Page 1
USER GUIDE
to the
CP80
Impact Printer
Revision: “1.0”
Filename: “CP80 Users Guide v1 0.doc”
Date: “29 Mar. 2011”
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1 TABLE OF CONTENTS
1
Table Of Contents ...................................................................................................................... 2
2 Introduction ................................................................................................................................ 3
2.1 Notes on Printer Firmware Revisions ..................................................................................... 3
2.2 Copyright Notice And Disclaimer ................................... ......... ..... .... ......... ..... .... ......... ..... .... ... 3
2.3 Documentation Revision History ............................................ ..... ......... .... ..... ......... .... ..... ....... 3
3 Modes Of Operation .................................................................................................................. 4
3.1 Idle Mode ............................................................................................................................... 4
3.2 Paper Feed Button .......... ..... ......... ..... .... ......... ..... .... ......... ..... .... .......... .... ..... ......... .... ..... ....... 4
3.3 Printing Method ................................................................................................. ..................... 4
3.4 Dot Addressable Graphics ................................................ ..................................................... 4
3.5 Data Buffer .... ......................................................................................................................... 5
3.6 Serial Interface (Standard RS-232 Version) ...................... ..... .... .......... .... ..... .... ......... ..... ..... .. 5
4 Control Code Tables ........................................................................... ....................................... 6
4.1 Codes Received By The CP80 ...................................................................... ......................... 6
5 Paper And Ribbons .................................................................................................................... 7
5.1 Loading Paper ........................................................................................................................ 7
5.2 Paper Low Sensor ................................................................................ ......... .... ..... ......... ....... 7
5.3 Removing Paper Or Clearing A Jam ...................................................................................... 8
5.4 Changing The Ink Ribbon Cartridge .................................. ................................................... .. 8
6 LED Indications..................................................................... .......... .... ..... .... ......... ..... .... ............ 8
6.1 Alternative LED Pattern Set ................................................................................................. .. 8
7 Connections And EMC Precautions .. ....................................................... .................................. 9
7.1 Connector Details ................................................................................................................... 9
7.2 Typical 9 Pin RS232 Data Cable Configuration ............................... ..... .... ......... ..... ..... .... ....... 9
7.3 Power Supply Details ............................................................................................................. 9
7.4 Alternative Power Supply Arrangements ....................... .... ..... ..... .... ......... ..... .... ..... .... ..... ..... 10
7.5 EMC Caution ................................................................................................. ....................... 10
8 Getting Started ........................................................................................................................ 11
8.1 Connecting To a PC – A Checklist ............. .......................................................................... 11
8.2 Your Application Program ............................................................................................... ..... 11
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2 INTRODUCTION
This document is a User Guide, written for the person connecting and using the CP80 hand held
impact printer. Please read this Guide carefully before making any connection.
The CP80 includes the EPSON M190 24-column impact printer mechanism
The CP80 always requires a data input from a host. The power arrangement could be:
a direct mains po we re d PS U uni t “o pt i onal”
a direct vehicle cable for powering from a vehicle supply “optional”
2.1 NOTES ON PRINTER FIRMWARE REVISIONS
The manufacturer reserves the right to modify a nd improve th e firmware in its printer products at any
time. Whilst every effort is made to ensure backward compatibility, no guarantee in this respect is
given or implied.
2.2 COPYRIGHT NOTICE AND DISCLAIMER
Copyright subsists in the manufacturer’s intellectual property, including controller firmware (embedded
software) and circuit diagrams, pin connection lists and application data. No warranty in respect of
patent rights of the manufacturer or of third parties is given. Unauthorised reproduction or
amendment of controller firmware may result in prosecution.
EPSON is a registered mark of its owner Seiko Epson Corporation. References to this or other
owners' marks in this document are for illustrative purposes only.
The manufacturer does not assume responsibility for interchangeable functionality of other parties'
command sets.
