SATO M 10e User Manual

M10e

Thermal Transfer Printer

SERVICE MANUAL

PN 9001113A

SATO America, Inc.

10350A Nations Ford Road

Charlotte, NC 28273

Main Phone: [phone]

Tech Support Hotline: [phone]

Tech Support Fax: [phone]

E-Mail: [e-mail]

www.satoamerica.com

© Copyright 2003

SATO America, Inc.

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

TABLE OF CONTENTS

INTRODUCTION

General Description 1-2
Theory Of Operation 1-2
Switches And Indicators 1-4
Connection Ports 1-6

TECHNICAL DATA

Physical Characteristics 2-1
Power 2-1
Enviromental 2-1
Print 2-1
Media 2-1
Ribbon 2-2
Sensing 2-2
Interface Modules 2-2
Processing 2-2
Character Font Capabilities 2-2
Barcode Capabilities 2-4
Regulatory Approvals 2-4

INTERFACE SPECIFICATIONS

Interface Types 3-1
Receive Buffer 3-1
IEEE1284 Parallel Interface 3-2
RS232 Serial Interface 3-4
Universal Serial Bus (USB) Adapter 3-6
Local Area Network (LAN) Interface 3-6
Bi-Directional Communications 3-7

ACCESSORIES INSTALLATION

Label Cutter 4-1
PCMCIA Memory Expansion 4-3
Real-time Clock 4-3
Interface Module Upgrade 4-5
Stacker Kit 4-5
Media Unwind Unit 4-5

CONFIGURATION

Dip Switch Panels 5-1
RS232 Transmit/Receive Setting 5-1
Printer Setup 5-3
Default Settings 5-7
Software Default Settings 5-7
Potentiometer Adjustments 5-8
LCD Panel Printer Configuration 5-9

PN 9001113A

TROUBLESHOOTING

Error Signals 6-1
Troubleshooting Table 6-2
RS232 Serial Interface Troubleshooting 6-5
Universal Serial Bus (USB) Interface Troubleshooting 6-5
Parallel Interface Troubleshooting 6-6
LAN Ethernet Interface Troubleshooting 6-7
TCP/IP Troubleshooting 6-8
Netware Troubleshooting 6-9
Windows NT/LAN Server Troubleshooting 6-10
Windows 95/98 Peer-To-Peer Troubleshooting 6-11
Diagnostic Label Printing 6-11

Print Buffer Hex Dump 6-11

Receive Buffer Hex Dump 6-11
TP Test Module Usage 6-12
Ribbon Sensor Operation Verification 6-13

REPLACEMENT PROCEDURES

Print Head 7-1
Roller Belt 7-2
Ribbon Belt 7-3
Platen Roller 7-4
Feed Roller 7-6
Main Circuit Board 7-7
Interface Board 7-8
Ribbon Drive Board 7-9
Memory Card 7-11
Panel Board 7-11
Power Board 7-12
Power Board Fuse 7-14
Circuit Board Fuse 7-15
Drive Motor 7-16
Ribbon Rewind Motor 7-17
Auto-Load Sensor 7-19
Label-Out Sensor 7-20
Label Position Sensor 7-20

Label Gap Sensor 7-20

Eye Mark Sensor 7-21
Ribbon Sensor 7-23
Cutter Assembly 7-24
Cutter Sensor 7-26
EEPROM Chip 7-27

PN: 9001113A

ADJUSTMENT PROCEDURES

Print Head Position 8-1
Print Head Balance 8-2
Ribbon Wrinkle 8-3
Roller Belt 8-5
Ribbon Belt 8-6
Paper Guide 8-7
Pitch Sensor 8-8
Eye-Mark Sensor 8-10
Label Gap Sensor 8-12
Auto-Load Sensor 8-13
Paper End Sensor 8-15
Offset Label Stop Position 8-16
LCD Display 8-17
Print Darkness 8-17

FACTORY RESETS

Factory Settings/Test Print 9-1
Clear Head Counters 9-2
Clear Cutter Counter 9-3
Clear EEPROM 9-4

DIAGRAMS & SCHEMATICS

Housing Cover Removal & Installation 10-1
Media & Ribbon Loading 10-2
Block Diagram 10-3
Printing Operational Sequence 10-4
Accessories & Sensors Location 10-5
Print Reference Position 10-6

PN 9001113A

PN: 9001113A

INTRODUCTION

This manual is laid out consistent with the product discussed and provides all of the information
required for general printer configuration, troubleshooting, and maintenance. For specialized
programming, refer to the Programming Manual located on the utility CD-ROM.

