SATO GT412, GT408, GT424e User Manual

GT408/412/424e

Printer

OPERATOR MANUAL

PN 9001138B

SATO America, Inc.

10350A Nations Ford Road

Charlotte, NC 28273

Main Phone: [phone]

Technical Support Hotline: [phone]

Technical Support Fax: [phone]

E-Mail: [e-mail]

technical [e-mail]

www.satoamerica.com

WARNING

THE EQUIPMENT REFERENCED IN THIS DOCUMENT COMPLIES WITH THE REQUIREMENTS IN
PART 15 OF FCC RULES FOR A CLASS B COMPUTING DEVICE. OPERATION OF THIS EQUIPMENT
IN A RESIDENTIAL AREA MAY CAUSE UNACCEPTABLE INTERFERENCE TO RADIO AND TV

RECEPTION.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

INTRODUCTION

About This Manual 1-2
General Description 1-3
Control Features 1-4

TECHNICAL DATA

Physical Characteristics 2-2
Power 2-2
Enviromental 2-2
Processing 2-2
Command 2-2
Interface Modules 2-2
Print 2-3
Media 2-3
Ribbon 2-3
Sensing 2-3
Character Font Capabilities 2-4
Barcode Capabilities 2-5
Regulatory 2-5

INSTALLATION

Unpacking & Parts Identification 3-2
Printer Installation 3-2

Site Location 3-3
Cable Connection 3-3
Media Selection 3-4
Media & Ribbon Loading 3-4

Interface Selection 3-6

RS232C Serial Interface 3-6
IEEE1284 Parallel Interface 3-8
Universal Serial BUS (USB) Adapter 3-9
Local Area Network (LAN) Ethernet 3-9

802.11B Wireless 3-9
Receive Buffer 3-10
ACK/NAK Protocol 3-10

Accessories Installation 3-11

External Signal Connector 3-11
Memory Expansion 3-12
Interface Upgrade 3-13
Label Cutter 3-14
Label Peeler 3-14

PN 9001138B

PRINTER CONFIGURATION

Configuration Modes 4-2

Normal Mode 4-2
User Mode 4-3
Advanced Mode 4-4
IEEE1284 Interface Setup Mode 4-5
RS232C Interface Setup Mode 4-6
Centronics Interface Setup Mode 4-7
LAN Interface Setup Mode 4-8
USB Interface Setup Mode 4-9
Cartidge Mode 4-10
SEMBL Mode 4-11
Test Print Mode 4-12
Download Mode 4-13
Hex Dump Mode 4-14
Boot Download Mode 4-15
Data Save Mode 4-16
Default Settings Mode 4-17
Print Cancel Mode 4-18
Print Darkness Default Mode 4-19
Service Mode 4-20
Factory Mode 4-21

Screen Identification 4-22

TROUBLESHOOTING

Error Signals 5-2
Troubleshooting Table 5-7
Interface Troubleshooting 5-9

Parallel Interface 5-9
RS232 Serial Interface 5-9
LAN Ethernet Interface 5-10
Universal Serial Bus (USB) Interface 5-10

Test Print Troubleshooting 5-11

Hex Dump Mode 5-11
Test Label Printing 5-12
Sensor Locations 5-14

MAINTENANCE

Cleaning Procedures 6-2
Replacement Procedures 6-3

Print Head 6-3
Platen Roller 6-4

Adjustment Procedures 6-6

Print Head Alignment 6-6
Print Head Pressure 6-7
Print Head Balance 6-8
Ribbon Guide 6-9
Label Sensor Positioning 6-10

Potentiometer Adjustments 6-11

PN 9001138B

INTRODUCTION

• About This Manual

• General Description

• Control Features

SATO GT4xxe Series Operator Manual PN 9001138B Page 1-1

Unit 1: Introduction

ABOUT THIS MANUAL

This manual is laid out consistent with the product discussed and provides all of the information
required for printer maintenance and repair by SATO approved personnel. For the repair
technician, this manual is intended to compliment, and to be used as an extension of, owner/
operator literature.

This manual also incorporates the use of special information boxes. Examples of these boxes
and the type of information provided in each, are below.

WARNING: PROVIDES INFORMATION THAT, IF UNHEEDED, MAY
RESULT IN PRESONAL INJURY.

