Rice Lake RL-42TT Operation Manual

RL-42TT

Thermal Printer

Operation Manual

108223

108223

Contents

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About This Manual ................................................................................................................................... 1

1.0 Introduction.................................................................................................................................. 1

1.1 Safety Instructions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

1.2 Printer Parts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

2.0 Installation ................................................................................................................................... 3

2.1 Ribbon Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

2.2 Label Installation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

2.3 Label Roll Core Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

2.4 Cord/Hang Tags Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

2.5 PC Connection. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

2.5.1 Store Format - Autoform Capability . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

2.5.2 Deleting the AUTOFR Form From the Printer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

3.0 Accessories ................................................................................................................................. 9

3.1 Stripper Module . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

3.2 Cutter Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

3.3 CF Card Adapter Installation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

3.3.1 Using the CF Card. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

4.0 Control Panel ............................................................................................................................. 18

4.1 LED Status. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

4.2 Feed Key Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

4.3 Self-Test. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

4.4 Auto-Sensing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

4.5 Dump Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

4.6 Direct Thermal/Thermal Transfer Mode Switch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

4.7 See-Through Sensor On/Off . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

4.8 Error Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

5.0 Maintenance and Adjustments.................................................................................................. 22

5.1 Thermal Print Head Cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

5.2 Thermal Print Head Balance Adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

5.3 Print Line Adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

5.4 Cutter Adjustment (Paper Jams) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

6.0 Appendix .................................................................................................................................... 24

6.1 Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

6.2 Compliance Statements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

6.3 Parallel Interface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

6.4 Serial Interface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

6.5 USB Interface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

6.6 Internal Interface. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

6.7 Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

RL-42TT Limited Warranty...................................................................................................................... 28

© 2008 Rice Lake Weighing Systems. All rights reserved. Printed in the United States of America.

Specifications subject to change without notice.

November 2008

i

ii RL-42TT Operation Manual

About This Manual

W arning

Cover open button

Label roll core

Ribbon rewind wheel

Print mechanism

Ribbon rewind shaft + Empty ribbon roll

Locking tenon (left/right)

Front cover piece

This manual is intended for use by qualified service
technicians responsible for installing and servicing the

RL-42TT printer.

Authorized distributors and their employees
can view or download this manual from the
Rice Lake W

www.ricelake.com.

site at

eighing Systems distributor

Danger of explosion if battery is
incorrectly replaced. Replace only with
the e

quivalent type recommended by the
manufacturer. Dispose of batteries
according to the manufacturer’s
instructions.

1.0 Introduction

After unpacking, check to make sure all accessories are included:

• Barcode printer

• Power cord

• Switching power

• USB cable

1.1 Safety Instructions

• Keep the equipment away from humidity.

• Before you connect the equipment to the power outlet, check the voltage of the power source.

• Disconnect the equipment from the voltage of the
over-voltage damage.

• Don’t pour any liquid near the equipment, a

• Only qualified service personnel should open the equipment.

• Don’t repair or adjust energized equipment alone
providing first aid must always be present for your safety.

s it may result in electric shock.

• Label

•Ribbon

• Empty ribbon roll

•Clean card

power source to prevent possible transient

under any circumstances. Someone capable of

1.2 Printer Parts

Figure 1-1. Top cover lifted, printer parts illustrated

Introduction 1

CF Card slot cover

Print head pressure
adjustment screw (left/right)

LED light (ready)

LED light(status)

FEED key

Figure 1-2. Inside of printer

Ribbon supply shaft

Label guide

Platen roller

Print line adjustment
gear

Label sensor

Ethernet port (option)

Fan-fold label insert

Power switch

Power socket

USB port

Parallel port

Serial (RS-232) port

Figure 1-3. Inside of printer, print mecha nism li fted

2 RL-42TT Operation Manual

Figure 1-4. Back of printer

2.0 Installation

This section contains information on installing the ribbon, labels, label roll core and cord/hang tags. It also
contains instructions on connecting to a PC.

2.1 Ribbon Installation

1. Place the printer on a horizontal surface.

2. Open the top cover by pressing the cover
open buttons on both sides and

3. Loosen and lift the upper print
mechanism by pressing the locking
tenons.

lifting.

4. Place a new ribbon roll onto the ribbon
supply shaft.

Installation 3

5. Feed the ribbon from the ribbon supply
shaft under the print head.

6. Wrap the ribbon around the ribbon shaft
and

stick the ribbon onto the empty

ribbon roll core.

