SATO DR308e Operator's Manual

For printer model:

Operator Manual

DR308e

Read this Operator Manual before and during usage of the above product.

Keep this document handy for future reference.

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

• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.

• Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.

• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is
connected.

• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/ TV technician for help.

Be sure to ask your dealer about our maintenance contracts to

ensure a peace of mind during your usage of SATO products.

Please refer to the back cover for SATO Group Member Company

closest to your location. You may also visit our home page at

www.satoworldwide.com for further updated details.

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. The materials in this document are
provided for general information and are subject to change without notice. SATO assumes no
responsibilities for any errors that may appear.

Version: SI-DR308e-01rA-14-07-08OM

© Copyright 2008

SATO International Pte Ltd

Safety Precautions

DR308e Operator’s Manual Page i

Please read the following information carefully before installing and using the printer.

The Warning symbol

Whenever the triangular Warning symbol appears in this manual, pay special attention to the warning(s) cited
below it. Failure to abide by the warnings may create the danger of death or serious personal injury.

The Caution symbol

Whenever the triangular Caution symbol appears in this manual, pay special attention to the warning(s) cited
below it. Failure to abide by the warnings may result in injury or damage to property.

On Power Supply

Safety Precautions

• Do not use any other voltage except
the specified power voltage for the
printer that matches your domestic
power supply. Otherwise, it may
cause fires or electric shocks.

• Do not damage, break, or process the power
cable. Avoid placing heavy objects on, heating or
pulling the power cable. This may damage the
power cable and cause fires or electric shocks.

• When the power cable is damaged (cable conduc­tors are exposed or cut, etc.), contact a sales out­let, dealer, or service center. In this case,
continued use of the printer may cause fires or
electric shocks.

• Do not process, forcibly bend, twist, or pull the
power cable. Continued use of such a cable may
cause fires or electric shocks.

• If the printer emits any smoke or peculiar odors at
any time, stop using the printer immediately. Turn
off the power immediately, disconnect the power
cable from the power outlet, and contact a sales
outlet, dealer, or service center.

• Do not operate the power switch or handle the
power cable with a wet hand. Otherwise, it may
cause electric shocks.

• To reduce electrical risks, be sure
to connect the printer to ground
before use. Also, try not to share
the printer’s AC outlet with other
electrical equipment, especially
those that draw high amounts of
current or cause electrical interference.

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Ground

• Place the printer on a solid, stable,
horizontal surface that is not sub­ject to strong vibrations from adja­cent mechanical devices. This
may cause malfunction and
shorten the life span of the printer.

• Avoid shaky or slanting tables, or
platforms that are liable to col­lapse under a heavy weight. If the
printer is dropped or damaged,
immediately turn off the power,
pull out the power plug and con­tact a service center. In this case, continued use of
the printer may cause a fire or electric shocks.

• Avoid installing the printer in direct
sunlight, or in dusty, very hot or
slippery areas. Also avoid place­ment in damp, unventilated or
humid areas. If condensation
forms, immediately turn off the
power, and do not use the printer until the conden­sation disappears. Otherwise the moisture may
cause electric shocks.

• Avoid placing the printer near large high-current
equipment, as such equipment can cause spikes
or under-voltages in the power supply.

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On Installation

Safety Precautions

Page ii DR308e Operator’s Manual

• Do not leave containers of liquid or chemicals
around the printer. If any liquid is spilled onto the
printer, immediately turn off the power, pull out the
power cable from the AC outlet, and contact a
sales outlet, dealer, or service center. In this case,
continued use of the printer may cause fires or
electric shocks.

• Do not insert or drop anything metallic or flamma­ble into the openings of the printer (the cable out­let). Otherwise, immediately turn off the power,
disconnect the power cable from the power outlet,
and contact a sales outlet, dealer, or service cen­ter. In this case, continued use of the printer may
cause fires or electric shocks.

• When moving the printer, be sure to pull out the
power cable from the AC outlet, and check that
any other external interface cables have been dis­connected. Otherwise, the connected cables may
be damaged, or may cause trips and falls, in addi­tion to or a fire or electric shocks.

• This printer has a built-in optical sensor. Expose to
strong lighting will make the sensor less respon­sive and may cause the label to be sensed incor­rectly. Close the cover when printing.

• The optional head cleaning liquid is flammable.
Never heat it or throw it into a fire. Keep it out of
children’s reach to avoid accidental consumption.
Should this occur, consult a doctor immediately.

• When opening or closing the cover, beware of get­ting your fingers caught. Also, hold the opening/
closing cover well so that it will not slip and fall on
your hand.

• After printing, the print head remains hot. When
replacing paper or cleaning the printer immedi­ately after printing, be careful not to burn yourself.

• Touching even the edge of the printer head may
cause injuries. When replacing paper or cleaning
the printer, be careful not to hurt yourself.

• If the printer will not be used for extended periods
of time, disconnect the power cable for safety.

• When releasing and locking down the printer head,
be careful not to catch any other foreign matter in
it except loaded media.

• Do not disassemble or perform modifications to
the printer, as this renders the product unsafe. For
maintenance, troubleshooting and repairs, consult
a sales outlet, dealer, or service center for help,
instead of attempting to perform this yourself.
Renewable annual service contracts are available.

• When maintaining or cleaning the printer, always
disconnect the power cable for safety.

• Do not insert your hand or other objects into the
cutter when the option cutter is installed.

• When loading roll media, be careful not to catch
your fingers between the media and the feeder.

On Installation (cont’d)

On General Handling

Table of Contents

DR308e Operator’s Manual Page iii

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1 Introduction

1.1 Unpacking ..............................................................................................................1-2

1.2 Parts Identification .................................................................................................1-3

2 Installation

2.1 Site Location ..........................................................................................................2-2

2.2 Media Selection .....................................................................................................2-2

2.3 Loading Labels or Tags ........................................................................................2-3

2.4 Loading the Carbon Ribbon .................................................................................3-7

2.5 Remove the Carbon Ribbon .................................................................................3-9

2.6 Adjusting the Pitch Sensor ..................................................................................2-9

2.7 Connections ...........................................................................................................2-10

3 Operation and Configuration

3.1 Operation Panel .....................................................................................................3-2

3.2 Operating Modes ...................................................................................................3-3

3.3 ONLINE And OFFLINE Modes ..............................................................................3-5

3.4 Printer Setting Modes ...........................................................................................3-6

3.5 Paper (media) Mode ..............................................................................................3-6

3.6 User Mode ..............................................................................................................3-7

3.7 Interface Mode .......................................................................................................3-11

3.8 Advance Mode .......................................................................................................3-15

3.9 HEX Dump Mode ...................................................................................................3-22

3.10 Test Print Mode .....................................................................................................3-24

3.11 Default Setting Mode .............................................................................................3-26

4 Cleaning and Maintenance

4.1 Cleaning The Print Head, Platen and Rollers .....................................................4-2

4.2 How To Clean The Printer (Cleaning Kit) ............................................................4-2

4.3 How To Clean The Printer (Cleaning Sheet) .......................................................4-3

4.4 Adjusting Print Quality .........................................................................................4-4

5 Troubleshooting

5.1 Error signal troubleshooting ...............................................................................5-2

5.2 Troubleshooting table ...........................................................................................5-4

5.3 Interface troubleshooting .....................................................................................5-5

5.4 Test print troubleshooting ....................................................................................5-6

6 General Specifications

6.1 Printer Basic Specifications .................................................................................6-1

6.2 Optional Accessories Specifications ..................................................................6-5

Table of Contents

Page iv DR308e Operator’s Manual

7 Interface Specifications

7.1 Interface types .......................................................................................................7-1

7.2 RS232C High Speed Serial Interface ...................................................................7-2

7.3 IEEE 1284 Parallel Interface .................................................................................7-6

7.4 Local Area Network (LAN) Ethernet ....................................................................7-8

7.5 Universal Serial Bus (USB) Interface ...................................................................7-9

7.6 External Signal Interface (EXT) ............................................................................7-9

8 Optional Accessories

8.1 Cutter ......................................................................................................................8-1

8.2 Stacker ...................................................................................................................8-2

8.3 Dispenser ...............................................................................................................8-4

8.4 External Rewinding Unit .......................................................................................8-5

8.5 Keypad ...................................................................................................................8-6

8.6 Calendar IC ............................................................................................................8-6

9 Sato Group of Companies ......................................................... Back cover

Section 1: Introduction

DR308e Operator’s Manual Page 1-1

INTRODUCTION

Thank you for your investment in this SATO printer product.

This Operator’s Manual contains basic information about the installation, setup, configuration, operation and
maintenance of the printer.

A total of eight topics are covered herein, and they are organized as follows:

Section 1: Introduction
Section 2: Installation
Section 3: Operation and Configuration
Section 4: Cleaning and Maintenance
Section 5: Troubleshooting
Section 6: General Specifications
Section 7: Interface Specifications
Section 8: Optional Accessories

It is recommended that you become familiar with each section before installing and maintaining the printer.
Refer to the Table Of Contents at the front of this manual to search for the relevant information needed. All
page numbers in this manual consist of a section number followed by the page number within the stated
section.

For specialized programming, refer to the separate Programming Manual.

This section assists you in unpacking the printer from the shipping container. You will also be guided through
a familiarization tour of the main parts and controls.
The following information is provided herein:

• Unpacking

• Parts Identification

Section 1: Introduction

Page 1-2 DR308e Operator’s Manual

1.1 UNPACKING

When unpacking the printer, take note of the following:

1. The box should stay right-side up.
Lift the printer out of the box carefully.

2. Remove all the packaging covering from the printer.

3. Remove the accessory items from their protective containers.

4. Set the printer on a solid, flat surface. Inspect the shipping container and printer for any sign of damage

that may have occurred during shipping.

Notes

• If the printer was been stored in the cold, allow it to reach room temperature before turning it on.

• Please do not discard the original packaging box and cushioning material after installing the printer. They
may be needed in future, if the printer needs to be shipped for repairs.

1.1.1 Included Accessories

After unpacking the printer, verify that the following materials are in the accessories or packaging:

k c i u Q
e d i u G

User Documentations
(Quick Guide, Warranty, etc.)

Head cleaning sheet

Power cable*

Ferrite core (for attaching

to power cable)

Ribbon core (for winding)

Extension guide plates,
core adaptor, screw to
secure the core adaptor

* The shape of the power plug may varied depending on the location of purchased.

Section 1: Introduction

DR308e Operator’s Manual Page 1-3

1.2 PARTS IDENTIFICATION

1 Main Cover

Front View of DR308e

2 Display panel

3 STATUS (LED) indicator

4 LINE button

5 FEED button

6 Media ejection slot

8 Cover for potentiometer

and Dip switch compart­ment

7 Optional device

compartment

Main cover

Open and close this cover to load the media
and ribbon.

Display panel

Displays an error and operation messages.

STATUS (LED)

Lights or flashes to indicate the printer status.
It turns red when error occurred, turns green
when printing and data communication are
enabled (ONLINE) and turns off when the
printer is in OFFLINE mode.

LINE button

Used to start or stop printing, and also to
toggle between the on/off settings for data
transmission and reception.

When the printer is in configuration setting
mode, it is pressed to select options or adjust
the settings.

FEED button

Press once to feed one blank label.

When the printer is in configuration setting
mode, it is pressed to enters to the selected
mode.

Media ejection slot

Opening for media output.

Optional device compartment

This printer comes with a tear-off cover. An
optional device can be installed on this
compartment, e.g. dispenser, cutter, stacker or
external rewinding unit.

Cover for potentiometers and Dip switch
compartment

Open the cover to access the potentiometers
and Dip switch for adjustment.

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Section 1: Introduction

Page 1-4 DR308e Operator’s Manual

1.2 PARTS IDENTIFICATION (cont’d)

9 POWER switch

Back View of DR308e

10 FUSE holder

11 AC IN power terminal

13 Interface slot

14 EXT external connector

terminal

12 Keypad connection

terminal

POWER switch

Turns power On(-) or Off(O).

FUSE holder

Used to hold a fuse which protect the printer
from unstable power supply surge.

AC IN power terminal

Supplies power to the printer by inserting the
power cable.

Keypad connection terminal

Used to connect to the optional keypad.

Interface slot (option)

Optional interface slot for connection to a host
PC. An option of RS-232C (High-speed)
interface board, IEEE1284 interface board,
LAN interface board and USB interface board
are available for connection.

External connector terminal

Interface connector for external signals.

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Section 1: Introduction

DR308e Operator’s Manual Page 1-5

1.2 PARTS IDENTIFICATION (cont’d)

18 Ribbon supply spindle

Side View of DR308e with main cover open

17 Roll media guide

25 Media guide shaft

22 Platen roller

15 Supplied yellow

screwdriver

19 Ribbon take-up spindle

20 Head lock lever

23 Pitch sensor

24 Pitch sensor guide

16 Roll media supply spindle

21 Print head

Supplied yellow screwdriver

Used to adjust the potentiometers and Dip
switches.

Roll media supply spindle

Used to load the roll media, tag or label.

Roll media guide

Set to meet the size of the media used.

Ribbon supply spindle

Used to load the ribbon.

Ribbon take-up spindle

Used to wind up the used ribbon.

Head lock lever

Used to open and close the print head.

Print head

This component is used to print on the paper.
Perform maintenance at regular intervals.

Platen roller

This roller feeds the paper. Perform
maintenance at regular intervals.

Pitch sensor

Detects the holes in the tag stock so that the
media can be cut off by the cutter.

Pitch sensor guide

Adjustment slide used to align the position of
the pitch sensor with the holes.

Media guide shaft

Set to meet the size of the media used.

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24

25

Section 1: Introduction

Page 1-6 DR308e Operator’s Manual

1.2 PARTS IDENTIFICATION (cont’d)

26 CHECK connector

Adjustment compartment at the right bottom side of DR308e

27 DISP potentiometer

31 PRINT

potentiometer

28 F-OFFSET potentiometer

29 J-HOLE potentiometer

30 IM potentiometer

32 OFFSET potentiometer

33 PITCH potentiometer

34 DSW dip switch

35 GAP potentiometer

CHECK connector

This is a connection terminal for sensor level
adjustment jig.This is only used by Sato
certified servicing personnel.

DISP potentiometer

To adjust the sensing level of the optional
dispenser.

F-OFFSET potentiometer

Factory offset adjustment. Adjust only when
instructed by Sato certified servicing
personnel.

J-HOLE potentiometer

Jump hole sensor adjustment.

IM potentiometer

I-mark sensor adjustment.

PRINT potentiometer

To adjust the darkness of the printing.

OFFSET potentiometer

To adjust the option stop positions (cutter
position, dispensing position and tear-off
position).

PITCH potentiometer

To adjust the beginning print position.

DSW dip switch

To set the printer to different modes when
servicing. This is only used by Sato certified
servicing personnel.

GAP potentiometer

Gap sensor adjustment.

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Section 2: Installation

DR308e Operator’s Manual Page 2-1

INSTALLATION

This section assists you in installing consumable media to the printer, as well as adjustment instructions and
installing other optional attachment units.

The following information is provided:

• 2.1 Site Location

• 2.2 Media Selection

• 2.3 Loading Labels or Tags

• 2.4 Loading the Carbon Ribbon

• 2.5 Remove the Carbon Ribbon

• 2.6 Adjusting the Pitch Sensor

• 2.7 Connections

Section 2: Installation

Page 2-2 DR308e Operator’s Manual

2.1 SITE LOCATION

Consider the following when setting up the printer:

• Place the printer on a solid flat surface with adequate room. Make sure there is enough room at the
top and right-hand (facing the printer) side to provide clearance for the label access door to swing
open.

• Place it away from hazardous materials or dusty environments.

• Place it within operational distance of the host computer, within interface cable specifications

2.2 MEDIA SELECTION

The size and type of the labels or tags to be printed should have been taken into consideration before printer
purchase. Ideally, the media width will be equal to, or just narrower than, the print head. Using media that
does not cover the print head will allow the platen roller to tread on it and wear it out. The media edge will also
wear a groove in the platen roller affecting print quality.

Note:

For optimal print performance and durability, please use SATO-certified label and ribbon supplies
on this printer. Using supplies not tested and approved for use by SATO can result in unnecessary

wear and damage to vital parts of the printer, and may void the warranty.