CAUTION: PROVIDES INFORMATION THAT, IF UNHEEDED, MAY

RESULT IN EQUIPMENT DAMAGE.

NOTE: Provides helpful hints to assist in performing the tasks at hand.

LCD DISPLAY: Provides the specific display that should be visible on
the LCD at that point.

A comprehensive Table Of Contents provided at the front of this manual facilitates rapid
movement within. The contents identify the different Units, Chapters, and Sections. Each
references the page number of their commencement.

The pages of this manual have embedded headers and footers to assist the user in identifying
his or her exact position within the manual. The header provides the section number followed by
its name. The footer identifies the product on the left, the manual’s part number in the center, and
the page number to the right side of the page.

Page enumeration is two-part with each separated by a hyphen. The first character set
references the Unit and the second identifies the page number. Page numbers begin with the
numeral (1) one at the commencement of a new unit and ascends sequentially.

SATO GT4xxe Series Operator Manual PN 9001138B Page 1-2

Unit 1: Introduction

GENERAL DESCRIPTION

The GT4xxe series printer is a high-performance printer capable of printing all popular bar codes
and twelve human-readable fonts; providing an inventory of thouasnds of styles and sizes. Its
heavy metal construction is designed to deliver optimum performance in demanding
environments.

Top Housing Cover

Left Housing Cover

Operator Panel

Power Switch

Front H ousing Cover

Rear Housing Cover

Memory Card Access

Ribbon Supply Spindle

Ribbon Rewind Spindle

Media Holder

Media Guide

Side Cover

Platen Rolle r Asse mbly

Print Head Assembly

Figure 1-1a, Primary Components

SATO GT4xxe Series Operator Manual PN 9001138B Page 1-3

Unit 1: Introduction

CONTROL FEATURES

This chapter identifies the interactive control features of the printer. These functions are
generally defined here. More specific explainations will be found throughout this manual on how
to use them.

LCD Display

Communicates operational conditions via the use
of icons and text.

POWER ON LINE STATUS LABEL RIBBON

LINE

FUNCTION

VOLUME PITCH OFFSET DARKNESS

FEED

ENTER

CANCEL

LED Indicators

POWER

Illuminates when the power on.

ONL INE

Illuminates when communication is available .
Flashes when fails.

STAT US

Flashes when an error occurs. Flashes when
sending/receiving data.

LABEL

Flashes when paper error occurs.

RIBBON

Flashes when ribbon error occurs.

Operator Buttons

FEED

Feeds the equivalent of a sheet of paper when
pressed o nce. Positions pa per if misaligne d .

LINE

Starts and stops printing and transmission of
data.

Maintenance Panel

FUNCTION

Allows movement through the various menus
and modes.

Permits the movement of the cursor for input.

ENTER

Allows the selection of an option .

CANCEL

Cancels a print job. Allows return to the previous
screen when moving through the menus.

VOLUME

For buzzer volume adjustment.

PITCH

For adjusting print position.

OFF SET

Adjusts cut, peel, and tear-off stop positions.

DARKNESS

Adjust s pr int d ensit y .

Power Switch

Breaks the circuit providing power to the printer.

Figure 1-2, Operator Panel

SATO GT4xxe Series Operator Manual PN 9001138B Page 1-4

TECHNICAL DATA

• Physical Characteristics

•Power

• Enviromental

• Processing

•Print

•Media

•Ribbon

• Sensing

• Interface Modules

• Character Font Capabilities

• Barcode Capabilities

• Regulatory Approvals

SATO GT4xxe Series Operator Manual PN 9001138B Page 2-1

Unit 2: Technical Data

PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS

Width 10.67 Inches (271 mm)

Height 12.00 Inches (305 mm)

Depth 17.90 Inches (455 mm)

Weight 33.07 Pounds (15.0 Kg) standard

POWER

Input Voltage 100-240 Volts AC +/- 10%, 50/60 Hertz +/-5%

Power Consumption 200 Volts/150 Watts Operating, 89 Volts/40 Watts Idle

ENVIRONMENTAL

Operating Temperature 32° to 104°F (0° to 40°C)

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

Storage Humidity 30 to 90% RH Non-Condensing

Operating Humidity 30 to 80% RH Non-Condensing

PROCESSING

CPU 32 Bit RISC

FLash ROM 2 Megabytes

SDRAM 4 Megabytes

Receive Buffer 2.95 Megabytes

Extended Memory Flash Memory Board (8 Megabytes)