2.3 DOCUMENTATION REVISION HISTORY
Title (and Revision Number) Issue Date Comments
User Guide to the CP80 29 Mar 2011 Original release
(Ref xxxxxusg21.pdf)
CP80 User Guide Page 3 of 1 1
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3 MODES OF OPERATION
The CP80 has three operating modes:
"Idle Mode": awake and ready to accept data, but no data is in the buffer awaiting
printing, and the printer motor is not running
"Printing Mode": data received into the buffer is printed out
Operational status is indicated by colour combinations on the front-panel LED. These can indicate
charger/battery status, paper status and so on.
3.1 IDLE MODE
In idle mode, the printer is ready to receive data, which will be printed as soon as complete lines or
graphics patterns are decoded. It responds to the paper feed button by Fast Feeding paper.
3.2 PAPER FEED BUTTON
As the CP80 has no external power switch, additional functions have been assigned to the paper feed
button.
In Idle Mode, the feed button advances paper at the Fast Feed rate
In Printing Mode, the feed button is ignored
3.3 PRINTING METHOD
The CP80 has the following cha racteristics:
Printer
Type
Mech
CP80 M-190 24 144 0.33 mm 0.37 mm 2.5 Line/s 6.0 mm/s
Characters are 5 dots wide with a 1 dot space between adjacent characters, and most are 7 dots
high. A few (e.g. ‘p’ or ‘q’) contain descenders and are 8 dots high. To optimise throughput the 8
line is skipped if no descenders are present in a text line. Every text line is followed by a 3 dotline
space. Text lines may be printed in double width, double height, or inverted.
During printing the paper is automatically fed by one dot line (0.37mm) each head cycle. The
mechanism can also advance the paper by three dot lines (1.11 mm) in a single head cycle. This
Fast Feeding is used between text lines, for the Fast Feed command, and when the paper feed button
is pressed.
It is not possible to print partial lines in isolation: if such a line remains in the buffer, it will not be
printed until flushed out by a line terminator or some following data. Any following data will be printed
on the next line. The paper may only be fed through the printer in the forward direction.
The character set is the standard International IBM
includes the Euro symbol (‘€’) at position 80H (128 Decimal), in place of the usual capital C with
cedilla (‘Ç’).
3.4 DOT ADDRESSABLE GRAPHICS
Graphics patterns are built up as a succession of complete dot lines across the paper, rather like a TV
picture. Complete dot lines must be specified at a time. The data for each dot line of graphics should
be encoded as shown:
For the CP80: ESC, 02H, d
Bits 5 through 0 of each data byte (d
on the paper, where 1 represents a dot, and 0 represents a space. Bits 7 and 6 are ignored.
Large areas of solid dots are not recommended, as they may cause overheating and shorten the
ribbon life: try shading.
N.B. If multiple dot lines of graphics are required to be contiguous, care must be taken to ensure that
the data rate is high enough to allow continuous printing. This is because the mechanism inserts an
Chars
per Line
Dots
Per Line
Dot
Width
Dot
Height
Print
Speed
Fast Feed
Speed
® character set (Code Page 437), except that it
(a total of 26 bytes per dot line)
1…d24
through d24 or d40) are interpreted as encoding individual dots
1
th
dot
CP80 User Guide Page 4 of 1 1
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additional dot line of space each time the motor stops and restarts. In order for this effect to be
avoided the data for each dot line of graphics must be ready and waiting in the printer’s buffer by the
time the previous dot line has been completed.
3.5 DATA BUFFER
The CP80 has a nominal 8k byte buffer which enables data to be received while previous lines are
being printed. The state of the data buffer is reported to the host by both hardware and software
handshaking.
The hardware busy line is asserted when 512 bytes of space remains; and incoming data are no
longer passed to the buffer when 48 bytes remain. The hardware busy line goes ready again when
528 bytes become free.
The CP80 transmits software handshaking codes when the buffer status changes, as follows:
XON 11H Start transmission
Meaning: The buffer is ready to receive data.
Transmitted after a reset, or when the data buffer empties to only 1/4 full.