This printer can use five different types of media: three types of tag stock and two types of label media.
The methods used for loading tag stock and label media differ.

Tag stock

Center-hole
tag

Front side

Hole

Side-hole
tag

l-mark tag

Front side

Hole

Front side

l-mark

Reverse side

Front side

Front side

Fold perforation

I-mark

Reverse side

Label gap

Label
I-mark

1.5 mm

Label

3 mm

Gap (spacing)

3 mm

Gap (spacing)

Paper feed direction

Paper feed direction

Paper feed direction

Paper feed direction

Paper feed direction

Section 2: Installation

DR308e Operator’s Manual Page 2-3

2.2 MEDIA SELECTION (cont’d)

This printer accepts two types of media core sizes, φ 40mm (1.5in.) and φ100mm (4in.). When using φ100mm
(4in.) core size media, the supplied core adaptor and guide plates need to be installed to the printer. Please
refer to Section 2.3.2 Loading Roll media with a large media core on page 2-5 for further instructions.

2.3 LOADING LABELS OR TAGS

2.3.1 Loading Roll media with small media core

1.

With the power supply is off, lift up the main cover.
Make sure that the cover rests firmly so that it will not fall
forward and injure your hands.

2. Remove the roll media guide by pressing the release

tab with your thumb and index finger and pulling it out.

3. Load the media to the roll media supply spindle.

Make sure the media leader is pull out from the bottom
and the printed side is facing upwards. Push the roll
firmly towards the end of the spindle.

φ 40mm (1.5”)

φ100mm (4”)

Main cover

Printed
side
should
face
upwards

Section 2: Installation

Page 2-4 DR308e Operator’s Manual

2.3 LOADING LABELS OR TAGS (cont’d)

4.

Attach the roll media guide back and make sure that
the roll media guide pushes snugly against the media
roll to prevent media drift during printing.

5. Release the purple head lock lever by turning counter

clockwise.
The print head assembly will be lifted up to allow media
loading.

6. Insert the media into the media guide from a sideways

angle, so that the media passes underneath the media
guide shaft and pitch sensor guide.

Inspect the media routing and verify that the path
matches that illustrated on the inner side of the main
cover.

7. Lightly push the entire media against the media guide

designated position. Adjust the sliding guide until it
lightly touches the edge of the label.

8. Now remount the print head by turning the head lock

lever clockwise until it latch on. The print head should

lock into place firmly.

9. After loading the media and the carbon ribbon, close the

main cover and do a test print to check that the media
roll has been loaded properly. See Section 3.10 Test
Print Mode on page3-24 for instructions on how to run
test print.

Notes:

• Be careful not to get your fingers caught at the bottom
ledge when you are closing the main cover.

• If the optional cutter or dispenser has been pur­chased, see Section 8 Optional Accessories on
page 8-1 on how to route the media.

Caution

• When replacing media, bear in mind that the print head and its surrounding area remain hot. Keep
your fingers away from these areas to prevent injury.

• Avoid touching even the edge of the print head with your bare hands.

Head lock
lever
(purple)

Media guide shaft

Pitch sensor
guide

Sliding guide

Head lock
lever
(purple)

Section 2: Installation

DR308e Operator’s Manual Page 2-5

2.3 LOADING LABELS OR TAGS (cont’d)

2.3.2 Loading Roll media with a large media core

1.

With the power supply is off, lift up the main cover.
Make sure that the cover rests firmly so that it will not fall
forward and injure your hands.

2. Remove the roll media guide by pressing the release

tab with your thumb and index finger and pulling it out.

3. Unfasten the screw holding the roll media supply spin-

dle. Use a flat-blade screwdriver to unfasten the screw.

4. Rotate the spindle to 90 degree in the upper right (coun-

ter clockwise) direction.

5. Fasten the screw that you unfastened in step 3.

Main cover

Roll media
guide

Section 2: Installation

Page 2-6 DR308e Operator’s Manual

2.3 LOADING LABELS OR TAGS (cont’d)

6.

Attached a supplied extension guide plate to the side
of the roll media supply spindle. Attached the other
two extension guide plate to the roll media guide.

7. Insert the supplied core adaptor to the roll media

supply spindle. Align the screw hole of the core adap­tor with the specific screw hole on the supply spindle

according to the width of media used as stated in the
table below.

8. Fasten the core adaptor in place with the supplied

screw.

9. Load the media.

Follow the instructions of Section 2.3.1 Loading Roll
media with small media core from step 3 onwards.

Caution

• When replacing media, bear in mind that the print
head and its surrounding area remain hot. Keep your
fingers away from these areas to prevent injury.

• Avoid touching even the edge of the print head with
your bare hands.

Core adaptor attachment

position

Media width

Attachment hole 1 Up to 50 mm (2in.)

Attachment hole 2 50 mm (2in.)to 80 mm (3in.)

Attachment hole 3 Not used

2

3

1

Core
adaptor

Roll
media
supply
spindle

Section 2: Installation

DR308e Operator’s Manual Page 2-7

2.4 LOADING THE CARBON RIBBON

This printer enable two types of printing application, Thermal transfer and Direct thermal. Thermal transfer
paper media requires the use of carbon ribbon for print application. In such a scenario, it is the carbon ribbon
that contains the ink that will be transferred to the media. Direct thermal paper media has a coating on the
surface that is made visible through the application of heat from the print head. In this case, there is no need
of loading the carbon ribbon.

1. With the power supply is off, lift up the main cover.

Make sure that the cover rests firmly so that it will not fall
forward and injure your hands.

2. Release the purple head lock lever by turning counter

clockwise.
The print head assembly will be lifted up.

3. Open the carbon ribbon package, and then load the

ribbon on the ribbon supply spindle.
Push it inwards all the way, with the ribbon winding in a
counter-clockwise direction. The dull side of the ribbon
should be facing down as it travels through the print
head assembly.

Note:

Use only genuine SATO carbon ribbons for maximum
print quality and printer durability.

4. Mount the empty ribbon core on the ribbon take-up

spindle.

When loading the carbon ribbon for the first time, an
empty ribbon core is supplied with the printer. However,
the subsequent ribbon core can be obtained from the
last used up ribbon roll.

Main cover

Purple head
head lever

Section 2: Installation

Page 2-8 DR308e Operator’s Manual

2.4 LOADING THE CARBON RIBBON (cont’d)

5.

From the ribbon supply spindle, pass the carbon
ribbon underneath the print head assembly to the
ribbon take-up spindle. Route the ribbon behind and
over the top of the ribbon take-up spindle and tape the
leader portion of the carbon ribbon to the ribbon core.
Then turn the take-up spindle several times in the
direction of counter-clockwise to wind the ribbon around
the core. Confirm that the ribbon has been loaded as
shown in the figure on the right or as illustrated on the
inner side of the main cover.

Note:

Do not pass the carbon ribbon underneath the pitch sen­sor unit.

6. Now remount the print head by turning the head lock

lever clockwise until it latch on. The print head should

lock into place firmly.

7. After loading the media and the carbon ribbon, close the

main cover and do a test print to check that the media
roll has been loaded properly. See Section 3.10 Test
Print Mode on page3-24 for instructions on how to run

test print.

Caution

• When replacing carbon ribbon, bear in mind that the print head and its surrounding area remain hot.
Keep your fingers away from these areas to prevent injury.

• Avoid touching even the edge of the print head with your bare hands.

Media

Ribbon

Print head
assembly

Pitch
sensor

Tape

Figure showing carbon ribbon and media path

Head lock
lever

Main
cover

Section 2: Installation

DR308e Operator’s Manual Page 2-9

2.5 REMOVE THE CARBON RIBBON

After the carbon ribbon has used up to the end of the roll, remove the wound-up carbon ribbon from the
printer.

1. With the power supply is off, lift up the main cover and

release the purple head lock lever by turning counter
clockwise.

2. Remove the wound-up carbon ribbon from the take-up

spindle in the direction of the arrow.

Be careful when removing the carbon ribbon, your hands
may get dirty while handling it.

Note:

Don’t dispose of the empty ribbon core after removing it
from the ribbon supply spindle. Instead, transfer it to
the ribbon take-up spindle so that used ribbon can be
wound around it after a new ribbon roll has been loaded.

2.6 ADJUSTING THE PITCH SENSOR

The pitch sensor unit has both I-Mark (reflective) and Gap/ Tag-hole (transmissive) sensors and the Gap/
Tag-hole sensor can be adjusted over a limited range. Adjustment of the pitch sensor is usually not
necessary, unless a media with tag-hole (center/ side) is loaded.

1. With the power supply is off, lift up the main cover.

Make sure that the cover rests firmly so that it will not fall
forward and injure your hands.

2. Release the purple head lock lever by turning counter

clockwise.
The print head assembly will be lifted up to reveal the
pitch sensor unit. The purple pitch sensor unit is just
locate under the print head assembly.

3. Slide the pitch sensor guide to align the position of the

Gap/ Tag-hole sensor (marked with a triangle) to the tag­hole (center/ side) of the loaded media.
The Gap/ Tag-hole sensor can be adjusted from a mini­mum of 16 mm (0.63in.) to a maximum of 74 mm
(2.91in.).

4. After adjustment, do a test print to see if the sensor is

working properly.
See Section 3.10 Test Print Mode on page3-24 for
instructions on how to run test print.

Align the position of the Gap/
Tag-hole sensor (marked with a
triangle) to the tag-hole (center/
side) of the loaded media.

Pitch sensor guide

Section 2: Installation

Page 2-10 DR308e Operator’s Manual

2.7 CONNECTIONS

This section explains the power cable and interface cable connection procedures.

2.7.1 Install and connecting the interface board

This printer has a flexibility to select a suitable interface options for communication to the host computer.
The following Plug-in interface boards are available.

• RS-232C (High-speed) interface board

• IEEE1284 interface board

• LAN interface board

• USB interface board

*Installation of the interface board should be done by Sato certified servicing personnel.

1. Make sure that power cable is not connected to the

printer.

2. Align the interface board with the guide of the interface

slot opening at the back of the printer as shown.

3. Lightly push the interface board into the printer until you

feel the connection of the interface board.

4. Secure the interface board with two screws.

5. Connect the interface cable from the host computer to

the printer.
Use a cable that is compatible with the standard of the
installed interface board. Make sure the cable is cor­rectly oriented. Secure the printer with one hand, and
insert the cable firmly.

Caution

• Always turn the printer OFF before attaching or
detaching an interface card. Otherwise, severe elec­trical damage may be incurred, or bodily injury may
be sustained.

• Never connect or disconnect interface cables (or use
a switch box) with power applied to either the host or
printer. This may caused damage to the interface cir­cuitry in the printer/ host and is not covered by war­ranty.

2.7.2 Connecting the optional keypad

This printer has a feature to connect to an optional keypad. This enable users to enter simple command to the
printer, by the connected keypad, without connecting to a host computer.

1. Make sure that power cable is not connected to the

printer.

2. Connect the cable from the optional keypad to the

keypad terminal at the back of the printer. Make sure the

cable is correctly oriented. Secure the printer with one
hand, and insert the cable firmly.

3. Set the printer to be ready for using with the keypad.

Refer to Section 8.5 Keypad on page 8-6 for details.

Align the interface board with the
guide of the interface slot opening.

Section 2: Installation

DR308e Operator’s Manual Page 2-11

2.7 CONNECTIONS (cont’d)

2.7.3 Instruction to attach the ferrite cores to the power cable

Open the two supplied ferrite cores, wrap them to the both end of the power cable and attach them as shown
below. Make sure to squeeze the ferrite core until it clicks.

* The shape of the power plug may varied depending on the location of purchased.

2.7.4 Connecting the Power Cable

Warning

• Be sure to connect the ground wire. Failure to do so may cause an electric shock.

• Do not operate the power switch or insert/remove the power cable while your hands are wet. Doing
so may cause an electric shock.

Caution

The power cable provided with this printer is for use with this printer only. It cannot be used with other
electrical devices.

1. Connect the power cable to the AC IN power terminal on

the rear panel of the printer.
Make sure that the connector is correctly oriented.
Secure the printer with one hand, and insert the connec­tor firmly.

2. Insert the power plug into a AC power outlet.

A 3-pin plug is attached to the power cord provided with
your printer. One of these pins is the ground wire.
If the power outlet that you plan to use is a 3-pin type,
simply insert the power plug as is.

Power outlet end

Printer end

Section 2: Installation

Page 2-12 DR308e Operator’s Manual

2.7 CONNECTIONS (cont’d)

2.7.5 Turning On the Power

Warning

Do not operate the power switch or insert/remove the power cable while your hands are wet. Doing so
may cause an electric shock.

Turn on the POWER switch on the printer’s rear panel.
Press the side of the switch marked “-”.
When you turn on the power, “ONLINE” appears on the
display.

2.7.6 Turning Off the Power

When you have completed the printing job, turn the printer
off.

1. Press the LINE button to put the printer offline.

Be sure to confirm that the printer is in the offline status
before turning it off.
If there is any printed paper remaining in the printer, cut
it off.

2. Turn off the power switch on the printer’s rear panel.

Press the side of the switch marked “O”.

OnOff

OnOff

Section 3: Operation and Configuration

DR308e Operator’s Manual Page 3-1

OPERATION AND CONFIGURATION

Before using the printer, it is best to read this manual thoroughly first. Otherwise, you may disturb default
settings around which the instructional procedures in this manual are based upon.

The printer may be manually configured via the LINE and FEED buttons with the LCD panel on the front of
printer and/or potentiometers and DSW Dip switch located on the printer’s side. All of the printer’s buttons,
switches, and potentiometers are used either singularly, or in conjunction, to perform configuration activities.

Many of these settings can also be controlled via software commands and in case of conflict between
software and control panel settings, the printer will always use the last valid setting. If you load a label job that
includes software settings and then enter a new setting via the LCD panel, the manually set values will be
used by the printer. If you set the values manually and then download a job with software settings, the
software settings will be used.

Section 3: Operation and Configuration

Page 3-2 DR308e Operator’s Manual

3.1 OPERATION PANEL

The operation panel locate on the front consist of one two-color (red and green) LED indicator, two
momentary contact buttons and one LCD display. There are eight adjustment potentiometers and a DIP
switch located on the right bottom side when you are facing the printer. Remove the covers in order to access
for adjustment.

• STATUS LED
Two-color (Red, Green) LED that indicates the following
status conditions:
Green - Illuminated when printer is ready to receive data.
It is turned on and off by toggling the LINE button.
Red - Illuminated or blinked when there is a system fault
such as an open print head.
Off - When it is in Offline mode.

• LINE button
Pressing this button toggles the printer between the
online and offline mode. When the printer is online. it is
ready to receive data from host.This button acts as a
pause during a print job by taking the printer offline.
This button also function to adjust the value of the
selected item or switching to different mode during
printer setting with the LCD display.

• FEED button
Pressing this button feeds one blank label through the
printer when it is offline. When the printer in online,
another copy of the last label will be printed.
This button also function as item selection during printer
setting with the LCD display.

To open and close the cover of the potentiometers and DIP switch

• DISP potentiometer
This potentiometer is used to adjust the sensing level of the dispenser. Active only when the label dis­penser option is installed.

• F-OFFSET potentiometer
This potentiometer is to set the factory zeroing for the OFFSET potentiometer. Usually changes of this set­ting is not require. Adjust only when instructed by SATO certified servicing personnel.

Lift open both the cover from the left side of the lid
as shown.

To close the cover, align the catch of the right side
of the lid to the opening.

Section 3: Operation and Configuration

DR308e Operator’s Manual Page 3-3

3.1 OPERATION PANEL (cont’d)

• J-HOLE potentiometer
This potentiometer is used to adjust the sensing level for the jump hole sensor.

• IM potentiometer
This potentiometer is used to adjust the sensing level of the I-mark sensor.

• GAP potentiometer
This potentiometer is used to adjust the sensing level for the gap sensor.

• DSW Dip switch

These switches are to set the printer to different modes when servicing. This is only used by Sato
certified servicing personnel.

• PITCH potentiometer
This potentiometer adjusts the beginning print position in correspond to the adjustment value displayed in
the OFFSET VOLUME menu (User Mode).

• OFFSET potentiometer
This potentiometer adjusts the option (Cutter, Dispenser, Tear-off) stop position in correspond to the
adjustment value displayed in the OFFSET VOLUME menu (User Mode).

