

Press SELECT

3 Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Time menu is displayed.

Time

10:42 am

4 Press the + or – key until the desired hour setting is displayed, then press

the SELECT key.

Press the + or – key until the desired minute setting is displayed, then
press the SELECT Key.

Press the + or – key until the desired am/pm setting is displayed, then
press the SELECT Key.

5 Press the SELECT key to confirm the time. At this point, the time is

stored with seconds set to zero.

QLS-4100 Xe 4-55

Date

The QLS-4100 Xe provides a built-in, real-time clock that is used for
displaying the time and date. It is also used to provide a time/date stamp for
fonts and images. You will use the Date menu option to set the date.

To set the date:

1 If the printer is in a Ready state, press the PRINT/PAUSE key to pause

the printer.

2 Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the System menu is displayed.

Then press the SELECT key.

Pause: System

Press SELECT

3 Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Date menu is displayed.

Date

2002, Aug 26

4 Press the + or – key until the desired year setting is displayed, then press

the SELECT key.

Press the + or – key until the desired month setting is displayed, then
press the SELECT Key.

Press the + or – key until the desired day setting is displayed, then press
the SELECT Key.

5 Press the SELECT key to confirm the date.

4-56 Keypad controls and menus