SATO CT410, CT400 User Manual

CT 400 and CT410

Desk Top Printers

®

Operator and Technical

Reference Manual

PN9001069A

SATO UK Limited

All rights reserved. No part of this document may be reproduced or issued to third
parties in any form whatsoever without the express permission of Sato UK Ltd. The
information provided in this document is for general purpose only and is subject to
change without prior notice. Sato UK Ltd. assumes no responsibilities for any errors
that may appear.

Valley Road, Harwich

Essex CO12 4RR

Tel: [phone]

Fax: [phone]

Tech Support Hotline: [phone]

Email: [e-mail]

www.satouk.com

© Copyright 2005

SATO UK Limited

Warning: This equipment complies with the requirements in Part 15 of FCC rules for
a Class A computing device. Operation of this equipment in a residential area may
cause unacceptable interference to radio and TV reception requiring the operator to
take whatever steps are necessary to correct the interference.

All rights reserved. No part of this document may be reproduced or issued to third
parties in any form whatsoever without the express permission of SATO America, Inc.
The materials in this document is provided for general information and is subject to
change without notice. SATO America, Inc. assumes no responibilities for any errors
that may appear.

PREFACE

CT SERIES PRINTER OPERATOR’S MANUAL

The CT Series Printer Operator’s Manual contains basic information about the printer
such as setup, installation, cleaning and maintenance. It also contains complete
instructions on how to use the operator panel to configure the printer. The following
is a brief description of each section in this manual.

SECTION 1. PRINTER OVERVIEW

This section contains a discussion of the printer specifications and optional
features.

SECTION 2. INSTALLATION AND CONFIGURATION

This section contains instructions on how to unpack and set up the printer,
load the labels and ribbon, and how to use the operator panel to configure the
printer.

SECTION 3. CLEANING AND MAINTENANCE

This section contains instructions on how to clean and maintain the printer.

SECTION 4. PROGRAMMING

This section introduces the SATO printer programming language. It contains
the commands that are used with the printer to produce labels with bar codes,
alphanumeric data and graphics.

SECTION 5. INTERFACE SPECIFICATIONS

This section contains the printer’s interface specifications, which include
detailed information on how to properly interface your printer to the host
system.

SECTION 6. TROUBLESHOOTING

This section contains troubleshooting procedures to follow in the event you
have printer problems.

SATOCTSeriesPrinters9001069A Page-i

Preface

APPENDICES

APPENDIX A: Command Code Quick Reference

APPENDIX B: Bar Code Specifications

APPENDIX C: Custom Characters and Graphics

Page-ii9001069A SATOCTSeriesPrinters

TABLE OF CONTENTS

SECTION 1. PRINTER OVERVIEW

Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-1

General Printer Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-2

Character Fonts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-4

Bar Codes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-5

Physical . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-6

Optional Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-7

SECTION 2. INSTALLATION AND CONFIGURATION

Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-1

Unpacking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-2

Setting Up the Printer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3

Loading Ribbon (CT4XXTT Only) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-5

Loading Media . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-7

Label Sensing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-10

Operator Panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-11

Rear Connector Panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-12

Configuration Panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-13

Offset . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-16

Potentiometer Adjustments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-16

Hex Dump Diagnostic Label . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-19

Print Test Labels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-20

Preface

SECTION 3. CTEANING AND MAINTENANCE

Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-1

Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-1

Adjusting the Print Quality . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-1

Darkness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-1

Print Speed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-2

Cleaning the Print Head, Platen and Rollers . . . . . . . . . . . 3-2

Replacing the Print Head . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-3

Cleaning the Sensors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-5

SATOCTSeriesPrinters9001069A Page-iii

Preface

SECTION 4. PROGRAMMING

Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-1

The SATO CT Programming Language . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-1

Protocol Control Codes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-2

Using Basic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-2

The Print Area . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-4

Rotated Fields . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-6

Command Default Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-6

Command Codes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-6

Bar Codes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-9

Bar Codes, Expansion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-14

Bar Codes, Variable Ratio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-15

Base Reference Point . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-17

Characters, Custom Designed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-29

Character Expansion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-21

Character, Fixed Spacing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-23

Character Pitch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-24

Character, Proportional Spacing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-26

Clear Print Job(s) and Memory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-27

Continuous Forms Printing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-28

Copy Image Area . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-29

Cut Job . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-31

Cut . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-32

Cut Last . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-33

Fonts, U, S, M, OA, OB, XU, XS and XM . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-34

Font/Graphic Recall . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-36

Font, Raster . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-37

Fonts, Vector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-38

Fonts, WB,WL, XB and XL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-40

Form Overlay Recall . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-42

Form Overlay Store . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-43

Graphics, Custom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-44

Job ID Store . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-46

Journal Print . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-47

Lines and Boxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-48

Job Name . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-50

Label/Tag Select . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-51

Line Feed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-52

Media Size . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-54

Off-Line . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-55

Postnet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-56

Print Darkness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-57

Print Position . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-58

Print Quantity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-60

Print Speed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-61

Repeat Label . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-62

Replace Data (Partial Edit) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-63

Reverse Image . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-65

Rotate, Fixed Base Reference Point . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-67

Page-iv9001069A SATOCTSeriesPrinters

Sequential Numbering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-68

Start/Stop Label . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-70

Two-Dimensional Symbols . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-71

Data Matrix, Data Format . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-72

Data Matrix, Data Print . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-74

Dat Matrix Sequential Numbering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-75

Maxicode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-77

PDF417 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-79

Printer Configuration Commands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-81

Protocol Codes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-82

Printer Setting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-83

Print Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-86

Print Type . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-87

Pitch Offset . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-88

Sensor Type . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-89

Serial Interface Parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-90

SECTION 5. INTERFACE SPECIFICATIONS

Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-1

Interface Types . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-1

The Receive Buffer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-2

RS232C Serial Interface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-3

IEEE 1284 Parallel Interface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-3

Optional RS232 Interface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-5

General Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-5

Electrical Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-5

Pin Assignments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-5

Ready/Busy Flow Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-6

X-On/X-Off Flow Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-57

Optional Universal Serial Bus (USB) Interface . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-7

Optional Local Area Network Interface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-8

Bi-Directional Communications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-8

Preface

SECTION 6. TROUBLESHOOTING

Initial Checklist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-1

Using the IEEE 1284 Parallel Interface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-1

Using the RS232C Serial Interface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-3

Error Signals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-4

SATOCTSeriesPrinters9001069A Page-v

Preface

APPENDICES

APPENDIX A: Command Code Quick Reference

APPENDIX B: Bar Code Specifications

Bar Code Symbologies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-1

Codabar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-2

Code 39 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-3

Interleaved Two of Five (I 2/5) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-4

UPC-A/EAN-13 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-5

EAN-8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-6

Industrial Two of Five . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-8

Matrix Two of Five . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-9

Code 128 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-10

MSI . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-11

Code 93 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-12

UPC-E . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-13

Bookland (UPC/EAN Supplements) . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-14

UCC-128 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-15

Postnet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-17

Data Matrix . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-18

Maxicode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-20

PDF417 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-21

Code 128 Character Table . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-22

APPENDIX C: Custom Characters and Graphics

Custom Designed Characters Example . . . . . . . . . . . . . . C-1

Custom Graphics Example . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . C-4

PCX Graphics Example . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . C-8

Page-vi9001069A SATOCTSeriesPrinters

INTRODUCTION

The SATO CT Series Thermal Transfer Printers are complete, high-performance
on-site labeling systems. All printer parameters are user programmable using
software commands or the utility program provided. All popular bar codes and 15
human-readable fonts, including a vector font and two raster fonts, are resident in
memory providing literally thousands of type styles and sizes. Additional fonts can be
downloaded into memory.

The Operator’s Manual will help you understand the basic operations of the printer
such as setup, installation, configuration, cleaning and maintenance.

The major differences in the CT400 and the CL410 printers is the resolution of the
head. The CT400 with its 203 dpi head provides an economical labeling solution for
most applications. It can print labels up to four inches wide. The CT410’s higher 305
dpi resolution provides greater detail for graphics and small point size text.

The CT Series printers use a subset of the standard SATO Command Language. The
CT400 and CT410 share the same command set, the only differences are the
allowable values representing the print positions on the label. These values are
specified in “dots” and will vary depending upon the resolution of the printer and the
amount of memory available for imaging the label. The allowable range for each
printer is specified in a table for those command codes.

SECTION 1.

PRINTER OVERVIEW

This commonalty makes it very easy to convert labels from one CT printer to another
without having to create an entirely different command stream. There are some
caveats that must be observed though to compensate for the different resolution print
heads. The effect of the different printer resolutions are best illustrated by taking a
label designed for a 203 dpi printer and sending the command stream to its 305 dpi
counterpart. The label printed will be an exact two-thirds scale, including the fonts,
bar code dimensions and line lengths/widths. The only exceptions are PostNet and
Maxicode which have only one legal size and the printer resolution is automatically
compensated for by the printer. Conversely, a label designed for a 305 dpi printer and
sent to its 203 dpi cousin will be one-third larger. It probably will be “truncated” if
the label size is larger than the maximum allowable for the printer.

The following general information is presented in this section:

• General Printer Specifications

• Optional Accessories

SATOCT SeriesPrinters9001069A Page 1-1

Section 1. Printer Overview

GENERAL PRINTER SPECIFICATIONS

SPECIFICATION CT400 CT410

PRINT

Method Direct or Thermal Transfer
Speed (User Selectable) 2 to 6 ips

50 to 150 mm/s

Print Module (Dot Size) .0049 in.

.125 mm

Resolution 203 dpi

8 dpmm

Maximum Print Width 4.1 in.

104 mm

Maximum Print Length 15.6 in.

400 mm

MEDIA

Minimum Width .90 in. (23 mm)
Minimum Length .60 in. (15 mm)
Maximum Width 4.6 in. (118 mm)
Type Die Cut Labels, Fan-Fold, Tag Stock or Continuous
Caliper 0.003 to .0075 in. (0.08 to 0.19 mm)
Roll OD (max) 4.3 in. (110 mm), Face-Out Wind
Core ID (min) 1.5 in. (40 mm)

2 to 4 ips

50 to 100 mm/s

.0033 in.
.083 mm

305 dpi

12 dpmm

SENSING

See-Thru for labels or tags Fixed, 0.25" (6.3 mm) from left label edge
Reflective Eye-Mark Fixed, 0.20" (5 mm) from left label edge
Continuous Form Sensor not used

RIBBON

Maximum Width 4.4 in. (111 mm)
Length 325 ft. (100 m)
Core ID 0.5 in. (12.7 mm)
Thickness 4.5 micron, Face-Out Wind

All specificationssubject to change without notice.

Page 1-29001069A SATOCTSeriesPrinters

Section 1. Printer Overview

SPECIFICATION CT400 CT410

CONTROLS AND SIGNALS

On-Line LED Green
Power LED Green
Error LED Red
LED Display Panel 7 Segment Single Character
On/Off-Line Switch Front Panel
Label Feed Switch Front Panel
Power On/Off Switch Front Panel

POTENTIOMETER ADJUSTMENTS

Pitch Offset/Print Darkness Front Panel
Reflective Sensor Adjustment Front Panel
See-thru Sensor Adjustment Front Panel

INTERFACE CONNECTIONS

Parallel (Standard) IEEE 1284
Serial (Option) RS232C (9600 to 57.6K bps)

Hardware Flow Control (Ready/Busy)

Software Flow Control (X-On/X-Off)

Bi-directional Status

USB (Option) USB Specification Version 1.0

PROCESSING

CPU 32 Bit RISC
EEPROM 8KB
SDRAM 8MB
Flash ROM 2MB
Flash ROM Option 8MB
Receive Buffer 2.95MB

All specifications subject to change without notice.

SATOCT SeriesPrinters9001069A Page 1-3

Section 1. Printer Overview

CHARACTER FONTS

SPECIFICATION CT400 CT410

MATRIX FONTS

U Font (5 dots W x 9 dots H)
S Font (8 dots W x 15 dots H)
M Font (13 dots W x 20 dots H)
XU Font (5 dots W x 9 dots H) Helvetica
XS Font (17 dots W x 17 dots H) Univers Condensed Bold
XM Font (24 dots W x 24 dots H) Univers Condensed Bold
OA Font (15 dots W x 22 dots H) OCR-A (22 dots W x 33 dots H) OCR A
OB Font 20 dots W x 24 dots H) OCR-B (30 dots W x 36 dots H) OCR B

AUTO SMOOTHING FONTS

(1)

WB
WL

(1)

WB Font (18 dots W x 30 dots H)

WL Font (28 dots W x 52 dots H)
XB XB Font (48 dots W x 48 dots H) Univers Condensed Bold
XL XL Font (48 dots W x 48 dots H) Sans Serif

VECTOR FONT

Proportional or Fixed Spacing

Font Size 50 x 50 dots to 999 x 999 dots

Helvetica, 10 Font Variations

RASTER FONTS

(1)

A Font
B Font

(1)

CG Times

CG Triumvirate

DOWNLOADABLE FONTS

TrueType Fonts with Utility Program

CHARACTER CONTROL

Expansion up to 12X in either the X or Y coordinates

Character Pitch control

Line Space control

Journal Print facility

0°, 90°, 180° and 270° Rotation

(1) Not available on early models.
All specifications subject to change without notice.