7. Close the upper print mechanism from
the top to finish ribbon installation.

4 RL-42TT Operation Manual

2.2 Label Installation

1. Open the top cover by pressing the cover
open buttons on both sides and lifting.

2. Place the label roll onto the label roll
core.

3. Loosen and lift the upper print
mechanism by pressing the locking
tenons.

4. Feed the label through the two label
guides to the tear-off bar.

5. Align the label guides to the label edge.

6. Close the upper print mechanism from
the top to finish label installation.

Installation 5

2.3 Label Roll Core Installation

1” roll core installation

1.5” roll core installation

3” roll core installation

6 RL-42TT Operation Manual

2.4 Cord/Hang Tags Installation

Sensor

Tag hole position

Sensor Detection Position

When installing cord tags, the tag hole must align with the sensor arrow as indicated in Figure 2-2. Then, use the
label guide to secure the tags.

Figure 2-1. Sensor detection position and sensor location

2.5 PC Connection

1. Make sure the printer is powered off.

2. Take the power cable, plug the cable switch to the powe
to the printer power socket.

3. Connect the cable to the USB/parallel

port on the printer and on the PC.

4. Power on the PC and printer. The printer’s LED light will turn on.

r socket, then connect the other end of the cable

Figure 2-2. PC connection illustration

Installation 7

2.5.1 Store Format - Autoform Capability

1. Design the form in Label View and save it as AUTOFR.

2. Generate a command file.

3. Exit Label View and bring up the file in Dos Edit (the file is AUTOFR.EJF).

4. Add a line at the beginning and add the interrupt command. This is added by holding do wn the CTRL
key and pressing the P, and then the S keys. Two exclamation points should appear at the beginning of
the line.

5. Add before PE the command PA1.

6. Turn the printer off for a minute and then on again to make sure the buffer is empty.

7. Download the form to the printer by choosing Print from Dos Edit.

This is now the form that will be printed every time the print button is pushed. This example works with only one
variable field, which means that only gross or only net weight can be printed. Once this form is loaded in the
printer the customer cannot use the printer for any other label format.

2.5.2 Deleting the AUTOFR Form From the Printer

1. Turn the printer off for a minute, then turn it back on.

2. Send the interrupt command, CTRL S, and then FK"*".
This will delete all stored forms from the printer memory.

This will open up doors for a simple label application, and works with most devices that are sending a single
weight and capable of 9600 baud, 8 data bits.

8 RL-42TT Operation Manual

3.0 Accessories

2

1

3.1 Stripper Module

The stripper module separates a label from its backing, allowing the user to apply a label without peeling.
To install the stripper module

1. Make sure you have the module and two
provide

d screws.

2. Power off the printer before installing the
stripp

er module.

NOTES: Label liner thickness is recommended to be

0.06 mm ± 10% with basic weight 65g/m

The maximum width for the stripper is 110

When using the stripper module,
set the stop position to 9 in QLabel and the E value is 9.

3. Place the printer on a horizontal surface
and open the top cover by pressing the
cover open buttons on both sides and
lifting upward.

, follow these instructions:

2

± 6%.

mm.

it is recommended to

4. Loosen and then lift the upper print
mechanism by pressing the locking
tenons.

Accessories 9

5. Unlock the front cover piece by pushing
locks inward.

6. Lift/take off the front cover piece
ac

cording to the figure shown at the

right.

7. Plug in the stripper module’s connector
to the switchboard socket.

NOTE: There are two sockets on the converting boards.
One is for stripper module installation, and the other is
for the cutter. Before you plug the connector into the
socket, check the pin first.

8. Place the left side of the stripper module
first, then fit the right side.

9. Hold the stripper module in place and
tighten the screws to secure its location.

10 RL-42TT Operation Manual

10. Feed the label through the label guides.

NOTE: The label/paper used for rewinding purpose is
suggested to be at least 30 mm in height.

11. Peel off the first label and feed the liner
through the roller and the tear-off bar.

12. Follow the direction shown in the figure
at the right to feed the liner across the
stripper module.

Accessories 11

13. Close the upper print mechanism and the
stripper module.

14. Press the FEED key to adjust the position
of the label and complete the installation.

12 RL-42TT Operation Manual

3.2 Cutter Installation

2

1

The RL-42TT printers feature a photo-eye, which detects gaps between labels. When a gap is detected, the cutter
will separate the label from the roll. To install the cutter, follow these instructions:

1. Make sure you have the cutter module
two provided screws (TAP 3*8).

and

2. Power off the printer before installing the

cutter module.