COMMAND

Standard

Optional SATO Embedded Basic Language (SEMBL)

SATO Barcode Printer Language (SBPL)

Intelligent Command

INTERFACE MODULES

Enhanced Parallel Port IEEE1284 (ECP Compatible)

Centronics Parallel Port Centronics

Serial Port

Universal Serial Bus USB Adapter (12 Mbps)

LAN 10BASE-T/100BASE-TX Automatic Switching

Ethernet (Wireless LAN) 10/100 Base T, 802.11B Wireless Wi-Fi

Mini LAN 10BASE-T/100BASE-TX Automatic Switching

RS232C (9600 to 57,600 bps) Standard

RS422/485 (9600 to 57600 bps) Optional

SATO GTxxe Series Operator Manual PN 9001138B Page 2-2

Unit 2: Technical Data

PRINT

Method Direct Thermal / Thermal Transfer

Speed (user selectable)

Print Module (dot size) .0049 Inches (.125 mm)

Resolution

Maximum Print Width 4.10 Inches (104 mm)

Maximum Print Length

Thermal Transfer: 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12 Inches Per Second
Direct Thermal: 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 Inches Per Second

203 Dots Per Inch (8 dpmm)
305 Dots Per Inch (12 dpmm)
609 Dots Per Inch (24 dpmm)

GT408 Printer: 98.43 Inches (2500 mm)
GT412 Printer: 59.06 Inches (1500 mm)

GT424 Printer: 15.75 Inches (400 mm)

MEDIA

Roll Paper: 10.43 Inch (265 mm) maximum diameter.

Roll Media

Fan-Fold Media Maximum folded height: 7.87 Inches (200 mm)

Standard Mode

Te ar - Of f

Thickness 0.002 to 0.010 Inches (0.06 - 0.268 mm)

Core Size: 1.5, 3, 4 Inch (38.1, 76.2, 101.6 mm) internal diameter.
Wound: Face In / Face Out. Face Out is for linerless only.

Media Width: 0.87 to 5.04 Inches (22-128 mm)
Media Length: 0.24 to 5.04 Inches (6-397 mm)

Backing Paper Width: 0.98 to 5.16 Inches (25-131 mm)
Backing Paper Length: 0.35 to 15.75 Inches (9-400 mm)

Media Width: 0.87 to 5.04 Inches (22-128 mm)
Media Pitch: 0.67 to 5.04 Inches (17-397 mm)

Backing Paper Width: 0.98 to 5.16 Inches (25-131 mm)
Backing Paper Length: 0.79 to 15.75 Inches (20-400 mm)

RIBBON

Minimum: 1.56 Inches (39.5 mm)

Width

Length 492 yards (450 m) roll.

Wound Face In / Face Out.

Roll Diameter 3.34 Inches (85 mm)

Maximum: 1.77, 2.32, 2.99, 3.31, 3.62, 4.02, 4.37, 5.04
(45, 59, 76, 84, 92, 102, 111, 128 mm)

SENSING

Gap Adjustable

Reflective Eye-Mark Adjustable

Label Adjustable

Continuous Form Sensor not used.

SATO GTxxe Series Operator Manual PN 9001138B Page 2-3

Unit 2: Technical Data

CHARACTER FONT CAPABILITIES

MATRIX FONTS

U 5 dots W x 9 dots H

S 8 dots W x 15 dots H

M 13 dots W x 20 dots H

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)

OB Font (OCR-B)

AUTO SMOOTHING FONTS

WB 18 dots W x 30 dots H

WL 28 dots W x 52 dots H

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

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

VECTOR FONT

Proportional or Fixed Spacing

Font Size 50 x 50 dots to 999 x 999 dots

Helvetica, 10 Font Variations

AGFA RASTER FONTS

A Font CG Times, 8 to 72 pt.

B Font CG Triumvirate, 8 to 72 pt.