Step-by-step maintenance instructions are provided with typical problems and solutions. It is
recommended that you become familiar with each section before installing and maintaining the
printer.

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.

1

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 unit sections and their respective sub­sections. Each references the page number of their commencement.

The pages of this manual has embedded headers and footer 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 inumeration is two-part with each separated by a hyphen. The first character set references
the section number and the second identifies the page number. Page numbers begin with the
numeral (1) one at the commencement of a new section and ascends sequentially.

SATO M10e Service Manual PN: 9001113A Page 1-1

Section 1: Introduction

GENERAL DESCRIPTION

The M-10e printer is a wide carriage thermal printer designed specifically to address the need for
large high resolution labels. It can print labels as large as 10.5 inches wide x 16.5 inches high
with a resolution of 305 dpi (dots per inch) at speeds up to 5 inches per second, making it ideal
for large compliance label applications. All printer parameters are user programmable using the
front panel controls and DIP switches. All popular bar codes and 14 human readable fonts,
including vector and two raster fonts, are resident in memory providing literally thousands of type
styles and sizes.

The M10e is available in two versions. The M10eDT is a direct thermal only version and must use
thermally sensitive paper to print. The M10eTT is a thermal transfer model and has provisions for
using a thermal transfer ribbon. It can also print in a direct thermal mode if the ribbon is not used.

The printer uses the standard SATO Printing Language command codes. The primary
differences between it and other SATO printers are the allowable values representing the print
positions on the label. These values are specified in “dots” and will vary depending upon the
resolution of the printer and the amount of memory available for imaging the label. The allowable
range is specified in the SATO “e” Printer Programming Reference. This commonality makes it
easy to convert labels from one SATO printer without having to create an entirely different
command stream. There are some caveats that must be observed though to compensate for the
different resolution print heads. The effects of the different print resolutions are best illustrated by
taking a label designed for a 305 dpi printer and sending the command stream to a 609 dpi
printer. The label printed will be an exact one half scale, including the fonts, bar code dimensions
and line length/widths. The only exceptions are the Postnet bar code and OCR-A and OCR-B
fonts that have only one legal size. Conversely, a label designed for a 609 dpi printer and sent to
its 305 dpi cousin will be twice as large. It probably will be “truncated” if the resulting size is larger
that the maximum allowable for the printer.

THEORY OF OPERATION

When activated, the media and ribbon (where applicable) are fed conjunctively past the print
head by an integrated drive train. The drive train is electric motor driven, coupled to a belt/pulley
configuration located on the right side of the printer chassis. Paper guides within the chassis
assembly ensure that the media remains properly positioned during the printing process and is
fed unimpeded through an opening in the front cover. The exhausted ribbon material is rewound
onto a take-up core inserted onto drive-train driven, spring loaded spindles.

A series of strategically located sensors sends signals to the processing unit. The processing unit
in turn sends response signals to the various features based on programmed and received data.

SATO M10e Service Manual PN: 9001113A Page 1-2

Section 1: Introduction

Correct signals initiates print head activity.

Access Cover

Operator

Panel

Display

Panel

Power Switch

Width

Height

Paper Exit

Depth

Empty Ribbon

Core

Figure 1-1, Front View

Ribbon Supply

Spindle

Head Release

Lever

Ribbon Rewind Spindle

Figure 1-2, Interior View

SATO M10e Service Manual PN 9001113A Page 1-3

Section 1: Introduction

SWITCHES AND INDICATORS

The table below identifies and defines printer switches and indicators for operator interface. The
accompanying graphics display their locations and appearance

SWITCHES

Power Switch Two position on/off switch that controls power flow to the system.