NOTES: Do not cut self-adhesive labels! The traces of
adhesive will pollute the rotary knife and impair safe
operation.

The service life of the cutter is 500,000 cuts for paper
weight

s up to 160g/m

weights 200g/m2 paper weight.

3. Place the printer on a horizontal surface

and open the top cover by pressing the
cover open buttons on both sides and
lifting upward.

2

, and 250,000 cuts for paper

4. Loosen and then lift the upper print

mechanism by pressing the locking
tenons.

Accessories 13

5. Unlock the front cover piece by pushing
locks inward.

6. Lift/take off the front cover piece
ac

cording to the figure shown at the

right.

7. Plug in the cable connector of the cutter
module to the switchboard socket.

NOTE: Before you plug the connector to the socket,
check the pin

8. Place the left side of the stripper first,
and then fit the right side.

9. Flip the cutter module downward to open
the cutter.

14 RL-42TT Operation Manual

10. Hold the cutter module and lock it with
screws.

11. After the screws are locked, flip close the
cutter module.

12. Feed the label through the label guides.

13. Close the mechanism.

14. Press the FEED key to adjust the position
of the label and complete the installation.

Accessories 15

3.3 CF Card Adapter Installation

The RL-42TT printer can use a compact flash (CF) card for additional memory in storing label formats, graphics,
and fonts. The CF card adapter, shown in Figure 3-1, must first be installed. The printer supports CF cap
from 128MB to 1GB. Always power off the printer

Figure 3-1. CF card adapter front (left) and back (right)

before installing or removing the CF card from the card slot.

1. Place the printer on a horizontal surface
and open the top cover by pressing the
cover open buttons on both sides and
lifting upward.

acities

2. Take off the label roll core.

3. Open and remove the plastic cover from
the inner base.

16 RL-42TT Operation Manual

4. Check the correspondent pins and
sockets to plug the adapter card onto the

board.

main

NOTE: Make sure the sockets and pins match;
otherwise, the pins may get damaged.

5. Close the plastic cover to complete
installation.

3.3.1 Using the CF Card

Always power off the printer before installing or removing the CF card from the card slot. The CF card cannot be
used for the printer’s external memory until it is formatted in FAT16. When the printer has detected that the CF
card is not formatted in FAT16, it will beep 3 times and the STATUS LED light will flash orange.

RL-42TT printer supports CF capacities from 128MB to 1GB. TheRL-42TT printer can format the CF card

The
(which will erase all data on the card) in the proper format. If you choose not to format the CF card, open the top
cover and wait for the turn-on procedure. To format the card in FAT16 format:

1. Press the FEED key. The printer will format the CF card in FAT16.

2. When the format is complete, the LE

3. A file folder named “Godex” will be created automatically on the card. T

D light will turn green.

his folder is used for storing all

data from the printer. Do not rename or change the folder in any way.

Accessories 17

4.0 Control Panel

The control panel accesses printer diagnostics and settings. This section provides information on LED status, the
FEED key, self-tests, auto-sensing, dump mode, direct thermal/thermal transfer switch, and error messages.

4.1 LED Status

Press and hold the FEED key then power on the printer, the printer will beep 3 times and enter into Self-Test
status. If keep holding the FEED key, the status will change in sequence to Auto Sensing Mode, Dump Mode,
See-through Sensor on/off, and then return to Self-Test again. These different statuses can change the setting of
printer; they are described as follows:

FEED LED LIGHT BEEP STATUS DESCRIPTION

READY Green 1 Normal Normal status

STATUS

Press and hold the FEED key, then power on the printer.

READY Red (flash) 3 Self-Test Printing self-test page. For

STATUS Orange

READY Orange (flash) 1 Auto-Sensing Mode The printer is currently in auto-se

STATUS Orange

READY Green (flash) 1 Dump Mode The printer is currently in dump mode. For

STATUS Orange

READY Red (flash) 1 Direct Thermal (DT)

STATUS Red

READY Orange (flash) 1 Thermal Transfer (TT)

STATUS Red

READY Green (flash) 1 See-Through Sensof

STATUS Red

Mode

Mode

/Off

On

instructions, refer to Section 4.3 on page 19.

For operation instructions, refer to Section 4.4
on page 19.

eration instructions, refer to Section 4.5 on

op
page 20.

Sets the printer to Direct Thermal (DT) mode. For

eration instructions, refer to Section 4.6 on

op
page 20

Sets the printer to Direct Thermal (DT) mode. For
op

eration instructions, refer to Section 4.6 on

page 20

Sets the see-through sensor on or off. For
operation instructions, refer to Section 4.7 on
page 20

operation

nsing mode.