DOWNLOADABLE FONTS

Bit Mapped True Type Fonts with Utility Program

CHARACTER CONTROL

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

Character Pitch Control

Line Space Control

Journal Print facility

0, 90, 180, and 270 Degree Rotation

SATO GTxxe Series Operator Manual PN 9001138B Page 2-4

Unit 2: Technical Data

BAR CODE CAPABILTIES

UPC-A/E

CODABAR

Code 39
Code 93

Code 128

Interleaved 2 of 5

Linear Bar Codes

Two Dimemsional

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

Bar Height 4 to 999 dots, User progammable

Rotation 0, 90, 180, and 270 Degrees

Sequential Numbering Sequential numbering of both numerics and bar codes

Custom Characters RAM storage for special characters

Expansion Ratio of Character Height: 1-12 times, Width: 1-12 times

Graphics Full dot addressable graphics, SATO Hex/Binary, BMP or PCX formats

Form Overlay Form overlay for high-speed editing of complex formats

Matrix 2 of 5

Bookland

RSS-14

MSI

POSTNET

UCC/EAN 128

Customer Barcode

QR Code

Veri Code
Data Matrix
Macro BDF

Maxi Code

PDF417

Micro PDF417

Truncated PDF

QR Code

NW-7 (Codabar)

Composite Symbology

REGULATORY

Safety EN 55022 (Class B), UL (CUL), TUV

Radiant Noise VCCI (Class B)

AC Line Noise Over 1000V p-p

Static Electricity IEC (Level 3)

SATO GTxxe Series Operator Manual PN 9001138B Page 2-5

INSTALLATION

• Unpacking

• Parts Identification

• Printer Installation

• Interface Selection

• Accessories Installation

SATO GT4xxe Series Operator Manual PN 9001138B Page 3-1

Unit 3: Installation

UNPACKING & PARTS IDENTIFICATION

Unpack the printer as directed in the following procedure.

1 Place the shipping container (box) upright on a soid, flat surface.

2 Open the box, remove any loose items and the first layer of packing material.

3 Carefully lift the printer and accessories from the box and place them on a solid flat surface.

4 Remove the plastic covers from the packed items and visually inspect for physical damage.

5 Ensure all components are present as dictated on the Packing List.

6 Report damaged property.

Accessory Bo x

Printer

Cushion

Shipping Container

Figure 3-1, Unpacking

SATO GT4xxe Series Operator Manual PN 9001138B Page 3-2

Unit 3: Installation

PRINTER INSTALLATION

This chapter provides guidance on how to station, connect, and load the printer once unpacked.
Following printer setup, procede to the next chapter for information on interface selection.

SITE LOCATION

• Stationed on a solid flat surface.

• Stationed away from hazardous materials.

• Stationed within operational distance of the host based on interface specifications.

CABLE CONNECTION

The procedure below provides instruction on typical cable connection. The same procedure will
apply to others that are not mentioned, but their connectors are also located behind the rear
housing cover.

1 Press the rear housing ocver catch and remove laterally (Figure 3-2a).

2 Locate and identify the required connectors (Figure 3-2b).

3 Connect the power supply and interface cables to their respective connectors (Figure 3-2c).

4 Replace rear housing cover (Figure 3-2d).

Rear Housing Cover

Interface Connectors

Figure 3-2a

Housing Cover Catch

Power Supply Connector

Figure 3-2b

Rear Housing Cover

Pull Prevent ion Slot

Figure 3-2c

Figure 3-2d

SATO GT4xxe Series Operator Manual PN 9001138B Page 3-3

Unit 3: Installation

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.

MEDIA & RIBBON LOADING

There are two general media types that may be loaded and used; rolled and fan-folded. Each of
those types may again be defined by whether their print application is direct thermal or thermal
transfer. Those factors determine how the media is loaded and if ribbon stock is loaded at all.

Thermal transfer media requires the use of ribbon stock for print application. In such a scenario,
it is the ribbon stock (carbon paper) that contains the ink that will be transfered to the media.

Direct thermal media has the ink embedded within and is brought to the surface through heat
penetration by print head contact.

Rolled media of standard diameter is loaded within the printer and suspended by the media
holder. Larger, non-standard rolled media would be suspended outside the printer at its rear and
fed inward. Fan-folded media would also be fed inward from the rear but is stacked as opposed
to suspended.

Refer to Figures 3-3a and 3-3b for proper media routing relative to the type to be used. If that to
be used is direct thermal, ignore the ribbon stock in the figures and do not load that.