Line Key Toggles the printer between the on-line and off-line modes. When

on-line, the printer is ready to recieve data from the host. Acts as a
pause during print by taking the printer off-line. Also used as a scroll
and enter interface for computer setup.

Feed Key Feeds one blank label through the printer when off-line. When the

printer is on-line, another copy of the last label will be printed. Also
used as a scroll and enter interface for computer setup.

INDICATORS

LCD Display Dual line x 16 character display. Used for setting operational param-

eters and displaying error conditions.

Power Indicator Illuminates when the power switch is activated.
Error Illuminates when there is a system fault.

On-Line Illuminates when the system is operating and ready to receive data.

DIP SWITCHES

DSW2 & DSW3 Sets operational parameters of printer.
DSW1 Used to configure optional RS232 communication card.

LCD Display

Power LED

Line Key

Directional Keys

Feed Key

Figure 1-3, Front Panel

On Line LED

Error LED

Enter Key

SATO M10e Service Manual PN: 9001113A Page 1-4

Section 1: Introduction

Dip Switches

Potentiometers

Figure 1-4, Configuration Panel

Media Paper

Guide Adjustment

Media Loaded

LED

AC Supply

Port

Configuration

Panel

Interface Port

External

Accessory Port

Memory Card

Port

Figure 1-5, Rear View

SATO M10e Service Manual PN 9001113A Page 1-5

Section 1: Introduction

CONNECTION PORTS

These ports are externally accessable and permit connection of the accessories and
attachments necessary for printer programming and operation. Not listed here, are the
connection ports of circuit boards not externally accessable.

CONNECTION PORTS

AC Supply Port Connector permits 115V, 50/60 Hz supply via supplied cord.
Interface Port Connector for interface harness. Must be connected for the printer

to be operational. Optional interface types are :

• RS232C Serial I/F Module, DB-25

• IEEE1284 Parallel I/F Module, AMP 57-40360

• Universal Serial Bus I/F Module

• Ethernet 10/100 BaseT I/F Module, RJ-45

• RS422/485 I/F Module, DB-9

Ext. Interface Port Connector for optional accessories - AMP 57-60140

Memory Card Slot Slot for the insertion of optional PCMCIA Memory Card
Main Fuse Connection For input power protection - type 3A/250V

SATO M10e Service Manual PN: 9001113A Page 1-6

2

TECHNICAL DATA

All technical data deemed pertinent has been tabulated below for quick reference. Find the
relative section header and then locate the specific type of technical data in th left column.

PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS

Width 18.7 Inches (475 mm)

Height 12.6 Inches (320 mm)

Depth 12.3 Inches (314 mm)

Weight 50.7 Pounds (23 kg)

POWER

Input Voltage Autoswitching 100-240 VAC +/- 10%, 60 Hz

Power Consumption 560 Watt Operating, 40 Watt Idle

ENVIRONMENTAL

Operating Temperature 41° to 104°F (5° 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

Electrostatic Discharge

PRINT

Method Direct or Thermal Transfer

Speed (user selectable) 3 to 5 Inches Per Second (50 - 250 mm/s)

Print Module (dot size) .0033 Inches (.083 mm)

Resolution 305 Dots Per Inch (12 d/mm)

Maximum Print Width 10.5 Inches (266 mm)

Maximum Print Length 16.5 Inches (420 mm)

MEDIA

Minimum Width 5.16 Inches (131 mm)

Minimum Length 1.7 Inches (43 mm)

Maximum Width 11.8 Inches (300 mm)

Type Roll or Fan-Fold Die Cut, Thermally Sensitive for DT

SATO M10e Service Manual PN: 9001113A Page 2-1

Section 2: Technical Data

MEDIA

Maximum Caliper .008 Inches (0.21 mm)

Maximum Roll Diameter 7.8 Inches (200 mm), Wound face inward

Minimum Core Diameter 3 Inches (76.2 mm)

RIBBON

Maximum Width 10.7 Inches (273 mm)

Length 984 Feet (300 m)

Thickness 4.5 Microns, Wound face inward

SENSING

See-Through Fixed, 0.9 Inches (22.5 mm) left of center

Reflective Eye-Mark Fixed, 0.2 Inches (5 mm) from left label edge.