Page 1-49001069A SATOCTSeriesPrinters

Section 1. Printer Overview

BAR CODES

SPECIFICATION CT400 CT410

SYMBOLOGIES

Bookland (UPC/EAN Supplemental)

EAN-8, EAN-13

CODABAR

Code 39
Code 93

Code 128

Interleaved 2 of 5

Industrial 2 of 5

Matrix 2 of 5

MSI

POSTNET

UCC/EAN-128

UPC-A and UPC-E

Data Matrix

Maxicode

PDF417

Micro PDF

Truncated PDF
Ratios 1:2, 1:3, 2:5 User definable bar widths
Bar Height 4 to 600 dots, User programmable
Rotation 0°, 90°, 180° and 270°

OTHER FEATURES

Sequential Numbering Sequential numbering of both numerics and bar codes
Custom Characters RAM storage for special characters
Graphics Full dot addressable graphics, SATO Hex/Binary and PCX
Form Overlay Form overlay for high-speed editing of complex formats.

(1) Not available on early models.
All specifications subject to change without notice.

(1)

format

SATOCT SeriesPrinters9001069A Page 1-5

Section 1. Printer Overview

PHYSICAL

SPECIFICATION CT400 CT410

DIMENSIONS

Wide 7.8 in. (198 mm)
Deep 9.1 in. (230 mm)

High 6.5 in. (181 mm)
WEIGHT 6.6 lbs (3 Kg)
POWER REQUIREMENTS

Voltage

Power Consumption 150W Operating at 30% density
ENVIRONMENTAL

Operating Temperature 41° to 104°F (5° to 40°C)

Storage Temperature -0° to 104°F (-20° to 40°C)

Operating Humidity 30-80 % RH, non-condensing

Storage Humidity 20-80% RH, non-condensing

Electrostatic Discharge 8KV

REGULATORY APPROVALS

Safety UL, CSA

RFI/EMI FCC Class B

All specifications subject to change without notice.

110 V (±10 %)

220V (±10 %)

50/60 Hz (±1%)

Page 1-69001069A SATOCTSeriesPrinters

Section 1. Printer Overview

OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES

ACCESSORY CT400 CT410

LABEL CUTTER Internaloption allowing labels to be cut at specified intervals.

Controlled through programming. Factory installed only.

LABEL DISPENSER Internal option allowing labels to be peeled from backing for

immediate (on demand) application. Factory installed only.
LABEL REWINDER External accessory rewinds labels onto a roll after they are printed.
SERIAL INTERFACE High Speed RS232 Interface option, 9600 to 57.6KB. Factory

installed only.
ETHERNET INTERFACE TCP/IP Protocol Interface option. Factory installed only.
USB INTERFACE Universal Serial Bus Interface option. Factory installed only.
COAX/TWINAX INTERFACE External Coax/Triax I/F Interface accessory. Coax I/F emulates an

IBM 3287-2 printer with a standard Type A BNC connector. Twinax

I/F emulates IBM 5224, 5225, 5226 or 4214 printers with

auto-terminate/cable-thru capabilities.

All specifications subject to change without notice.

SATOCT SeriesPrinters9001069A Page 1-7

Section 1. Printer Overview

This page left intentionally blank.

Page 1-89001069A SATOCTSeriesPrinters

INSTALLATION AND CONFIGURATION

INTRODUCTION

This section is to assist you in taking the CT Series printer from the shipping
container to the application environment.

The following information is provided in this section:

SECTION 2.

• Unpacking and Parts Identification

• Setting Up the Printer

• Loading Labels or Tags

• Loading the Ribbon (CT4XXTT only)

• Control Panel

• Printer Configuration

SATOCT SeriesPrinters9001069A Page 2-1

UNPACKING

Consider the following when unpacking the printer:

In addition to this manual, verify that you have the following materials when
unpacking:

Section 2. Installation and Configuration

• The box should stay upright.

• Lift the printer out of the box carefully.

• Remove the plastic covering from the printer.

• Remove the accessory items from their protective containers.

• If the printer has been stored in a cold environment, allow it to reach room

temperature before applying power.

• Set the printer on a solid flat surface. Inspect the shipping container and

printer for any signs of damage that may have occured during shipping.

Printer

Power Module
AC Power Cord

Ribbon/Core

CD-ROM

Page 2-29001069A SATOCTSeriesPrinters

Section 2. Installation and Configuration

SETTING UP THE PRINTER

Consider the following when setting up the printer/

• Locate a solid flat surface with adequate room to set the printer. Make sure

the Power Module can be located so that the power connecting cable can be
attached to the printer and the AC Power Cable can be connected to an AC
power outlet.

• The location should be near the host or computer terminal. The maximum

distance is:

- 10 feet for the Parallel interface. To fully utilize the capabilities of the
printer, a cable meeting IEEE 1284 specifications must be used.

- 18 feet for the optional Serial RS232 Interface.

- 10 feet for the optional USB interface without hub.

- the optional 10baseT Ethernet Interface depends upon the LAN cabling.

• For imformation on interfacing the printer to a host system, see Section 5.

Interface Specifications.

Follow these steps to set up your printer:

1. Make sure the power switch on the
Operator Panel is in the OFF (0) position
and place the Power Module in a safe
and secure location, taking into
consideration the location of the AC
outlet and the host in relation to the
printer.

2. Connect the Input Power connector to the
printer. This connector is keyed and must
be turned approximately 3/4 turn
clockwise to secure it to the printer.

3. Connect the AC Power Cable to the proper
AC Outlet supply.

4. Connect the interface cable to the host
system. A parallel IEEE1284 interface
cable must be used to realize the high
data transfer rate of the printer’s parallel
port. If an optional interface is installed,
the appropriate cable should be used.

Input Power

Connector

Host I/F

Connector

5. Load the ribbon and media following the instructions in this section.

6. Configure the printer for label width and operating mode using the
instructions in this section.

SATOCT SeriesPrinters9001069A Page 2-3

Section 2. Installation and Configuration

7. Apply power to the printer by placing the AC Power switch in the ON (1)
position.

8. Print a test label to verify the printer is set up and operating correctly.

Page 2-49001069A SATOCTSeriesPrinters

Section 2. Installation and Configuration

LOADING RIBBON (CT4XXTT only)

The SATO CT Series ribbons come
shrink-wrapped with a 12" (305 mm)leader
pre-attached to a takeup core. There are three
widths of ribbon available for the CT Series
printers; 4.3" (110 mm), 3" (76 mm) and

1.75" (45 mm).

1. Remove power from the printer.

Ribbon

Spindle

2. Open the Top Cover by by pressing

on cover the release points located
on each side of the printer. This
releases the cover latch and allows
it to swing upward on the rear
mounted hinge points.

3. Release the Print Head Assembly
by pressing the Head Latch to the
rear. This allows the assembly to
rotate upward to the left allowing
easy access for ribbon routing.
Rotate the assembly until it is
vertical.

4. Press down on the Ribbon

Assembly Latch. This allows the
Paper Roller to swing downward

for ribbon routing.

5. Press down on the Ribbon
Positioning button while
simultaneously pulling upward on
the Ribbon Spindle Unit. The
Ribbon Spindle Unit should
slide off.

Head Latch

Ribbon

Position

Button

Ribbon Ass’y

Latch

Head Latch

Ribbon Ass’y

Latch

6. Remove the shrink wrap from the
ribbon and unwind approximately

Paper
Roller

6" of the leader. Press the Ribbon
Supply core all the way onto the
rear spindle of Ribbon Spindle
Unit. Press the attached take-up

Ribbon Supply

Spindle

Ribbon

Position

Button

core on the front spindle. Make
sure each of the cores is fully seated
on the spindles and there is enough
ribbon leader to go down around
the print head.

Note: CT Series ribbons are wound face
(ink side) out. Make sure the dull (ink)

SATOCT SeriesPrinters9001069A Page 2-5

Ribbon Take-Up

Spindle

Section 2. Installation and Configuration

side of the ribbon will be in contact with
the paper and the supply core is on the
rear spindle.

7. Slide the Ribbon Spindle Unit
over the Ribbon Drive

Spindles until the Head
Positioning Latch snaps into

position. The first position
corresponds to a 4.3" ribbon
width. If you are using a narrower
ribbon, press the Head Position
Latch while sliding the Ribbon
Spindle Unit to the correct
position. There are three latch
positions, one for a 4.3" wide
ribbon, one for a 3" wide ribbon
and one for a 1.75" wide ribbon.

8. The ribbon should be center
justified (i.e., the center of the
ribbon roll should be aligned with
the center of the print head). If it
is not, reposition the Ribbon

Spindle Unit on the Drive
Spindles until the Ribbon
Position Latch is is in the

correct position.

Ribbon Drive

Spindles

Ribbon Ass’y

Latch

9. Route the ribbon leader under the print head and between the Ribbon
Assembly and the Paper Roller. Rotate the take-up spindle until the

leader is completely wound onto the take-up core.

10. Push the Ribbon Assembly Latch to the up or locked position. Rotate
the Paper Roller upward and latch it by pushing the Ribbon
Assembly Latch into the upward position.

11. Latch the Print Head
Assembly in the closed

Ribbon Path

position by pushing
downward on the “PUSH”
tabs on both sides of the
assembly until it latches in
position.

Page 2-69001069A SATOCTSeriesPrinters

Section 2. Installation and Configuration

LOADING MEDIA

The CT Series printers can use die-cut labels, tag stock or continuous media. The
media supply can be either roll or fanfold.

Roll Media

Roll media should be between 0.90" (23 mm) and 4.5" (115 mm) in width and
wound face-out on a core with a minimum ID of 1.6" (40 mm).

1. Remove power from the printer by

placing the Power Switch in the
OFF (0) position.

2. Open the Top Cover by by pressing

on cover release points located on
each side of the printer. This
releases the cover latch and allows
it to swing upward on the rear
mounted hinge points.

3. Release the Print Head Assembly
by pressing the Head Latch to the
rear. This allows the assembly to
rotate upward to the left allowing
easy access for media routing.
Rotate the assembly until it is
vertical.

4. With the Print Head Assembly in
the up position, press the Paper
Guide Release while adjusting
the Paper Guides until they
allow a media roll to fit between
them. A millimeter scale is molded
into the case to provide a guide
when making the adjustment. The
Paper Guides are center justified
and interact with each other so that
each moves an equal distance.

5. Make sure the Roll Holders are in
the released position. If they are
not, lift up on each one and they
will snap to the open position.

Paper

Sensor

Roll Holders

Millimeter

Scale

Head

Latch

Paper Guide

Release

6. Unwind approximately 12" of label
material from the roll. The labels
should be wound face-out (printing
side to the outside of the roll).
Drop the roll in between the
Paper Guides so that the labels

SATOCT SeriesPrinters9001069A Page 2-7

come off the top of the roll. The
Paper Guides will automatically
position the Roll Holders to
suspend the roll.

7. Route the label material through the

Paper Sensor Assembly and
over the Platen. Note that the
Sensor is part of the left Label

Roll Guide so that the Paper
Sensor is always positioned in the

same location relative to the left
edge of the label.

8. Close and latch the Print Head Assembly.

9. Press the LINE key so that the printer is in the OFF LINE mode and then
press the FEED key. The label should advance to the next index (label
gap or eye-mark) position.

Fanfold Media

Section 2. Installation and Configuration

Platen

Paper Sensor

1. Place the fanfold media behind the
printer with the printing surface
up.

2. Open the Top Cover by by pressing
on cover release points located on
each side of the printer. This
releases the cover latch and allows
it to swing upward on the rear
mounted hinge points.

3. Carefully break out the Fanfold
Access Panel from the back of
the Top Cover.

4. Release the Print Head Assembly
by pressing the Head Latch to
the rear. This allows the assembly
to rotate upward to the left
allowing easy access for ribbon
routing. Rotate the assembly until
it is vertical.

Break Out for

Fanfold Paper

5. With the Print Head Assembly in the up position, press the Paper Guide
Release while adjusting the Paper Guides until they allow a media to fit
between them. A millimeter scale is molded into the case to provide a
guide when making the adjustment. The Paper Guides are center
justified and interact with each other so that each moves an equal distance.

6. Route the label material through the Sensor Assembly and over the
Platen.

Page 2-89001069A SATOCTSeriesPrinters

Section 2. Installation and Configuration

7. Close and latch Print Head Assembly.

8. After loading the ribbon and media, it is recommended that you run a Test
Print to make sure the labels and ribbon (for CX4XXTT only) are correctly
loaded. See Section 2 for instructions on how to run test prints.

Route Paper under the Sensor

SATOCT SeriesPrinters9001069A Page 2-9

LABEL SENSING

The CT Series printers can use either label Gap (see-thru) or Eye-Mark (reflective)
sensing. The Sensor Assembly is located on the left edge of the media and is
automatically positioned by the Paper Guides.