MediaRibbon Roll

Prin t Assem bly

Media Ramp

Media Holder

Label Damper

Media Guide

Figure 3-3a, Rolled Media & Ribbon Loading

SATO GT4xxe Series Operator Manual PN 9001138B Page 3-4

Unit 3: Installation

Print Assemb ly

Media Ramp

Media Holder

Label Damper

Media Guide

MediaRibbon Roll

Figure 3-3b, Fan-fold Media & Ribbon Loading

SATO GT4xxe Series Operator Manual PN 9001138B Page 3-5

Unit 3: Installation

INTERFACE SELECTION

This chapter presents the printer interface types and their specifications. These specifications
include detailed information to assist in the selection of the most appropriate method for the
printer to interface with the host. The four acceptable interface methods are:

• RS232C Asynchronous Serial

• IEEE1284 Parallel

• Universal Serial Bus (USB) Adapter

• Local Area network (LAN) Ethernet

• 802.11B Wireless

Following the selection of the desired interface, proceed to the following unit for instructions on
how to Configure the printer for that interface type.

WARNING: NEVER CONNECT OR DISCONNECT INTERFACE CABLES
(OR USE A SWITCH BOX) WITH POWER APPLIED TO EITHER THE
HOST OR THE PRINTER. THIS MAY CAUSE DAMAGE TO THE
INTERFACE CIRCUITRY IN THE PRINTER/HOST AND IS NOT COVERED
BY WARRANTY.

NOTE: Some hosts monitor the Request-To-Send (RTS) signal (pin 4 of 25)

to determine if the printer is ready to receive data. Since the printer does not
generate this signal, the RTS line must be held true (high) in order to allow
communication. This can be performed by connecting the RTS pin to the
Clear-To-Send (CTS) signal (pin 5 of 25).

RS232C SERIAL INTERFACE

This High Speed Serial Interface is a Plug-In Interface Module that can be installed in the printer
by the user. The only difference between this interface and the TTL is their signal levels and
cable pinouts.

RS232C SPECIFICATIONS

Asynchronous ASCII Half-duplex communication

Bi-Directional Communication
Data Transmission Rate 9600, 19200, 38400, 57600 bps
Data Length 8 bit (selectable)
Stop Bit 1 bit (fixed)
Parity Bit ODD, EVEN, NONE (selectable)
Codes Used ASC II Character Codes, JIS Kanji Codes
Control Codes STX (02H), ETX (03H), ACK (06H), NAK (15H)
Connector Special
Cable Special
Signal Levels High = +5V to +12V, Low = -5V to -12V

SATO GT4xxe Series Operator Manual PN 9001138B Page 3-6

Unit 3: Installation

RS232C SERIAL INTERFACE SIGNALS

PIN DIRECTION SIGNAL DEFINITION

1 Reference FG (Frame Ground)
2 To Host TD (Transmit Data) - Data from the printer to the host computer. Sends X-On/

X-Off characters or status data (bi-directional protocols).
3 To Printer RD (Receive Data) - Data to the printer from the host computer.
4 To Host RTS (Request to Send) - Used with Ready/Busy flow control to indicate an

error condition. RTS is high and remains high unless the print head is open (in

this case, RTS would return to the high state after the print head is closed and

the printer is placed back on-line) or an error condition occurs during printing

(e.g., ribbon out, label out).
5 To Printer CTS (Clear to Send) - When this line is high, the printer assumes that data is

ready to be transmitted. The printer will not receive data when this line is low. If

this line is not being used, it should be tied high (to pin 4).
6 To Printer DSR (Data Set Ready) - When this line is high, the printer will be ready to

receive data. This line must be high before data is transmitted. If this line is not

being used, it should be tied high (to pin 20).
7 Reference SG (Signal Ground)

20 To Host DTR (Data Terminally Ready) - This signal applies to Ready/Busy flow control.

The printer is ready to receive data when this pin is high. It goes low when the

printer is off-line, either manually or due to an error condition, and while

printing in the single job buffer mode. It will also go low when the data in the

buffer reaches the buffer near full level.