Continuous Form Sensor not used.

INTERFACE MODULES

Parallel Port IEEE 1284 Standard

Serial Port RS232C (9600 to 57,6000 dps) Standard

RS422/485 (9600 to 57600 bps) Optional

Ready/Busy or X-On/X-Off Flow Control

Bi-Directional Status

Universal Serial Bus USB Version 1.1 Standard

Ethernet 10/100 Base T

PROCESSING

CPU 32 Bit RISC

FLash ROM 4 Mega-Bytes

SDRAM 16 Mega-Bytes

Receive Buffer 2.95 Mega-Bytes

Memory Expansion See Options and Accessories

CHARACTER FONT CAPABILITIES

MATRIX FONTS

U Font 5 dots W x 9 dots H

S Font 8 dots W x 15 dots H

M Font 13 dots W x 20 dots H

XU Font 5 dots W x 9 dots H (Helvetica)

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

SATO M10e Service Manual PN: 9001113A Page 2-2

Section 2: Technical Data

CHARACTER FONT CAPABILITIES

MATRIX FONTS

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

OA Font (OCR-A) 22 dots W x 33 dots H

OB Font (OCR-B) 30 dots W x 36 dots H

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 99 pt.

B Font CG Triumvirate, 8 to 99 pt.

DOWNLAODABLE FONTS

Bit Mapped True Type Fonts with Utility Program

CHARACTER CONTROL

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

Charcter Pitch Control

Line Space Control

Journal Print facility

0, 90, 180, and 270 Degree Rotation

SATO M10e Service Manual PN 9001113A Page 2-3

Section 2: Technical Data

BAR CODE CAPABILTIES

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

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

Form Overlay High-speed editing of complex predesigned formats in image

Bookland (UPC/EAN Supplemental

EAN-8, EAN-13

CODABAR

Code 39
Code 93

Code 128

Interleaved 2 of 5

Industrial 2 of 5

Matrix 2 of 5

MSI

POSTNET

UCC/EAN-128

UPC-A and UPC-E

Data Matrix

Maxicode

PDF417

Micro PDF

Truncated PDF

QR Code

.PCX formats

buffer

REGULATORY APPROVALS

Safety UL, CSA, TUV

RFI/EMI FCC (Class B)

SATO M10e Service Manual PN: 9001113A Page 2-4

INTERFACE SPECIFICATIONS

This section presents the interface specifications for the M10e printer. These specifications
include detailed information on how to properly interface the printer with the host system.

INTERFACE TYPES

To provide flexibility in communicating with a variety of host computer systems, all printers use a
Plug-In Interface Module. The IEEE1284 Interface module is shipped with the printer unless
another interface type is specified at the time of the order. The other interfaces available are a
high speed (to 57.6K bps) serial interface, an Ethernet interface or an optional Universal Serial
Bus (USB) interface.

The Parallel interface will probably be the most useful in communicating with IBM PCs and
compatibles. The RS232C Serial interface allows connectivity to a number of other hosts. The
USB interface allows the printer to be connected to a computer that supports peripherals
attached to a USB bus. Up to 127 peripherals can be connected to a single USB port. The
optional interfaces available are a high speed (to 57.6K bps) serial interface, an Ethernet
interface or a Universal Serial Bus (USB) interface.

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.

3

THE RECEIVE BUFFER

The printer may be configured to receive a data stream from a single or multiple print jobs. The
single job print buffer is generally used by software programs that wish to maintain control of the
job print queue so that it can move a high priority job in front of ones of lesser importance. The
multiple job buffer, on the other hand prints all jobs in the order they are received by the printer,
and the order of printing cannot be changed.

S

INGLE JOB BUFFER

The printer receives and prints one job at a time. Each job must not exceed 2.95 MB.