The printer is shipped from the factory with the default sensing method set for label
gap. The setting can be overridden by using the <ESC>IG command (Section 4)
however it will be reset to the default when power is cycled. The default setting can
be changed using the <ESC>PG command (Section 4) or the Printer Configuration
Utility program on the CD-ROM.

Section 2. Installation and Configuration

Miminum Eye-Mark Size

.12 in (3 mm) W x .5 in. (12 mm) L

0.20" (5 mm) Eye-Mark Sensor

0.25" (6.3 mm) Gap Sensor

Label

Feed

Direction

Inter-Label Gap

Min. 0.12" (3 mm)

Max. 0.20" (5 mm)

Backing

Paper Inside

Edge

Label Inside Edge

CT Series Printer Label Sensor Positioning

Eye-Mark

Roll Paper

Eye-Mark

Fanfold Paper

Page 2-109001069A SATOCTSeriesPrinters

Section 2. Installation and Configuration

OPERATOR PANEL

The Operator Panel consists of three LED indicators and three switches.

POWER

LED

ERROR

LED

ON LINE

LED

ON LINE

Key

FEED

Key

POWER

Switch

POWER Green LED, illuminated when power is applied.
ERROR Red LED, illuminated when there is a system fault

such as an open print head.

ON LINE Green LED, illuminated when the printer is ON LINE

and ready to receive data. The printer is placed ON
LINE and OFF LINE by toggling the ON LINE key.

ON LINE KEY If the ONLINE LED is illuminated, pressing this switch

will place the printer in the OFFLINE mode. Pressing
the switch again will place the printer back in the
ONLINE mode. If this switch is pressed while the
printer is printing, the printing process is suspended.
To resume printing, press this switch again. When the
printer is ON LINE, it is ready to receive data from the
host. When it is OFF LINE, the printer will not receive
data from the host or print.

FEED KEY Feeds one label when pressed in the OFFLINE mode.

If this switch is held in the depressed position while
power is applied, a printer status label will be printed.

POWER A two position switch that applies power to the printer.

When the “0" position is pressed, power is removed
from the printer. When the ”1" position is pressed,
power is applied to the printer.

SATOCT SeriesPrinters9001069A Page2-11

REAR CONNECTOR PANEL

All of the printer cable connectors are located on the Rear Connector Panel.

Section 2. Installation and Configuration

Fanfold Paper

Slot

Optional I/F

Connector

IEEE1284 Parallel

IF Connector

Power

Connector

Power DC Power input to the printer. From Power Module.
Parallel Interface IEEE1284 Parallel Interface Connector..
Optional Interface

Connector for any installed optional interface.

(if Installed)
Fanfold Paper Slot Slot for fanfold paper. Panel must be removed to route

fanfold paper into the printer.

Page 2-129001069A SATOCTSeriesPrinters

Section 2. Installation and Configuration

CONFIGURATION PANEL

The Configuration Panel can be accessed by opening the Top Cover. It consists of an
eight position DIP switch, three adjustment potentiometers and a seven segment LED
Error display. Receptacles for connecting the Dispenser and Cutter options are also
located on this panel.

Configuration

Switch

VR1

Potentiometer

Paper Handling

Print Mode

Head Check

VR1 Adjust

Hex Dump

I/F Select

Error

Display

CONFIGURATION SWITCH

An eight position DIP switch is utilized for setting the operating conditions of the
printer.

Paper Handling (DSW1-3). Selects the method used for controlling the paper
handling.

Continuous - Does not use the sensor for paper indexing. The paper
movement will stop after all the label data has been printed.

Tear Off - Paper is fed out to the cut/tear off position after printing is
complete. Before the next label is printed, the paper is pulled back in to the
first print line position.

Cutter Mode - Enables the Cutter option if installed.

Dispenser Mode - Enables the Label Taken sensor if the Dispenser option is

installed.

DSW1 DSW2 DSW3 SETTING

Off Off Off Continuous
On Off Off Tear Off
Off On Off Cutter Mode
On On Off Dispenser

ON

OFF

Configuration Switch

12345678

SATOCT SeriesPrinters9001069A Page2-13

Section 2. Installation and Configuration

Font/Graphic Download (DS1-3). Enables the downloading of fonts and/or
graphics to printer memory.

DSW1 DSW2 DSW3 SETTING

Off On On Enable

ON

OFF

Configuration Switch

12345678

Print Method (DSW4). Selects Direct Thermal or Thermal Transfer print mode for
a CT4XXTT printer.

Configuration Switch

DSW4 SETTING

Off Direct
On Transfer

ON

OFF

12345678

Head Check (DSW5). When selected, the printer will check for head elements that
are electrically malfunctioning.

Configuration Switch

DSW5 SETTING

Off Disabled
On Enabled

ON

OFF

12345678

VR1 Potentiometer Function (DSW6). Select the function adjusted by VR1.
When placed in the Off position, VR1 will adjust the pitch offset value over a range of
+/- 3.75 mm. When placed in the On position, VR1 will adjust the print darkness
range.

DSW6 SETTING

Off Pitch
On Darkness

ON

OFF

Configuration Switch

12345678

Hex Dump (DSW7). When ON, the printer will print out the hex value for each
character received. When OFF, the printer will accept and process the data stream in
a normal fashion.

DSW7 SETTING

Off Normal
On Hex

ON

OFF

Configuration Switch

12345678

Page 2-149001069A SATOCTSeriesPrinters

Section 2. Installation and Configuration

Interface Select (DSW8). When OFF, the printer will activate the Parallel input
port for receiving data. When ON, the printer will activate the optional interface (if
any) that is installed.

DSW8 SETTING

Off Parallel I/F
On Optional I/F

ERROR DISPLAY

The ERROR dispay is a seven segment LED array that provides information on error
conditions detected by the printer. The conditions are:

LED ERROR

0 Flash Memory error.
1 Not Assigned
2 Motherboard error

Configuration Switch

ON

OFF

12345678

3 EEPROM error
4 Electrical Head error
5 Head not latched in the down position
6 Out of Paper
7 Sensor type or level error
8 Cutter error

8. Program error
9 Ribbon End (TT mode only)

A Receive buffer overflow

b Parity error (Serial I/F only)
c Framing error (Serial I/F only)
d Overrun error (Serial I/F only)

E Time Out error

F Download Font/Graphic error

For more information the cause and troubleshooting of printer errors, see Section 6.
Troubleshooting.

SATOCT SeriesPrinters9001069A Page2-15

OFFSET

Section 2. Installation and Configuration

There are three offset setting stored in the printer; one for Dispense mode, one for
the Cut mode and one for the Tear-Off mode. These three offsets can be set
independently for each job using the <ESC>PO Pitch Offset command and will
remain in the printer until a new command is received changing the setting or until
power is turned off. The <ESC>PG Printer Setting command can be used to change
the default settings of the printer. The default setting will always be active after
power to the printer is cycled. The default settings can be determined by printing a
User Test Label or displayed by the Printer Configuration Utility Program on the
CD-ROM. Please note that the Printer Configuration Utility Program requires a
bi-directional communications port on a host that is running Windows 9X.

The following should be used as starting points for establishing the three Offset
values:

MODE MILLIMETERS INCHES DOTS

203/305 dpi

CUTTER 17.9 0.70 143/215
DISPENSE 15.2 0.60 122/182
TEAR-OFF 29.2 1.15 234/350

POTENTOMETER ADJUSTMENTS

PITCH OFFSET

After the Label Pitch Offset has been set using the <ESC>PO Pitch Offset command,it
is sometimes desirabel to make minor adjustments. This can be done using the VR1
potentiomenter on the Configuration Panel. This potentiometer is set at the factory so
that it has a range of +/-3.75 mm. The midpoint setting should have no effect on the
label pitch. Turning the potentiometer all the way clockwise should move the print
position 3.75 mm upwards towards the leading edge of the label. Turning the it all
the way counterclockwise should move the print position down 3.75mm away from
the leading edge of the label.

1 Place DSW6 on the Configuration Switch in the OFF position.

2. Turn the Power Switch OFF.

3. While pressing the FEED key on the Operator Panel, turn the Power Switch ON.

4. When you hear one beep from the printer, release the FEED key .

5. Press the LINE key to begin printing large Test Labels (press the FEED key if you

are using labels smaller than 4.1" (104 mm) in width).

Page 2-169001069A SATOCTSeriesPrinters

Section 2. Installation and Configuration

5. Adjust potentiometer VR1 until the first print position is at the desired location on

the label. If the potentiometer does not have enough range, you will have to
change the Label Pitch setting using the <ESC>PO command.

Note: The printer will return to the default settings specified by the <ESC>PG
command when power is cycled.

ABCDEFG

ABCDEFG

Must be moved
with Minus (-)
Offset to print
on leading
edge of label

Leading Edge of Label as
detected by the sensor

Original First
Line Print
Position

Label Feed Direction

Sensor Position

ABCDEFG

Moved with
Positive (+) Offset
to print on trailing
edge of label

6. Press the FEED key to stop the printing.

Note: Adjusting the Label Pitch with VR1 will affect the stop position of the label and
the cut/dispense/tear-off positions.

SATOCT SeriesPrinters9001069A Page2-17

Section 2. Installation and Configuration

Print Darkness

Print Darkness is set using the <ESC>#E Print Darkness command. A fine
adjustment for PRINT DARKNESS can be made using potentiometer VR1 on the Front
Operator Panel. It provides a continuous range of adjustment, allowing you to make
precise changes. Turning VR1 clockwise will make the print darker and
counterclockwise will make it lighter.

1 Place DSW6 on the Configuration Switch in the ON position.

2. Turn the Power Switch OFF.

3. While pressing the FEED key on the Operator Panel, turn the Power Switch ON.

4. When you hear one beep from the printer, release the FEED key.

5. Press the LINE key to begin printing large Test Labels (press the FEED key if you

are using labels smaller than 4.1" (104 mm) in width).

6. Adjust potentiometer VR1 until the desired print darkness is obtained.

7. Press the FEED key to stop the printing.

Adjustment of the Print Darkness using VR1 will affect the darkness in all the
<ESC>#E command code ranges, i.e., if the print darkness is adjusted with VR1 for
lighter print, the darkness will be lighter in all the Print Darkness ranges selected by
the command code.

Page 2-189001069A SATOCTSeriesPrinters

Section 2. Installation and Configuration

HEX DUMP DIAGNOSTIC LABEL

The contents of the printer buffer can be examined using the Hex Dump mode. This
printout labels each line of the received data in the left hand column, the data in hex
format in the middle column followed by the same data in ASCII format in the
right-hand column.

1. Turn the printer OFF.

2. Place DSW7 on the configuration Switch in the ON position.

3. Turn the printer ON.

4. Transmit data to the printer.

5. The data received is printed on the label.

6. Place DSW7 in the OFF position.

7. Turn the printer OFF and then back ON to place it back in the normal print mode.

SATOCT SeriesPrinters9001069A Page2-19

PRINT TEST LABELS

USER TEST PRINT

The User Test Label prints the current default setting of the printer. These settings
can be changed by sending new default settings with the <ESC>PG Printer Setting
command.

1. Press the FEED key while simultaneously turning the POWER switch ON.

2. When the printer beeps, release the FEED key.

3. To print a large (4" wide) test label, press the ON-LINE key.
To print a small (2" wide) test label, press the FEED key.

4. The printer will continuously print the USER TEST LABEL until the FEED key is
pressed. If the FEED key is pressed a second time, printing will resume.

5. To remove the printer from the Test Label mode, power the printer OFF.

Section 2. Installation and Configuration

Page 2-209001069A SATOCTSeriesPrinters

Section 2. Installation and Configuration

FACTORY/SERVICE TEST PRINT

The Factory/Service Test Label prints the internal operating parameters of the printer.

1. Open the print head by pushing the Head Latch Lever to the rear.

2. Press the LINE and FEED keys while simultaneously turning the POWER switch

to the ON position.

3. When the printer beeps, release the LINE and FEED keys. The printer will then

beep 3 times indicationg it is in the Factory/Service Print Test mode.

4. Latch the Print Head in the down position.

5. Press the LINE key to print a large (4" wide") Factory/Service Test Label.
Press the FEED key to print a small (2" wide) Factory/Service Test Label.

6. The printer will begin printing a series of test labels, the first containing the
operational parameters of the printer followed by one containing the internal
printer settings. these two label formats will alternate until the FEED key is
pressed, suspending the print operation. If the FEED key is pressagain, the
printing will resume.

7. To remove the printer from the Factory/Service Print Test mode, remove power by
placing the POWER switch in the OFF position.

SATOCT SeriesPrinters9001069A Page2-21

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Section 2. Installation and Configuration

Page 2-229001069A SATOCTSeriesPrinters

CLEANING AND MAINTENANCE

INTRODUCTION

This section provides information on user maintenance for the CL Series printers. This
section contains the following information.