XOFF 13H Stop transmission
Meaning: The buffer is not ready to receive data.
Transmitted when the data buffer becomes 3/4 full.
3.6 SERIAL INTERFACE (STANDARD RS-232 VERSION)
The default serial interface format is 9,600 baud, 8 data bits, 1 or 2 stop bits, and no parity. There is
an option of 1200 baud, 8 data bits, 1 or 2 stop bits, and no parity.
Serial data is expected on RxD in RS-232C format with -12V meaning 'mark' or logical '1', and +12V
meaning ‘space’ or logical '0', with reference to the common ground. The serial data output line, TxD,
transmits XON/XOFF to the host at the same baud rate and format as the serial data input. The
hardware busy line, Busy, is true (nominally -12V) when busy.
Some host equipment use a constant space condition (+12V) to indicate a reset condition or wait
state. Some battery powered host equipment present the same output signal when they go to sleep.
By default the CP80will ignore this condition, but this type of host behaviour may result in one or more
spurious characters being received by the CP80.
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4 CONTROL CODE TABLES
V
V
Codes from 20H to FFH are printable characters. Codes from 00H to 1FH which are not listed below
are ignored. Codes forming part of an ESC sequence are exceptions to these rules and may be any
value.
All control codes, except the ‘CAN’ code, are executed when they fall through the data buffer at
printing time.
4.1 CODES RECEIVED BY THE CP80
LF 0AH Line Feed (Line Terminator)
Works in an either/or way with CR: CR/LF pairs are treated as a single line terminator. Line
terminators immediately following full print lines are ignored.
TAB 0BH
Exactly equivalent to the command ESC,2AH. Fast feed of 30 (10x3) dot line pitches.
CR 0DH Carriage Return (Line Terminator)
Works in an either/or way with LF. CR/LF pairs are treated as a single line terminator.
CAN 18H (Real time) Abort printing and Reset
Executed immediately when received. Printing may be interrupted part way through a line.
All Print Mode settings are cleared.
The CP80is actually RESET when the CAN code is received, so any data sent immediately
following the CAN code will be lost. The printer transmits an XON character when it is ready to
receive data again.
ESC,n 1BH,n Self Test, Fast Feed, Graphics and Print Mode Selection
N.B. All ESC sequences should appear at the start of a logical line. If one is received within a
normal printable line a line terminator will automatically be inserted before it.
If n is an ESC character (1BH): [ Self Test Print ]
A self test print is produced. This consists of a line reporting the Firmware Version number,
and a single dump of the entire character set.
Otherwise, if bit 5 of n is set: [ Fast Feed Command ]
The least significant 5 bits of n (bits 4 through 0) are used as a binary count for a fast feed
operation, encoding the number of 3 dot pitches the paper to be fed.
Otherwise, if bit 1 of n is set: [ Dot Addressable Graphics Mode ]
The following 24 or 40 bytes are interpreted as graphics patterns.
Otherwise: [ Print Mode Selection ]
n is interpreted as follows:
Bit 0 Select(1) or Clear(0) Inverted Print Mode
Bit 1 Must be zero
Bit 2 Select(1) or Clear(0) Double Width Mode
Bit 3 Select(1) or Clear(0) Double Height Mode
Bit 4 Ignored
Bit 5 Must be zero
Bit 6 Ignored
Bit 7 Ignored
Print Modes may be combined as required, but affect entire print lines. It is not possible, for
example, to mix Double Width and Normal Width text on the same print line.
Each of these Print Modes remains in force until actively cancelled, or the printer enters
sleep mode.
ertical TAB
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5 PAPER AND RIBBONS
The CP80 is normally supplied with a separate paper roll and fitted with a black ribbon.
Paper rolls must be 57.5 ±0.5mm, and of maximum diameter 60mm.
Alternative paper roll sizes, alternative paper roll types (e.g. two-part paper, ‘action’ paper, etc) and
commodity packs, containing several standard paper rolls and ribbons, are all available.