• PRINT potentiometer
This potentiometer adjusts the print darkness in correspond to the adjustment value displayed in the OFF­SET VOLUME menu (User Mode).

3.2 OPERATING MODES

The operating status of this printer can be set within one of the following modes:

1. Normal mode (including Online/Offline modes)

2. Printer Setting mode:

• Paper mode

• User mode

• Interface mode

• Advanced Mode

•Hex Dump mode

3. Test Print mode

4. Default Setting mode

The various modes are accessed by pressing the LINE button, FEED button and LCD screen while the printer
is Off, On or with certain printer settings in force.

Section 3: Operation and Configuration

Page 3-4 DR308e Operator’s Manual

3.2 OPERATING MODES (cont’d)

The following flow chart provides a clear summary of all the modes and their access method.

Normal Mode

(Online)

Normal Mode

(Offline)

Switch POWER
to On “-”

Power off

While pressing LINE button,
press FEED button

LINE button

Mode selection:

User Mode

FEED
button

Interface Mode

Paper(Media) Mode

HEX Dump Mode

Advanced Mode

While pressing FEED button,
switch POWER to On “-”

Test Print Mode

Default Setting

FEED
button

FEED
button

FEED
button

FEED
button

LINE
button

LINE
button

LINE
button

LINE
button

LINE
button

Print Cancel Mode

While pressing LINE and FEED buttons,
switch POWER to On “-”

Press LINE and
FEED buttons

Section 3: Operation and Configuration

DR308e Operator’s Manual Page 3-5

3.3 ONLINE AND OFFLINE MODES

The general and basic operation of the DR308e is via the Normal mode, which consists of the ONLINE and
OFFLINE modes.

3.3.1 Online Mode

Pressing the LINE button causes the printer to go ONLINE or OFFLINE
alternately.

When the printer is ONLINE, the following activities will be possible:

• The printer is ready to receive print data from the computer or other con­nected devices

• The printer is ready to start printing

The number displayed on the bottom line of LCD panel shows the media
quantity status. As soon as a print job is received, the display will indicate the
number of labels to be printed. When the label job begins to print, the display
will indicate the remaining number of labels to be printed.

When an asterik mark appears beside ONLINE, it indicates that the KEYPAD
PORT is set to ON. See Section 3.7.2 Enabling optional connected
Keypad on page 3-14 for details.
When a Plus sign appears beside ONLINE, it indicates that the printer is HEX
DUMP printing the data from Host computer. See Section 3.9 Hex Dump

Mode on page 3-22 for details.

3.3.2 Offline Mode

When the printer is ONLINE, pressing the LINE button once will cause the
printer to go OFFLINE.
When the printer is OFFLINE, the activities for ONLINE mode are no longer
possible, but the following activities will be possible:

• The printer can feed an empty label when you press the FEED button.

• The printer can be switched to other modes when you press the FEED
button while pressing the LINE button.

• Any printing job can be PAUSED once the printer is brought OFFLINE

3.3.3 Print Cancel Mode

1.

When the printer is OFFLINE, pressing both the LINE and FEED but­tons at the same time will switch the printer to Print Cancel mode. The
menu for canceling the print job then appears.

2. Press LINE button to switch between the selection, YES or NO. The

underline on display indicates the selected option. The default setting
is NO.
If the printer has a print job in memory, selecting YES will cause the job
to be cleared.

NOTE:

Be sure you want to cancel the print job before selecting yes as the job
cannot be recovered and will have to re-transmit to the printer.

3. Press FEED button to activate the selection.

If YES is selected, the message “CANCEL COMPLETE” will display
with 3 beep sound and then return to OFFLINE mode. All the print jobs
were cleared from memory.

Media quantity status

Section 3: Operation and Configuration

Page 3-6 DR308e Operator’s Manual

3.4 PRINTER SETTING MODES

There are five selection for the printer setting mode.

1. When the printer is OFFLINE, press the FEED button while pressing the LINE button.

PAPER MODE is first displayed.

2. Press the LINE button repeatedly will switch to different mode cyclically as shown.

3. When the desired mode is displayed, press FEED button to enter to the mode.

3.5 PAPER (MEDIA) MODE

Paper mode is to select the media used and enable the appropriate sensor.

1. When PAPER MODE is displayed, press the FEED button to set the media used.

2. Press the LINE button to select either TAG or LABEL is used. Then, press FEED button to enter the selec-

tion.

3. When LABEL is used, press LINE button to specified the types of label used. Select either GAP or I-MARK

label. Press FEED to activate the selection.
When TAG is used, press LINE to specific the types of tag used. Select CENTER (Gap) hole, SIDE (Gap)
hole or I-MARK tag, and press FEED button to activate the selection.
Printer returned to OFFLINE mode after setting.

LINE

LINE

LINE

LINE

LINE

Mode selection

While pressing LINE button,
press FEED button

FEED

Enters to
selected mode.

FEED

FEED

LINE

When LABEL
is selected

When TAG is
selected

LINE

FEED

FEED

OFFLINE mode

Section 3: Operation and Configuration

DR308e Operator’s Manual Page 3-7

3.6 USER MODE

The following settings are available in the User Mode.

1. When USER MODE is displayed, press the FEED button to enter to User mode for adjustment.
Note:

PASSWORD may prompt on the display if password input is enabled. Please refer to Sato certified servic­ing personnel for details in password inputting.

2. OFFSET VOLUME is first displayed. Press the LINE button repeatedly will switch to the next setting

options as shown above. To return to the previous setting option, press FEED button while pressing LINE
button.

3. When the desired setting option is displayed, press FEED button to enter to the mode for adjustment.



LINE

FEED

FEED FEED FEED

FEED FEED

FEED FEE D

FEED FEE D

FEED FEE D

FEED FEE D

FEED FEE D

LINE

LINE

LINE

LINE

LINE

LINE

OFFLINE mode

FEED

Password menu displayed
only when the password input
is enabled.

FEED

1

Return to OFFLINE mode.

Press FEED button while
pressing LINE button to return
to previous display.

1

Section 3: Operation and Configuration

Page 3-8 DR308e Operator’s Manual

3.6 USER MODE (cont’d)

3.6.1 Offset Volume mode

The Offset Volume mode display the adjustment value of PITCH, OFFSET and DARKNESS in conjunction
with the respective potentiometers on the side of the printer. Use the supplied yellow screwdriver to adjust the
potentiometer. It can be found attached on the inner side of the main cover. The value on the display changes
as you turn the screwdriver clockwise or counter-clockwise.

PITCH - The label Pitch is the distance from the leading edge (the edge that comes out of the printer

first) of a label and the leading edge of the next label.
The leading edge position of the label can be adjusted relative to the print head. Therefore,
the position to start printing will base on this setting. The adjustment range allowed is +/-

3.75 mm. A positive value moves the leading edge of the label forward (away from the print
head) while negative value moves the leading edge of the label back to the mechanism.

OFFSET - This setting adjusts the option (Cutter, Dispense, Tear off) stop position after a print out. The

adjustment range allowed is +/- 3.75 mm. A positive value moves the leading edge of the
label forward (away from the print head) while negative value moves the leading edge of the
label back to the mechanism.

DARKNESS - This setting adjusts the print darkness of the print-out. The adjustment range is from 0 to 90.

Note:

It is not advisable to set the print darkness to the higher position as a darker print-out requires
the print head to operate in a higher temperature. Operating in high temperature may damage
the print head in a long run.

You may wish to print a test print after completing the adjustments to ensure they are correct. Refer to
Section 3.10 Test Print Mode on page 3-24 for details.

-3.75mm

+3.75mm

Label feed direction

Head Reference
position

Gap

+

Adjustment

zero

Adjustment

-

Adjustment

Adjustment of Pitch setting

-3.75mm

+3.75mm

Label feed direction

Stop position for
cutting,dispense
or tear-off

+

Adjustment

zero

Adjustment

-

Adjustment

Adjustment of Offset setting

Reference position
for printing

Section 3: Operation and Configuration

DR308e Operator’s Manual Page 3-9

3.6 USER MODE (cont’d)

3.6.2 Setting Print Speed

This setting can be used to achieve a high print speed that does not
compromise print quality.

1. When PRINT SPEED is displayed, press FEED button to enter to Print

Speed setting mode.

2. Press LINE button to change the setting. Print speed can be set from

02 to 05 ips (inches/sec) with a increment of 01 ips cyclically.

3. Press FEED button to enter the setting.

If quality printing cannot be obtained due to the quality of the paper or
the printing contents, lower the speed accordingly.

3.6.3 Setting Print Darkness

This setting adjusts the print darkness of the print-out with reference to the
setting of the DARKNESS potentiometer.

1. When PRINT DARKNESS is displayed, press FEED button to enter to

Print Darkness setting mode.

2. Press LINE button to change the setting.

The current setting value is shown with *. This setting can be set from 1
(lightest) to 5 (darkest). The default setting is 3.

3. Press FEED button to enter the setting.

You may wish to print a test print after completing the adjustments to
ensure they are correct.

3.6.4 Setting Print Offset

Print Position Offset—which refers to the vertical and horizontal shifting
of the entire print area, relative to the start position of printing (V=0, H=0),
defined by default to be the bottom right hand corner of the label.
The V setting is for the Vertical print offset. A positive (+) offset means
the printing is shifted towards the print head; a negative (-) offset means
shifting away from the print head. If the PITCH setting has been used to
offset the vertical start position, then all Vertical offset adjustments are
made relative to that start position.
The H setting is for the Horizontal print offset. The + or - prefix
determines whether the offset is to the left or to the right of the reference
point.
The default value of both positions is +000 dot. The maximum values that
can be set for each is +/-400.

1. When PRINT OFFSET is displayed, press FEED button to enter to

Print Offset setting mode.

2. The underline indicates the digit is active for adjustment. Press LINE

button to change the setting and then press FEED button to shift to
the next digit or item for setting. When the FEED button is pressed
after setting the last digit, the setting will be save and next setting
option is displayed.

You may wish to print a test print after completing the adjustments to
ensure they are correct. Refer to Section 3.10 Test Print Mode on page

3-24 for details.

Print head

direction of label motion

ref point 0,0

H+V-H-

V+

Print offset

Section 3: Operation and Configuration

Page 3-10 DR308e Operator’s Manual

3.6 USER MODE (cont’d)

3.6.5 Setting Zero Slash Changeover

You can use this setting to determine whether zeroes are printed with a
slash across them or not. The zero slash (excluding Kanji) can be set to
either “0” or “Ø”.

1. When ZERO SLASH is displayed, press FEED button to enter to Zero

Slash setting mode.

2. Press LINE button to toggle between ON and OFF.

When ON is selected, the printer internal fonts will have a slash across
the center of the zero character. OFF means otherwise. The default
value is ON.

3. Press FEED button to enter your setting and proceed to the next

setting option.

3.6.6 Setting JIS Kanji Code Changeover

The printer can be set to use either JIS code or Shift JIS code.

1. When JIS CODE is displayed, press FEED button to enter to JIS code

setting mode.

2. Press LINE button to toggle between JIS and SJIS. The default value

is JIS code.

3. Press FEED button to enter your setting and proceed to the next

setting option.

Note:

This option is only valid for printing in Japanese.

3.6.7 Setting Character Pitch

This setting determines whether the space surrounding each text
character is of a fixed width, or whether that space is to be varied to be
visually more pleasant and proportional.

1. When CHARACTER PITCH is displayed, press FEED button to enter

to Character Pitch setting mode.

2. Press LINE button to toggle between PROPORT and FIXED. The

default value is PROPORT which is proportional.

3. Press FEED button to enter your setting and return to the OFFLINE

Mode.

Section 3: Operation and Configuration

DR308e Operator’s Manual Page 3-11

3.7 INTERFACE MODE

In this mode, you can set various parameters governing the use of interface cards. Due to the wide range of
interface cards available, only the default interface configuration settings are covered in this section. The
menus in the INTERFACE SET mode will be specific to type of interface card used. A flowchart overview of
advanced settings for all the optional interface cards is as shown in the following. Please refer to an
authorised service personnel for a detailed discussion on this advanced settings.

Overview of Interface Mode configurations

When INTERFACE MODE is displayed, press the FEED button to enter to Interface mode for adjustment.

Note:

PASSWORD may prompt on the display if password input is enabled. Please refer to Sato certified servic­ing personnel for details in password inputting.

FEED

Password menu displayed
only when the password input
is enabled.

FEED

LINE

LAN

setting

IEEE 1284

setting

RS-232C

setting

FEED

FEED

LINE

FEED

LINE

FEED

FEED

When STATUS4

is selected

OFFLINE mode

1

FEED

Other than

STATUS4

is selected

Return to OFFLINE mode.

Press FEED button while pressing
LINE button to return to previous
display.

1

Optional route.

The Interface setting option display
according to interface board installed.
There is no setting option when using
USB interface board.

Section 3: Operation and Configuration

Page 3-12 DR308e Operator’s Manual

3.7 INTERFACE MODE (cont’d)

3.7.1 Enabling Interface Card Configuration

INTERFACE SET is first displayed after entering to interface mode. Press FEED button if you wish to
configure the connected interface card.
The next display shows the connected interface card to be configured. Refer to the following flowcharts of the
all setting and LCD display menus available for LAN, IEEE1284 and RS-232C.
If USB interface card is connected, no selection is available.

If not, press LINE button, the next display lets you enable the optional keypad if connected.

Setting of LAN and IEEE1284

LAN setting mode

When STATUS4
is selected

After setting, re-start the printer by turning
the POWER off and then on.

FEED

BOARD

LCD

FEED

FEED

FEED

FEED

FEED

FEED

FEED

FEED

FEED

FEED

FEED

IEEE1284

setting mode

FEED

LINE

MULTI

1ITEM

FEED

FEED

LINE

LINE

LINE

LINE

LINE

LINE

Return to INTERFACE SET mode.

Press FEED button while pressing
LINE button to return to previous
display.

LAN

Setting completed.

KEYPAD PORT

is displayed.

2

Optional route.

FEED

FEED

IEEE 1284

Setting completed.

KEYPAD PORT

is displayed.

2

Section 3: Operation and Configuration

DR308e Operator’s Manual Page 3-13

3.7 INTERFACE MODE (cont’d)

Setting of RS-232C

2

FEED

FEED

Return to INTERFACE SET mode.

Press FEED button while pressing
LINE button to return to previous
display.

RS-232C

Setting mode

FEED

FEED

FEED

If DIPSW is selected

FEED

FEED

FEED

FEED FEED

FEED

FEED

FEED

FEED

LINE

LINE

LINE LINE

LINE

LINE

LINE

LINE LINE LINE

LINE

If STATUS2, STATUS3 or STATUS4 is selected

LINE

LINE

LINE

If LCD is
selected

If RDY/BSY or

XON/XOF is

selected

If the DIP switch is set to STATUS3 or STATUS4

If the DIP switch is set to RDY/BSY or XON/XOFF

RS-232C

Setting completed.

KEYPAD PORT

is displayed.

2

2

Optional route.

Section 3: Operation and Configuration

Page 3-14 DR308e Operator’s Manual

3.7 INTERFACE MODE (cont’d)

3.7.2 Enabling optional connected Keypad

1.

When KEYPAD PORT is displayed, press FEED button to enter to the
setting mode for enabling the keypad port.

2. Press LINE button to selected ON, if the optional keypad is connected,

or OFF, if the keypad is not connected.

Refer to Section 2.7.2 Connecting the optional keypad on page 2-10
for the connection of the optional keypad. Refer to the operator manual of
the keypad for details on operation.

3.7.3 Setting of printing codes to be ignore

When IGNORE is displayed, press FEED button to enter to the setting
mode.

Handling CR/LF codes

This setting determines whether Carriage Return and Line Feed codes
are processed or ignored.
Select YES to ignore the codes, and NO to process them. However, some
specific graphic data that is in Hex is not deleted.

1. Press LINE button to toggle the selection, YES or NO.

2. Press FEED to enter the setting.

If the communication protocol option is set to STATUS4, CAN/DLE set­ting option is displayed, otherwise, it is return to OFFLINE mode.

Handling CAN/DLE

This setting determines whether the CANCEL and DATA LINK ESCAPE
codes are processed or ignored. It only appears when the communication
protocol option is set to STATUS4.
Select YES to ignore the codes, and NO to process them.