ULTIPLE JOB BUFFER

M

The printer is able 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. When using the RS232C Serial interface, the multiple job buffer uses either the Ready/
Busy with DTR (pin 20) or X-On/X-Off flow control protocols. See these sections for more details.

SATO M10e Service Manual PN: 9001113A Page 3-1

Section 3: Interface Specifications

With an empty receiving buffer, the status of DTR is “high” (in X-On status if using X-On/X-Off)
meaning the printer is ready to receive data. When the receive buffer is holding 2.0 MB of data
(.95 MB from being full), DTR will go “low” (an X-Off is sent) indicating the printer can no longer
receive data. This condition is called “Buffer Near Full.”

The receiving buffer will not be able to receive more data again until a “Buffer Available” condition
occurs. This takes place when the receiving buffer has emptied so that only .95 MB bytes of data
are being held (2.0 MB bytes from being full). At this time, DTR will go “high” or an X-On is sent to
tell the host that it can again receive data.

All printer error conditions (i.e., label out, ribbon out) will cause the printer to go busy (DTR “low”
or X-Off) until the problem is corrected and the printer is placed on-line. The printer will also be
busy if taken off-line from the front panel.

IEEE1284 PARALLEL INTERFACE

The parallel interface is a Plug-In Interface Module that can be installed by the user. The
interface automatically detects the IEEE1284 signals and operates in the high speed mode. If
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.

SATO M10e Service Manual PN: 9001113A Page 3-2

Section 3: Interface Specifications

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

NOTE: Pin assignments begin with one (1) in the upper right corner and
descend to eighteen (18) in the upper left corner. Pin number nineteen (19)
picks up in the lower right corner and descends to thirty-six (36) in the lower
left.

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 Ho s 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 M10e Service Manual PN 9001113A Page 3-3

Section 3: Interface Specifications

RS232 SERIAL INTERFACE

The High Speed Serial Interface is a Plug-In Interface Module that can be installed in the printer
by the user.

SPECIFICATIONS

Asynchronous ASCII Half-duplex communication

Ready/Busy Hardware Flow Control

Pin 20, DTR Control

Pin 4, RTS Error Condition
X-On/X-Off Software Flow Control
Bi-Directional Communication

Data Transmission Rate 9600, 19200, 38400, 57600 bps
Character Format 1 Start Bit (fixed)

7 or 8 data bits (selectable)
Odd, Even or No Parity (selectable)
1 or 2 Stop bits (selectable)

Connector DB-25S (Female)
Cable DB-25P (Male), 50 ft. maximum length.

For cable configuration, refer to Cable
Requirements appropriate to the RS232C protocol chosen.

Signal Levels High = +5V to +12V, Low = -5V to -12V

NOTE: Pin assignments begin with one (1) in the upper right corner and
descend to thirteen (13) in the upper left corner. Pin number fourteen (14)
picks up in the lower right corner and descends to twenty-five (25) in the
lower left.

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) - Dataa 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)

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Section 3: Interface Specifications

RS232C SERIAL INTERFACE SIGNALS

PIN DIRECTION SIGNAL DEFINITION

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.

CABLE REQUIREMENTS

DB9 DB25 HOST DB25 PRINTER

1 1 FG (Frame Ground) 1 FG (Frame Ground)
2 3 RD (Receive Data)
3 2 TD (Transmit Data)
8 5 CTS (Clear to Send)
7 4 RTS (Request to Send) 5 CTS (Clear to Send)
4 20 DTR (Data Terminal Ready)
6 6 DSR* (Data Terminal Ready) 20 DTR (Data Terminal Ready)
5 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.

2 TD (Transmit Data)
3 RD (Receive Data)
4 RTS (Request to Send)

6 DSR (Data Set Ready)

7 SG (Signal Ground)

READY/BUSY FLOW CONTROL

Ready/Busy is the hardware flow control method for the serial interface on the M-84PRO
printers. By raising/lowering the voltage level on Pin 20 of the RS232C port, the printer notifies
the host when it is ready to receive data. Pin 4 (RTS) and pin 20 (DTR) are the important signals
on the printer for this method of flow control. The host must be capable of supporting this flow
control method for it to function properly.