READY

STATUS Red (flash) Printer is downloading firmware

18 RL-42TT Operation Manual

Return to Self Test

Table 4-1. LED status

4.2 Feed Key Introduction

LRXXXX : VX.XXX
Serial port :96,N,8,1

1 DRAM installed
Image buffer size : 1500K
000 FORM(S) IN MEMORY
000 GRAPHIC (S) IN MEMORY
000 FONT(S) IN MEMORY
000 ASIAN FONT(S) IN MEMORY
000 DATABASE(S) IN MEMORY
2048K BYTES FREE MEMORY
^S4 ^H10 ^R000 ~R200
^W10 ^Q48,3
Option : ^D0 ^O0 ^AD
See-through Sensor: OFF
Reflective Sensor AD : 146 186 223 (2)
Code Page: 850

Model & Version
Serial port setup

Test pattern

Number of DRAM installed
Image buffer size
Number of forms
Number of graphics
Number of fonts
Number of Asian fonts
Number of Databases
Free memory size
Speed, Density, Ref. Point, Print direction
Label width, Form length
Cutter, Stripper, Mode
See-through Sensor status
Reflective Sensor status
Code Page

Self-Test includes the internal printer data setting.

After pressing the FEED key, the printer will send the media (according to media type) to the specified stop
position. When printing with continuous media, pressing the FEED key will feed media out to a certain length.
When printing with labels, pressing the FEED key will feed one label at a time. If the label is not sent out in a
correct position, please proceed with the Auto sensing (see

Section 4.4 on page 19).

4.3 Self-Test

The Self-Test function in a printer will help the user to figure out whether the printer is operating normally. In the
Self-Test Mode, the printer will print out a test sample as shown in Figure 4-1. The printer will go back to
standby mode after printing out the test sample. Below

1. Power off the printer, then press and hold the FEED key.

2. Power on the printer (while still holding the FEED key)
times.

3. After about 1 second, printer would automatically print out the following. This means the printer is
operat

ing normally.

are the Self-Test procedures:

; release the FEED key after the printer beeps 3

4.4 Auto-Sensing

The printer can automatically detect label (black mark paper) length and record it. By doing this, the printer can
accurately detect the label (black mark) positions without setting the print length.

1. Check if the Moveable Sensor Mark is located at the

2. Power off the printer, press and hold the FEED key.

3. Power on the printer (while still hol

the FEED key, wait for the LED flashes orange and then release the FEED key. Printer will automatically
detect the label size/length and record it.

4. The printer goes back to standby mode

Figure 4-1. Self-test print page

ding the FEED key) and the printer will beep 3 times. Keep holding

after displaying the measurement.

right sensing position.

Control Panel 19

4.5 Dump Mode

When label setting and the print result don't match for each other, it is recommended to go into the Dump Mode
to check for mistakes in data transmission between the printer and the PC. For example, when printer receives 8
commands, yet without processing these commands, only printing out the contents of commands, this will
confirm whether the commands were received correctly . Test procedures to enter the Dump Mode are as follows:

1. Power off the printer, press and hold the FEED key.

2. Power on the printer (while still holding the FEED key) and the printer will beep 3 times.

3. Release the FEED key when LED flashes green. Printer will automatically print “DUMP MODE
BEGIN.” This means the printer is already in Dump Mode.

4. Send commands to the printer, and check if the print result matches the commands sent.

5. To cancel (get out of the Dump Mode), press the FEED key, the printer will automatically print out
“OUT OF DUMP MODE”. This indicates that printer is back in the standby mode. Powering off the
printer is another way to exit the Dump Mode.

4.6 Direct Thermal/Thermal Transfer Mode Switch

1. Power off the printer, press and hold the FEED key.

2. Power on the printer (while still holding the FEED key) and the printer will beep 3 times. Keep holding
the FEED key, wait for the STATUS light turn red and READY light flash red, then release the FEED
key. The printer will go into Direct Thermal (DT) Mode and automatically print “NOW IS DIRECT
THERMAL (DT MODE)”. This indicates that printer is currently in DT Mode.

3. Power on the printer (while still holding the FEED key) and the printer will beep 3 times. Keep holding
the FEED key , wait for the STATUS light turn red and READY light flash orange, then release the FEED
key. The printer will go into the Thermal Transfer (TT) Mode and automatically print “NOW IS
THERMAL TRANSFER (TT MODE)”. This indicates that printer is currently in TT Mode.