1. Press LINE button to toggle the selection, YES or NO.

2. Press FEED to enter the setting. The printer returns to OFFLINE

mode.

Section 3: Operation and Configuration

DR308e Operator’s Manual Page 3-15

3.8 ADVANCE MODE

Advance Mode lets you configure the more advanced features of the printer hardware.

Overview of Interface Mode configurations

FEED

Password menu displayed
only when the password input
is enabled.

FEED

FEED

LINE

FEED

LINE

FEED

LINE

LINE

The selections are displayed
based on the options installed.

FEED

FEED

FEED

LINE

LINE

When dispenser or cutter is selected

When continuous or
tear-off is selected

FEED

Dispenser

Cutter

FEED

FEED

LINE

FEED

LINE

FEED

When dispenser or tear-off is selected

When
continuous
or cutter is
selected

FEED

FEED

Return to OFFLINE mode.

Press FEED button while pressing
LINE button to return to previous
display.

1

Optional route.

Proceed to CHECK

PITCH SIZE display.

Disable is selected

Enable is
selected

LINE

FEED

1

FEED

Chart continued on next page.

Section 3: Operation and Configuration

Page 3-16 DR308e Operator’s Manual

3.8 ADVANCE MODE (cont’d)

1.

When ADVANCE MODE is displayed, press the FEED button to enter to Advance mode for adjustment.

Note:

PASSWORD may prompt on the display if password input is enabled. Please refer to Sato certified servic­ing personnel for details in password inputting.

2. DARKNESS RANGE is first displayed. Press the LINE button repeatedly will switch to the next setting

options as shown above. To return to the previous setting option, press FEED button while pressing LINE
button.

3. When the desired setting option is displayed, press FEED button to enter to the mode for adjustment.

Continued from

HEAD CHECK

display.

FEED

FEED

LINE

FEED

FEED

Enable is
selected

FEED

Disable is selected

LINE

FEED

FEED

LINE

FEED

FEED

FEED

FEED

FEED

LINE

FEED

FEED

LINE

FEED

FEED

LINE

FEED

FEED

LINE

FEED

FEED

LINE

FEED

FEED

LINE

OFFLINE mode

Displayed only if optional Calendar IC is installed.

Press FEED button while pressing
LINE button to return to previous
display.

Optional route.

Section 3: Operation and Configuration

DR308e Operator’s Manual Page 3-17

3.8 ADVANCE MODE (cont’d)

3.8.1 Selecting the Print Density

This first setting in ADVANCED MODE lets you set how dark the print quality is.

1. When the DARKNESS RANGE is displayed, press FEED button to enter to

the setting mode.

2. To adjust the print density, use the LINE button to select an option.

Available options are from ‘A’ to ‘F’, with ‘F’ being the darkest density. Only
supported range is displayed. The default value is ‘A’. Adjustment of this
setting is usually unnecessary.

3. Press FEED button to confirm your selection and proceed to the next

setting.

3.8.2 Setting the Automatic Detection of Optional Units

The next setting, PRINTER TYPE, determines whether the printer
automatically detects the installation of optional peripherals such as a
dispenser or cutter. If detected, an optional peripheral will be used without
needing further user configuration.

1. Press FEED button to enter to the AUTO SET mode.

2. Use the LINE button to select either YES or NO. The default option is YES

(auto detect). Choose NO if optional devices are installed, but you have
wish to override the automatic settings.

3. Press FEED button to confirm your selection and proceed to the next

setting.

3.8.3 Choosing Print mode Option

1.

When the PRINT MODE is displayed, press FEED button to enter the print
mode setting. With this setting, you can choose between CONTINU (Con­tinuous paper feed) or TEAROFF motion mode. If a dispenser or cutter unit
has been installed correctly, you will also see the DISPENS (Dispenser)
and CUTTER settings.

2. Press the LINE button to select any one of the options. The default setting

is CONTINU.

3. Press the FEED button to confirm your selection and proceed to the next

setting.

3.8.4 Backfeed Operation Settings

The printer can be set to apply or not apply a backfeed to the media before or after printing each media.

1. When BACKFEED MOTION is displayed, press FEED button to enter to

the setting mode. BACKFEED MOTION selection only available when Cut­ter or Dispenser is selected as in PRINT MODE.

2. Press the LINE button to choose from AFTER, AFTER2, BEFORE or

NONE. The default setting is AFTER. AFTER2 and NONE can only be
selected when Cutter unit is installed.

3. Press the FEED button to confirm your selection and proceed to the next

setting.

Section 3: Operation and Configuration

Page 3-18 DR308e Operator’s Manual

3.8 ADVANCE MODE (cont’d)

3.8.5 Setting the Print Method Mode

The printer can be switched to operate in Thermal Transfer or Direct
Thermal mode with this setting.

1. When PRINT METHOD is displayed, press FEED button to enter to the

setting mode.

2. Press the LINE button to select the TRANSFE (Thermal Transfer) or

DIRECT (Direct Transfer) option.
The default value is TRANSFE.

3. Press the FEED button to confirm your selection and proceed to the next

setting.

3.8.6 Configuring the Pitch Sensor

The printer can be switched to operate the Pitch Sensor in Enable or
Disable mode. This option is not available when using dispenser or tear­off unit.

1. When PITCH SENSOR is displayed, press FEED button to enter to the

setting mode.

2. Press the LINE button to select the ENABLE or DISABLE option.

The default value is ENABLE.

3. Press the FEED button to confirm your selection and proceed to the

next setting.

NOTE:

When changing from ENABLE to DISABLE, setting the PRINT MODE to
CUTTER and BACKFEED MOTION is AFTER2, change backfeed motion
to NONE.

3.8.7 Setting the Head Check Mode

The printer can be set to perform a check of the print head when printing
each label.

1. When HEAD CHECK is displayed, press FEED button to enter to the

setting mode.

2. Press the LINE button to select the ENABLE or DISABLE option.

The default value is DISABLE.

3. Press the FEED button to confirm your selection and proceed to the

next setting.

3.8.8 Choosing the Type of Head Check

If Head Check has been ENABLE, you can specify the print head
checking to be performed unconditionally, or only when barcodes are
being printed.

1. Press the LINE button to select the NORMAL or BARCODE option.

The default option is NORMAL.

2. Press the FEED button to confirm your selection and proceed to the

next setting.

Section 3: Operation and Configuration

DR308e Operator’s Manual Page 3-19

3.8 ADVANCE MODE (cont’d)

3.8.9 Setting the Pitch Size Check Mode

The printer can perform the pitch size check of the load media if the A1
command, which fixed the size of the media, is sent to the printer. If the
printer detected the media size has fall out of the range of +/- 2.5mm from
the set pitch size, MEDIA ERROR will be displayed.

1. When CHECK PITCH SIZE is displayed, press FEED button to enter to

the setting mode.

2. Press the LINE button to select the ENABLE or DISABLE option.

The default value is DISABLE.

3. Press the FEED button to confirm your selection and proceed to the

next setting.

3.8.10 Enabling/Disabling External Signal Output

Set this option to enable or disable the printer’s external signal
communication port. If the port is enabled, you can send and receive data
using an appropriate device plugged into the EXT port.

1. When EXTERNAL SIGNAL is displayed, press FEED button to enter to

the setting mode.

2. Press the LINE button to select the ENABLE or DISABLE option.

The default value is DISABLE.

3. Press the FEED button to confirm your selection and proceed to the

next setting.

About the Head Check function

• The head check function detects the integrity of the heating elements in the thermal print head.
However, malfunctions cannot be detected instantaneously—a few printed labels may start
showing printing defects before the printer warns of a print head error.

• After detection of a print head error, use a scanner to check all affected labels.

• When a head check error occurs during normal printing (barcodes, text and graphics), press and
hold down the FEED button for five seconds. At the next screen, select NORMAL and then press
and hold down the LINE and FEED buttons for five seconds to cause printing to resume. If the
head check error occurs again, set the type of head check to BARCODE and see if printing can
be resumed normally.

• Although restricting the head check type to BARCODE allows you to continue printing, you
should only do so in order to complete an urgent print job. Check the printed labels to make sure
the output is usable in spite of the head error. As soon as possible, stop using the print head to
prevent further damage. If necessary, get the print head replaced.

Section 3: Operation and Configuration

Page 3-20 DR308e Operator’s Manual

3.8 ADVANCE MODE (cont’d)

3.8.11 Selecting the Type of External Signal Output

If the External Signal Output option is set to ENABLE, you will be brought
to this display to select the type of PREND output signal.

1. Press the LINE button to select T1, T2, T3 or T4. The default value is

T4. For more details, refer to the Programming Guide from the Sato
certified servicing personnel.

2. Press the FEED button to confirm your selection and proceed to the

next setting.

3.8.12 Selecting Reprint via External Signal Output

If the External Signal Output option is enabled, you will be brought to this
screen to choose whether the Reprint function can be activated via the
external signal port.

1. When EXTERNAL REPRINT is displayed, press FEED button to enter

to the setting mode.

2. Press the LINE button to select ENABLE or DISABLE.

The default setting is DISABLE.

3. Press the FEED button to confirm your selection and proceed to the

next setting.

3.8.13 Setting the Calendar

This option is displayed only when the Calendar IC is installed to the
printer. This menu lets you set the desired date and time.

1. When SET CALENDAR is displayed, press FEED button to enter to

the setting mode.

2. Set the Year/Month/Date on the first line of display and then set the

time in 24 hour format on the second line of the display. The underline
indicates the digit is active for adjustment.

3. Press LINE button to change the setting and then press FEED button

to shift to the next digit for setting.

4. When the FEED button is pressed after setting the minute, the input

display is shown again with a “2” digit on the bottom right. Input the
same setting as the first time for a confirmation. The date and time will
be save and CALENDAR CHECK option is displayed.
Note:
If different date or time is entered from step 2, the printer will reset and
return to step 2 for re-entering.

5. Press the FEED button to enter the setting for CALENDAR CHECK.

This menu allows you to ENABLE or DISABLE the Calendar Check
function.

6. Choose the appropriate option with LINE button and press FEED

button to leave the Calendar settings and proceed to the next setting
option.

Section 3: Operation and Configuration

DR308e Operator’s Manual Page 3-21

3.8 ADVANCE MODE (cont’d)

3.8.14 Using the Auto Online Feature

The printer can be set to go into ONLINE mode automatically upon being
turned on. Otherwise, the printer starts in the OFFLINE state.

1. When AUTO ONLINE is displayed, press FEED button to enter to the

setting mode.

2. Press the LINE button to select YES or NO.

YES: Online at the time of printer power on
NO: Offline at the time of printer power on
The default setting is YES.

3. Press the FEED button to confirm your selection and proceed to the

next setting.

3.8.15 Enabling Auto Feed

The printer can be set to feed one label upon being turned on.

1. When AUTO ONLINE FEED is displayed, press FEED button to enter

to the setting mode.

2. Press the LINE button to select YES or NO.

YES: Paper feed in online state when turning on the printer
NO: No paper feed in online state when turning on the printer
The default setting is NO.

3. Press the FEED button to confirm your selection and proceed to the

next setting.

3.8.16 Enabling Auto Feed On Error

The printer can be set to feed one label upon going into ONLINE state
after an error has been corrected.

1. When FEED ON ERROR is displayed, press FEED button to enter to

the setting mode.

2. Press the LINE button to select YES or NO.

YES: Paper feed when changing to online state
NO: No paper feed when changing to online state
The default setting is NO.

3. Press the FEED button to confirm your selection and proceed to the

next setting.

3.8.17 Setting the Symbol for Euro currency

This menu lets you select the symbol for representing the Euro mark.

1. When EURO CODE is displayed, press FEED button to enter to the

setting mode.

2. Press the LINE button to choose another value if desired.

The default setting is D5.

3. Press the FEED button to confirm the setting and proceed to the next

setting.

Section 3: Operation and Configuration

Page 3-22 DR308e Operator’s Manual

3.8 ADVANCE MODE (cont’d)

3.8.18 Specifying the Protocol Code Format

The ESC sequence in SBPL commands can be defined as standard
(using non-printable code 1BH) or non-standard (some other user code).

1. When PROTOCOL CODE is displayed, press FEED button to enter to

the setting mode.

2. Press the LINE button to select the STANDAR (Standard) or NON-

STA (Non-standard) option.
The default setting is STANDAR.

3. Press the FEED button to confirm your selection and return to

OFFLINE mode.

3.9 HEX DUMP MODE

HEX Dump Mode allows you to print the contents of the receive buffer in a hexadecimal format to allow the
data stream to be examined for errors and troubleshooting.

When HEX DUMP MODE is displayed, press the FEED button to enter to HEX Dump mode.

Note:

PASSWORD may prompt on the display if password input is enabled. Please refer to Sato certified servic­ing personnel for details in password inputting.

FEED

Password menu displayed
only when the password input
is enabled.

FEED

FEED

1

FEED

LINE

Received
Data

Hex Dump

Printing

Hex Dump

Printing

LINE

ONLINE
selected

BUFFER
selected

LINE

Hex Dump

mode completed

After
printing

Return to OFFLINE mode.

Press FEED button while pressing
LINE button to return to previous
display.

1

Optional route.

Section 3: Operation and Configuration

DR308e Operator’s Manual Page 3-23

3.9 HEX DUMP MODE (cont’d)

3.9.1 Selecting Data To Dump

Here you can choose to dump either incoming data (ONLINE) or print data
already stored in the buffer (BUFFER).

1. When SELECT DUMP DATA is displayed, press FEED button to enter

to the setting mode.

2. Press the LINE button to choose ONLINE or BUFFER. The default

setting is ONLINE.

3. Press the FEED button to confirm your selection and proceed to

OFFLINE mode for getting ready to Dump Print.

Note:

When BUFFER is selected, the printer will not proceed to the next screen
if there is no data received.

3.9.2 Controlling the Hex Dump Mode

The printer will enter OFFLINE mode after Dump Data was set.

When ONLINE was set for Dump data, press LINE button to enter to
+ONLINE mode and proceed the Dump print which received data from the
host computer. During the Dump print, the number of labels printed will be
shown. During printing, press LINE button to pause the print. Press again
to resume printing. When printing is done, press the

LINE button to take

the printer OFFLINE.

When BUFFER was set for Dump data, press LINE button to start the
Dump print of the buffered data. The printer goes ONLINE automatically
after the printing.

Section 3: Operation and Configuration

Page 3-24 DR308e Operator’s Manual

3.10 TEST PRINT MODE

The Test Print Mode offers seven different printer status labels for troubleshooting.

1. Make sure the POWER of the printer is turned off (O).

2. While pressing the FEED button, switch the POWER to On (-).

The display will show TEST PRINT MODE.

3. Press the FEED button to enter to the Test Print selection mode.

FEED

FEED

LINE

LINE

FEED

LINE

LINE

LINE

LINE

LINE

FEED

FEED

FEEDFEED

Select Test Printing

CONFIGURATION,

BARCODE,

HEAD CHECK

is selected

FACTORY
is selected

FONT,

MEMORY

is selected

Test

Printing

Press FEED button while pressing
LINE button to return to previous
display.

The 2nd line of the display scroll as
“START PRINT. PRESS FEED KEY.”

Section 3: Operation and Configuration

DR308e Operator’s Manual Page 3-25

3.10 TEST PRINT MODE (cont’d)

3.10.1 Choosing the Test Print Contents

The seven selection in this mode are as follows:

1. Press the LINE button to choose any option to set the test print contents.

2. Press the FEED button to confirm your selection and proceed to the next setting.

If Configuration, Barcode, Head Check, Head Chk Sensor or Factory is selected, the printer will enter to
the TEST SIZE setting mode.
If Font or Memory is selected, the printer will enter to the Test Print Start mode.

3.10.2 Setting Test Print Size for Configuration, Barcode, Head Check and Head Chk Sensor

If you chose test prints of Configuration, Barcode, Head Check or Head
Chk Sensor in the previous menu, this screen lets you choose the width of
the test print from “03” to “08” cm, in increments of 1 cm.

1. When TEST SIZE is displayed, press FEED button to enter to the set-

ting mode.

2. Press the LINE button to choose the print size.

3. Press the FEED button to confirm the setting and proceed to the next

screen.

