SATO M-5900RV User Manual

Download

M-5900RV

Direct Thermal Printer

Operator and Technical

Reference Manual

PN 9001081

Rev. C

SATO America, Inc.

10350-A Nations Ford Rd.

Charlotte, NC 28273

Main Phone: (704) 644-1650

Technical Support Hotline: (704) 644-1660

Fax: (704) 644-1661

http:\\www.satoamerica.com

SATO America, Inc.

PN 9001081 Rev. C

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

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

SATO M-5900RV Operator and Technical Reference Manual

Preface

M-5900RV Operator and Technical Reference Manual

The M-5900RV Operator and Technical Reference Manual contains basic information about the printer such as setup, installation, cleaning and maintenance. It also contains complete instructions on how to use the operator panel to configure the printer. The following is a brief description of each section in this manual.

Section 1. Printer Overview

This section contains a discussion of the printer specifications and optional

features.

Section 2. Installation and Configuration

This section contains instructions on how to unpack and set up the printer,

load the labels, and how to use the operator panel to configure the printer.

Section 3. Adjustments and Maintenance

This section contains instruction on how to maintain and adjust the printer.

Section 4. Programming Reference

This section introduces the SATO Printer Programming Language. It contains

the commands that are used with the printer to produce labels with bar codes, alphanumeric data and graphics.

Section 5. Interface Specifications

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

Section 6. Troubleshooting

This section contains troubleshooting procedures to follow in the event you

have printer problems.

Appendices

Appendix A: Command Code Quick Reference Appendix B: Bar Code Specifications Appendix C: Custom Characters and Graphics Appendix D: Optional Features

PN 9001081 Rev. C

Appendix E: Custom Protocol

SA TO M-5900RV Operator and Technical Reference Manual

PN 9001081

Rev. C

SA TO M-5900RV Operator and Technical Reference Manual

Table of Contents

Section 1. Overview Page

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

2 Compatibility.................................................................................................... 1-2

3 General Printer Specifications ....................................................................... 1-3

4 Character Fonts ............................................................................................... 1-6

5 Bar Codes......................................................................................................... 1-7

6 Physical Specifications .................................................................................. 1-8

7 Optional Accessories...................................................................................... 1-8

Section 2. Installation and Configuration

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

2 Unpacking and Parts Identification................................................................ 2-2

3 Setting Up the M-5900RV ................................................................................ 2-3

4 Printer Features ............................................................................................... 2-4

5 Operator Panel ................................................................................................. 2-7

6 Rear Panel ........................................................................................................ 2-8

7 Loading Labels or Tags................................................................................... 2-9

8 DIP Switch Settings ....................................................................................... 2-13

9 Default Settings ............................................................................................. 2-19

10 Printer Adjustments ...................................................................................... 2-20

11 Advanced Mode ............................................................................................. 2-24

12 Printing Test Labels....................................................................................... 2-36

13 Hex Dump Diagnostic Labels ....................................................................... 2-38

14 Potentiometer Adjustments .......................................................................... 2-40

Section 3. Adjustments and Maintenance

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

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

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

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

3 Cleaning the Print Head and Platen ...............................................................3-3

Print Head................................................................................................... 3-3

Platen..........................................................................................................3-5

4 Replacing the Print Head ................................................................................3-6

Section 4. Programming Reference

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

2 The SATO RISC Programming Language ..................................................... 4-1

3 Selecting Protocol Control Codes ................................................................. 4-2

4 Using Basic ...................................................................................................... 4-3

5 The Print Area .................................................................................................. 4-5

6 Rotated Fields................................................................................................ 4-10

PN 9001081 Rev. C

SA TO M-5900RV Operator and Technical Reference Manual

iii

Table of Contents

Section 4. Programming Reference Page

7 Command Default Settings ...........................................................................4-11

8 Command Codes........................................................................................... 4-12

Bar Codes ................................................................................................ 4-13

Bar Codes, Expansion ............................................................................ 4-18

Bar Codes, Variable Ratio....................................................................... 4-19

Base Reference Point ............................................................................. 4-21

Characters, Custom Designed ............................................................... 4-23

Character Expansion .............................................................................. 4-25