4.7 See-Through Sensor On/Off

There are two types of sensor in the printer - Reflective Sensor and See-through Sensor. Users can set one of
them as active sensor. By default, the Reflective Sensor is turned on and the See-through Sensor is turned off.
However, the reflective sensor may not be able to detect the label gap on special label materials. For example,
when printing on labels with thick liner, colored liner, or back graphics, then the see-through sensor would need
to be enabled since the reflective sensor may not work correctly.

To turn the See-through Sensor on:

1. Power off the printer, press and hold the FEED key.

2. Power on the printer (while still holding the FEED key) and the printer will beep 3 times. Keep holding
the FEED key, wait for the LED light turn to orange and then release the FEED key. The printers will
automatically print “SEE-THROUGH SENSOR IS ON”. This indicates that the See-Through Sensor is
turned on (and the Reflective Sensor is turned off).

3. To turn off the See-Through Sensor, please repeat above-mentioned procedures. Then the printer will
print “SEE-THROUGH SENSOR IS OFF” to indicate that the See-Through Sensor is turned off.

4. For checking the status of See-through Sensor (on or off), please perform Auto Sensing once. If LED
light is green when doing Auto Sensing, then the See-through Sensor is on. If LED light is orange, then
the See-through Sensor is off.

NOTE: When the See-through Sensor is enabled, the Label Sensor must be placed in the center of the printer.

20 RL-42TT Operation Manual

4.8 Error Messages

LED LIGHT

Ready Status

Red 4 beeps twice • Print head is not firmly closed. • Re-open print head and make sure it closes tightly.

Red
(fla

Red

sh)

(Flash)

Red 3 beeps twice • Ribbon is not installed, and printer

Red 2 beeps twice • Unable to detect paper

Red 2 beeps twice • Abnormal paper feed • Possible causes: card tags or paper fell into the gap

Red 2 beeps twice • Memory is full; printer will print

Red 2 beeps twice • Can’t find the file; printer will print

Red 2 beeps twice • File name is repeated; printer will

BEEP DESCRIPTION SOLUTION

None • Print head temperature is too

high.

hows error message

s

• Ribbon is used up or ribbon
su

pply shaft is not moving

• Paper is used up

mory full”

“me

“

Filename cannot be found.”

int “Filename is repeated”

pr

• Wait for the print head temperature to drop to normal
range. The printer will go back to standby mode and the
LED light will stop flashing.

• Make sure the printer is in the Direct Thermal mode.

• Replace with new ribbon roll.

• Make sure the movable sensor mark is at the correct
position.
auto-sensing.

• Replace with new label roll.

be
black mark paper out. Please adjust according to actual
usage.

• Delete unnecessary data in the memory.

• Use “~X4” command to print out all the files, then check
whether the file exists and the names are correct.

• Change the file name and download again.

If the sensor is still unable to detect paper, repeat

hind the platen roller; can’t find label gap/black mark;

Table 4-2. Error messages

Control Panel 21

5.0 Maintenance and Adjustments

+

-

+

-

Occasionally, you may need to install clean the thermal print head, balance the thermal print head, adjust the
print line, or adjust the cutter.

5.1 Thermal Print Head Cleaning

Unclear printouts may be caused by dusty print
head, ribbon stain or label liner glue. Therefore
when printing, it's necessary to keep the top cover
closed. Also, check and prevent paper/label from
being stained or dusty to ensure print quality and
to prolong the print head life. Print head cleaning
instructions are as follows:

1. Power-off the printer.

2. Open the top cover.

3. Take out the ribbon.

4. Open the print head by pressing the
locking tenons.

5. If on the print head (see blue arrow)

's label pieces or other stain, please

there
use a soft cloth with industrial use
alcohol to wipe away the stain.

Notes: Weekly cleaning on the print head is
recommended. When cleaning the print head with soft
cloth, make sure there is no any metal or hard particles
attached on it. You can also clean the print head with the
cleaning card that comes with the printer.

5.2 Thermal Print Head Balance Adjustment

When printing with different label materials or using different ribbon types, unbalanced print quality may occur
due to the media material differences. Thus, it is necessary to adjust the thermal print head pressure.

1. Open the top cover.

2. Take out the ribbon.

3. Use a screwdriver to turn the print head
adjustment screws slightly
decrease the print head pressure as
needed.

to increase or

22 RL-42TT Operation Manual

5.3 Print Line Adjustment

A

B

1

2

A

To get better printing balance and quality, use the print head adjusting gear to adjust the contacting surface
between the print head and label.