X-O

N/X-OFF FLOW CONTROL

X-On/X-Off flow control is used whenever hardware (Ready/Busy) flow control is not available or
desirable. Instead of a voltage going high/low at pin 20, control characters representing ìPrinter
Readyî (X-On =11 hexadecimal) or “Printer Busy” (X-Off = 13 hexadecimal) are transmitted by
the printer on pin 2 (Transmit Data) to the host. In order for this method of flow control to function
correctly, the host must be capable of supporting it. X-On/X-Off operates in a manner similar to
the function of pin 20 (DTR) as previously explained. When the printer is first powered on it sends
an X-Off when the “Buffer Near Full” level is reached and a X-On when the data level of the buffer
drops below the “Buffer Available” mark. When the printer is taken off-line manually, it transmits
an X-Off indicating it cannot accept data. When it is placed back on line manually, it sends an X­On, indicating it is again available for receipt of data. If an error occurs during printing (paper out,
ribbon out), the printer sends an X-Off as soon as an error condition is detected. When the error
is cleared and the printer is placed back on-line, it transmits an X-On indicating it is again ready
to accept data. Upon power up if no error conditions are present, the printer will continually send
X-On characters at five millisecond intervals until it receives a transmission from the host.

SATO M10e Service Manual PN 9001113A Page 3-5

Section 3: Interface Specifications

DATA STREAMS

The data streams for X-On/X-Off and Ready/Busy flow control are constructed in the same way
as they are for Ready/Busy flow control (<ESC>A . . Job#1 . . <ESC>Z<ESC>A . . Job#n . .
<ESC>Z). An example of this would be: <ESC>A . . Job#1 . . <ESC>Z. All characters are in
ASCII.

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
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) OPTIONAL INTERFACE

A Local Area Network (LAN) 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. The driver
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 Catagory 5
Power Supply Powered from printer

SATO M10e Service Manual PN: 9001113A Page 3-6

Section 3: Interface Specifications

BI-DIRECTIONAL COMMUNICATIONS

This is a two-way communications protocol between the host computer and the printer, thus
enabling the host to check printer status. When Bi-Com 4 communications is selected, there is no
busy signal from the printer. The host must request the complete status from the printer, including
ready/busy. The host may request status in two different ways.

E

NQUIRE/ACK/NAK

In the Bi-Com 4 mode, the host transmits an ENQ (05 hexadecimal) to the printer and the printer
will respond with its status within five milliseconds. If printing, it will respond upon finishing the
current label, then resume printing. In order for this protocol to work properly with an RS232C
Optional Interface, pin 6 (DTR) and pin 5 (CTS) must be held high by the host. One way to
ensure these pins are always in the correct state is to tie pin 20 (DTR) to pin 6 (DSR) and pin 4
(RTS) to pin 5 (CTS) at the printer end of the cable.

E

NQUIRE (ENQ)

Upon receipt of an ENQ command, the printer responds with 25 bytes of status information
bounded by an STX/ETX pair. The Bi-Com protocol works only in the multiple job buffer mode.
The status information is defined as follows:

<STX>{ 2 Byte ID}{1 Status Byte}{6 Byte Label Remaining}{16 Byte Job Name}<ETX>

STREAM IDENTIFICATION

ID Is a two byte number identifying the current print job ID. The print

job ID is defined using the <ESC>ID Job ID command transmitted
with the print job (see Job ID Store in the command listing for
more information on how to use this command). The range is
from 00 to 99.

Status A single byte defining the current status of the printer (see the

Status Byte Definition table).

Label Remaining Six bytes defining the number of labels remaining in the current

print job. The range is from 000000 to 999999 labels.

Job Name 16 bytes of ASCII characters identifying the name assigned to the

job by the <ESC>WK Job Name command. If the Job Name is
less than 16 characters, the field will be padded with leading
zeroes.