Character, Fixed Spacing ....................................................................... 4-27

Character Pitch........................................................................................ 4-28

Character, Proportional Spacing ........................................................... 4-30

Clear Print Job(s) and Memory .............................................................. 4-31

Continuous Forms Printing.................................................................... 4-32

Copy Image Area ..................................................................................... 4-33

Cutter Command ..................................................................................... 4-35

Fonts, U, S, M, OA, OB, XU, XS and XM ................................................ 4-36

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

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

Form Feed ................................................................................................ 4-42

Form Overlay Recall................................................................................ 4-43

Form Overlay Store ................................................................................. 4-44

Graphics, Custom ................................................................................... 4-45

Graphics, PCX ......................................................................................... 4-47

Job ID Store ............................................................................................. 4-48

Journal Print ............................................................................................ 4-49

Lines and Boxes...................................................................................... 4-50

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

Mirror Image............................................................................................. 4-54

Off-Line/Pause ......................................................................................... 4-56

Postnet ..................................................................................................... 4-57

Print Darkness ......................................................................................... 4-58

Print Length, Expanded .......................................................................... 4-59

Print Position ........................................................................................... 4-61

Print Quality ............................................................................................. 4-63

Print Speed .............................................................................................. 4-64

Repeat Label ............................................................................................ 4-65

Replace Data (Partial Edit)...................................................................... 4-66

Reverse Image ......................................................................................... 4-68

Rotate, Fixed Base Reference Point...................................................... 4-70

Rotate, Moving Base Reference Point................................................... 4-72

Sequential Numbering ............................................................................ 4-74

Start/Stop Label....................................................................................... 4-76

Calendar Increment................................................................................. 4-77

Calendar Print.......................................................................................... 4-79

Calendar Set ............................................................................................ 4-81

PN 9001081

Rev. C

SA TO M-5900RV Operator and Technical Reference Manual

Table of Contents

Section 4. Programming Reference Page

9 Memory Card Option Commands ................................................................ 4-82

Clear Card Memory ................................................................................. 4-82

Expand Memory Area.............................................................................. 4-83

Fonts, TrueType Recall........................................................................... 4-85

Fonts, TrueType Store ............................................................................ 4-86

Format/Field Recall ................................................................................. 4-87

Format/Field Store................................................................................... 4-88

Graphics, Custom Recall........................................................................ 4-89

Graphics, Custom Store ......................................................................... 4-90

Graphics, PCX Recall.............................................................................. 4-92

Graphics, PCX Store ............................................................................... 4-93

Initialize .................................................................................................... 4-94

Slot Select ................................................................................................ 4-95

Status ....................................................................................................... 4-96

Custom Protocol Codes Download ....................................................... 4-97

10 Two-Dimensional Symbols ........................................................................... 4-99

Data Matrix, Data Format ........................................................................ 4-99

Data Matrix, Print Data .......................................................................... 4-101

Data Matrix, Sequential Numbering..................................................... 4-102

Maxicode ................................................................................................ 4-104

PDF417 ................................................................................................... 4-106

Section 5. Interface Specifications

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

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

3 The Receive Buffer .......................................................................................... 5-3

4 RS232C Serial Interface .................................................................................. 5-4

General Specifications .............................................................................. 5-4

Electrical Specifications ........................................................................... 5-4

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

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

X-On/X-Off Flow Control ........................................................................... 5-6

Bi-Directional Communications ............................................................... 5-7

5 Centronics Parallel Interface.........................................................................5-11

Electrical Specifications .......................................................................... 5-11

6 Accessory (EXT) Connector ......................................................................... 5-12

Pin Assignments...................................................................................... 5-12

External Output Signals .......................................................................... 5-13

Section 6. Troubleshooting

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

2 Using the Centronics (Parallel) Interface....................................................... 6-2

3 Using the RS232C (Serial) Interface............................................................... 6-4

4 Error Signals .................................................................................................... 6-5

5 Diagnosing and Correcting Specific Problems............................................. 6-6

PN 9001081 Rev. C

SA TO M-5900RV Operator and Technical Reference Manual

Appendices

APPENDIX A: Command Code Quick Reference ............................................... A-1