1. When turning the print head adjustment
gear coun
shows), the print head would move in the
direction Arrow A shows.

2. When turning the print head adjustment

ar clockwise (as Arrow 2 shows), the

ge
print head would move in the direction
Arrow B shows.

ter-clockwise (as arrow 1

5.4 Cutter Adjustment (Paper Jams)

When using the cutter module, paper jams may occur from time to time. Paper jams can be resolved by adjusting
the cutter.

1. A cutter-adjusting hole is present on the
side of the
figure at right).

2. Turn the power off and use a #M3
hex

agon wrench inserted into hole A,

and turn it counter-clockwise.

3. Power on the printer after clearing the
pape
automatically.

NOTE: The label/paper used for cutting is suggested to
be at least 30mm in height.

cutter (denoted as A in the

r jam. The cutter will reset

Maintenance and Adjustments 23

6.0 Appendix

6.1 Specifications

Feature RL-42TT

Resolution 203 dpi (8 dot/mm)

Print Mode Thermal Transfer/Direct Thermal

CPU 32 Bit

Memory 4MB Flash, 8MB SDRAM

Print Speed 2 IPS ~ 4 IPS

Print Length Min. 12 mm (0.47"), Max. 1727mm (68")

Print Width Max.108mm (4.25")

Sensor Type Adjustable Reflective sensor; Fixe

Sensor Detection Type: Label gap and black mark sensing.

Detection: Label length auto sensing and / or program command setting

d transmissive, center aligned

Media Label Roll OD: Max. 125 mm (4.92")

Ribbon Length: 300M (981 ft)

Printer Language EZPL (Firmware downloadable)

Resident Fonts 11 resident alphanumeric fonts (included OCR A &

Fonts Download Windows bit mapped in 8 orientations. True Type font

Image Handling BMP, PCX, Support ICO, WMF, JPG, EMF file through software.

Barcodes Code 39, Code 93, Code 128 (subset A, B, C), UCC/EAN-128 K

Interfaces Serial port: RS-232 ( Baud rate : 4800 ~ 115200 , Xon/Xoff , DSR/DTR )

Control Panel One Tri-color LED: Ready, Status

Power Auto Switching 100/240VAC, 50/60 Hz

Environment Operation: 41°F to 104°F (5°C to 40°C)

Cert. Approval CE, FCC Class A, CCC, CB, cUL, BSMI

Humidity Operation: 30-85%, non-condensing. Free air.

Printer Dimensions Length: 285 mm (11.2")

Options Rotary Cutter Module

Core Diameter: 1", 1.5", 3"
Width: 25mm (1") ~ 118 mm (4.64")
Thickness: 0.06~0.25 mm (0.0025"~0.0098")

Max. ribbon roll OD: 68mm (2.67")
Type: transfer ribbons (wax, hybrid, and resin) in widths of 30 mm to
Core Inner Diameter: 25.4mm (1")

B), those are expandable 8 times horizontally and vertically. All bit
mapped fonts in 8 orientations.
Scalable Font (Code Page 850 & 852) in 4 orientations.

(Ver. 2.XX) and Asian fonts in 4 orientations.

5, I 2 of 5 with Shipping Bearer Bars, EAN 8 / 13 (add on 2 & 5), Codabar, Post NET, EAN 128, DUN 14, MaxiCode,
HIBC, Plessey, Random Weight, Telepen, FIM, China Postal Code, RPS 128, PDF417, Datamatrix code & QR code

USB port: V2.0
Parallel port: Bi-direction

Function Key: FEED

Storage: -4°F to 122°F (-20°C to 50°C)

Storage: 10-90%, non-condensing. Free air.

Height: 171 mm (6.8")
Width: 226 mm (8.9")
Weight: 6 lb (2.72 kg)

Stripper Module
CF Card Adapter with RTC
Internal Ethernet Adapter Card

110 mm (1.88" to 4.33")

-Mart, UCC/EAN-128, UPC A / E (add on 2 & 5), I 2 of

24 RL-42TT Operation Manual

Table 6-1. Printer specifications

6.2 Compliance Statements

FCC COMPLIANCE STATEMENT FOR AMERICAN USERS

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a CLASS A digital device, pursuant to
Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful
interference when the equipment is operated in a commercial environment. This equipment generates, uses, and
can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause
harmful interference to radio communications. Operation of this equipment in a residential area is likely to cause
harmful interference in which case the user will be required to correct the interference at own expense.