• Adjusting the Print Quality

• Cleaning the Print Head, Platen and Rollers

• Replacing the Print Head

• Replacing the Fuse

PROCEDURES

ADJUSTING THE PRINT QUALITY

The CT400 and CT410 printers are equipped with two different methods of adjusting
the quality of the print; print darkness and speed. When adjusting the printer for
optimum print quality, a bar code verifier system should be used. The human eye is a
poor judge of the relative widths of the bars in a symbol, a characteristic that is
extremely important for good bar code quality.

SECTION 3.

Darkness (Print)

This adjustment allows the user to control (within a specified range) the amount of
power that is used to activate the individual print head heat elements. It is important
to find a proper print darkness level based on your particular label and ribbon
combination. The printed images should not be too light nor should the ink from the
ribbon “bleed.” The edges of each image should be crisp and well defined.

The print darkness level can be set by downloading the setting using the <ESC>#E
Print Darkness software command (see Section 4, Programming Reference). There
are five ranges 1 through 5, with the lightest setting being 1 and the darkest setting
being 5. The <ESC>#E Print Darkness command also provides for darkness ranges
matched to the type of media used. Setting “A” is used Direct thermal media and “B”
for coated thermal transfer media.

Once the range has been selected, the PRINT Potentiometer on the front panel can
be used to make finer adjustments.

SATOCTSeriesPrinters9001069A Page3-1

Section 3: Cleaning and Maintenance

Print

The fine adjustment for Print Darkness is the VR1 potentiometer on the operator
panel. It provides a continuous range of adjustment, allowing you to make precise
changes. Use a small cross-point screwdriver, turning clockwise for darker print and
counterclockwise for lighter print. See Section 2: Installation and Configuration for
instructions on performing potentiometer adjustments

NOTE: The PRINT potentiometer adjustment will affect the darkness in all of the
command code speed ranges, i.e. if the PRINT potentiometer is adjusted for lighter
print, the darkness will be lighter in all speed ranges selected by the command code.

Print Speed

The other method of controlling print quality is by controlling the speed at which the
label is printed. This adjustment is made only on an individual label basis using the
<ESC>CSPrint Speed command code. For more details on this command, see Section
4: Programming. Changing the print speed allows the user to control the amount of
time allowed for print element cooling before the media is stepped to the next print
position. It is especially critical when printing “ladder” bar codes (bar codes printed
with the bars parallel to the print line). When printing a “ladder” bar code, it is
important to allow the head to cool sufficiently before stepping to the next position. If
it does not have sufficient time to cool, the bar will be “smeared” on the trailing edge.

CLEANING THE PRINT HEAD, PLATEN AND ROLLERS

Supplies needed: SATO SA070 Cleaning Kit

CLEANING THE PRINT HEAD

1. Turn the printer off and remove the power cable.

2. Open the Top Cover.

3. Open the Print Head Assembly by pushing the

Head Latch toward the rear of the printer. The
Print Head Assembly is spring-loaded and will

automatically open as soon as the Head Latch is
disengaged.

4. Rotate the Print Head Assembly upward to give
access to the Print Head.

5. Remove the ribbon.

6. Apply SATO Thermal Print Head Cleaner to a
cotton swab.

5. The Print Head faces downward along the front
edge of the assembly. Pass the end of the
dampened swab along the entire width of the
Print Head.

Page3-29001069A SATOCTSeriesPrinters

Section 3: Cleaning and Maintenance

5. Check for any black coloring or adhesive on the swab after cleaning.

6. Repeat if necessary until the swab is clean after it is passed over the head.

7. The head should be cleaned at least every time the ribbon is changed and more
often in harsh environments.

CLEANING THE PLATEN AND PAPER ROLLER

1. Turn the printer off and remove the power cord.

2. Open the Top Cover.

3. Open the Print Head Assembly by pushing the

Head Latch toward the rear of the printer. The
Print Head Assembly is spring-loaded and will

automatically open as soon as the Head Latch is
disengaged. Rotate the Print Head Assembly
upward to give access to the Platen and Ribbon
Roller. Remove any labels in the printer.

4. Apply SATO Thermal Print Head Cleaner to one of the cotton swabs.

5. The Platen is the rubber roller directly below the Print Head. It should be
cleaned of any ribbon or label residue. The Platen is easily cleaned by rotating
the Platen with your thumb while cleaning the residue with the cotton swab.

6. The Paper Roller is located at the rear of the Print Head Assembly. It should
be cleaned of any residue or foreign material.

7. Repeat if necessary. The platen and rollers should be cleaned whenever foreign
matter such as dust or adhesive is present.

REPLACING THE PRINT HEAD

The print head on the CT printers is a user-replaceable item. If it becomes damaged
for any reason, it can be easily removed and replaced. Contact your local SATO
representative for information on obtaining a new print head.

Supplies needed: No. 2 Phillips screwdriver (a magnetic tip is helpful)

1. Turn the printer off and remove the power cable.

2. Open the Top Cover.

3. Open the Print Head Assembly by pushing the Head Latch toward the rear of
the printer. The Print Head Assembly is spring-loaded and will automatically
open as soon as the Head Latch is disengaged.

4. Remove the ribbon from the Ribbon Spindle unit if the printer is a thermal
transfer version.

SATOCTSeriesPrinters9001069A Page3-3

Section 3: Cleaning and Maintenance

5. View the Print Head Assembly from the front of

the printer. Locate the mounting screw on the top
of the assembly. It is accessible through a hole in
the top of the assembly . Unscrew these Head
Retaining screw and set it aside.

6. The Print Head should now be loosened from the

top of the assembly by grasping either side and
carefully pulling it forward.

7. Disconnect the connecting cable from the print

head connectors and set the Print Head aside.

8. Carefully attach the new Print Head to the

connectors, using caution to make sure the
connector keys are correctly positioned. The
connector is keyed so that it can only be inserteed
easily in the correct orientation.

NOTE: Be careful not to scratch the printing surface
of the print head while installing it. Scratching the
surface will cause permanent and irreparable
damage and is not covered by the warranty!

9. Locate the mounting screw in the top plate
assembly and alignit with the tapped holes in the
new Print Head.

10. Re-secure the print head by tightening the screw.

Page3-49001069A SATOCTSeriesPrinters

CLEANING THE SENSORS

There are two sensors that are used to control the positioning of the label. One is a
transmissive see-thru sensor that detects the edge of the label by looking through the
backing paper which is translucent and detecting the presence of the opaque label.
The other is a reflective sensor that detects the light reflected from the bottom of the
label liner. When a printed black Eye-Mark passes through the beam, the light is no
longer reflected back to the sensor detector, indicating to the printer that it should
use this position as the start of a new label. When dust, dirt or other foreign matter
interferes with the light path of either of these sensors, the results is erratic label
positioning. These sensors should be cleaned regularly, at least every two rolls of
labels.

Supplies Needed: SATO SA070 Cleaning Kit

1. Turn the printer off and remove the power cable.

2. Open the Top Cover.

Section 3: Cleaning and Maintenance

3. Open the Print Head Assembly by pushing the
Head Latch toward the rear of the printer. The
Print Head Assembly is spring-loaded and will

automatically open as soon as the Head Latch is
disengaged. The sensors are built into the left
hand Label Guide so that they move whenever
the Label Guides are adjusted for different
media widths.

4. Apply SATO Thermal Print Head Cleaner to
one of the cotton swabs.

5. Use the cotton swab to clean any foreign matter from the exposed surface of the
sensors by inserting the cotton tip in the paper slot and brisky cleaning it with a
back and forth motion.

SATOCTSeriesPrinters9001069A Page3-5

Section 3: Cleaning and Maintenance

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Page3-69001069A SATOCTSeriesPrinters

INTRODUCTION

This section presents the commands that are used with the SATO CT Series printers
to produce labels with logos, bar codes and alphanumeric data. All of the CT
commands use the same syntax. Some commands reference a physical point on the
label using horizontal and vertical dot reference numbers. The allowable range for
these references is dependent upon the particular printer to accomodate different
print widths and resolutions. These differences are noted in tables under the
commands affected.

The following information is presented in this section:

SECTION 4.

PROGRAMMING

• The SATO Programming Language

• Protocol Control Codes

• Using Basic

• The Print Area

• Command Codes

THE SATO CT PROGRAMMING LANGUAGE

A programming language for a printer is a familiar concept to most programmers. It is
a group of commands that are designed to use the internal intelligence of the printer.
The commands, which are referred to as CT Command Codes, contain non-printable
ASCII characters (such as <STX>, <ETX>, <ESC>) and printable characters.
These commands must be assembled into an organized block of code to be sent as
one data stream to the printer, which in turn interprets the command codes and
generates the desired label output. The programmer is free to use any programming
language available to send the desired data to the SATO CT Series printer.

The command codes used by the SATO CT Series Printers are based upon “Escape”
(1B hexadecimal) sequences. Typically there are four types of command sequences:

<ESC>{Command}

These commands generally tell the printer to perform a specific action, like “clear the
memory.”

<ESC>{Command} {Data}

Commands with this format tell the printer to perform a specific action which is
dependent upon the following data, like “print X labels”, where the value for X is
contained in the data.

<ESC>{Command} {Parameter}

SATOCT SeriesPrinters9001069A Page 4-1

Section 4. Programming Reference

These commands set the operational parameters of the printer, like “set the print
speed to 3.”

<ESC> {Command} {Parameter} {Data}

Some commands can contain both Parameter and Data elements, such as “print a
Code 39 symbol containing the data”.

PROTOCOL CONTROL CODES

Protocol codes are the special control characters that prepare the printer to receive
instructions. For example, the <ESC> character tells the printer that a command
code will follow and the <ENQ> character asks for the printer status.

There are two pre-defined different sets of Protocol Control codes to choose from.
Each set is made up of six special characters. The Standard Protocol Control codes are
non-printable characters, and the Non-Standard Protocol Control codes are printable
characters. The Non-Standard set may be useful on host computers using protocol
converters or in an application where non-printable ASCII characters cannot be sent
from the host. This manual uses the Standard Protocol Control codes for all of the
examples.

USING BASIC

It may be useful to test your CT printer using a BASIC program on a PC. You may also
write your actual production programs in BASIC. Whatever the reason, if you will be
working in BASIC, some of the following hints may help you get started:

CONTROL

CHARACTER

SOH 01 Status Request

STX 02 Start of Data
ETX 03 End of Data

ESC 1B Command code to follow

NULL

~
ENQ 05 Get printer status, Bi-Com Mode
CAN 18 Cancel Print Job

DLE 10 Print Stop
DC1 11 Print Start

Off-Line 40 Hex Take printer Off-Line

HEX

VALUE

00

7E

DESCRIPTION

Cutter command

(Responds to either)

1. Set the WIDTH of the output device to 255 characters to avoid automatically sending

<CR> and <LF> characters after every line. The command string should be
continuous and uninterrupted by <CR> and/or <LF> commands. The examples
given in this manual are printed on separate lines because they will not fit on one line
and do not contain any <CR> and/or <LF> characters. If these characters are
needed, they are explicitly noted by the inclusion of <CR> and <LF> notations.

Page 4-29001069A SATOCTSeriesPrinters

Section 4. Programming Reference

2. If you are using the printer’s RS232 interface, it is necessary to set the COM port on the
PC such that the CTS and DSR signals will be ignored. Send your OPEN “COM”
statement in the following way:

OPEN “COM1:9600,E,8,1,CS,DS” AS #1

This sets the RS232 communication parameters of the host PC’s COM1 port for 9600
baud, Even parity, 8 Data bits, 1 Stop bit and directing the port to ignore the CTS
and DSR control signals.

3. You may want to minimize keystrokes and program size by assigning the <ESC>
character to a string variable since this character is used quite often.

The following two examples in BASIC show a typical example using these hints. Both
of these examples use the Standard Protocol codes.

Printing with the Parallel Port

5 REM CT410 Parallel Example Identifies the program as a CT410

parallel port print label. The “REM”
prevents this data from being sent to the
printer and displays it only on the
screen.

10 E$=CHR$(27); Sets the “E$” string as an <ESC>

character

20 WIDTH “LPT1:”,255; Sets the width of the output to 255

characters

30 LPRINT E$;"A"; Sends an “<ESC>A” command code to

the LPT1 parallel port

40 LPRINT E$;"H400";E$;"V100";E$;"XL1SATO"; Sends the data “SATO” to be to be

placed 400 dots horizontally and 100
dots vertically on the label and printed in

the “XL” font.
50 LPRINT E$;"Q1"; Instructs the printer to print one label.
60 LPRINT E$; “Z”; Tells the printer that the last command

has been sent. The printer can now

create and print the job.

Printing with the RS232 Port

5 REM CT410 RS232 Example Identifies the program as a CT410

RS232 port print label. The “REM”

prevents this data from being sent to the

printer and displays it only on the

screen.
10 E$=CHR$(27); Sets the “E$” string as an <ESC>

character.
20 OPEN “COM1:9600,N,8,1,CS,DS” AS #1; Opens the COM1 port for output and

sets the parameters as 9600 baud, No

parity, 8 Data bits, 1 Stop bit and

instructs the port to ignore the CTS and

DSR control signals.