APPENDIX B: Bar Code Specifications

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

Table of Contents

Page

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

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

Interleaved Two of Five (1 2/5) .......................................................................B-4

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

EAN-8................................................................................................................B-7

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

APPENDIX C: Custom Characters and Graphics

Custom Designed Characters Exanple .........................................................C-1

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

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

APPENDIX D: Optional Accessories

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

Label Rewinder................................................................................................ D-1

Label Cutter...................................................................................................... D-2

Label Dispenser...............................................................................................D-3

PCMCIA Memory Cards ..................................................................................D-4

Plug-in Interface Cards ...................................................................................D-5

Calendar ........................................................................................................... D-5

APPENDIX E: Custom Protocol Command Codes

Description....................................................................................................... E-1

Download Command Structure...................................................................... E-1

Reset................................................................................................................. E-2

Download Procedure....................................................................................... E-2

PN 9001081

Rev. C

SA TO M-5900RV Operator and Technical Reference Manual

Section

Overview

1.1 Introduction

This Operator's Manual will help you understand the basic operations of the M-5900RV printer such as setup, installation, configuration, cleaning and maintenance.

The SATO M-5900RV Direct Thermal Printer is a complete, high-performance onsite labeling system. It has a resolution of 203 dpi and can print labels up to five inches wide. All printer parameters are user programmable using the front panel controls and DIP switches. All popular bar codes and 12 human-readable fonts, including a vector font, are resident in memory providing literally thousands of type styles and sizes.

The M-5900RV printer uses the standard SATO Command Language. The only difference 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 for the M-5900RV printer is specified in a table for those codes.



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

The following general information is presented on the following pages in this section:

 Compatibility Information

 General Printer Specificatiions

 Character Fonts and Bar Codes

 Physical Specifications

PN 9001081 Rev. C

 Optional Accessories

SATO M-5900RV Operator and Technical Reference Manual

Page 1-1

Section 1. Printer Overview

1.2 Compatibility

The M-5900RV was designed to be downward compatible with the standard M-5900. If all the rules for command usage were followed when designing labels for a M-5900, then the same command stream should create the label on a M-5900RV . However, the M-5900 was more lenient in allowing the user to "bend" the rules, especially in the area of the allowable sequence of commands. Because the throughput of the M-5900RV is much greater than the M-5900, it must receive the commands in the sequence it is anticipating.

There are some other minor differences in how the M-5900RV responds to certain commands. There is also a difference in how the newer M-5900RV handles graphic files. When <ESC>A3 or <ESC>R rotate commands are sent to a M-5900RV printer, it rotates all fields, including graphic images. The M-5900 on the other hand would only rotate the text and bar code fields and not the graphic fields. To compensate for these differences, a Compatibility setting can be selected using DSW2-8. When it is placed in the ON position, the M-5900RV will respond to these commands the same as the M-5900 would.

NOTE: Even when DSW2-8 is in the ON position, The M-5900RV expects the command sequences to follow the rules specified in the Programming Reference.

When printing labels designed for a M-5900 on the newer M-5900RV printer, the following procedure is recommended.

STEP PROCEDURE

1. First try printing the label with DSW-8 in the OFF position. If it prints all the fields correctly but the print quality needs improvement, try adjusting the Print Darkness using the front panel potentiometer.

2. If the print quality is still lacking, try changing the print speed and/or heat setting using the front panel LCD controls. After each change, reprint the label using the FEED key (printer must be ON-LINE). If

you resend the label to the printer, any old software commands will override the changes you made with the LCD controls.

3. If a new LCD setting solves the problem, then make the appropriate changes in the command stream.

SATO M-5900RV Operator and Technical Reference ManualPage 1-2

PN 9001081 Rev. C

Section 1. Printer Overview

Compatibility

STEP PROCEDURE

4. If the field placement is incorrect or if the printer "beeps" indicating it did not accept the command stream, place DSW2-8 in the ON position, cycle power to make the printer recognize the new switch setting and resend the label.

5. If the print still does not accept the command stream, then something in the command stream is not correct. It must be examined carefully to make sure it conforms with all of the rules for usage outlined in Section 4: Programming Reference.

If any problems are encountered with M-5900 compatibility, please contact the SATO Technical Support Department.