5.1 LOADING PAPER
A paper roll is normally supplied separately to avoid unrolling or damage in transit.
To load a new roll of paper:
Discard a few turns of paper in case they have been damaged or have glue on
Mount the roll between the bosses in the paper holder area: the right-hand boss is on a
sprung support. The paper should flow from the bottom of the roll
Prepare the end of the paper into a clean edge at right-angles, and introduce into the rear
of the mecha nism while pressing the paper feed butto n: the target point is just above a
bright metal strip. The paper should be straight, and pointing forwards into the printer
Once the mechanism grips the paper, allow enough to feed through for good alignment,
thread the paper through the exit slot and close the lid.
Check that it still advances properly, and tear off any excess by pulling the paper sharply
towards you across the serrated edges.
5.2 PAPER LOW SENSOR
A mechanical/optical paper sensor acts on the left-hand face of the paper roll, and is activated when
only a few metres of paper remain. When this sensor becomes active, the LED indicates solid
orange (see section ‘6.1 ALTERNATIVE LED PATTERN SET’).
To avoid spurious 'paper low' reports, ensure that the roll is correctly located on the bosses, and that
the right-hand paper support has returned to the vertical position. A foam pad is fitted behind the
right-hand support on some models to maintain the correct pressure.
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5.3 REMOVING PAPER OR CLEARING A JAM
g
A
If some paper remains in the printer when a new roll is required or a paper jam has occurred, you
need to take special care not to pull the paper out of the printer in a reverse direction.
CAUTION: Do not pull paper in the reverse direction out of the printer. This can cause permanent
damage to the mechanism.
When it is necessary to remove the paper from the mechanism, for example when replacing the paper
before the end of a roll, or to clear a paper jam, proceed as follows:
Tear off any paper coming out of the paper exit slot
Open the printer cover, and carefully remove the paper roll, allowing it to unroll as you do
so
Cut the paper straight across between the roll and the mechanism
Using the paper feed button, advance the remaining paper until it is completely out of the
mechanism; or, if the mechanism and paper are jammed, carefully pull the paper by hand
in the normal feeding direction, taking care not to tear the paper or apply excessive force
to any part of the mechanism
Press the paper feed button to exercise the printer for a few cycles and ensure that it is
running freely
Load a new roll of paper as described above
5.4 CHANGING THE INK RIBBON CARTRIDGE
The ink ribbon cartridge can be removed and refitted either with or without paper in the mechanism.
The exposed part of the ink ribbon must lie between the front side of the paper (facing the operator)
and the mechanism. To change the ink ribbon cartridge:
Open the printer cover, and snap out the old cartridge by pressing down on the right-hand
end (marked “PUSH”). Carefully lift the cartridge so that the ribbon comes away from
between the paper (if fitted) and the mechanism
Check that the exposed part of the ribbon spans the new cartridge tight ly; if not, wind it up
using the sm all knurled knob
Fit the new cartridge, ensuring that the ink ribbon lies neatly between the mechanism and
the paper. If the paper is already in place, it will be necessary to thread the paper
through the loop of the ribbon
Press the paper feed button to advance some paper and check that the paper and ribbon
are moving freely. Allow enough to feed the paper through the exit slot, and close the lid.
Tear off any excess by pulling the paper sharply towards you across the serrated edges.
If possible, perform a test print to ensure that all is well (see section ‘3.2 Paper Feed
Button’).
6 LED INDICATIONS
The LED indicator at the front of the CP80 provides status information by a number of colour
combinations.
6.1 ALTERNATIVE LED PATTERN SET
The CP80 is supplied with an alternative LED pattern set optimised for use with a direct power pack.
This can be summarised as follows:
Pattern Power Pack Paper
Steady Green Running OK
Steady Orange Running Low
No light Not Runnin
N/
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6
7 CONNECTIONS AND EMC PRECAUTIONS
7.1 CONNECTOR DETAILS
A single socket on the rear of the printer combines all data and charger functions.