If an ENQ is received after the print job specified in the ID bytes
has been completed, or there is no data in the buffer, the printer
will respond with two “space” characters (20 hexadecimal) for the
ID number, six “zero” characters (30 hexadecimal) in the
Remaining Labels bytes and the 16 byte Job Name.

CANCEL (CAN)

If a CAN (18 hexadecimal) command is received , it will stop the print job and clear all data from
the receive and print buffers. A delay of five milliseconds or more is required before any new data
can be downloaded. The CAN command is effective immediately upon receipt, even if the printer
is off-line or in an error condition. The printer will return an ACK (06 hexadecimal) if there is no
printer error condition and a NAK (15 hexadecimal) if an error condition exists.

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Section 3: Interface Specifications

PRINT JOB

Upon receipt of a valid print job (<ESC>A . . . <ESC>Z), an ACK (06 hexadecimal) will be
returned by the printer if there are no errors and a NAK (16 hexadecimal) if a printer error exists.

P

RINT STOP (DLE)

If a DLE (10 hexadecimal) is received by the printer, the print process is stopped and an ACK (06
hexadecimal) is returned if there are no errors and a NAK (16 hexadecimal) if a printer error
exists.

P

RINT START (DC1)

If the printer has been stopped by receipt of a DLE (10 hexadecimal) command, it can be
restarted by sending a DC1 (hexadecimal 11) command. Upon receipt of this command an ACK
(06 hexadecimal) is returned if there are no errors and a NAK (16 hexadecimal) if a printer error
exists.

NOTE: To provide compatibility with older SATO printers, the RS232C
interface can be configured to use an earlier Bi-Com 3 ENQ/ACK/NAK
protocol selected via DSW2-8 and DSW1-7/8 (on the RS232 Interface
module).The earlier protocol did not have provisions for the Job Name and
did not respond to the DLE or DCI commands. Also, there are additional
Response Codes in the Status Byte Definition. It is recommended that you
use the current protocol rather than the earlier version unless it is necessary
for compatibility with existing software.

SATO M10e Service Manual PN: 9001113A Page 3-8

ACCESSORIES INSTALLATION

The following procedures provide in-depth instructions on the installation of all optional
accessories. Each accessory is a purchase option that may not apply to your setup. Refer to the
list below to determine if any are applicable and their installation is required. If not, disregard this
section of the manual and proceed to the next.

LABEL CUTTER INSTALLATION

This procedure only applies to the physical installaiton of cutter assembly hardware. Refer to
other procedures for configuration, etc.

1 Switch off the printer and disconnect the power supply cord.

2 Remove the top, front, left, and right housing covers.

NOTE: Figure 10-1 in the Diagrams & Schematics section provides guidance
on housing cover removal.

3 Remove three screws (1, Figure 4-1a) securing tear-off plate (2) to printer frame (3).

4

3

1

1

2

Figure 4-1a, Cutter Installation

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Section 4: Accessories Installation

4 Lift away tear-off plate (2).

5 Place cutter assembly (4, Figure 4-1b) onto printer frame (3).

NOTE: When properly placed, the cutter motor should be oriented on the left
side of the printer and protrude behind the main circuit board.

6 Secure cutter assembly (4) to printer frame (3) using three screws (5).

NOTE: The cutter will be secured with two screws applied to the left end, and
one screw to the right. They will be appied in different orifices on the printer
frame than the dispenser.

7 Apply safety switch (6) to front housing cover (7) and secure using screw (8).

NOTE: When properly applied, the safety switch will be mounted to the
interior surface of the front housing cover oriented so that its mounting
orifices are aligned with the orifice in the cover and the mounting pin. The
switch will remain in the open position when mounted.

3

B

C

8

6

A

5

C

4

5

7

Figure 4-1b, Cutter Installation

8 Connect wiring harness (A) from the cutter motor to main board connector (CUTTER).

9 Connect wiring harness (B) from the cutter sensor to main board connector (CUTSEN).

10 Connect wiring harness (C) from the cutter internal switch to safety switch (6).

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Section 4: Accessories Installation

NOTE: The wiring harness connectors and their mates on the main cicuit
board are unique to all others on the board. Properly couple the matching
connectors. Refer to Figure 10-4, Block Diagram of the Diagram &
Schematics section for greater detail if necessary.