3.10.3 Setting the Size of the Factory Test Print

For Factory test prints, this screen appears instead of the previous screen
for setting print size. In this screen, you can choose only to print the test
results in LARGE or SMALL print widths. The LARGE setting results in a
10 cm print width. The SMALL setting results in a 4 cm print width.
Caution
If you are using narrow labels, do NOT set this option to LARGE;
otherwise, this may damage the print head.

1. When TEST SIZE is displayed, press FEED button to enter to the set-

ting mode.

2. Press the LINE button to choose LARGE or SMALL.

3. Press the FEED button to confirm the setting and proceed to the next

screen.

Test Print Selection Description of print contents

CONFIGURATION The configuration settings of the printer will be printed.

BARCODE The barcodes installed in this printer will be printed.

HEAD CHECK The head check pattern of the selected media size area will be printed.

HEAD CHK SENSOR The head check pattern and the sensor rating will be printed.

MEMORY The contents of the memory in this printer will be printed.

FONT The contents of the fonts installed in this printer will be printed.

FACTORY The factory test print will be performed.

Section 3: Operation and Configuration

Page 3-26 DR308e Operator’s Manual

3.10 TEST PRINT MODE (cont’d)

3.11.4 Starting the Test Print

TEST PRT is displayed on the first line. START PRINT. PRESS FEED
KEY. will scroll across the display screen. When you are ready to print out
the test data, press the FEED button. The test print will start, and it will

cycle continuously.

During printing, the FEED button can be used to suspend and resume the
test printing.

To exit the Test Print mode, turn off the printer.

3.11 DEFAULT SETTING MODE

The printer can be reset to the default setting as in the factory preset.

1. Make sure the POWER of the printer is turned off (O).

2. While pressing the LINE button and the FEED button simultaneously, switch the POWER to On (-).

3. The display will show DEFAULT MODE.

4. Press the FEED button to enter to the Default selection mode.

LINE

LINE

FEED

FEED

FEED

FEED

If YES is
selected

If NO is
selected

Beeps 3 times

Press FEED button while pressing
LINE button to return to previous
display.

To exit the Default setting mode, switch the POWER to off and then on again.

Section 3: Operation and Configuration

DR308e Operator’s Manual Page 3-27

3.11 DEFAULT SETTING MODE (cont’d)

3.11.1 Reset Printer Setting to Default Setting

Occasionally it is desirable to reset all printer configuration settings to their original default conditions. This
allows the operator to start reconfiguration of the printer starting from a know set of conditions.

1. After pressing FEED button in DEFAULT MODE, press LINE button to

select PRINTER SETTING.

2. Press FEED button to enter selection.

PRINTER YES NO is displayed.

3. Press LINE button to select YES or NO.

4. Press FEED button to enter the selection.

5. If YES is selected, the printer will reset to the original default condi-

tions. SETTING COMPLETE is displayed with 3 beep sound.
If NO is selected, the printer will stop the process and CANCELED is
displayed.

To exit the Default Setting Mode, switch the POWER to Off and then On
again.

3.11.2 Reset the Alternate Protocol codes to the Default Values

The standard protocol codes used by the printer can be modified to accommodate the requirements of
different host systems. However, if the printer is to be used with a system that does not use the custom
protocol codes, they can be cleared and the default protocol codes reactivated.

1. After pressing FEED button in DEFAULT MODE, press LINE button to

select ALT.PROTOCOL.

2. Press FEED button to enter selection.

ALT.PROT YES NO is displayed.

3. Press LINE button to select YES or NO.

4. Press FEED button to enter the selection.

5. If YES is selected, the printer will replace to the Alternate protocol

codes with the default values. SETTING COMPLETE is displayed with
3 beep sound.
If NO is selected, the printer will stop the process and CANCELED is
displayed.

To exit the Default Setting Mode, switch the POWER to Off and then On
again.

Section 3: Operation and Configuration

Page 3-28 DR308e Operator’s Manual

3.11 DEFAULT SETTING MODE (cont’d)

3.11.3 Table of Default Settings

Default Value

Setting Item

DR308e
Paper Selection Mode
Paper Type Center hall Tag
Use Mode
Print Speed 4 inch
Print Darkness 3
Print Position Offset V:+000 H:+000
Zero Slash Enable
Kanji Code JIS code
Proportional Pitch Enable
Interface Mode
RS-232C Priority Setting I/F card
Baud Rate 19200
Parity Bit NONE
Stop Data 1
Data length 8

LAN Priority Setting I/F card

IP address 0.0.0.0
Subnet Mask 0.0.0.0
Gateway Address 0.0.0.0
IEEE1284/Centronics ACK Width 0.5s
Communication Protocol STATUS4
Status Return Timing Periodical reply
Receive Buffer 1 item buffer
Data Port Auto recognition
CR/LF Code Deletion No deletion
CAN/DLE Code Deletion No deletion
Advanced Mode
Darkness Range A
Operation Mode Auto Setting Enable
Backfeed Motion Cut during printing (AFTER2)
Print Mode Thermal Transfer
Sensor Enable
External Signal Setting/Out Put

Type

Disable/Type 4

Head Check Disable
Paper Size check Disable
Calendar check Enable
Auto Online Enable
Auto Online Feed Disable
Feed On Error Disable
Euro Code D5h
Protocol Code Setting Standard code

Non-standard Code Setting STX=7Bh

ETX=7D

h

ESC=5Eh

ENQ=40h

CAN=21h NULL=7E

h
OFFLINE=5Dh
Service Mode
Pitch Sensor Slice Label Auto setting

Pitch Offset

I-Mark Tag: -12

Label Gap:-12

Label I-Mark:-36

Others:+00

Cut Offset

I-Mark Tag: -12

Label I-Mark:-24

Others:+00

Backfeed Offset +00
Font Switching ON
External Signal 9PIN Setting MODE1
Password Setting Disable(0003)
Reprint No reprint
Command Priority Enable
Factory Mode
Life Counter 0
Head Counter 0
Cutter Counter 0
Dispense Counter 0

Section 4: Cleaning and Maintenance

DR308e Operator’s Manual Page 4-1

CLEANING AND MAINTENANCE

This section provides information on user maintenance for the DR308e printer.

The following information is covered here:

• 4.1 Cleaning The Print Head, Platen and Rollers

• 4.2 How To Clean The Printer (Cleaning Kit)

• 4.3 How To Clean The Printer (Cleaning Sheet)

• 4.4 Adjusting Print Quality

Caution

• When cleaning the print head, bear in mind that the print head and its surrounding maybe hot. Wait
till the printer cool down before proceed cleaning.

• Be sure to turn off the power before cleaning.

• The suggested cleaning schedule here are just guidelines. If necessary, clean as appropriate
depending on the degree of contamination.

• Use a cleaning pen, cotton swab or cotton cloth to clean the printer units.

• Use only soft, lint-free materials for cleaning. Avoid using hard objects for the cleaning process, as
they will damage the components.

Section 4: Cleaning and Maintenance

Page 4-2 DR308e Operator’s Manual

4.1 CLEANING THE PRINT HEAD, PLATEN AND ROLLERS

The print head not only generates printouts of barcodes, but also graphics and text. To produce optimal
printing, it must be kept clean in spite of the dirt and adhesive that constantly accumulates on its print surface.
Furthermore, dirt can accumulated along the label path, affecting parts like sensors and guides, and reducing
their performance.

Therefore, it is important to clean these important components periodically. The printer cleaning kit and
cleaning sheets can be purchase from your authorized SATO dealer.

When to clean with a cleaning kit

♦ For the printer head, platen roller, paper sensor, and label guide: clean after using up every other roll of

paper, or each time after printing 150 m.

♦ For other parts: clean after finishing every six rolls of paper, or every time after printing 900 m.

When to clean with the cleaning sheet

♦ For printer head, platen roller: clean after using every six rolls of paper, or every time after printing 900 m.

4.2 HOW TO CLEAN THE PRINTER (CLEANING KIT)

If you are using a carbon ribbon, be sure to remove it before cleaning. Follow the instructions supplied with
the cleaning kit. Use the items to clean the following parts.

1. Make sure the POWER of the printer is switch to Off and

remove the power cable.

2. Lift up the main cover.

3. Release the purple head lock lever by turning counter

clockwise.
The print head is now accessible.

4. Wipe off the dirt on the print head, sensor and label

guide shaft using a cleaning pen or a cotton swab
dabbed with the cleaning liquid. (See figure on the right)
Label guide shaft unit can be removed by unfastening
the purple thumb screw on the side.

Clean the entire width of Print head and Platen roller

Pitch sensor guide

Sensor

Label guide shaft

Section 4: Cleaning and Maintenance

DR308e Operator’s Manual Page 4-3

4.2 HOW TO CLEAN THE PRINTER (CLEANING KIT) (cont’d)

5.

Pull out the pitch sensor guide unit and clean its bottom
portion. If label stuck, remove pitch sensor guide unit
from the shaft groove by pulling the stopper in the arrow
direction, pull it out and clean its bottom area.

6. Moisten the cotton cloth with cleaning liquid, and use the

cloth to wipe any dirt or accumulated adhesive off the
platen roller.

4.3 HOW TO CLEAN THE PRINTER (CLEANING SHEET)

The cleaning sheet is used for clearing stubborn debris the print head and platen roller.

1. Make sure the POWER of the printer is switch to Off and remove the power cable.

2. Lift up the main cover.

3. Release the purple head lock lever by turning counter clockwise.

The print head is now accessible.

4. Remove the media and the ribbon.

5. Put the head cleaning sheet between the print head and

the platen roller. The coarse side of the cleaning sheet
should face the surface of the print head elements.

6. Now remount the print head by turning the Head lock

lever clockwise until it latch on. The print head should
lock into place firmly.

7. Using both hands, pull the cleaning sheet outwards,

toward your body. This will remove any dirt stuck to the
print head.

8. When the cleaning sheet has been removed, perform

steps 2 to 6 to repeat the cleaning procedure one or two
more times.

9. When no more additional dirt appears on the cleaning

sheet after it has been pulled out, you can stop cleaning
with the sheet.

10.Unlatch the print head and use the cleaning pen from the cleaning kit to gently remove any remaining dirt

from the print head.

Pitch sensor
guide

Cleaning Sheet

Section 4: Cleaning and Maintenance

Page 4-4 DR308e Operator’s Manual

4.4 ADJUSTING PRINT QUALITY

Print quality can be optimized with regular cleaning and maintenance of the print head and components along
the label path. Additionally, you can fine-tune print quality by adjusting print darkness and print speed settings.

4.4.1 Adjusting Print Darkness

This adjustment allows the user to control (within a specified range) the amount of power applied to 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.

LCD Panel — The Print Darkness can be set using the front panel LCD
panel or by sending the Print Darkness software command from a
computer. There are five settings, from 1 (lightest) to 5 (darkest). The
default setting is 3.
Once the range has been selected, the Darkness Potentiometer on the
side of the printer can be used to make finer adjustments. For instructions
on setting Print Darkness, refer to Section 3.6.3 Setting Print Darkness
on page 3-9.

Darkness Potentiometer — The fine adjustment for Print Darkness is
the Darkness Potentiometer on the side of the printer. 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 3.6.1 Offset Volume
mode on page 3-8 for instructions on performing potentiometer
adjustments.

Note

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

4.4.2 Adjusting Print Speed

Besides varying the rate at which labels are printed, this adjustment can
be used to regulate any changes in print quality.

LCD Panel — Print Speed can be set using the front panel LCD panel or
by sending the Print Speed software command from a computer. There
are 4 settings, from 02 ips (slowest) to 5 ips (faster). The default setting is
4 ips.

For instructions on setting Print Speed, refer to Section 3.6.2 Setting
Print Speed on page 3-9.

PRINT potentiometer

Section 5: Troubleshooting

DR308e Operator’s Manual Page 5-1

TROUBLESHOOTING

If you are unable to produce printouts on the DR308e printer, use this section to make sure the basics have
been checked, before deciding you are unable to proceed any further.
The section is divided into four parts:

• 5.1 Error signal troubleshooting

• 5.2 Troubleshooting table

• 5.3 Interface troubleshooting

• 5.4 Test print troubleshooting

Section 5: Troubleshooting

Page 5-2 DR308e Operator’s Manual

5.1 ERROR SIGNAL TROUBLESHOOTING

Error

No.

ERROR DISPLAY

BUZZER ERROR CONDITION CORRECTIVE ACTION

01

MACHINE ERROR 1 Long Beep 1) PCB error 1) Consult your SATO dealer and

replace the PCB

02

FLASHROM ERROR 1 Long Beep 1) EEPROM is not

install properly

2) EEPROM write
count over

1) Install EERPROM properly

2) Replace EEPROM

03

PARITY ERROR 3 short Beeps 1) Communication

condition is not
matched

2) The cable connec­tion is not correct

1) Correct the Parity Settings

2) Check the cable connection

04

OVERRUN ERROR 3 short Beeps 1) Communication

condition is not
matched

2) The cable connec­tion is not correct

1) Check and correct the flow control
settings and retry

2) Check the cable connection

05

FRAMING ERROR 3 short Beeps 1) Communication

condition is not
matched

2) The cable connec­tion is not correct

1) Check and correct the data bit set­ting and retry

2) Check the cable connection

06

BUFFER OVER 3 short Beeps 1) Receive Buffer

Overflow

2) Wrong protocol
selected

1) Restart the printer and retry

2) Modify host software

3) Select correct communication
protocol settings

07

HEAD OPEN 3 short Beeps 1) Head Not Latched

2) Open/close micro-

switch of head
defect

1) Latch Print Head securely and
make sure the Top Cover is closed
properly

2) Adjust the micro-switch

08

PAPER END 3 short Beeps 1) Out of Paper

2) Paper is not
properly set

1) Replenish media supply

2) Route paper through sensor
correctly

09

RIBBON END 3 short Beeps 1) No ribbon

2) Ribbon torn

3) Slit sensor level is

not correct

1) Check ribbon loading and/or load a
new ribbon roll

2) Clean or adjust the ribbon feed
root

3) Adjust the slit sensor level

10

SENSOR ERROR 3 short Beeps 1) Pitch sensor error

2) Sensor type
(Transparent/
Reflection) is not
correct

3) Media meander

1) Adjust pitch sensor level

2) Use the correct sensor for the
media

3) Clean and adjust the media feed
root

11

HEAD ERROR 1 long Beep 1) Head damage 1) Replace Print Head or consult your

SATO dealer

Section 5: Troubleshooting

DR308e Operator’s Manual Page 5-3

12

MEMORY R/W ERROR 1 long Beep 1) Memory writing

error

1) Confirm if Flash ROM memory is

installed

2) Replace the memory board.

13

MEMORY FULL 1 long Beep 1) Memory over

capacity

1) Delete unnecessary data

14

CUTTER ERROR 3 short Beeps 1) Media was jammed

at the cutter part

2) Cutter part’s slit
doesn’t work
properly

1) Clean up the cutter part

2) Adjust the cutter part’s belt

16

DOWNLOAD DATA

ERROR

3 short Beeps 1) Communication

condition is not
correct

2) Cable was not con­nected properly

1) Adjust communication condition

2) Connect the cable correctly

17

CALENDAR ERROR 3 short Beeps 1) Calendar IC default

is not set

2) Calendar IC error

1) Set the calendar

2) Replace the calendar IC

28

MEDIA ERROR 3 short Beeps 1) Specified media

size is not correct

1) Set the specified size media

Error

No.

ERROR DISPLAY

BUZZER ERROR CONDITION CORRECTIVE ACTION

Section 5: Troubleshooting

Page 5-4 DR308e Operator’s Manual

5.2 TROUBLESHOOTING TABLE

TROUBLESHOOTING TABLE

IMAGE VOIDS

Dirty print head. Clean print head.

Damaged print head. Replace print head.

Damaged electronics. Replace circuit board.

Damaged or worn roller. Replace rollers.

Poor label quality. Use higher quality media.

Ribbon stock and media are mismatched. Consult with media supplier.

RIBBON WRINKLING

Poor head alignment. Adjust head balance and alignment.

Excessive temperature setting Adjust temperature.

Poor ribbon tension. Adjust tension as required.

Worn roller. Replace as necessary.

Foreign material on print head and/or rollers. Clean as required.

Foreign material on labels. Use higher quality media.