Printer side: Hosiden TCS7167 6-way Socket (mini-DIN style)
User side: Hosiden TCP7160 6-way Plug & Cable or equivalent
Pin Function
1
3
2
4
5
PSU Jack Socket Detail
Pin Dimension (mm) Function
Inner Inside Ø 2.1 Positive 9-36VDC Input
Outer Outside Ø 5.5 Negative / 0V Common
The maximum insertion length is 12 mm.
7.2 TYPICAL 9 PIN RS232 DATA CABLE CONFIGURATION
A D-9 Female socket with the following pinout:
D-9 Pin Name Function (refers to PC) CP80 Pin
Shell FGND Frame Ground Screen
3 TxD Serial Data Output 3
2 RxD Serial Data Input 1
6 & 8 CTS & DSR Busy Input 2
5 S G ND Signal Common 0V 5
7.3 POWER SUPPLY DETAILS
The CP80 is directly powered through the power jack at the rear of the printer.
The printer is designed for direct connection to a +12V or +24V vehicle battery.
Alternatively, the user may make their own power supply arrangements as described in Section 7.4.
1 TxD Data Output
2 BUSY Output
3 RxD Data Input
4 Optional Baud Select
5 Ground ( 0V)
6 No Connection
Screen Frame Ground
Connector viewed from rear of printer.
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7.4 ALTERNATIVE POWER SUPPLY ARRANGEMENTS
The CP80 is designed to be operated from a 9V to 36V voltage source that is capable of supplying
the primary power for the printer.
The electrical specification for the power supply input of t he CP80 printer is:
Input Voltage Range: +9V to +36V (internal over voltage at 37V and reversal protection)
The recommended power supply input is either a 12V or 24V vehicle battery, this allows the printer to
perform at its best. However, the printer will automatically accommodate any DC input voltage in the
range 9V to 36V.
7.5 EMC CAUTION
System EMC compliance remains the responsibility of the system designer. It is recommended that
screened cables are used; earthing arrangements will depe nd on the application.
CP80 User Guide Page 10 of 11
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8 GETTING STARTED
You may find that you can connect up the printer to your Personal Computer (PC), and everything
works perfectly first tim e. Howev e r , t he r e a re many variables , an d the following i nformation ma y h el p
if you find you need some assistance. These are only suggestions, and may not work with all PC’s.
8.1 CONNECTING TO A PC – A CHECKLIST
• First, you need to GET THE PRINTER GOING
Check that the printer wakes up when the paper feed button is pressed, and that it produces a Self
Test print.
• Next, you need to make some HARDWARE CONNECTIONS
The back panel of a PC normally includes three D-type (keystone-shaped) connectors, typically as
follows:
D-9 Plug (male): COM1: Serial port for mouse, serial printer, etc
You can use either of the two serial ports for the CP80, whichever is free. COM1: is assumed in what
follows, as most likely to be available.
• Now you will need to SET UP YOUR COMPUTER’S SERIAL PORT to match the printer
Your proposed application program may have a way of d oing this, or you can get to the DOS prompt
[eg C:\>] and type the following command line (assuming you have connected the printer to COM1:):
MODE COM1:9600,N,8,1 [RETURN]
This will set up the port (COM1:) to 9600 baud, No parity, 8 data bits, and 1 stop bits which is the
default setting for the CP80.
• Now, SEND SOME DATA TO THE PRINTER from your computer
An easy way to do this from the DOS prompt is to type:
DIR >COM1: [RETURN]
This should send a directory listing to the printer. The lines will probably overflow, but it will at least
show that the communication between the computer and the printer is working.
You can also send data from QBASIC, for example:
OPEN “COM1:9600,N,8,1” FOR RANDOM AS #1
PRINT#1, “Hello”
Alternatively, in Windows, use the TERMINAL program to send some text to the printer.
8.2 YOUR APPLICATION PROGRAM
Once communications between your computer and the printer have been established, you can try
driving the printer from your application program.
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