113

1425

Figure 3-4, Serial Interface Pin Assignments

CABLE REQUIREMENTS

DB9 DB25 HOST CONNECTION DB9 PRINTER

1 1 FG (Frame Ground) Bi-Directional 1 FG (Frame Ground)
2 3 RD (Receive Data) To Host 2 TD (Transmit Data)
3 2 TD Transmit Data) To Printer 3 RD (Receive Data)
8 5 CTS (Clear To Send) To Printer DB9-6 4 RTS (Request to Send)
4 20 DTR (Data Temrinal Ready) To Printer DB9-4 6 DSR (Data Set Ready)
6 6 DSR* (Data Set Ready) To Host 9 DTR (Data Terminal Ready)
5 7 SG (Signal Ground) Bi-Directional 7 SG (Signal Ground)

* This connection at the host side of the interface would depend upon the pin that is being used as the
Ready/Busy signal by the driving software. Typically, on a PC, it would be either CTS (pin5) or DSR (pin

6) on a DB-25 connector.

SATO GT4xxe Series Operator Manual PN 9001138B Page 3-7

Unit 3: Installation

IEEE1284 PARALLEL INTERFACE

The parallel interface is a plug-in module that can be installed by the user and conforms to
IEEE1284 specifications. It automatically detects the IEEE1284 signals and operates in the high
speed mode. If the IEEE1284 signals are not detected, it will operate in the slower standard
Centronics mode. For this reason, an interface cable and host interface conforming to the
IEEE1284 specification must be present to fully utilize the speed capabilities. This interface also
operates bi-directionally and can report the status of the printer back to the host.

SPECIFICATIONS

Printer Connector AMP 57-40360 DDK (or equivalent)
Cable Connector AMP 57-30360 DDK (or equivalent)
Cable IEEE1284 Parallel, 10 ft. (3 m) or less
Signal Level High = +2.4V to +5.0V, Low = 0V to -0.4V
Data Stream <ESC>A . . Job#1 . . <ESC>Z<ESC>A . . Job#n . . <ESC>Z

18

36

1

19

Figure 3-5, Parallel Interface Pin Assignments

IEEE 1284 PARALLEL INTERFACE PIN ASSIGNMENTS

PIN SIGNAL DIRECTION PIN SIGNAL DIRECTION

1 Strobe To Printer 19 Strobe Return Reference
2 Data 1 To Printer 20 Data 1 Return Reference
3 Data 2 To Printer 21 Data 2 Return Reference
4 Data 3 To Printer 22 Data 3 Return Reference
5 Data 4 To Printer 23 Data 4 Return Reference
6 Data 5 To Printer 24 Data 5 Return Reference
7 Data 6 To Printer 25 Data 6 Return Reference
8 Data 7 To Printer 26 Data 7 Return Reference
9 Data 8 To Printer 27 Data 8 Return Reference

10 ACK To Host 28 ACK Return Reference
11 Busy To Host 29 Busy Return Reference
12 Ptr Error To Host 30 PE Return Reference
13 Select To Host 31 INIT From Host
14 AutoFD1 To H os t 32 Fault To Host
15 Not Used 33 Not Used
16 Logic Gnd 34 Not Used
17 FG Frame Gnd 35 Not Used
18 +5V (z=24k ohm) To Host 36 SelectIn1 From Host

1 Signals required for ieee 1284 mode.

SATO GT4xxe Series Operator Manual PN 9001138B Page 3-8

Unit 3: Installation

UNIVERSAL SERIAL BUS (USB) ADAPTER

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
98 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.

SPECIFICATIONS

Printer Connector USB Type B Plug
Cable 10 feet (3 m) maximum
Host Windows 98 or above with USB Port
Power Supply BUS Power through cable
Power Consumption +5 V at 80 ma

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 your PC and the PC must be 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.

SPECIFICATIONS

Connector RJ-45 Receptacle
Cable 10/100BaseT Category 5
Power Supply Powered from printer

802.11B WIRELESS

The wireless print server provides easy printer interface with 802.11b Wi-Fi compliant networks
free of wired connections. Each printer is shipped with an integrated driver and interface
installed. The driver must be loaded on your PC and the PC must be configured to run one of the
supported protocols.

802.11B WIRELESS SPECIFICATIONS

Variable Data Rates 11, 5.5, 2 and 1 Mbps
Frequency Band 2.4 GHz ISM Band
Wired Equivalent Privacy 128 bit, 64 bit (compatible with 40bit), none
Sensitivity (typ, AAWGN, 8E-2 PER): -91dBm at 1Mbps, -88dBm at 2 Mdps,

-87dBm at 5.5Mbps, -84dBm at 11Mbps.
Range 100m indoors, 300m outdoors
Protocols TCP/IP, IPX/SPX, Direct Mode IPX/IP, DLC/LLC, NetBEUI,

NetBIOS/IP

SATO GT4xxe Series Operator Manual PN 9001138B Page 3-9

Unit 3: Installation

RECEIVE BUFFER

The data stream is received from the host to the printer one job at a time. This allows the
software program to maintain control of the job print queue so that it can move a high priority job
in front of ones of lesser importance.