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Section 4. Programming Reference

30 PRINT #1,CHR$ (2); Sends an <STX> (ASCII Code a

50 PRINT #1,E$;"A"; Sends an “<ESC>A” command code to

60 PRINT #1, E$;"H400";E$;"V100";E$;"XL1SATO"; Sends the data “SATO” to be placed

50 PRINT #1, E$;"Q1"; Instructs the printer to print a quantity of

60 PRINT #1, E$; “Z”; Tells the printer that the last command

70 PRINT #1,CHR$ (3); Sends an <ETX> (ASCII Code decimal

THE PRINT AREA

decimal “2”) to the printer instructing it
to prepare to receive a message.

Print Port #1 opened by statement 20
above.

400 dots horizontally and 100 dots
vertically on the label and printed in the
“XL” autosmoothed font.

one label.

has been sent. The printer can now
create and print the job.

“3”) to the printer telling it that this is the
end of the message.

The maximum print area for the various CT Series printers is listed in Table 4.1, Print
Area. Most of your label applications will not require labels that fill the entire print
area. To make label design simplier, the media on the CT Series printers is center
justified, i.e. the label is always centered on the print head. An <ESC>A1 Media Size
command is then used to specify the length and width of the label. The CT printer
uses this information to automatically calculate an “offset” that will move the
Horizontal Reference point to coincide with the first printable dot position on the
specified label. It is extremely important to use the Media Size command. If you do
not, you will have to manually calculate the offset and send it to the printer using the
<ESC>A3 Base Reference Point command.

The diagram below illustrates the maximum print area and a sample 2 inch wide by 3
inch long label placed within this area. As can be seen, your label will be oriented in
the middle of the print head as viewed from the front of the printer. The normal

Table 4.1, Print Area

CT400 CT410

Resolution 203 dpi

8 dpmm

Max Print Width 832 dots

4.1 in.

104 mm

305 dpi

12 dpmm

1248 dots

4.1 in.

104 mm

Max Label Width 4.5 in.

115 mm

Print Length 3200 dots

15.7 in.

400 mm

Page 4-49001069A SATOCTSeriesPrinters

4.5 in.

115 mm

4800 dots

15.7 in.

400 mm

Section 4. Programming Reference

reference point is located at the H1, V1 position of the print area in the normal print
orientation (no rotation).

Max

Print

Max. Print

Length

Width

Print Area

2"

Label
Feed

Direction

3"

Your

Label

Adjusted

Reference

Point

H1, V1

Normal

Reference

Point

H1, V1

SATOCT SeriesPrinters9001069A Page 4-5

Section 4. Programming Reference

ROTATED FIELDS

The CT Series printers can rotate each print field in 90° increments using the
<ESC>% Rotate command.

The following data stream will rotate the print field but will not change the base
reference point of the field:

<ESC>A

<ESC>%1<ESC>V800<ESC>H200<ESC>L0202<ESC>XB1E<ESC>Q1<ESC>Z

Base

Ref

Point

V=800

COMMAND DEFAULT SETTINGS

H=200

Label

Feed

Direction

E

“%1”

There are some types of commands that must have a value specified before a label
can be printed. If the data stream does not contain these commands, a “default” value
is assumed. The default settings are determined by the values specified in the last
<ESC>PG Printer Setting command sent to the printer. These values are stored in
EEPROM and will remain valid even if power to the printer is cycled.

COMMAND CODES

This section contains all the CT Series printer Command Codes. The commands must
be sent to the printer in an organized fashion in order for the label(s) to print.

The purpose of this section is to:

1. Explain the different commands and provide examples of their usage.

2. To provide a detailed reference for programming the CT Series Printers.

Each command begins on a separate page with its own heading. A uniform layout is
used to help you find key information about each command. For each Command

Page 4-69001069A SATOCTSeriesPrinters

Section 4. Programming Reference

Code in this section, there will be a sample data input stream to the printer and the
expected print output. By studying the examples, you can learn how to use the
particular command within a whole block of printer code. Pay particular attention to
the “Special Notes” with each command to learn other important information.

The subject commands are highlighted in bold letters in the Reference Sheets. There
are two parts of most, but not all, commands. The first is the command character
which immediately follows the <ESC> code. It is always an upper case alpha or a
special character (such as an “&” or a “%”). It is never a lower case alpha character. If
the command requires additional variable information, it is represented by a group of
lower case alpha characters immediately following the command character. For
example, if an aaaabb is listed following the basic command, the printer will look
for six characters immediately following the command. The first four would represent
the value of aaaa and the next two the value of bb.

The maximum number of characters defined in a parameter is represented by the
number of characters shown in the command structure. For example, a command
followed by an aaaa can have up to four characters. In general, commands with only
one parameter following the command can be entered without the leading zeroes.
However, certain commands require the exact number of matching characters. A
command with two parameters listed following the command code without a comma
delimiter, such as aaaabbbb require the exact number of digits to be entered. If the
value of aaaa is “800” and the value of bbbb is “300”, then the parameters must be
entered as “08000300”. It is recommended that you make it a practice to always
enter leading zeros to prevent any mistakes.

NOTE: These examples assume the use of the Standard Protocol Command Codes,
a parallel interface and a 4 inch wide label in a CT400 printer. The labels for all other
printers will be similar, but, because of different resolutions and print widths may be
larger or scaled differently.

An alphabetical listing of the command codes is contained in Appendix A: Command
Code Quick Reference.

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Section 4. Programming Reference

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Page 4-89001069A SATOCTSeriesPrinters

Section 4. Programming Reference

Bar Codes

Command Structure 1:3 narrow/wide bar ratio:<ESC>Babbcccd

2:5 narrow/wide ratio: <ESC>BDabbcccd
1:2 narrow/wide bar ratio:<ESC>Dabbcccd

a = Bar Code Symbol

0 Codabar
1 Code 39
2 Interleaved 2 of 5 (I 2/5)
3 UPC-A / EAN-13
4 EAN-8
5 Industrial 2 of 5
6 Matrix 2 of 5
7 reserved
8 reserved
9 reserved
A MSI
B reserved
C Code 93
D reserved
E UPC-E
F Bookland
G Code 128

I UCC 128
bb = Number of dots (01-12) for narrow bar and narrow space
ccc = Bar height in dots (001-600)
d = UCC 128 only. Not used for other bar code types

0 No human readable text
1 Human readable at top

2 Human readable at bottom
Example: <ESC>BD103200
Placement: Immediately preceding data to be encoded
Default: None

Command Function To print bar code images on a label. With this command, there are 13

standard bar code symbologies available to be printed and three two
dimensional symbols (see Two Dimensional Bar Code Symbols at the
end of this section). Each of the bar codes are unique, and it is
important to know the differences. See Appendix B for specific
information on using each individual bar code symbol.

SATOCT SeriesPrinters9001069A Page 4-9

Section 4. Programming Reference

Input to Printer <ESC>A

<ESC>H050<ESC>V0025<ESC>B103100*CODE 39*
<ESC>H0230<ESC>V0130<ESC>XS*CODE39*

<ESC>H050<ESC>V0175<ESC>BD20310045676567
<ESC>H0215<ESC>V0285<ESC>XM45676567

<ESC>H050<ESC>V0325<ESC>BD30215001234567890
<ESC>H050<ESC>V0525<ESC>BD50310012345
<ESC>H0250<ESC>V0635<ESC>XS12345

<ESC>H050<ESC>V0675<ESC>BD60310012345
<ESC>H0230<ESC>V0785<ESC>XS12345

<ESC>H050<ESC>V0825<ESC>BA03100123455
<ESC>H0170<ESC>V935<ESC>XS12345

<ESC>H050<ESC>V980<ESC>BC03100081234ABCD
<ESC>H0155<ESC>V1095<ESC>XS1234ABCD

<ESC>H050<ESC>V1130<ESC>B002100A12345B
<ESC>H090<ESC>V1240<ESC>XS12345

<ESC>H0530<ESC>V0025<ESC>BD303100123456789012
<ESC>H0590<ESC>V0525<ESC>BD4031001234567
<ESC>H0575<ESC>V175<ESC>DE03100123456

<ESC>H0550<ESC>V0225<ESC>OB0
<ESC>H0583< ESC>V0280<ESC>OB123456

<ESC>H0325<ESC>V0325<ESC>D30315009827721123
<ESC>L0101<ESC>H0295<ESC>V0400<ESC>OB0

<ESC>H0340<ESC>V0478<ESC>OB98277
<ESC>H 0480<ESC>V0478<ESC>OB21123

<ESC>H630<ESC>V0365<ESC>BF0313021826
<ESC>H645<ESC>V0335<ESC>OB21826

<ESC>H0450<ESC>V0675<ESC>D30315000633895260
<ESC>L0101<ESC>H0415<ESC>V0750<ESC>OB0
<ESC>H0465<ESC>V0828<ESC>OB06338
<ESC>H 0605<ESC>V0828<ESC>OB95260

<ESC>H0755<ESC>V0705<ESC>BF0314024
<ESC>H0770<ESC>V0675<ESC>OB24

<ESC>H0450<ESC>V0980<ESC>BG03100>GAB>B789>C123456
<ESC>H0560<ESC>V1085<ESC>XS AB789123456

<ESC>Q1<ESC>Z
Note: Carriage Returns and Line Feeds have been added to the command listing

for clarity and should not be included in the actual data stream.

Page 4-109001069A SATOCTSeriesPrinters

Printer Output

Section 4. Programming Reference

SATOCT SeriesPrinters9001069A Page4-11

Section 4. Programming Reference

UCC-128 Without Incrementing

<ESC>A
<ESC>H0100<ESC>V0100<ESC>BI07150101234567000000001
<ESC>Q2<ESC>Z

With Incrementing

<ESC>A
<ESC>H0100<ESC>V0100<ESC

<ESC>Q2<ESC>Z

>F001+001<ESC>BI07150101234567000000001

Page 4-129001069A SATOCTSeriesPrinters

Section 4. Programming Reference

Special Notes 1. UPC and EAN bar codes are not affected by the different types of

narrow to wide ratios. Instead, the <ESC>D command adds
descender bars to these codes where needed to meet UPC
specifications. The <ESC>BD command puts decender bars and
human readable text below the symbol.

2. The Code 128, UCC 128, MSI, and Code 93 bar codes are not

affected by the narrow to wide ratios.

3. The Codabar, Code 39, Industrial 2 of 5, and Matrix 2 of 5 bar

codes are affected by the Character Pitch command. This
command must be placed before the Bar Code command.

4. See Appendix B for more specific instructions and detailed

information regarding individual bar code symbols.

5. Because of their unique characteristics, two-dimensional symbols

are covered separately.

6. For UCC128, the FNC1 code is automatically inserted and the Mod

10 and Mod 103 check digits are automatically calculated.

7. The <ESC>D and <ESC>BD commands are not valid for the MSI,

Code 128, Code 93, UPC-E, Bookland, UCC128 and Postnet
symbologies.

SATOCT SeriesPrinters9001069A Page4-13

Section 4. Programming Reference

Bar Codes, Expansion

Command Structure <ESC>BWaabbb

aa = Expansion factor by which the width of all bars and spaces

will be increased (01-12)
bbb = Bar height by dot (004-600 dots)
Example: <ESC>BW02100
Placement: Immediately follows the <ESC>BT command and

precedes data to be encoded.

Default: None

Command Function

Input to Printer: <ESC>A

Printer Output:

This command works together with the <ESC>BT command to specify an
expansion factor and the bar code height for the particular symbol being printed.

<ESC>H0050<ESC>V0200<ESC>BD103100*SATO*
<ESC>H0050<ESC>V0050<ESC>BT001030103<ESC>BW03100123456
<ESC>Q1<ESC>Z

Special Notes 1. This command must be preceded by the Variable Ratio Bar Codes

<ESC>BT command.

2. The following bar codes will be affected by the Character Pitch

command: Codabar, Code 39, Interleaved 2 of 5, Matrix 2 of 5.

Page 4-149001069A SATOCTSeriesPrinters

Bar Codes, Variable Ratio

Command Structure <ESC>BTabbccddee

a = Bar Code Symbol:

0 Codabar
1 Code 39
2 Interleaved 2 of 5
5 Industrial 2 of 5
6 Matrix 2 of 5

bb = Narrow space in dots (01-99)
cc = Wide space in dots (01-99)
dd = Narrow bar in dots (01-99)
ee = Wide bar in dots (01-99)

Section 4. Programming Reference

Example: <ESC>BT101030103
Placement: Following print position commands and preceding

<ESC>BW

Default: Current setting

Command Function To print a bar code with a ratio other than those specified through the

standard bar code commands (B,BD, and D). This is done through
individual control of each of the bar code elements (bars, spaces) as
shown above. Remember that this command only applies to the five
bar code types shown.

Input to Printer:

Printer Output:
Special Notes

<ESC>A
<ESC>H0050<ESC>V0200<ESC>BD104100*SATO*
<ESC>H0050<ESC>V0050<ESC>BT001030103 <ESC>BW03100123456
<ESC>Q1<ESC>Z

SATOCT SeriesPrinters9001069A Page4-15

Section 4. Programming Reference

1. This command must be immediately followed by the <ESC>BW Bar

Code Expansion command.