EMS AND EMI COMPLIANCE STATEMENT FOR EUROPEAN USERS

This equipment has been tested and passed with the requirements relating to electromagnetic compatibility based
on the standards EN 55022:1998+A1:2000+A2:2003, CI SPR 22, Class A EN 55024:19 98+A1:2001+A2:2003,
IEC 61000- 4 Series EN 61000-3-2 / 2000 & EN 61000-3-3 / 1995. The equipment also tested and passed in
accordance with the European Standard EN55022 for the both Radiated and Conducted emissions limits.

RICE LAKE SERIES TO WHICH THIS DECLARATION RELATES IS IN CONFORMITY WITH THE FOLLOWING STANDARDS

EN55022: 1998,CLSPR 22, Class A / EN55024: 1998IEC 61000-4 Serial / EN61000-3-2: 2000 / EN 6100-3-3:
1995 / CFR 47, Part 15/CISPR 22 3rd Edition: 1997, Class A / ANSI C63.4: 2001 / CNS 13438 / IEC60950-1:
2001 / GB4943: 2001 / GB9254: 1998 / GB17625.1: 20 03 /EN60950-1: 2001

Danger of explosion if battery is incorrectly replaced

Replace only with the equivalent type r
Dispose of used batteries according to the ma

ecommended by the manufacture.

nufacturer's instructions.

Appendix 25

6.3 Parallel Interface

Handshake: DSTB connects to the printer, BUSY

connects to the host

Interface cable: Parallel cable compatible to PC

Pin out: See Ta bl e 6-2

Pin Number Function Transmitter

1 /Strobe host/printer

2-9 Data 0-7 host

10 /Acknowledge printer

11 Busy printer

12 /Paper empty printer

13 /Select printer

14 /Auto-Linefeed host/printer

15 N/C

16 Signal Gnd

17 Chassis Gnd

18 +5V, max 500mA

19-30 Signal Gnd host

31 /Initialize host/printer

32 /Error printer

33 Signal Ground

34-35 N/C

36 /Select-in host/printer

Table 6-2. Pin out connections

6.4 Serial Interface

The serial default setting is: 9600 baud rate, no parity,
8 data bits, 1 stop bit, and XON/XOFF protocol.

NOTE: The total current output from the serial port cannot
exceed 500mA.

6.5 USB Interface

RL-42TT printers use a Type B connector type.

Pin Number 1 2 3 4

Function VBUS D- D+ GND

Table 6-4. USB interface Specs

6.6 Internal Interface

.

UART1 wafer Ethernet module

N.C 1_____________1 N.C

TXD 2_____________2 RXD

RXD 3_____________3 TXD

CTS 4_____________4 RTS

GND 5_____________5 GND

RTS 6_____________6 CTS

E_MD 7_____________7 E_MD

RTS 8_____________8 CTS

E_RST 9_____________9 E_RST

+5V 10____________10 +5V

GND 11____________11 GND

+5V 12____________12 +5V

Table 6-5. Internal interface specs

UART2 wafer Ethernet module

+5V 1_____________1 +5V

CTS 2_____________2 RTS

TXD 3_____________3 RXD

RTS 4_____________4 CTS

RXD 5_____________5 TXD

GND 6_____________6 GND

Table 6-6. Internal interface specs

DB9 Socket DB9 Plug

--- 1_____________1 +5V, max 500mA

RXD 2_____________2 TXD

TXD 3_____________3 RXD

DTR 4_____________4 N/C

GND 5_____________5 GND

DSR 6_____________6 RTS

RTS 7_____________7 CTS

CTS 8_____________8 RTS

RI 9_____________9 N/C

PC PRINTER

Table 6-3. RS232 Housing (9-pin to 9-pin)

26 RL-42TT Operation Manual

6.7 Troubleshooting

Symptom Remedy

LED light is not lit • Check the power connector

LED light turns red (power/status)

ter printing stops

af

Nothing is printed on label

Label is jammed • Clean the label jam; if the label is stuck on the t

Only some of the contents is
pr

inted

Part of the label isn’t printed

ely

complet

Printout is not in the desired

tion

posi

Page skipping occurs • Check if error occurs on label height setting

Unclear printout • Check print darkness setting

Labbel isn’t cut straight • Check if label is set up straight

Label isn’t cut • Make sure label thickness does not exceed 0.2 mm

Label couldn’t feed or unexpected
cutting occ

The stripper module isn’t working
corr

urs

ectly

• Check for software setting or program command errors

• Replace with suitable label

• Check if label or ribbon is all out

• Check if mechanism is not closed (Thermal Pr

• Check if sensor is blocked by paper/label

• Check for abnormal cutter function or of no actio

int Head not positioned correctly)

ns (if cutter is installed)