A multiple job buffer allows the printer to continuously receive print jobs while compiling and
printing other jobs at the same time. It acts much like a Print buffer to maximize the performance
of the host and the printer.

The printer receives and prints one job at a time. If a print job exceeds the buffer size,
transmission will be rejected by the printer. Flow control protocols to throttle transmission are not
used. Error conditions that occur during the Print Data transmission will cause the printer to
return a NAK.

ACK/NAK PROTOCOL

Bi-Directional ACK/NAK protocol is used for error control. In a normal transmission sequence
when the transmission is received, the printer will return an ACK (06H) signifying that it was
received without a transmission error. After the transmission command structure has been
analyzed, a status byte is returned to the host. This status byte informs the host of the validity of
the command structure.

If the command structure is error free, the printer proceeds with the print operation. When the
print operation is completed, a Printer Status message is returned to the host. If an error was
detected during the initial transmission sequence, a NAK (15H) will be returned signalling to the
host that the received transmission contained errors and must be resent. If the returned Status
byte indicates a command structure error, the error must then be corrected before the print data
is resent to the printer.

A valid transmission to the printer must be bounded by an STX/ETX pair, with the STX (02H)
signifying the start of the Print Data and ending with an ETX (03H) signifying the end.

SATO GT4xxe Series Operator Manual PN 9001138B Page 3-10

Unit 3: Installation

ACCESSORIES INSTALLATION

EXTERNAL SIGNAL CONNECTOR

This connector permits the interface of an external source with the printer for the purpose of
regulating print actiivity to coincide with those external requirements (i.e.: production flow, etc.).

1 Disconnect power supply cord and remove the rear housing cover (1, Figure 3-6).

2 Remove screw (2) and plate (3) as required to expose the EXT port.

3 Remove two screws (4) and withdraw existing board (5) from frame (6) as required.

NOTE: The above step only applies if replacing an exisiting board.

4 Insert external signal board (5) into slot in frame (6) and secure using two screws (4).

5 Connect the interface cord, power cord, and reinstall rear housing covers.

5

D

D
R

R

A

A
O

O

B

B
S

S

R

R
+

+

4

4
8

8
2

2
1

1

E

E
E

E
E

E
I

I

6

3

1

4

2

Figure 3-6, External Signal Connector

SATO GT4xxe Series Operator Manual PN 9001138B Page 3-11

Unit 3: Installation

MEMORY EXPANSION

The memory cartridge provides additional storage of user data and graphics. Access to the
memory cartridge port, and its installation, is very simple. The instructions below provide
guidance.

CAUTION: INSTALL THE MEMORY CARTRIDGE PRIOR TO SENDING
RELATIVE COMMANDS OR AN ERROR WILL OCCUR. REMOVE POWER
TO THE PRINTER PRIOR TO INSTALLING THE CARTRIDGE.

1 Disconnect power supply cord.

2 Detach memory cartridge cover (1, Figure 3-7) from center frame (2).

3 Fully insert memory cartridge (3) into its respective port and replace cover (1).

4 Restore power to the printer and send commands.

3

1

2

Figure 3-7, PCMCIA Memory Expansion

SATO GT4xxe Series Operator Manual PN 9001138B Page 3-12

Unit 3: Installation

INTERFACE UPGRADE

The printer is typically ordered with a high-speed parallel interface board installed. However,
interface requirements sometimes change and an upgrade is desired. All of the interface boards
are installed within the same slot (middle) located in the rear of the printer with little or no
difference in installation methodology with the exception of the mini-LAN interface (top slot).