2. You may use only one variable ratio bar code per label.

3. If the data specified in this command is incorrect, the command is

ignored and the ratio used will be based on the previous setting.

4. See Appendix B for more specific instructions and details regarding

individual bar code symbols.

Page 4-169001069A SATOCTSeriesPrinters

Base Reference Point

Command Structure <ESC>A3HabbbbVcdddd

a = - Specifie that the horizontal offset is in the

negative direction.

+ Specifies that the horizontal offset is in the

positive direction.
bbbb = Horizontal Print Offset (see Note 5 for field range)
c = - Specifie that the vertcal offset is in the

negative direction.

+ Specifies that the vertical offset is in the

positive direction.
dddd = Vertical Print Offset (see Note 5 for field range)

Example: <ESC>A3H+100V+0050

Section 4. Programming Reference

Placement: Preceding all images that are based on the new base

reference point
Default: Current V and H offset setting in the printer configuration

Command Function To establish a new base reference point for the current label. The

base reference point is the top left corner or “origin” from where all
print position commands are based.

This command may be very helpful when using labels less than four
inches wide to place images on the printable label surface. It may
also be used to move images past preprinted fields on a label.

Input to Printer:

Printer Output:

<ESC>A<ESC>L0202
<ESC>H0100<ESC>V0025<ESC>XMNORMALREFERENCE POINT
<ESC>A3H+0300V+0075
<ESC>H0100<ESC>V0050<ESC>XMNEW REFERENCE POINT
<ESC>Q1<ESC>Z

SATOCT SeriesPrinters9001069A Page4-17

Section 4. Programming Reference

Special Notes 1. Use of this command will set the Vertical/Horizontal Offset setting of

the printer configuration until a new Base Reference Point
command is issued or the setting is changed from the operator
panel. See Section 2: Printer Configuration.

2. This command may be used more than once in a print job.

3. An alternative to using this command is to make changes to your
current Horizontal and Vertical Print Position commands.

Example:

Let’s say the current base reference point is H=1, V=1 and you
wish to move all the fields on your label downward vertically by
150 dots. You could either (1) add the Base Reference Point
command or (2) change all the vertical position commands by an
additional 150 dots.

4. For a more detailed example of the Base Reference Point
command, see “Print Area” in this section.

5. The allowable field ranges for this command are:

CT400 CT410

Horizontal

aaaa

Vertical

bbbb

-0832 to 0832 -1248 to 1248

-3200 to 3200 -4800 to 4800

Page 4-189001069A SATOCTSeriesPrinters

Characters, Custom-Designed

Command Structure Store Command: <ESC>Tabcc

Recall Command: <ESC>Kab90cc
a = 1 16x16 matrix

2 24x24 matrix

b = Specifies the character encoding method for the data stream

H Hexadecimal characters
B Binary characters

cc = Memory location to store/recall the character. Valid memory

locations are 21 to 52 (counting in Hex) or “!” to “R” in Binary

(data) = Data to describe the character

Section 4. Programming Reference

Example: <ESC>T1H3F

<ESC>K1H903F
See Appendix C for a more detailed explanation

Placement: The Store command is typically sent in its own data

stream to the printer, between the Start/Stop commands.
The Recall command is sent in a secondary data stream
to print the character,and follows any necessary position
or size commands.

Default: None

Command Function To allow for the creation, storage, and printing of custom characters,

such as special fonts or logos. Up to 50 individual characters may be
stored in the custom character volatile memory.

Printer Input See Appendix C for a detailed explanation.

<ESC>A
<ESC>T1H3F
0100038007C00FE01FF03FF87FFCFFFE07C007C007C007C007C007C007C007C0
<ESC>Z

<ESC>A
<ESC>H150<ESC>V100<ESC>L0505<ESC>K1H903F
<ESC>H350<ESC>V100<ESC>L1010<E SC>K1H903F
<ESC>Q1<ESC>Z

SATOCT SeriesPrinters9001069A Page4-19

Section 4. Programming Reference

Printer Output

Special Notes 1. When printing the custom character using the Recall command, the

character is affected by the following commands:

Character Expansion
Character Pitch
Line Feed
Rotate, Base Reference Point Fixed
Rotate, Moving Base Reference Point

2. The characters are stored in volatile memory and must be reloaded
if the printer power is lost.

3. Do not use ASCII <CR> or <LF> characters (carriage return or line
feed) as line delimiters within the graphic data or the actual image
will not be printed as specified.

Page 4-209001069A SATOCTSeriesPrinters

Section 4. Programming Reference

Character Expansion

Command Structure <ESC>Laabb

aa = Multiple to expand horizontally (01-12)
bb = Multiple to expand vertically (01-12)

Example: <ESC>L0305
Placement: Preceding the data to be expanded
Default: <ESC>L0101

Command Function To expand characters independently in both the horizontal and

vertical directions. The command allows you to enlarge the base size
of each font (except the vector font) up to 12 times in either direction.
Expanded characters are typically used for added emphasis or for
long distance readability.

Input to Printer

Printer Output

<ESC>A
<ESC>A<ESC>H0100<ESC>V0100<ESC>XMSATO
<ESC>H0100<ESC>V0200<ESC>L0402<ESC>XMSATO
<ESC>H0100<ESC>V0300<ESC>L0204<ESC>XMSATO
<ESC>Q1<ESC>Z

SATOCT SeriesPrinters9001069A Page4-21

Section 4. Programming Reference

Special Notes This command will expand the following fonts:

1. Fonts U, S, M, XU, XS, XM, OA & OB and fonts WB, WL, XB and
XL.

2. This command will also affect the following commands:

Character Pitch
Characters, Custom-Designed

3. The Character Expansion value is in effect for the current print job
until a new expansion command is specified.

4. The Line and Box command, if used within the data stream, may
return all subsequent text to the default expansion of 1 x 1.
Therefore, either send the Character Expansion command before
all printed data, or send Line and Box commands last, preceding
the <ESC>Q Quantity command.

Page 4-229001069A SATOCTSeriesPrinters

Section 4. Programming Reference

Character, Fixed Spacing

Command Structure <ESC>PR

Example: See Above
Placement: Preceding the data
Default: The default is Proportional Spacing.

Command Function To reset proportional spacing and place the printer back to fixed

spacing

Printer Input

Printer Output

Special Notes 1. This command only works with the proportionally spaced fonts XU,

<ESC>A
<ESC>H0025<ESC>V0050<ESC>PS
<ESC>L0202<ESC>XMPROPORTIONALSPACING
<ESC>H0025<ESC>V0130<ESC>PR
<ESC>L0202<ESC>XMFIXED SPACING
<ESC>Q1<ESC>Z

XM, XS, XL and XB.

SATOCT SeriesPrinters9001069A Page4-23

Section 4. Programming Reference

Character Pitch

Command Structure <ESC>Paa

aa = Number of dots between characters (00-99)
Example: <ESC>P03
Placement: Preceding the text to be printed
Default: <ESC>P02

Command Function To designate the amount of spacing (in dots) between characters.

This command provides a means of altering character spacing for
label constraints or to enhance readability.

Input to Printer

Printer Output

<ESC>A<ESC>PS
<ESC>H0025<ESC>V0025<ESC>L0202<ESC>XBSATO
<ESC>H0025<ESC>V0125<ESC>L0202<ESC>P20<ESC>XB1SATO
<ESC>H0025<ESC>V0225<ESC>L0202<ESC>P40<ESC>XB1SATO
<ESC>Q1<ESC>Z

Page 4-249001069A SATOCTSeriesPrinters

Section 4. Programming Reference

Special Notes 1. This command is affected by the <ESC>L Character Expansion

command. The character pitch is actually the product of the
current horizontal expansion multiple and the designated pitch
value.

Example:

<ESC>L0304
<ESC>P03
Pitch = (03) x (03) = 9 dots

2. To avoid confusion, you may want to include the <ESC>L
Character Expansion command and this command together in
your program.

3. This command affects fonts U, S, M, XU, XS, XM, OA & OB, fonts
WB, WL, XB and XL, and the vector font.

4. Character Pitch will always revert to the default value unless it is
specified before each new font command in the data stream.

5. This command also affects Codabar, Code 39 and Industrial
2 of 5 bar codes.

SATOCT SeriesPrinters9001069A Page4-25

Section 4. Programming Reference

Character, Proportional Spacing

Command Structure <ESC>PS Set to proportional spacing

<ESC>PR Reset to fixed spacing
Example: See above
Placement: Preceding the data to be proportional spaced
Default: <ESC>PS

Command Function To specify the printing of proportional or fixed spacing for

proportionally spaced fonts.

Printer Input

Printer Output

Special Notes 1. Once this command is sent in the data stream, it is in effect until the

<ESC>A
<ESC>H0025<ESC>V0050<ESC>PS
<ESC>L0202<ESC>XMPROPORTIONALSPACING
<ESC>H0025<ESC>V0130<ESC>PR
<ESC>L0202<ESC>XMFIXED SPACING
<ESC>Q1<ESC>Z

end of the print job unless a reset command is sent.

Page 4-269001069A SATOCTSeriesPrinters

Clear Print Job(s) & Memory

Command Structure <ESC>*a

a = If the “a” parameter is not included with this command and

a = If “a” is included with this command, it specifies the internal

Example: <ESC>*

Section 4. Programming Reference

the printer is in the multi-buffer mode, this command clears
all print jobs in the printer memory, including the current
print job.

memory section to be cleared
T To clear the custom character memory
& To clear the form overlay memory
X To clear all internal memory

<ESC>*X

Placement: This command should be sent to the printer as an

independent data stream.

Default: None

Command Function To clear individual memory or buffer areas of the printer.

Input to Printer

Printer Output There is no printer output as a result of this command. The current

Special Note 1. It is not necessary to clear the printer’s memory between each print

<ESC>A
<ESC>*
<ESC>Z

print job in the buffer will be terminated and all other print jobs in the
buffer cleared.

job.

2. The primary purpose of this command is to clear all print jobs in the
multi-buffer mode. The “a” parameter can be used in either the
multi-buffer or single job mode to clear specific parts of the
memory.

3. When the “a” parameter is used, the section of memory specified
will not be cleared until the label is printed.

SATOCT SeriesPrinters9001069A Page4-27

Section 4. Programming Reference

Continuous Forms Printing

Command Structure None

The printer locates the end of an adhesive label by sensing the
backing between labels or through the use of an eye-mark (black
rectangle on the reverse side of the backing). It locates the end of a
tag from a notch, eye-mark, or a hole between tags. Both sensors
should be disabled when printing continuous forms. See
Configuration Commands at the end of this section for information on
using the <ESC>IG Sensor Select command. To change the default
setting to Continuous Forms Printing, use the <ESC>PG Printer
Setting command.

If you will be using continuous labels or tags, the printer must be told
to stop feeding in another manner. The length is determined by the
position of the last printed image on the label or tag. The printer will
stop feeding when this last field is finished printing. The length may
be increased with printed spaces (20 hexadecimal) if necessary.
There is no command code to control label length.

Page 4-289001069A SATOCTSeriesPrinters

Section 4. Programming Reference

Copy Image Area

Command Structure <ESC>WDHaaaaVbbbbXccccYdddd

aaaa = Horizontal position of the top left corner of the area to be copied
bbbb = Vertical position of the top left corner of the area to be copied
cccc = Horizontal length of the image area to be copied
dddd = Vertical length of the image area to be copied

Example: <ESC>WDH0100V0050X0600Y0400
Placement: Anywhere within the data stream, after specifying the

location of the duplicate image.

Default: None

Command Function To copy an image from one location to another on the same label.

This may be useful for duplicating individual fields or entire sections
of the label with only one command.

Input to Printer <ESC>A

<ESC>H0050<ESC>V0050<ESC>E010<ESC>XM
SATOSATOSATOSATOSATO
SATOSATOSATOSATOSATO
SATOSATOSATOSATOSATO
SATOSATOSATOSATOSATO
<ESC>H0180<ESC>V0250<ESC>WDH0165V0050X0400Y0200
<ESC>Q1<ESC>Z

Printer Output

SATOCT SeriesPrinters9001069A Page4-29

Section 4. Programming Reference

Special Notes 1. Use the Print Position commands (V and H) to locate the new area

for the duplicate image.

2. Position of the new target area must not be inside the original

image.

3. If you use the Rotate command, V, H, X and Y axes will be

reversed.

4. If the reference area of the target image exceeds the print area, it

will not be printed.

5. The allowable ranges for these fields are as follows:

CT400 CT410

Horizontal

aaaa

cccc

Vertical

bbbb
dddd

0001

to

0832
0001

to

3200

0001

to

1248
0001

to

4800

Page 4-309001069A SATOCTSeriesPrinters

Section 4. Programming Reference

Cut Job

Command Structure <ESC><NUL>aaaa

<ESC>~aaaa
aaaa = Number of labels to print between each cut (1-9999)
Example: <ESC>~2
Placement: Following the Print Quantity command <ESC>Q
Default: <ESC>~1 (if cutter enabled)

Command Function To control the cutting of labels when using a SATO cutter unit with

the printer printer. This command allows the cutting of a multi-part tag
or label at a specified interval within a print job.