Damaged print head. Replace print head as required.

LIGHT PRINT IMAGES

Low print head energy/darkness. Adjust darkness level.

Low print head pressure. Adjust head pressure and/or balance.

Foreign material on print head. Clean print head and rollers.

Improper head alignment. Align print head as required.

Excessive print speed. Reduce print speed setting.

UNEVEN PRINT DARKNESS

Unbalanced print head. Adjust head balance.

Worn rollers. Replace rollers as required.

Dirty print head. Clean print head.

MEANDERING MEDIA

Incorrectly loaded media. Ensure correct loading.

Improperly adjusted media guides. Adjust as required.

Unbalanced print head. Adjust as required.

Worn rollers. Replace as required.

NO LABEL MOVEMENT

Loose or broken timing belt. Replace or adjust as required.

Incorrect label sensor selected. Check printer configuration for proper sensor selection.

No voltage output. Replace fuse. Test power supply and replace as required.

Drive motor not operating. Ensure wiring harness connection. Replace as necessary.

LCD FIELD ILLUMINATED BUT WITHOUT WORDS OR NO DISPLAY AT ALL

Power supply issues. Ensure cable properly connected. Check/replace power supply.

Incorrectly positioned display potentiometer. Adjust as required.

Section 5: Troubleshooting

DR308e Operator’s Manual Page 5-5

5.3 INTERFACE TROUBLESHOOTING

This chapter provides a checklist for the various interface types. Locate the checklist relative to the interface
used and perform each of the troubleshooting tasks until the problem has been isolated.

PARALLEL INTERFACE

CHK TROUBLESHOOTING STEP

Ensure the interface module is correctly installed. Run self-test to verify.

Ensure the printer cable is connected to the appropriate LPT port on the host computer. If using a Windows
printer driver, ensure the correct port is selected.

Ensure a IEEE1284 printer cable is being used.

Ensure the host’s peripheral settings are set to ECP for faster throughput. Refer to the computer manufacturer’s
documentation for details.

Ensure the printer is receiving information from the computer using the Receive Buffer Hex Dump mode. Refer
to that procedure within this manual for instructions. The command stream should be continuous and possess
0Dhex and/or 0Ahex (carriage return and line feed) characters throughout. However, there should not be either
located between the start (<ESC>A and the stop (<ESC>Z) commands.

Try another port to isolate the problem.

Replace the main circuit board if determined to be the problem.

RS232 SERIAL INTERFACE

CHK TROUBLESHOOTING STEP

Ensure the correct interface module is correctly installed. Run self-test to verify.

Ensure the serial cable (Null Modem) meets specifications and is correctly connected at each end.

Ensure the serial cable is not defective.

Ensure the communication parameters for the baud rate, parity, data bits and stop bits are consistent with those
being sent from the host computer.

Ensure the printer is receiving information from the computer using the Receive Buffer Hex Dump mode. Refer to
that procedure within this manual for instructions. The command stream should be continuous and possess
0Dhex and/or 0Ahex (carriage return and line feed) characters throughout. However, there should not be either
located between the start (<ESC>A and the stop (<ESC>Z) commands.

Try another port to isolate the problem.

Replace the main circuit board if determined to be the problem.

UNIVERSAL SERIAL BUS (USB) INTERFACE

If nothing prints during a test print, verify the device drivers have been successively installed by performing the following:

CHK TROUBLESHOOTING STEP

Click on Start, Settings, and then Control Panel.

Click on System within the new window.

Click on the Device Manager tab.

Ensure that the View Device By Type is checked.

Scroll to SATO-USB Device and ensure that errors do not exist. Reinstall as required.

Reboot the PC and the printer.

Section 5: Troubleshooting

Page 5-6 DR308e Operator’s Manual

5.4 TEST PRINT TROUBLESHOOTING

Chapter provides instruction on special printing to identify and resolve specific print problems.

5.4.1 Hex Dump

Allows the operator to determine if there were problems in the downloading of data. The contents of the print
buffer can be examined using the Hex Dump Mode. In the left column, each line of data received is
numbered. The center column provides the data in hexadecimal format. And in the right column, same data is
provided in the ASC ll format. Refer to Section 3.9 HEX Dump Mode on page 3-23 for more details to
perform this activity.

5.4.2 Test label printing

Allows the operator to identify specific problems regarding mechanical performance and setup. The test label
is designed to assist in the identification of print problems. Refer to Section 3.10 Test Print Mode on page 3-

24 for more details to perform this activity.

LAN ETHERNET INTERFACE

CHK TROUBLESHOOTING STEP

Ensure the interface has been correctly configured. Wait two minutes and run self-test to verify. If a test label
does not print, there may be a hardware problem.

Ensure the cable and its ports are not defective.

Ensure that a faulty print server or other protocol related scenarios are not creating a queue setup issue.
Systematically perform checks and tests to isolate the cause.

If using TCP/IP, ensure a valid IP address is specified and that all parameters are correct (subnet mask,
gateway, etc.). Attempt to PING the IP address assigned to the network interface.

If using a repeater or hub, ensure the SQE is turned off. Also ensure the repeater port is not defective by trying
the print server on another port.

Install the IPX/SPX protocol on a workstation to determine if the network device can be discovered via the MAC
address. If able, configure the appropriate protocols and retest connectivity.

Use a crossover cable to isolate the printer from the network by connecting from the interface and workstation.
Verify that the parameters match on each. Test connectivity.

CENTRONICS INTERFACE

CHK TROUBLESHOOTING STEP

Ensure the interface module is correctly installed. Run self-test to verify.

Ensure the printer cable is connected to the appropriate LPT port on the host computer. If using a Windows
printer driver, ensure the correct port is selected.

Ensure the host’s peripheral settings are set for Centronics output for faster throughput. Refer to the computer
manufacturer’s documentation for details.

Ensure the printer is receiving information from the computer using the Receive Buffer Hex Dump mode. Refer
to that procedure within this manual for instructions. The command stream should be continuous and possess
0D Hex and/or 0A Hex (carriage return and line feed) characters throughout. However, there should not be
either located between the start (<ESC>A and the stop (<ESC>Z) commands.

Replace the main circuit board with another to isolate the problem.

Section 6: Gerneral Specifications

DR308e Operator’s Manual Page 6-1

GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS

6.1 PRINTER BASIC SPECIFICATIONS

PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS

Width 211 mm (8.3 in.)

Height 240 mm (9.4 in.)

Depth 350mm (13.8 in.)

Weight 8 Kg (17.6 lbs.)

ENVIRONMENTAL (EXCLUDING MEDIA)

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

Storage Temperature -5° to 60°C (23 to 140 F)

Operating Humidity 30 to 80% RH, Non-condensing

Storage Humidity 30 to 90% RH, Non-condensing

POWER SUPPLY

Input Voltage

Input power voltage: 100-240 V AC, +/-10%, 50/60 Hz (Full range)

Rated Input voltage: 100-240 V (Full range)

Power Consumption

At peak times: 104 Watts

In standby: 24 Watts (average)

PROCESSING

CPU 32 Bit RISC

Flash ROM 8 Megabytes

PRINTER LANGUAGE

Standard SATO Barcode Printer Language (SBPL)

INTERFACES

Interface Board

Communication Interface (1 slot)

External connector (for optional devices)

RS-232C D-sub 9-pin type (for simple input device (keypad) only)

Optional communication inter-

face boards

1) RS-232C (High-Speed) I/F board

2) IEEE1284 (ECP/Compatible) I/F board

3) LAN I/F board or

4) USB I/F board (Full-Speed)

Section 6: General Specifications

Page 6-2 DR308e Operator’s Manual

PRINT

Method Thermal Transfer and Direct Thermal

Maximum Speed (selectable)

2 to 5 Inches Per Second

*Print speed varies depending on the of media used.

Resolution 8 dots/mm (203 Dots Per Inch)

Maximum Print Width 80 mm (3.1 in.)

Maximum Print Length 181 mm (7.1 in.)

SENSING

Gap/Tag-hole (Transmissive) Position & Sensitivity Adjustable

I-Mark (Reflective) Sensitivity Adjustable

Jump-hole Sensitivity Adjustable

Head Open Fixed

Ribbon End Fixed (always enabled)

Dispenser Only available if installed

SENSORS POSITION

Label feed Direction

13.5mm
(0.53in.)

Jump-hole sensor

16.0mm~74.0mm (0.63in.~2.91in.)

7.0mm (0.28in.)

83.0mm
(3.27in.)

I-mark
(paper end)
sensor

Gap/ Tag-hole

sensor

51.0mm
(2in.)

18.0mm

(0.71in.)

24.0mm
(0.94in.)

25.0mm
(0.98in.)

Print head

Dispenser

Cutter

Tear-off

Section 6: Gerneral Specifications

DR308e Operator’s Manual Page 6-3

MEDIA (Be sure to use media manufactured or certified by SATO)

Size

Standard

Tear-off/
Dispenser

Cutter

Tag

Label

Label

Tag

Label

Width: 32 to 80 mm (1.3 to 3.1 in.)
Pitch: 25 to 181 mm (1 to 7.1 in.)

Width: 29 to 77 mm (1.1 to 3 in.)
Width including liner: 32 to 80 mm (1.3 to 3.1 in.)
Pitch: 16 to 178 mm (0.6 to 7 in.)
Pitch including liner: 19 to 181 mm (0.7 to 7.1 in.)

Width: 29 to 77 mm (1.1 to 3 in.)
Width including liner: 32 to 80 mm (1.3 to 3.1 in.)
Pitch: 22 to 178 mm (0.9 to 7 in.)
Pitch including liner: 25 to 181 mm (1 to 7.1 in.)

Width: 32 to 80 mm (1.3 to 3.1 in.)
Pitch: 25 to 181 mm (1 to 7.1 in.)

Width: 29 to 77 mm (1.1 to 3 in.)
Width including liner: 32 to 80 mm (1.3 to 3.1 in.)
Pitch: 22 to 178 mm (0.9 to 7 in.)
Pitch including liner: 25 to 181 mm (1 to 7.1 in.)

* The size may be limited by use conditions.

Type

Direct Thermal/ Thermal Transfer

Roll stock

Roll Diameter Maximum outer diameter: 250 mm (9.8 in.)

Core Diameter

Inner core diameter: 38 mm(1.5 in.) and 100 mm (4 in.),

depending on media type

Thickness

Tag: 0.16 to 0.28 mm (0.006 to 0.011 in.)

Label: 0.07 to 0.265 mm (0.003 to 0.01 in.)

[Label using with dispenser: 0.135 - 0.265 mm (0.005 to 0.01 in.)]

Wind Direction Face In

RIBBON (Be sure to use ribbon manufactured or certified by SATO)

Width Max. 84mm (3.3 in.)

Length Max. 300 m (984.3 ft.) (Depending on ribbon type)

Wind Direction Face In

Winding Method Paper core

Section 6: General Specifications

Page 6-4 DR308e Operator’s Manual

CHARACTER FONT CAPABILITIES

MATRIX FONTS

XU 5 dots W x 9 dots H (Helvetica)

XS 17 dots W x 17 dots H (Univers Condensed Bold)

XM 24 dots W x 24 dots H (Univers Condensed Bold)

OA Font (OCR-A) 15 dots W x 22 dots H

OB Font (OCR-B) 20 dots W x 24 dots H

X90 24 dots W x 36 dots H (Price)

X91 24 dots W x 48 dots H (POP1)

X92 60 dots W x 90 dots H (POP2)

X93 40 dots W x 64 dots H (POP3)

AUTO SMOOTHING FONTS

XB 48 dots W x 48 dots H (Univers Condensed Bold)

XL 48 dots W x 48 dots H (Sans Serif)

CHARACTER CONTROL

Expansion up to 9 x in either the X or Y coordinates.

Character Pitch Control

Line Space Control

Journal Print Facility

0, 90, 180, and 270-degree rotation

BARCODE CAPABILITIES

Linear Bar Codes

UPC-A/E

JAN/EAN

CODABAR

CODE39
CODE93

CODE128

GS1-128/UCC/EAN128

Interleaved 2 of 5

Industrial 2 of 5

Matrix 2of5

MSI

BOOKLAND

POSTNET,

GS1 DataBar

Two Dimensional

QR code (Ver 8.1 including Micro QR)

PDF417 (Ver 2.4 including Micro PDF417)

MAXI code (Ver 3.0)

Data Matrix (Ver2.0) *Only ECC200 is supported

Ratios 1:2, 1:3, 2:5, User definable bar widths

Bar Height 4 to 999 dots, User programmable

Rotation

0, 90, 180, and 270 Degrees
(Parallel 1, 2 and Serial 1, 2)

Expansion Ratio of Character 1 to 9L

Section 6: Gerneral Specifications

DR308e Operator’s Manual Page 6-5

6.2 OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES SPECIFICATIONS

OPTIONS

1) Cutter

2) Simple Stacker

3) External Rewinding Unit

4) Dispenser

5) Keypad

6) Calendar IC

REGULATORY

USA/Canada UL60950-1(2001), CSA C22.2 No.60950-1-03

China CCC (GB4943-2001)

EU IEC, Nemko (EN60950-1)

Radiation Noise

FCC Part 15, Subpart B, Class B (USA/Canada)

GB9254-1998, GB17625.1-2003 (China)

CE (EN55022, EN55024

CISPR22, CISPR24 (reference standard, Singapore)

KN22, KN24 (Korea)

Packing Drop Standard ISTA-2A

Environmental (RoHS)

Chromium: below 0.1%

Lead: below 0.1%

Mercury: below 0.1%

Cadmium: below 0.01%

Polybrominated Bipheny (PBB): below 0.1%

Polybrominated Diphenyl Ether (PBDE): below 0.1%

CUTTER SPECIFICATIONS

Media Type Tag and Label

Media Size

Tag

Width: 32 to 80 mm (1.3 to 3.1 in.)

Pitch: 25 to 181 mm (1 to 7.1 in.)

Label

Width including liner: 32 to 80 mm (1.3 to 3.1 in.)

Pitch including liner: 25 to 181 mm (1 to 7.1 in.)

Thickness

Tag: 0.16 to 0.28 mm (0.006 to 0.011 in.)

Label: 0.07 to 0.265 mm (0.003 to 0.01 in.)

Dimensions

W 110 X D 79 X H 110 mm
(W 4.3 X D 3.1 X H 4.3 in.)

Weight 0.7 kg (1.5 lbs)

Section 6: General Specifications

Page 6-6 DR308e Operator’s Manual

SIMPLE STACKER SPECIFICATIONS

Stacking Method Free-fall stacking

Media Capacity Approximately 20 to 120 sheets (depending on media size and thickness)

Media Type Tag only

Media Size Tag

Width: 32 to 80 mm (1.3 to 3.1 in.)

Pitch: 25 to 100 mm (1 to 3.9 in.)

Thickness 0.16 to 0.28 mm (0.006 to 0.011 in.)

Dimensions

W 111 X D 137 X H 11 3 m m

(W 4.3 X D 5.4 X H 4.4 in.)

Weight 0.7 kg (1.5 lbs)

DISPENSER SPECIFICATIONS

Media Type Label only

Media Size Label

Width including liner: 32 to 80 mm (1.3 to 3.1 in.)

Pitch including liner: 25 to 181 mm (1 to 7.1 in.)

Thickness 0.135 to 0.265 mm (0.005 to 0.01 in.)

Sensor Type Dispenser sensor (Transmissive)

Dimensions

W 110 X D 41 X H 123 mm

(W 4.3 X D 1.6 X H 4.8 in.)

Weight 0.25 kg (0.55 lbs)

EXTERNAL REWINDING UNIT SPECIFICATIONS

Rewinding Method

Using Paper core size

φ 40 mm (1.5 in.) or POS cassette

Rewinding Direction Face-out

Rewind

Capacity

Paper core 70 mm (2.76 in.) maximum diameter

POS cassette 50 mm (1.97 in.) maximum diameter

Media Type Label only

Media Size

Paper core

Width including liner: 32 to 48 mm (1.3 to 1.9 in.)

Pitch including liner: 19 to 181 mm (0.7 to 7.1 in.)

POS cassette

Width including liner: 33 mm (1.3 in.)

Pitch including liner: 25.4 mm (1 in.), 50.8 mm (2 in.)