• Check if label is placed upside down or if label is not suitable for the application

• Select the correct printer driver

• Select the correct label and print type

alcohol

• Check if label is stuck on the Thermal Print Head

• Check if application software has errors

• Check if start position setting has errors

• Check if ribbon has wrinkles

• Check if ribbon supply shaft is creating friction wit
replaced, contact your dealer for more information

• Check if power supply is correct

• Check if Thermal Print Head is stained or dusted

• Use internal command “~T” to check The

• Check the media quality

• Check if sensor is covered by paper or dust

• Check if liner is suitable for use, please contac

• Check if label roll edge is aligned with Label Width Guide

• Check if sensor is covered by dust

• Check if Thermal Print Head is covered with glue or stain

• Check if cutter is installed properly

• Check if paper feed rods are sticky

• Check if stripper module sensor is covered with dust

• Check if label is installed properly

rmal Print Head can print completely

t reseller for more information

hermal print head, remove by using a soft cloth and

h the platen roller. If the platen roller needs to be

Table 6-7. Troubleshooting

Appendix 27

RL-42TT Limited Warranty

Rice Lake Weighing Systems (RLWS) warrants that all RLWS equipment and systems properly installed by a
Distributor or Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) will operate per written specifications as confirmed by
the Distributor/OEM and accepted by RLWS. All systems and components are warranted against defects in
materials and workmanship for two years.

RLWS warrants that the equipment sold hereunder will conform to the current written specifications authorized
by RLWS. RLWS warrants the equipment against faulty workmanship and defective materials. If any equipment
fails to conform to these warranties, RLWS will, at its option, repair or replace such goods returned within the
warranty period subject to the following conditions:

• Upon discovery by Buyer of such nonconformity, RLWS will be given prompt written notice with a
detailed explanation of the alleged deficiencies.

• Individual electronic components returned to RLWS for warranty purposes must be packaged to
prevent electrostatic discharge (ESD) damage in shipment. Packaging requirements are listed in a
publication, Protecting Your Components From Static Damage in Shipment, available from RLWS
Equipment Return Department.

• Examination of such equipment by RLWS confirms that the nonconformity actually exists, and was
not caused by accident, misuse, neglect, alteration, improper installation, improper repair or
improper testing; RLWS shall be the sole judge of all alleged non-conformities.

• S uch equipment has not been modified, altered, or changed by any person other than RLWS or its
duly authorized repair agents.

• RLWS will have a reasonable time to repair or replace the defective equipment. Buyer is responsible
for shipping charges both ways.

• In no event will RLWS be responsible for travel time or on-location repairs, including assembly or
disassembly of equipment, nor will RLWS be liable for the cost of any repairs made by others.

THESE WARRANTIES EXCLUDE ALL OTHER WARRANTIES, EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING WITHOUT

LIMITATION WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. NEITHER

RLWS

NOR DISTRIBUTOR WILL, IN ANY EVENT, BE LIABLE FOR INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES.

RLWS AND BUYER AGREE TH AT RLWS’S SOLE AND EXCLUSIVE LIABILITY HEREUNDER IS LIMITED TO

REPAIR OR REPLACEMENT OF SUCH GOODS. IN ACCE PT ING THIS WARRANTY, THE BUYER WAIVES ANY AND
ALL OTHER CLAIMS TO WARRANTY.

SHOULD THE SELLER BE OTHER THAN RLWS, THE BUYE R AGREES TO LOOK ONLY TO THE SELLER FOR

WARRANTY CLAIMS.

NO TERMS, CONDITIONS, UNDERSTANDING, OR AGREEMENTS PURPORTING TO MODIFY THE TERMS OF THIS

WARRANTY SHALL HAVE ANY LEGAL EFFECT UNLESS MADE IN WRITING AND SIGNED BY A CORPORATE
OFFICER OF RLWS AND THE BUYER.

© 2008 Rice Lake Weighing Systems, Inc. Rice Lake, WI USA. All Rights Reserved.

RICE LAKE WEIGHING SYSTEMS • 230 WEST COLEMAN STREET • RICE LAKE, WISCONSIN 54868 • USA

28 RL-42TT Operation Manual