Input to Printer:

Printer Output: This set of commands will print 6 labels (3 x 2) with two labels

<ESC>A
<ESC>H0020<ESC>V0020<ESC>XB1ABC<ESC>Q3
<ESC>~0002
<ESC>Z

between each cut.

CutCutCut

2pc

ABCABCABCABCABCABC

6pc

Special Notes 1. You must have the optional printer Cutter to use this function.

Contact your SATO representative for more information.

2. To use this command, the printer configuration must have the cutter
option enabled. See Printer Configuration commands in this
section manual.

3. If the cutter option has been enabled in the printer configuration
and the cut value (a = 0), the cutter is inactive.

4. The <NUL> represents the ASCII 00 Hex character. A “~” (tilde)
character or <NUL> character can be substituted in this command.

5. When using the Cutter command, the total number of labels printed
is the product of the cut value and the print quantity.

SATOCT SeriesPrinters9001069A Page4-31

Section 4. Programming Reference

Cut

Command Structure <ESC>CTaaaa

aaaa = Number of labels to print between each cut (1-9999)
Example: <ESC>CT2
Placement: Preceding the <ESC>Q Print Quantity command.
Default: <ESC>CT1 (if cutter enabled)

Command Function To control the cutting of labels when using a SATO cutter unit with

the printer printer. This command allows the cutting of a multi-part tag
or label at a specified interval within a print job. It differs from the
<ESC>~ Cut Job command in that it does not interact with the
quantity command.

Input to Printer:

Printer Output: This set of commands will print seven labels with two labels between

<ESC>A
<ESC>H0020<ESC>V0020<ESC>XB1ABC<ESC>CT0002
<ESC>Q7<ESC>Z

each cut. One label will be left in the printer.

Left on printerCutCutCut

2pc

ABCABCABCABCABCABCABC

7pc

Special Notes 1. You must have the optional printer Cutter to use this function.

Contact your SATO representative for more information.

2. To use this command, the printer configuration must have the cutter
option enabled. See Configuration Commands in this section of
the manual.

3. If the cutter option has been enabled in the printer configuration
and the cut value (a = 0), the cutter is inactive.

4. This command is independent of the <ESC>Q Quantity command.
It will cut the specified number of labels. If a printed label is left in
the printer after the last cut, the <ESC>YC Cut/Eject command
can be used to cut it.

Page 4-329001069A SATOCTSeriesPrinters

Section 4. Programming Reference

Cut Last

Command Structure <ESC>YC

Example: <ESC>YC
Placement: Separate data stream sent to the printer
Default: None

Command Function To control the cutting of labels when using a SATO cutter unit with

the printer. This command allows the cutting of a printed multi-part
tag or label that is left in the printer after a job is cut using the
<ESC>CT Cut command.

Input to Printer:

<ESC>A
<ESC>YC
<ESC>Z

Printer Output: This command will cut the feed the last printed label to the cut

position, cut the label and then backfeed to the head position in
preparation for printing the next job.

Label A printed

Labels B, C, D

unprinted.

Feed A to cut

position

Cut A

Cut position

A

Headposition

A

B

B

B

C

C

C

D

D

Backfeed to

place B at print

position

B

C

D

Notes 1. You must have the optional printer Cutter to use this function.

Contact your SATO representative for more information.

SATOCT SeriesPrinters9001069A Page4-33

Section 4. Programming Reference

Fonts U, S, M, OA, OB, XU, XS & XM

Command Structure Font XU: <ESC>XU Font U: <ESC>U

Font XS: <ESC>XS Font S: <ESC>S
Font XM: <ESC>XM Font M: <ESC>M
Font OA: <ESC>OA Font OB: <ESC>OB

Example: See above
Placement: Preceding the data to be printed
Default: None

Command Function To print text images on a label. These are eight of the built-in fonts

available on the printer. All matrices include descenders.

NON-PROPORTIONAL PROPORTIONAL

U 5W x 9H dot matrix XU 5Wx 9H dot matrix
S 8W x 15H dot matrix XS 17W x 17H dot matrix
M 13W x 20H dot matrix XM 24W x 24H dot matrix
OA OCR-A font (see Note 7 for matrix)
OB OCR-B font (see Note 7 for matrix)

(1) These fonts will be printed with non-proportional spacing only if preceded by an
<ESC>PR command.

Input to Printer <ESC>A<ESC>PS

<ESC>H0025<ESC>V0100<ESC>L0202<ESC>XUSATO “XU”
<ESC>H0025<ESC>V0175<ESC>L0202<ESC>XSSATO “XS”
<ESC>H0025<ESC>V0250<ESC>L0202<ESC>XMSATO “XM”
<ESC>H0025<ESC>V0325<ESC>L0101<ESC>OASATO “OA”
<ESC>H0001<ESC>V0400<ESC>L0101<ESC>OBSATO “OB”
<ESC>H0300<ESC>V0100<ESC>L0202<ESC>USATO “U”
<ESC>H0300<ESC>V0175<ESC>L0202<ESC>SSATO “S”
<ESC>H0300<ESC>V0250<ESC>L0202<ESC>MSATO“M”
<ESC>Q1<ESC>Z

Printer Output

(1)

Page 4-349001069A SATOCTSeriesPrinters

Section 4. Programming Reference

Special Notes 1. Characters may be enlarged through the use of the Character

Expansion command.

2. Character spacing may be altered through the use of the Character
Pitch command. The default is 2 dots between characters. It is
recommended to use a spacing of 5 dots for OCR-A and 1 dot for
OCR-B.

3. You may also create custom characters or fonts. See the <ESC>T
Custom-Designed Characters command.

4. A font must be defined for each field to be printed. There is no
default font.

5. Fonts U, S, M, OA and OB are identical to fonts U, S, M, OA and
OB on the SATO M-8400 printer.

6. The proportionally spaced fonts XU, XS, XM, XL and XA can be
printed with fixed spacing using the <ESC>PR Fixed Space
command.

7. The matrices for the OA and OB fonts are scaled so that they will
remain a constant size according to the OCR-A and OCR-B
specifications when printed on different resolution printers.

CT400 CT410

OA Font 15 dots W x 22 dots H 22 dots W x 33 dots H
OB Font 20 dots W x 24 dots H 30 dots W x 36 dots H

SATOCT SeriesPrinters9001069A Page4-35

Section 4. Programming Reference

Font/Graphic Recall

Command Structure <ESC>A<ESC>RFaabbbb,nn...n

aa = Font ID number (00 to 80)
bbbb = Number of characters to print (0000-9999)
nn..n = Data to be printed

Example: <ESC>RF010004,ABCD
Placement: Within normal command stream
Default: None

Command Function To recall fonts or graphic previously stored in the printer memory

using the Font/Graphic Store Utility Program.

Input to Printer

Printer Output

Special Notes 1. To store or delete a graphic or font, the Font/Graphic Store Utility

<ESC>A
<ESC>V0100<ESC>H0100
<ESC>RF010001,G
<ESC>Q1<ESC>Z

Label Sample TBA

program contained on the CD-ROM must be used.

2. To recall a graphic, the parameter “bbbb” must be “0001" and the
”nnn..n" parameter must be a “G”.

3. To recall a stored font, the SATO CX4XX Windows Driver should
be used.

Page 4-369001069A SATOCTSeriesPrinters

Section 4. Programming Reference

Font, Raster

Command Structure <ESC>A<ESC>RDabb,ccc,ddd,nn. . .n

a = A CG Times font style

B CG Triumvirate font style.

bb = 00 for Normal font

01 for Bold font
ccc = Horizontal size (16 - 999 dots or P08 - P72)
ddd = Vertical size (16 - 999 dots or P08 - P72)
nn..n = Data to be printed.

Example: <ESC>RFA00,014,018ABCD
Placement: Within normal command stream
Default: None

Command Function To print point size characters created using font definitions.

Input to Printer

Printer Output

<ESC>A
<ESC>V0100<ESC>H0100
<ESC>RDA00,014,018ABCD
<ESC>V0200<ESC>H0100
<ESC>RFB10,018,014ABCD
<ESC>Q1<ESC>Z

Label Sample TBA

Not

Implemented

Special Notes 1. The “cccc” Horizontal Size and “dddd” Horizontal Size parameters

can be entered either in dots or points, but both parameters must
use the same value types. If point size is used, the point size is
preceded by a “P”.

SATOCT SeriesPrinters9001069A Page4-37

Section 4. Programming Reference

Font, Vector

Command Structure Specify Vector Font: <ESC>$a,b,c,d

Data for Vector Font: <ESC>$=(data)
a = A Helvetica Bold (proportional spacing)

B Helvetica Bold (fixed spacing)
b = Font width (24-999)
c = Font height (24-999 dots)
d = Font variation (0-9) as follows:

0 Standard

1 Standard open (outlined)

2 Gray (mesh) pattern 1

3 Gray (mesh) pattern 2

4 Gray (mesh) pattern 3

5 Standard open, shadow 1

6 Standard open, shadow 2

7 Standard mirror image

8 Italic

9 Italic open, shadow
Example: <ESC>$A,100,200,0<ESC>$=123456
Placement: Immediately preceding data to be printed.
Default: None

Command Function To specify printing of the unique SATO vector font. The vector font

allows large characters to be printed with smooth, round edges. Each
character is made of a number of vectors (or lines), and will require
slightly more printer compiling time.

Input to Printer

<ESC>A
<ESC>H0100<ESC>V0100<ESC>$A,100,100,0<ESC>$=SATO
<ESC>H0100<ESC>V0200<ES C>$=VECTOR FONT
<ESC>$A,200,300,8<ESC>H0100<ESC>V0350<ESC>$=SATO
<ESC>Q1<ESC>Z

Page 4-389001069A SATOCTSeriesPrinters

Printer Output

Section 4. Programming Reference

Special Notes 1. The Pitch command can be used with Vector fonts.

2. If the font size designation is out of the specified range, a default
value of 50 is used.

4. The font width and height values include asenders, desenders and
other space.

5. A font must be defined for each field to be printed. There is no
default font.

SATOCT SeriesPrinters9001069A Page4-39

Section 4. Programming Reference

Fonts WB, WL, XB & XL

Command Structure Font WB: <ESC>WBa Font XB: <ESC>XBa

Font WL: <ESC>WLa Font XL: <ESC>XLa
a = 0 Disables auto-smoothing of font

1 Enables auto-smoothing of font (see notes below)

Example: <ESC>WB1123456
Placement: Preceding the data to be printed
Default: None

Command Function To print text images on a label. These are the four auto-smoothing

fonts available on the printer.

NON-PROPORTIONAL PROPORTIONAL

WB 18W x 30H dot matrix XB 48W x 48H dot matrix
WL 28W x 52H dot matrix XL 48W x 48H dot matrix

(1) These fonts will be printed with proportional spacing only if preceded by an
<ESC>PS command.

Input to Printer ESC>A<ESC>PS

<ESC>H0001<ESC>V0100<ESC>WB0SATO“WB0"
<ESC>H0001<ESC>V0185<ESC>WB1SATO”WB1"
<ESC>H0001<ESC>V0270<ESC>WL0SATO“WL0"
<ESC>H0001<ESC>V0355<ESC>WL1SATO”WL1"
<ESC>H0400<ESC>V0100<ESC>XB0SATO“XB0"
<ESC>H0400<ESC>V0185<ESC>XB1SATO”XB1"
<ESC>H0400<ESC>V0270<ESC>XL0SATO “XL0"
<ESC>H0400<ESC>V0355<ESC>XL1SATO ”XL1"
<ESC>Q1<ESC>Z

Printer Output

(1)

WB & WL Not

Implemented

Page 4-409001069A SATOCTSeriesPrinters

Section 4. Programming Reference

Special Notes 1. Auto-smoothing (when enabled) is only effective if the character

expansion rate is at least (3) times in each direction.

2. Characters may be enlarged through the use of the <ESC>L
Character Expansion command.

3. Character spacing may be altered through the use of the <ESC>A
Character Pitch command.

4. A font must be defined for each field to be printed. There is no
default font.

5. The proportionally spaced fonts XU, XS, XM, XL and XB can be
printed with fixed spacing using the <ESC>PS Proportional Space
command.

6. The WB and WL fonts are not available in the initial production CT
printers. Please contact your SATO representative and make
arrangements to have your printer upgraded if these two fonts are
not present.

SATOCT SeriesPrinters9001069A Page4-41

Section 4. Programming Reference

Form Overlay, Recall

Command Structure <ESC>/

Example: <ESC>/
Placement: Must be preceded by all other data and placed just before

the Print Quantity command (<ESC>Q)

Default: None

Command Function To recall the label image from the form overlay memory for printing.

This command recalls a stored image from the overlay memory.
Additional or different data can be printed with the recalled image.