Thickness 0.07 to 0.265 mm (0.003 to 0.01 in.)

Media Detection No detection of label or label end

Dimensions

W 135 X D 115 X H 128 mm

(W 5.3 X D 4.5 X H 5 in.)

Weight 0.7 kg (1.5 lbs)

Section 7: Interface Specifications

DR308e Operator’s Manual Page 7-1

INTERFACE SPECIFICATIONS

This section presents the interface specifications for the DR308e printers. These specifications include
detailed information to assist in the selection of the most appropriate method for the printer to interface with
the host.

The following information is presented in this section:

• 7.1 Interface types

• 7.2 RS232C High Speed Serial Interface

• 7.3 IEEE 1284 Parallel Interface

• 7.4 Local Area Network (LAN) Ethernet

• 7.5 Universal Serial Bus (USB) Interface

• 7.6 External Signal Interface (EXT)

7.1 INTERFACE TYPES

DR308e are equipped with an interface board to perform data communication with the host, an external signal
interface to connect peripheral devices to the printer, and an interface to connect a simple input device (e.g.,
keypad) to the printer.
In order to provide flexibility in communicating with a variety of host computer systems, this printers use a
Plug-In Interface Module.

The following interface boards are available.

1) RS-232C (High-speed) interface board

2) IEEE1284 interface board

3) LAN interface board

4) USB interface board

Caution

• Always turn the printer OFF before attaching or detaching an interface card. Otherwise,
severe electrical damage may be incurred, or bodily injury may be sustained.

• Never connect or disconnect interface cables (or use a switch box) with power applied to
either the host or printer. This may caused damage to the interface circuitry in the printer/
host and is not covered by warranty.

Section 7: Interface Specifications

Page 7-2 DR308e Operator’s Manual

7.2 RS232C HIGH SPEED SERIAL INTERFACE

7.2.1 RS-232C Serial Interface Card DIP SWITCH Settings

The high-speed serial interface card (optional) contains DIP switches for controlling communication
conditions. Determine what features are applicable to your setup, or desired setup, and adjust their respective
DIP switches as applicable. There are 8 switches in a row and all are default setting at Off position. The DIP
switch functions are as follow:

DIP switch No. Function

Setting Description

1 Data bit length

ON 7 bits

OFF 8 bits

2

3

Parity setting

DIP sw 2 DIP sw 3

Not used

ON ON

ON OFF ODD

OFF ON EVEN

OFF OFF NONE

4 Stop bit setting

ON 2 bits

OFF 1 bit

5

6

Baud rate setting

DIP sw 5 DIP sw 6

57600bps

ON ON

ON OFF 38400bps

OFF ON 19200bps

OFF OFF 9600bps

7

8

Communication
Protocol setting

DIP sw 7 DIP sw 8

STATUS4

ON ON

ON OFF STATUS3

OFF ON XON/XOFF

OFF OFF READY/BUSY

FUNCTION DESCRIPTIONS

Function Description

Data bit length Sets the printer to receive either 7 or 8 bits of data for each byte transmitted.

Parity setting Selects the type of parity used for error detection.

Stop bit setting Selects the number of stop bits to end each byte transmission.

Baud rate setting Select the data rate (bps) for the RS232 port.

Communication Protocol
setting

Selects the flow control and status reporting protocols

Section 7: Interface Specifications

DR308e Operator’s Manual Page 7-3

7.2 RS232C HIGH SPEED SERIAL INTERFACE (cont’d)

Notes:

• Check the setting seal of the serial interface card.
The correct settings may vary depending on the type and revision of the board.

• The setting range of baud rate and protocol can be changed in the printer’s Interface Mode. See Section

3.7 [Operation and Configuration] for details.

• Any communication settings (e.g. Multi/1 item buffer) not controlled by the DIP switches can be set in the
printer’s Interface Mode (See Section 3.7) using the operation panel.

7.2.2 Basic Specifications

Sync hro sy st em Asynchronous meth od

Maximum receive

buffer

ca pacit y

2.95MB

Near full
occurred

Near full
released

0MB

2.95MB

Remains 0.95MB

Remains 1.95MB

Code ASCII (7 bits) Graphic (8 bits)

Connector

Printer side DB-25S (female) or equivalent
Cable side DB-25 P (ma le) or e qui vale nt
Cable length 5m (16ft) or less

Transmission form

Signal levels

High level : +5 to +12V
Low level : -5 to -12V

Start b1 b2 b3 b4 b5 b6 b7 b8 Stop

[Note] When using 7bits, b8 will be omitted.

Serial Connector Pin Asignments

113

1425

Section 7: Interface Specifications

Page 7-4 DR308e Operator’s Manual

7.2 RS232C HIGH SPEED SERIAL INTERFACE (cont’d)

7.2.3 Ready/Busy

Ready / Busy is the hardware flow control method for the serial interface on the printer. Data received cannot
be guaranteed, when print data (ESC+"A"~ESC+"Z") is sent from the host, under the following conditions:

1) When the printer is Offline

2) When an error has occurred in the printer

Pin Assignments

Interface Signals

1) DB-25 P 2) DB-9P
Printer Host Printer Host

FG 1

1 FG

FG 1

SD 2

3 RD

SD 2

2 RD

RD 3

2 SD

RD 3

3 SD

RS 4

5 CS

RS 4

8 CS

CS 5

4 RS

CS 5

7 RS

DR 6

20 ER

DR 6

4 ER

SG 7

7 SG

SG 7

5 SG

ER 20

6 DR

ER 20

6 DR

When using Windows Hardware Control:

3) DB-25 P 4) DB-9P
Printer Host Printer Host

FG 1

1 FG

FG 1

SD 2

3 RD

SD 2

2 RD

RD 3

2 SD

RD 3

3 SD

CS 5

20 ER

RS 4

4 DR

RS 4

6 DR

CS 5

6 ER

DR 6

4 RS

DR 6

7 RS

SG 7

7 SG

SG 7

5 SG

ER 20

5 CG

ER 20

8 CS

Pin no. Signal Type Direction Contents

1 FG - Frame Ground

2 SD Output Send Data

3 RD Input Receive Data

4 RS Output Request to Send

5 CS Input Clear to Send

6 DR Input Data Set Ready

7 SG - Signal Ground

20 ER Output Error

Section 7: Interface Specifications

DR308e Operator’s Manual Page 7-5

7.2 RS232C HIGH SPEED SERIAL INTERFACE (cont’d)

7.2.4 X-ON/X-OFF

This transmission protocol informs the host if the printer can receive data or not, by sending the "XON" (Hex
11H) or "XOFF" (Hex 13H) code.
Data received cannot be guaranteed, when print data (ESC+"A"~ESC+"Z") is sent from the host, under the
following conditions:

1) When the printer is Offline

2) When an error has occurred in the printer

Pin Assignments

Note:

In the connections, it may be necessary to loop (usually kept "High") CS and RS on the host side depending
on the type of host. Therefore, make sure to re-check the host before use.

Input/Output Signals

1) DB-25 P 2) DB-9P
Printer Host Printer Host

FG 1

1 FG

FG 1

SD 2

3 RD

SD 2

2

RD 3

2 SD

RD 3

3

RS 4

5 CS

RS 4

8

CS 5

4 RS

CS 5

7

DR 6

20 ER

DR 6

4

SG 7

7 SG

SG 7

5

ER 20

8 DR

ER 20

6

Pin no. Signal Type D irection Contents

1 FG - Frame Ground

2 SD Output Send Data from the prin ter to host computer

3 RD Input Receive Data from the host computer

7 SG - Sign al Ground

Section 7: Interface Specifications

Page 7-6 DR308e Operator’s Manual

7.3 IEEE 1284 PARALLEL INTERFACE

The IEEE 1284 Interface on the printer complies with Centronics/ IEEE1284 standards.It will automatically
detect the IEEE1284 signals and operate in the high speed mode. If it does not detect the IEEE1284 signals,
it will operate in the standard Centronics mode, which is significantly slower. For this reason, an interface
cable and host interface conforming to the IEEE1284 specification must be present to fully utilize the speed
capabilities.

The ECP mode is recommended for LPT1 port settings.
Make sure to change the LPT1 port settings through the BIOS settings.

7.3.1 Basic Specifications

Note:

Send print data while the printer is on.

Connector

Printer side: Amphenol (DDK) 57 ~ 40360 or equivalent

Cable side: Amphenol(DDK) 57 ~ 303 6 0 or eq uiv al ent

Cable length 1.5m (5 ft .) or less

Signal level

High level: +2.4 ~ +5.0V
Low level: +0.0 ~ +0.4V

Receive mode

Go to the Interface Mode of printer unit for selecting single-item buffer or

multi-buffer.

Maximum receive

buffer capacity

2.95MB

N ear full

occurred

N ear full
released

0MB

2.95M B

Rema ins 0.95 MB

Remains 1.95MB

Parallel Connector Pin Asignments

118

1936

Section 7: Interface Specifications

DR308e Operator’s Manual Page 7-7

7.3 IEEE 1284 PARALLEL INTERFACE (cont’d)

7.3.2 Pin Assignments

Pin assignment of each signal for the Centronics standard (Compatible Mode) is as follows.
Note that the line connection for the IEEE1284 standard is based on the IEEE1284-B standard.

7.3.3 Input and Output Signals

The details of each signal line for the Centronics standard (Compatible Mode) are as follows.
Note that each signal line complies with the IEEE1284 standard.

Pin No. Signa l I / O Pin No. Signal I / O

1 STROBE Input 19 STROBE -RETUR N

2 DATA 1 Input 20 DATA 1-RETURN

3 DATA 2 Input 21 DATA 2-RETURN

4 DATA 3 Input 22 DATA 3-RETURN

5 DATA 4 Input 23 DATA 4-RETURN

6 DATA 5 Input 24 DATA 5-RETURN

7 DATA 6 Input 25 DATA 6-RETURN

8 DATA 7 Input 26 DATA 7-RETURN

9 DATA 8 Input 27 DATA 8-RETURN

10 ACK Output 28 ACK -RETURN

11 BUSY Output 29 BUSY -RETURN

12 PE Output 30 P E -RETURN

13 SELECT Output 31 INIT Input

14 AUTOFD Input 32 FAULT Output

15 Not Used 33 Not Used

16 LO GIC GND 34 Not Used

17 CHASSIS GND 35 Not Used

18 PERIPHERAL LOGIC HIGH Output 36 SELECTIN Input

Pin No. Signal I/O Description

1 STROBE

Input Synchronization signal that requires low active pulse to read

DATA1 ~ DATA8.

2 ~ 9 DATA 1 ~ DATA 8

Input Data entry of 8bits parallel: DATA1 LSB (lowest bit)

DATA8 MSB (highest bit)

10 ACK

Output Low active pulse signal indicating the completion of receive

data import.

11 BUSY

Output High active signal indicating that the printer is not ready to

receive data.

12 PE

Output High active signal indicating “out of paper” condition.

13 SELECT

Output High active signal indicating that the printer is ready to receive

data.
14 AUTOFD Input Signal for the IEEE1284 standard.
17 CHASSIS GND

Connection to frame ground.

18

PERIPHERAL LOGIC
HIGH

Output 5V on the printer side.

19 ~ 30 SIGNAL GROUND

Connection to ground for each signal.

31 INIT

Input Low active pulse signal initializing the printer
32 FAULT Output Low active pulse signal indicating an error in the printer
36 SELECETIN

Input Signal for the IEEE1284 standard.

Section 7: Interface Specifications

Page 7-8 DR308e Operator’s Manual

7.4 LOCAL AREA NETWORK (LAN) ETHERNET

A Local Area Network (LAN) interface is an optional Plug-In Interface Module that can be installed by the user.
It requires a driver shipped with each printer that has the interface installed. The driver that must be loaded on
the host computer and configured to run one of the supported network protocols using a 10/100BaseT LAN
connection. Details for loading the LAN driver are contained in the LAN Interface Manual that is shipped with
each printer with a LAN Optional interface installed.

7.4.1 Basic Specifications

7.4.2 Interface Card DIP SWITCH Settings (LAN)

The Local Area Network interface card contains DIP switches (maintenance switch) for initializing LAN
configuration, LAN printing configuration, and LAN card self-diagnosis. Make sure to turn all DIP switch to
"OFF" when using the printer. The DIP switch functions are:

DIP switch No. LAN Interface Card function

1 Unused

2 Initializes LAN card configuration information

3 Prints LAN card configuration information (configura-

tion information such as the IP address will be printed)

4 Prints LAN card self-diagnosis (results of LAN card

examination will be printed)

Connector

Ca ble ty pe 10BASE-T, 100BASE-TX

Cable length 100m (328 ft) or less

Link/Status LED

Lighting up when establishing LINK to the Ethernet and/or when receiving packets.

LED Color A ction / Explanation

STATUS Orange Lighting for 10ms when receiving packets

LINK10 Green Lighting when recognizing the connection to 10BASE-T

LINK100 Green Lighting when recognizing the connecti on to 100BASE-TX

Communication setup

In the Interface Mode of printer unit, various settings, addresses and statuses can be

specified.

Maximum receive buffer

capacity

2.95MB

Nea r full

occu rred

Nea r full

released

0M B

2.95MB

R em ain s 0. 95 MB

R em ain s 1. 95 MB

Section 7: Interface Specifications

DR308e Operator’s Manual Page 7-9

7.5 UNIVERSAL SERIAL BUS (USB) INTERFACE

The Universal Serial Bus (USB) interface is a Plug-In Interface Module that can be installed by the user. It
requires a driver (shipped with each printer that has the interface installed) that must be loaded on your PC
and the PC must be configured to support USB peripherals using Windows 2000 or above. Details for loading
the USB driver are contained in the USB Interface Manual that is shipped with each printer with a USB
Optional interface installed. Up to 127 devices may be connected to a USB port using powered hubs.

7.5.1 Basic Specifications

7.5.2 Pin Assignments

7.6 EXTERNAL SIGNAL INTERFACE (EXT)

The external signal interface is designed to connect the printer to an external peripheral device. This interface
works only in pulse input mode of Continuous Mode or Dispense Mode (Mode of which EXT input executes
print operation). It outputting an error signal in all modes when an error has occurred in the printer.
Please refer to Section 3.8.10 in the Advanced Mode of the printer for various settings of external signal.
The EXT card operates in its own slot interface with the use of the main DATA port interface card such as RS­232C or Parallel card.

Pin No. Description

1 VBus

2-Data(D-)

3+Data(D+)

4GND

Connector

Series B plug
Cable length 5m (16 ft) or less (Twisted Pair Shielded)

Maximum receive buffer

capacity

2.95MB

Near full

occurred

Near full
released

0MB

2.95MB

Remains 0.95MB

Remains 1.95MB

EXT External Signal Connector Pin Assignments

17

814

Section 7: Interface Specifications

Page 7-10 DR308e Operator’s Manual

7.6 EXTERNAL SIGNAL INTERFACE (EXT) (cont’d)

7.6.1 Basic Specifications

Connector

14-pin external signal interface

Input/Output
circuit diagram

Signal level

High level : +4.2~5V

Input terminal Iin≒0mA, Output terminal Iout≒0mA

Low level : 0~0.7V or under

Input terminal Iin≒10mA, Output terminal Iout≒10 mA

Designation for issuing E XT
signal

Set “ENABLE/DISABLE” in the Advanced Mode

Exte rn al sign al type

The following signal types are available in the Advanced Mode.

Reissuing EXT signal

The following settings are available in the Advanced Mode.

ENABLE : Repr inting the same da ta
DISABLE: No reprint

Input/Output connection example

14-PIN type

JP7( Sel ects p ower su ppl y for input)

3 2 1

2

SG ground

Inpu t

Output

5-4 0V

FG(Frame Ground)

8

R
L

330Ω

330 Ω

13 +5V

Iin

Iout

Per iph eral dev i ce Printer

Input/Output connection example

14-PIN type

JP7( Sel ects p ower su ppl y for input)

3 2 1

2

SG ground

Inpu t

Output

5-4 0V

FG(Frame Ground)

8

R
L

330Ω

330 Ω

13 +5V

Iin

Iout

Per iph eral dev i ce Printer

Type Action / Explanation

TYP E I

(T1)

Print end signal (PREND) is “Low” before printing labels. The signal
level is “High” after the completion of print and will be “Low” 20 ms
later.