Parallel Interface (IEEE1284) (Optional or Bundled)

Serial Interface (RS232C) (Optional)

USB Interface (Optional)

10BaseT/100Base-TX Lan Interface (Optional)

Wireless LAn 802.11b Interface (Optioanl)

10BaseT/100Base-TX mini LAN (Optional(

EXT Connector (External Signal Interface) (Optional)

1 Remove the rear housing cover (1, Figure 3-8). Disconnect the power and interface cords.

2 Remove screw (2) and plate (3) as required to expose the interface port.

3 Remove two screws (4) and withdraw existing board (5) from frame (6) as required.

4 Insert replacement board (5) into slot in frame (6) and secure using two screws (4).

5 Connect the interface cord, power cord, and reinstall rear housing covers.

5

D

D
R

R

A

A
O

O

B

B
S

S

R

R
+

+

4

4
8

8

2

2
1

1
E

E

E

E
E

E
I

I

3

6

4

2

1

Figure 3-8, Interface Upgrade

SATO GT4xxe Series Operator Manual PN 9001138B Page 3-13

Unit 3: Installation

LABEL CUTTER INSTALLATION

The label cutter, when installed, replaces the printer’s lower front housing cover. Its internal
sensor monitors media feed and activates the cut sequence based on user established values.

The cutter assembly is powered through relayed current from the printer’s power supply and
derives its primary intelligence from the main circuit board. The activated cut sequence severs
the printed media from the unprinted media allowing the operator to retrieve and apply at will.

Installation instructions are provided with the purchased product.

LABEL PEELER INSTALLATION

The label peeler, when installed, replaces the printer’s lower front housing cover. As the label is
printed and fed forward, the peel bar separates the printed label from its paper backing and
presents it for application. When the printed label is retrieved by the operator, the printer feeds
the unprinted media back into position for another print sequence. The cycle is again repeated.

Installation instructions are provided with the purchased product.

SATO GT4xxe Series Operator Manual PN 9001138B Page 3-14

PRINTER

• Configuration Modes

• Operational Adjustments

OPERATION

SATO GT4xxe Series Operator Manual PN 9001138B Page 4-1

Unit 4: Operation

CONFIGURATION MODES

This chapter provides an overview of the various configuration modes of the operation menu. All
of the following configuration activities are performed via the use of the operator panel located on
the printer front. However, many settings may also be controlled via software commands. In the
case of conflict between the software and control panel settings, the printer will always use the last
entered valid setting.

NORMAL MODE

When a print job is received, the LCD will display the number of labels to be printed and will
numerically descend as each label is printed.

POWER

ONLI NE
QTY: 000000

LINE

OFF LINE
000000

CANCEL

CANCEL PRINT JOB
YES NO

Yes / No

CANCEL PRINT JOB
COMPLETED

Printing

star ts

LINE

ENTER +

ENTER + for 5 seconds

DATA SAVE STAR T
YES NO

Yes / No

COPYING
0 100

software issued

print stop request

PAUSE
QTY: 000000

CANCEL or

Refer

to User

Mode flow

char t.

Refer

No

to Interface

Mode flow

char t.

Refer

to Cartridge

Mode flow

char t.

DATA SAVE
COMPLETED

ENTER

Refer
to SEMBL
Mode flow

char t.

Refer

to Advanced

Mode flow

char t.

Refer

to Hex Dump

flow chart.

Figure 4-1, Normal Mode

SATO GT4xxe Series Operator Manual PN 9001138B Page 4-2

Unit 4: Operation

USER MODE

This mode allows cofiguration of printing features that are prone to change from job to job. These
are some of the most basic and common adjustments of all of the configuration modes.

POWER

ENTER

ONLIN E
QTY: 000000

Pre ss FUNCTION

anytime to return to

User Mode.

ENTER LINE

ENTER

OFFSET VOLUME
PITC H +0.00
OFFSET +0 .00
DARKNESS 00

CANCEL ENTER

Kanji Font Card

Insta lled ?

Yes / No

JIS CODE

JIS SJIS

KANJI F ONT

MINCHO GOTHIC

CHARACTER PITCH

PROPOR TIONAL
FIXED

Displays

when valid.

OFF LINE
000000

PASSWORD

0000

Scroll to enter.
Pre ss ENTER.

PRINT SPEED

06 IPS

ENTER CANCEL

PRINT DARKNESS

1 2 3 4 5

CANCEL ENTER

PITC H OFF SET

+00mm

ENTER CANCEL

PRINT OFF SET

V:+0000 H:+0000

CANCEL ENTER

ZERO SLASH

YES NO

ENTER CANCEL

Figure 4-2, User Mode

SATO GT4xxe Series Operator Manual PN 9001138B Page 4-3