Input to Printer

Printer Output

<ESC>A
<ESC>H0001<ESC>V0125
<ESC>STHIS IS THE STORED IMAGE WITH A BARCODE
<ESC>H0001<ESC>V0165<ESC>B103100*12345*
<ESC>&<ESC>Z

<ESC>A<ESC>H0001<ESC>V0050
<ESC>STHIS IS RECALLING AND ADDING TO THE STORED IMAGE<ESC>/
<ESC>Q1<ESC>Z

Special Notes 1. The overlay is stored using the <ESC>& Form Overlay Store

command.

2. Only one Form Overlay can be stored in the CT4XX memory.

Page 4-429001069A SATOCTSeriesPrinters

Section 4. Programming Reference

Form Overlay, Store

Command Structure <ESC>&

Example: <ESC>&
Placement: Must be preceded by all other data and placed just before

the Stop command (<ESC>Z)

Default: None

Command Function To store a label image in the volatile form overlay memory. Only one

label image may be stored in this memory area at a time.

Input to Printer

<ESC>A
<ESC>H0001<ESC>V0125
<ESC>STHIS IS THE STORED IMAGE WITH A BARCODE
<ESC>H0001<ESC>V0165<ESC>B103100*12345*
<ESC>

&

<ESC>Z

Printer Output There is no output from this command. It stores the label image in the

overlay buffer.

Special Notes 1. Remember that this storage is volatile. Therefore, if the printer

loses power, the overlay must be sent again.

2. The overlay is recalled using the <ESC>/ Form Overlay Recall
command.

3. Form overlays do not have to be recompiled each time they are
called to be printed and therefore may result in much faster print
output.

4. The CT printers can only store one format.

SATOCT SeriesPrinters9001069A Page4-43

Section 4. Programming Reference

Graphics, Custom

Command Structure <ESC>Gabbbccc(data)

a = Specifies format of data stream to follow

B Binary format
H Hexadecimal format

bbb = Number of horizontal 8 x 8 blocks (001-248)
ccc = Number of vertical 8 x 8 blocks (001-267)
(data)= Hex data to describe the graphic image
Example: <ESC>GH006006

See Appendix C for a detailed example

Placement: May be placed anywhere within the data stream after the

necessary position commands.

Default: None

Command Function To create and print custom graphics (logos, pictures, etc.) on a label.

The graphic image may be printed along with other printed data to
enhance label appearance or eliminate the need for preprinted label
stock. Using a dot-addressable matrix, design the graphic image in 8
dot by 8 dot blocks, then send it in a binary format to the printer.

Printer Input

<ESC>A
<ESC>H0100<ESC>V0100<ESC>GH006006
FFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFC00000000003
C00000000003C000FFFFFFF3C00080000013
C00080000013C0009FFFFF13C00080000013
C00080000013C0009FFFFF13C00080000013
C00080000013C000FFFFFFF3C00000000003
C00000000003C00000000003C00000000003
C00000000003C00000000003C00003C00003
C00007E00003C0000FF00003C0000FF00003
C0000FF00003C0000FF00003C00007E00003
C00003C00003C00003C00003C00003C00003
C00003C00003C00003C00003C00003C00003
C00003C00003C00003C00003C00003C00003
C00003C00003C00001800003C00000000003
C00000000003FFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFF
<ESC>H0300<ESC>V0100<ESC>XSPLEASE PLACEYOUR DISK
<ESC>H0300<ESC>V0150<ESC>XSIN A SAFE PLACE
<ESC>Q1<ESC>Z

See Appendix C for a details on the data format.

Page 4-449001069A SATOCTSeriesPrinters

Section 4. Programming Reference

Printer Output

Special Notes 1. Do not use ASCII <CR> or <LF> characters (carriage return or line

feed) as line delimiters within the graphic data or the actual image
will not be printed as specified.

2. A custom graphic cannot be enlarged by the <ESC>L Character
Expansion command .

3. A custom graphic is not affected by either of the Rotation
commands. Therefore, always design and locate your graphic
image to print in the appropriate orientation.

4. The binary format reduces the transmission time by 50%.

SATOCT SeriesPrinters9001069A Page4-45

Section 4. Programming Reference

Job ID Store

Command Structure <ESC>IDaa

aa = Job ID assigned (01 to 99)
Example: <ESC>ID09
Placement: Immediately following the <ESC>A in the job data stream.
Default: None

Command Function To add an identification number to a job. The status of the job can

then be determined using the ENQ command in the Bi-Com status
mode (See Section 5: Interface Specifications for more information).

Printer Input

Printer Output There is no printer output as a result of this command. In the Bi-Com

Special Notes 1. Works only in Bi-Com mode. The Job ID number must be stored

<ESC>A
<ESC>ID02
. . . Job . . .
<ESC>Z

mode, the Job ID will be returned upon the receipt of a status
request command.

before Bi-Com status mode can be used.

2. If more than one ID number is sent in a single job, i.e.
<ESC>A
<ESC>ID01

..........

<ESC>ID02

.........

the last number transmitted will be used.

Page 4-469001069A SATOCTSeriesPrinters

Section 4. Programming Reference

Journal Print

Command Structure <ESC>J

Example: See above
Placement: Immediately following <ESC>A
Default: None

Command Function To print text in a line by line format on a label. By specifying this

command, you automatically select Font XS with a Character
Expansion of 2x2. You also establish a base reference point of
H2,V2. The character pitch is 2 dots and the line gap is 16 dots.
Simply issue an ASCII <CR> at the end of each text line.

Input to Printer

Printer Output
Special Notes 1. Journal mode assumes a maximum label width . Otherwise, you

<ESC>A
<ESC>J WITH THE JOURNAL FEATURE
YOU CAN PRINT TEXT WITHOUT

USING ANY FONT COMMANDS
OR POSITION COMMANDS
<ESC>Q1<ESC>Z

may print where there is no label and damage your print head.

2. It is effective only for the current print job.

SATOCT SeriesPrinters9001069A Page4-47

Section 4. Programming Reference

Lines and Boxes

Command Structure Line <ESC>FWaabcccc

aa = Width of horizontal line in dots (01-99)
b = Line orientation

H Horizontal line

V Vertical Line
cccc = Length of line in dots (see Note 2 for max length)
Box: <ESC>FWaabbVccccHdddd

aa = Width of horizontal side in dots (01-99)
bb = Width of vertical side in dots (01-99)
cccc = Length of vertical side in dots (see Note 2 for max length)

dddd = Length of horizontal side in dots (see Note 2 for max length)
Example: <ESC>FW02H0200
Placement: Following the necessary positioning commands
Default: None

Command Function To print horizontal lines, vertical lines, and boxes as images on the

label.

Input to Printer

<ESC>A
<ESC>H0100<ESC>V0100<ESC>FW20H0200
<ESC>H0320<ESC>V0100<ESC>FW20V0200
<ESC>H0350<ESC>V0100<ESC>FW1010H0200V0200
<ESC>Q1<ESC>Z

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Section 4. Programming Reference

Printer Output
Special Notes 1. It is recommended that all lines and boxes be specified in the

normal print direction.

LINE/BOX

LENGTH

Horizontal

cccc

Vertical

cccc

CT400 CT412

0001 to 0832 0001 to 1248

0001 to 3200 0001 to4800

2. The maximum allowable lengths for the different CT printers are as
follows.

SATOCT SeriesPrinters9001069A Page4-49

Section 4. Programming Reference

Job Name

Command Structure <ESC>WKnnn...n

nn..n = Job Name assigned, up to 16 ASCII characters
Example: <ESC>WKSATO
Placement: Immediately following the <ESC>A in the job data stream.
Default: None

Command Function This command is to identify a particular job using a descriptive name

Printer Input

Printer Output There is no printer output as a result of this command. The

Special Notes 1. Works only in Bi-Com mode. The Job Name must be stored before

<ESC>A
<ESC>WKSATO
. . . Job . . .
<ESC>Z

information is returned to the host upon receipt of a Bi-Com status
request.

Bi-Com status mode can be used.

2. If more than one Job Name is sent in a single job, i.e.
<ESC>A
<ESC>WKSATO

..........

<ESC>WKSATO AMERICA

.........

the last name transmitted will be used.

Page 4-509001069A SATOCTSeriesPrinters

Section 4. Programming Reference

Label/Tag Select

Command Structure <ESC>YEa

a = 0 Adhesive labels on liner

1 Tags
Example: See above
Placement: Separate data stream sent to the printer.
Default: Printer default setting

Command Function To select adhesive backed labels or non-adhesive tags

Input to Printer

Printer Output There is no printer output for this command
Special Notes 1. When power is recycled, the Label/Tag setting returns to the default

<ESC>A
<ESC>YE0
<ESC>Z

value specified by the <ESC>PG command. To change the
default setting in the printer, use the <ESC>PG Printer
Configuration command or the Printer Setting Utility program on
the CD-ROM.

2. This command is used to control last label printing. If Label is

selected, the printer will stop printing as soon as a Label Out
condition is detected. If Tag is selected, the printer will continue to
print after a Label Out signal is detected until the current label is
printed.

SATOCT SeriesPrinters9001069A Page4-51

Section 4. Programming Reference

Line Feed

Command Structure <ESC>Eaaa

aaa = Number of dots (001-999) between the bottom of the

characters on one line to the top of the characters on

the next line
Example: <ESC>E010
Placement: Preceding the text that will use the line feed function
Default: None

Command Function To print multiple lines of the same character size without specifying a

new print position for each line. With the Line Feed command, specify
the number of dots you want between each line. Then, send an ASCII
<CR> at the end of each line of text. The printer automatically
identifies the size of the last character, moves down the number of
dots specified, and begins printing the next line.

Input to Printer

Printer Output

Special Notes 1. This command can be used for text and for bar codes.

<ESC>A
<ESC>E010<ESC>H0050<ESC>V0050<ESC>L0202<ESC>S
THIS IS THE 1ST LINE<CR>
THIS IS THE 2ND LINE<CR>
THIS IS THE 3RD LINE<CR>
<ESC>Q1<ESC>Z

2. It is effective only for the current data stream.

3. When printing lines or boxes in the same data stream with the Line

Feed command, the Lines and Boxes command should be
specified last, preceding <ESC>Q Quantity command.

Page 4-529001069A SATOCTSeriesPrinters

Section 4. Programming Reference

4. This command is invalid only if the value specified is zero.

5. Following this command with a <CR> character will allow you to
print with auto line feed. In this case, the print position will be
determined from the value specified in the command and the H
value set in the printer. However, if you specify several H values
after this command, the print position will be determined by the H
value last specified. You must redefine the font to be used after
each H command.

SATOCT SeriesPrinters9001069A Page4-53

Section 4. Programming Reference

Media Size

Command Structure <ESC>A1aaaabbbb

aaaa = Vertical Media Size in dots (0 to Vmax)
bbbb = Horizontal Media Size in dots (0 to Hmax)

Example: <ESC>A108323200
Placement: Separate data stream to the printer.
Default: <ESC>A108323200 for CT400

<ESC>A108324800 for CT410

Command Function To set the size of the media.

Input to Printer:

Printer Output: Ther is no printer output resulting from this command. It is used to

Special Notes 1. The Base Reference point is always the on the right (looking at the

<ESC>A
<ESC>A108323200
<ESC>Z

automatically adjust the offset values for the size of label being used.

front of the printer) side of the print head. This command adjusts
the Base Reference Point to correspond with the right edge of the
loaded media.

2. If the label size is changed, then this command must be respecified
to center the print image on the label.

3. All eight variables (“aaaa” and “bbbb”) must be included in this
command.

Page 4-549001069A SATOCTSeriesPrinters

Section 4. Programming Reference

Off-Line

Command Structure <ESC>@

Example: See above
Placement: Anywhere in the print job between <ESC>A and <ESC>Z
Default: None

Command Function To specify the printer to come to an off-line state. When used within a

print job, the printer goes off-line after finishing the print job.

Input to Printer

Printer Output There is no printer output for this command. The printer is placed in

Special Notes 1. You must press the LINE key on the front panel to return the printer

<ESC>A
<ESC>@
<ESC>Z

the Off-Line mode as soon as the current print job is finished.

to an on-line status (see Operator Panel in Section 2 of this
manual).

2. Remember, when using this command, that if the print job specifies
<ESC>Q10, all ten labels will print before the printer will go
off-line.

SATOCT SeriesPrinters9001069A Page4-55

Section 4. Programming Reference

Postnet

Command Structure <ESC>BPn...n

n...n = 5 digits (Postnet-32 format)

6 digits (Postnet-37 format)
9 digits (Postnet-52 format)
11 digits (Postnet-62, Delivery Point format)

Example: <ESC>BP123456789
Placement: Immediately preceding the data to be encoded
Default: None

Command Function To print Postnet bar codes

Printer Input

Printer Output

Special Notes 1. If the number of data digits does not match those listed, the

<ESC>A
<ESC>H0100<ESC>V0120<ESC>BP94089
<ESC>H0100<ESC>V0160<ESC>BP123456
<ESC>H0100<ESC>V0200<ESC>BP123456789
<ESC>H0100<ESC>V0240<ESC>BP12345678901
<ESC>Q1<ESC>Z

command is ignored.

2. Only numeric data will be accepted.

Page 4-569001069A SATOCTSeriesPrinters