TYPE II

(T2)

Print end signal (PREND) is “High” before printing labels. The signal
level is “Low” after the completion of print and will be “High” 20ms
later.

TYPE III

(T3)

Print end signal (PREND) is “Low” before printing labels. The signal
level is “High” from the start to the end of print and will be “Low” after
the completion of print.

TYPE IV

(T4)

Print end signal (PREND) is “High” before printing labels. The signal
level is “Low” from the start to the end of print and will be “High” after
the completion of print.

Section 7: Interface Specifications

DR308e Operator’s Manual Page 7-11

7.6 EXTERNAL SIGNAL INTERFACE (EXT) (cont’d)

7.6.2 Pin Assignments

*1. There are four output signal types of [PREND] for the 6th pin. Select one of them based on [External signal
type] in [3.8 Advance Mode].
*2. When setting JP8 to [2-3] side, the power will be supplied from EXT5V_IN(Pin No. 8).
When setting JP8 to [1-2] side, the printer will be powered by the internal power supply.
When setting JP7 to [1-2] side, the printer will be used for offline output.
When setting JP7to [2-3] side, the 9th pin will be used for input.

Note:

External signal may become unstable for a second or so after turning the power on. Wait more than one
second before starting the operation control.

Pin
No.

Signal name Description I / O Level

Electrical condition

(voltage, electric current

[MAX])

1 PAPER END Outputs when detecting PAPER END Output Low

5V

400mA

2 GND SIGNAL GROUND ― ― ―

3 RIBBON END

Outputs when detecting RIBBON
END

Output Low

5V

400mA

4 MACHINE ERROR

Outputs when detecting conditions
such as COVER OPEN, HEAD
ERROR, and COMMUNICATION
ERROR, etc.

Output Low

5V

400mA

5

PRINT START

(PRIN)

Prints a single label by every input of
this signal

Input Low

High: High impedance
Low：-15mA or more, 0V

6

PRINT END

(PREND)

*1

Outputs signal every time the printer
issues a single label

Output

Low

5V

400mA

7

REPRINT

(PRIN2)

Reprints the same data on a single
Label by the input of this signal

Input Low

High: High impedance
Low：-15mA or more, 0V

8 EXT5V_IN External power supply Input ― 5V *2

9 ONLINE Outputs when the printer goes online Output Lo w

5V

400mA

10 RIBBON NEAR END

Outputs when detecting RIBBON
NEAR END

Output High

5V

400mA

11 ― ― ― ― ―

12 +24V ― ― ― 2A

13 +5V ― ― ― 500mA

14 ― ― ― ― ―

Section 7: Interface Specifications

Page 7-12 DR308e Operator’s Manual

This page is intentionally left blank

Section 8: Optional Accessories

DR308e Operator’s Manual Page 8-1

OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES

This section contains details of the optional accessories available for the DR308e printer:

• 8.1 Cutter

• 8.2 Stacker

• 8.3 Dispenser

• 8.4 External Rewinding Unit

• 8.5 Keypad

• 8.6 Calendar IC

8.1 CUTTER

Cutter should only be installed by Sato qualified servicing personnel.

8.1.1 To route the media when the cutter is installed

1.

Load the media accordingly to the instructions as men­tioned in Section 2.3 Loading Labels or Tags on page

2-3.

2. With the head lock lever release, set the tip of the

media on the platen roller.

3. Remount the print head by turning the head lock lever

clockwise until it latch on. The print head should lock into
place firmly. Close the main cover.

4. Power on the printer and press the LINE button to set

the printer to OFFLINE mode.

5. Press the FEED button. An empty media should be fed

and cut out. This procedure is to ensure the media is
loaded correctly.

Note:

If the media is fed without cutting, make sure the PRINT
MODE of the ADVANVCE MODE is set to CUTTER.
Refer to Section 3.8.3 Choosing Print mode Option
on page 3-17.

Platen roller

Section 8: Optional Accessories

Page 8-2 DR308e Operator’s Manual

8.1 CUTTER (cont’d)

8.1.2 Cut position Adjustment

The cutting position can be adjusted with the OFFSET potentiometer. Refer to Section 3.6.1 Offset Volume
mode on page 3-8.

Notes:

• Cutting of Labels

The correct cutting position is at the label gap. Cutting
onto the label must be avoided because the glue that
accumulates on the blade will affect cutter sharpness.

• Cutting Media with Perforation
As for media with perforation, +/- 1mm (+/- 0.04 in.) from
perforation is the non-cut area. Adjust the OFFSET
potentiometer to obtain correct cut position.

8.1.3 Cutter replacement

Replace cutter unit when blade becomes blunt and cut
edges are rough. (Please contact the sales outlet where
you purchase the DR308e.)

8.2 STACKER

Stacker is to be installed onto the cutter cover. With the stacker unit installed, the cut tags are collected and
stack up neatly.

1. Set the stacker in front of the printer and hook it onto the

cover of the cutter compartment as shown.

Backing paper

Cut Position

Label

Cut Position

Label

+/- 1mm

Perforation

Section 8: Optional Accessories

DR308e Operator’s Manual Page 8-3

8.2 STACKER (cont’d)

2.

First adjust the stacker scale position (inclination of
bottom plate) corresponding to the pitch size of the
loaded tag by loosening the stacker screw.
The scale is indicated on the left side if you are facing
the front of printer.
For tag with pitch size longer than 40mm (1.57 in.), set
the stacker scale to the position in between the 40mm
mark and LONG mark.
For tag with pitch size shorter than 40mm (1.57 in.), set
the stacker scale to the position in between the 40mm
mark and SHORT mark.
Fasten the stacker screw to fix the position.

3. Place the Tag guide on the stacker and adjust the posi-

tion by matching with the size of the cut tag.
Set it with a space of approximately 3mm (0.12 in.) from
the printer and 3mm (0.12 in.) from the side of tag.

Notes:

• When a small tag with pitch size shorter than 35mm
(1.38 in.), a Guide plate is necessary to attach to the
stacker. This Guide plate prevents overturning when
small pitch tag is issued.

• The number of sheets that can be stacked varies with
the scale position and paper thickness.

ScaleStacker screw

Space approx.
3mm

Tag Guide

Ta g

1

2

Attach Guide plate
to the stacker.

Section 8: Optional Accessories

Page 8-4 DR308e Operator’s Manual

8.3 DISPENSER

Dispenser should only be installed by Sato qualified servicing personnel.

8.3.1 To route the label when the dispenser is installed

1.

Load the label accordingly to the instructions as men­tioned in Section 2.3 Loading Labels or Tags.

2. With the thumbs position on the two corner of the pres-

sure bracket, push the pressure bracket up and pull
forward to open the pressure bracket.

3. With the head lock lever release, set the label to the

dispenser.
Peel off the first 3 to 4 labels from the backing paper and
then pass the backing paper under the pressure

bracket as shown.

4. Close the pressure bracket with the backing paper

passing through it.

5. Remount the print head by turning the head lock lever

clockwise until it latch on. The print head should lock into
place firmly. Close the main cover.

6. Power on the printer and press the LINE button to set

the printer to OFFLINE mode.

7. Press the FEED button. An empty label should be fed

and stop at the dispenser. This procedure is to ensure
the label is loaded correctly.

8.3.2 Stop position Adjustment

The stop position can be adjusted with the OFFSET potentiometer. Refer to Section 3.6.1 Offset Volume
mode on page 3-8.

Notes:

• There may be cases when the dispenser does not function properly due to the thickness of the labels
used. Please use labels with thickness within 135 to 265um (0.005 to 0.01 in.).

• Dispenser unit is effective for label pitch 25 to 181 mm (1 to 7.1 in.). However, label size limitation may vary
with application conditions.

• Labels over 100mm (3.9 in.) may curl at dispense due to the nature of the material. There is no remedy for
this.

1

2

1

Pressure bracket

Backing paper

Section 8: Optional Accessories

DR308e Operator’s Manual Page 8-5

8.4 EXTERNAL REWINDING UNIT

External rewinding unit should only be installed by Sato qualified servicing personnel. The external rewinding
unit is to install on the option compartment at the front side of the printer. Use

Paper core size of φ 40 mm (1.5 in.)

or POS cassette for rewinding. The rewound labels can be attached directly to specific Sato Seal Labeller. Below
explained the loading of label when using paper core. Please refer to the separated manual for details when using with the
POS cassette.

8.4.1 To load the labels to the external rewinding unit

1.

Load the label accordingly to the instructions as men­tioned in Section 2.3 Loading Labels or Tags.

2. Insert an empty paper core, with size φ 40mm (1.5in.), to

the label take-up spindle at the rewinding unit.

3. With the head lock lever release, pull the leader of the

label to the label take-up spindle and place it on top of
the empty core. Make sure that the label should be
facing outward.

4. Unfasten and adjust the sliding guide until it lightly

touches the edge of the label. Fix the sliding guide in
position with the white knob.

5. Tape the leader portion of the label to the empty core.

Then turn the take-up spindle several times in the
direction of counter-clockwise to wind the label around
the core.

6. Remount the print head by turning the head lock lever

clockwise until it latch on. The print head should lock into
place firmly. Close the main cover.

7. Power on the printer and press the LINE button to set

the printer to OFFLINE mode.

8. Press the FEED button. An empty label should be fed

and the rewinding unit wound up the label simultane­ously. This procedure is to ensure the label is loaded
correctly.

8.4.2 To remove the wound up label

When the core on the rewinding unit was fully wound up
with labels, stop printing and turn off the printer. Slide the
cutter of the rewinding unit across the label. Then take out
the labels and core from the take-up spindle. Repeat the
above procedure to wind up another core of labels.

Empty paper core

Tape

Label facing outward

Take up spindle

Sliding guide

Cutter

Section 8: Optional Accessories

Page 8-6 DR308e Operator’s Manual

8.5 KEYPAD

An optional keypad can be connected to the printer DR308e. This enable users to enter simple command to
the printer, by the connected keypad, without connecting to a host computer. For details on the operation and
configuration of the keypad, please refer to the separate operator manual of the keypad.

8.5.1 To set the printer for using with the optional keypad

1.

Connect the optional keypad to the printer.
See Section 2.7.2 Connecting the optional keypad on page 2-10.

2. Turn on the power of the printer. Press LINE button to enter OFFLINE mode.

3. Press FEED button while pressing the LINE button. The printer enters Printer setting mode. See Section

3.4 Printer Setting Modes on page 3-6 for details.

4. Press LINE button to select INTERFACE MODE and press FEED button to enter the selection. See

Section 3.7 Interface Mode on page 3-11 for details.

5. Press LINE button to select KEYPAD PORT and press FEED button to enter the selection. See Section

3.7.2 Enabling optional connected Keypad on page 3-14 for details.

6. Select ON with the LINE button and press FEED button to enter the selection.

7. Turn the printer Off and then On again to initialize the printer for use with the keypad. An asterik mark is

displayed beside ONLINE.

8.5.2 When the optional keypad is not in used

Repeat step 2 to 5 above and select OFF with LINE and FEED button on step 6.
Turn the printer Off and then On again to initialize the printer. The asterisk mark is disappeared from the
display.

8.6 CALENDAR IC

The Calendar Option allows the date and time to be maintained in the printer. A Sato qualified servicing
personnel should perform the upgrade as it requires modifications to the main PCB assembly. Please call
SATO Technical Support if you need to add this option to an existing printer in the field.

Section 9: Sato Group of Companies

DR308e Operator’s Manual Page 9-1

SATO GROUP OF COMPANIES

SATO GROUP OF COMPANIES

Asia Pacific & Oceania Region

SATO ASIA PACIFIC PTE. LTD.

438A Alexandra Road #05-01/04,
Alexandra Technopark, Singapore 119967
Tel: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Email: [e-mail]
www.satoasiapacific.com

SATO AUTO-ID MALAYSIA SDN. BHD.

No.25, Jalan Pemberita U1/49,
Temasya Industrial Park, Section U1,
40150 Shah Alam, Selangor Darul Ehsan,
Malaysia
Tel: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Email: [e-mail]
www.satoasiapacific.com

SATO AUTO-ID (THAILAND) CO., LTD.

292/1 Moo 1 Theparak Road,
Tumbol Theparak, Amphur Muang,
Samutprakarn 10270, Thailand
Tel: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Email: [e-mail]
www.satothailand.co.th

SATO SHANGHAI CO., LTD.

307 Haining Road, ACE Bldg,
10th Floor, Hongkou Area, Shanghai,
China 200080
Tel: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Email: [e-mail]
www.satochina.com

SATO ASIA PACIFIC PTE. LTD.

Korea Representative Office

6F, Korea Housing Center,
Yeouido-dong 45-11, Yeongdeungpo-gu,
Seoul, Korea 150-736
Tel: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Email: [e-mail]
www.satoasiapacific.com

SATO ASIA PACIFIC PTE. LTD.

India Representative Office

Regus Level 2, Connaugh Place,
Bund Garden Road, Pune. 411001, India
Tel: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Email: [e-mail]
www.satoasiapacific.com

SATO AUSTRALIA PTY LTD.

1/1 Nursery Avenue, Clayton Business
Park, Clayton, VIC 3168 Australia
Tel: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Email: [e-mail]
www.satoaustralia.com

SATO NEW ZEALAND LTD.

30 Apollo Drive, Mairangi Bay
Auckland, New Zealand
Tel: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Email:
[e-mail]
www.satonewzealand.com

European Region

SATO LABELLING SOLUTIONS
EUROPE GmbH (BELGIUM)

Leuvensesteenweg 369,
1932 Sint-Stevens-Woluwe, Belgium
Tel: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Email: [e-mail]
www.satoeurope.com

SATO LABELLING SOLUTIONS
EUROPE GmbH (GERMANY)

Ersheimer Straße 71,
69434 Hirschhorn, Germany
Tel: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Email: [e-mail]
www.satoeurope.com

SATO LABELLING SOLUTIONS
EUROPE GmbH (NORWAY)

Hovfaret 4 0275 Oslo, Norway
Tel.: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Email: [e-mail]
www.satoeurope.com

SATO LABELLING SOLUTIONS
EUROPE GmbH (NETHERLANDS)

Techniekweg 1b, 3481 MK Harmelen,
Netherlands
Tel.: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Email: [e-mail]
www.satoeurope.com

SATO LABELLING SOLUTIONS
EUROPE GmbH (ITALY)

Viale Europa 39/1,
20090 Cusago, Milano, Italy
Tel.: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Email: [e-mail]
www.satoeurope.com

SATO LABELLING SOLUTIONS
EUROPE GmbH (SWITZERLAND)

Allmendstraße 19,
8320 Fehraltorf, Switzerland
Tel: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Email: [e-mail]
www.satoeurope.com

SATO LABELLING SOLUTIONS
EUROPE GmbH (AUSTRIA)

Niederlassing Austria
Jochen-Rindt-Straße 13
1230 Wien, Austria
Tel: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Email: [e-mail]
www.satoeurope.com

SATO LABELLING SOLUTIONS
EUROPE GmbH (DENMARK)

Naverland 29A DK-2600
Glostrup, Denmark
Tel.: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Email: [e-mail]
www.satoeurope.com

SATO POLSKA SP. Z O.O.

ul. Wrocławska 123, Radwanice,
55-015 Św. Katarzyna, Poland
Tel: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Email: [e-mail]
www.sato.pl

SATO IBERIA S.A.

Dels Corrals Nous, 35-39
Pol. Can Roqueta, 08202 - Sabadell
Barcelona, Spain
Tel: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Email: [e-mail]
www.satoeurope.com

SATO FRANCE S.A.S.

Parc d'Activités, Rue Jacques Messager,
59 175 Templemars, France
Tel: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
www.satoeurope.com

SATO UK LTD.

Valley Road, Harwich,
Essex CO12 4RR, United Kingdom
Tel: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Email: [e-mail]
www.satouk.com

American Region

SATO AMERICA, INC.

10350-A Nations Ford Road, Charlotte,
NC 28273, U.S.A.
Tel: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
www.satoamerica.com

SATO LABELING SOLUTIONS
AMERICA, INC.

1140 Windham Parkway, Romeoville,
Illinois 60446, U.S.A.
Tel: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
www.satolabeling.com

• Extensive contact information of worldwide SATO operations
can be found on the Internet at www.satoworldwide.com