11 Configure the printer for cutter accessory operation.

NOTE: Refer to the Configuration section of this manual or the Programming
Manual for label cutter configuartion instructions.

12 Apply media stock and ribbon as applicable and test cycle to ensure proper function.

13 Install the left, right, front, and top housing covers.

NOTE: Figure 10-1 in the Diagrams & Schematics section provides guidance
on housing cover removal.

PCMCIA MEMORY EXPANSION

The PCMCIA Memory Card comes packaged with installation instructions. Mating connectors on
the memory card and interface board make hardware installation very simple. When installation
is complete, perform a memory self-test to ensure the memory card is recognized.

NOTE: Refer to the Interface Board procedure in the Replacement section of
this manual for instructions on its removal. Connect the memory expansion
card to the interface board and reinstall.

REAL-TIME CLOCK

The real-time clock chip allows the date and time to be maintained in the local printer rather than
using the system clock. It consists of a special clock chip that replaces the EEPROM chip on the
main circuit board.

1 Switch the printer off and disconnect the power supply cord.

2 Remove the top, front, and left housing covers to gain access to the main circuit board.

NOTE: Figure 10-1 of the Diagrams & Schematics section provides guidance
on housing cover removal.

3 Locate and withdraw the EEPROM chip (1, Figure 4-2) from main circuit board (2).

CAUTION: IF USING A TOOL TO REMOVE THE EEPROM CHIP, ENSURE
THAT IT IS NOT BEING INSERTED BETWEEN THE IC SOCKET AND THE
CIRCUIT BOARD. DESTRUCTION IN THE CIRCUIT BOARD WILL
OCCUR. INSERT THE TOOL BETWEEN THE TWO PIECES OF BLACK
PHENOLIC MATERIAL TO PRY THE CHIP FREE.

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Section 4: Accessories Installation

4 Insert clock chip (3) into the vacant IC Socket (4).

NOTE: A properly applied chip will be oriented so that its notched end is
aligned with that of the IC socket.

D

R

A

O

B

S

R

+
4
8

2

1

E

E
E
I

2

4

3

1,

Figure 4-2, EEPROM Installation

5 Connect the power supply cord.

6 Factory Reset as directed in the Factory Reset section of this manual.

7 Press and hold the LINE key while simultaneously switching on the power.

LCD DISPLAY: INITIALIZING
ROM V00.00.00.00

8 When the printer emits an audible beep, release the LINE key.

LCD DISPLAY: ADVANCED MODE

9 Press the ENTER key repeatedly until the calender option appears on the LCD.

LCD DISPLAY: SET CALENDAR
YES NO

10 Use the CURSOR key to advance the cursor to the YES option.

11 Press the ENTER key to select the option.

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Section 4: Accessories Installation

LCD DISPLAY: CALENDAR
YY/MM/DD HH/MM

12 Press the LINE/FEED keys to scroll to the desired date and time values and press ENTER

between each.

13 Cycle the printer off and then on again to begin printing.

14 Refer to Programming Manual for command sequences to utilize the real-time clock option.

INTERFACE MODULE UPGRADE

The printer is typically ordered with a high-speed parallel interface card installed. However,
interface requirements sometimes change and an upgrade is desired. All of the interface cards
are installed within the same slot located on the rear of the printer with little or no difference in
installation methodology. Refer to the Interface Board procedure of the Replacement Procedures
section of this manual for directions on this upgrade.

STACKER KIT

The Stacker Kit stacks printed media as it exits the printer. Installation of this purchase option is
not required. Simply follow the instructions included with the product to adjust for media size and
then place the unit against the front housing cover.

MEDIA UNWIND UNIT

The media unwind is designed to dispense rolled media. Installation of this purchase option is not
required. Simply follow instructions included with the product for media loading and orient at the
rear of the printer so that the media may be fed into the printer.

SATO M10e Service Manual PN 9001113A Page 4-5

Section 4: Accessories Installation

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