1.3 General Printer Specifications

NOITACIFICEPSVR0095-M

tnirP

dohteMylnolamrehTtceriD

)elbatceleSresU(deepS

)eziStoD(eludoMtnirP

noituloseR

s/mm021ot05

ni9400.

mm521.

ipd302

mmpd8

)s/mm57-spi3tluafeD(spi7.4ot2

ssenkraDtnirPelbatcelesspets5

htdiWtnirPmumixaM

htgneLtnirPmumixaM

)htgneLtnirPdednapxE(

htgneLtnirPmumixaM

draCyromeMBM2htiw

.ni4.4

mm211 .ni41

mm653

.ni2.94 mm9421

PN 9001081 Rev. C

SATO M-5900RV Operator and Technical Reference Manual

Page 1-3

Section 1. Printer Overview

General Printer Specifications

LABEL FEED

GAP

EYE- MARK

SA TO Standard Label

3 mm 3 mm

.118 in.

1.5 mm .06 in.

.118 in.

3 mm

14 mm .55 in.

234567890123456

1.5 mm .06 in.

eziS

hctaB

repilaC)mm12.otmm80.(.ni800.ot.ni300.

resnepsiDrepilaC)mm61.otmm1.(.ni600.ot.ni400.

rettuCrepilaC)mm12.otmm80.(.ni800.ot.ni300.

ffO-raeTrepilaC)mm61.otmm80.(.ni600.otni300.

)repapgnikcabgnidulcni.ni61.5ot.ni75.1(.ni40.5ot.ni64.1:htdiW )repapgnikcabgnidulcnimm131otmm04(mm821otmm73

)repapgnikcabgnidulcni.ni31.41ot.ni01.1(.ni41ot.ni89.:htgneL

)repapgnikcabgnidulcnimm953otmm82(mm653otmm52

SATO M-5900RV Operator and Technical Reference ManualPage 1-4

PN 9001081 Rev. C

General Printer Specifications

NOITACIFICEPS

VR0095-M

aideM

epyTaideM

suounitnoCrokcotSgaT,dloF-naF,slebaLtuCeiD

dniWni-ecaF,)mm051(.ni6DOlloR

)mm001(.ni4DIlloR

)revocraeraiv)mm001(.ni4otpudloF-naF

gnisneS

sgatroslebalrofurhT-eeSelbavoM

kraM-eyEevitcelfeRelbavoM

mroFsuounitnoCdesutonrosneS

noitcnuFscitsongaiD-fleS

,tnirptsetfleS,nepodaeH,dnerepaP,kcehCdaeH

rorredraCyromeM

stnemtsujdAretemoitnetoP

ssenkraDtnirPlenaPtnorF

tesffOlenaPtnorF

hctiPlenaPtnorF

snoitcennoCecafretnI

lellaraP

)1(

elbitapmoCscinortneC

laireS

)1(

dradnatS)spbK2.91ot0042(C232SR

lanoitpO)spbK2.91ot0042(584/224SR

)ysuB/ydaeR(lortnoCwolFerawdraH

)ffO-X/nO-X(lortnoCwolFerawtfoS

)esnopseR/QNE(lanoitcerid-iB

suBlaireSlasrevinU

)1(

1.1noisreV

NAL

)1(

TesaB001/01

troPTXE

)1(

dradnatS

noissimsnarTataDtamroFIICSA

gnissecorP

UPCCSIRtiB23

MORmargorP1xetyBK215

MORtnoFdeksaM1xetyBK215

MARDetyBM2

elbammargorPMORPEEetyBK8

seludoMecafretnInI-gulP)1(

Section 1. Printer Overview

PN 9001081 Rev.C

SATO M-5900RV Operator and Technical Reference Manual

Page 1-5

Section 1. Printer Overview

1.4 Character Fonts

NOITACIFICEPSVR0095-M

stnoFxirtaM

tnofU)Hstod9xWstod5( tnofS)Hstod51xWstod8(

tnofM)Hstod02xWstod31(

tnoFUXacitevleH)Hstod9xWstod5( tnoFSXdloBdesnednoCsrevinU)Hstod71xWstod71(

tnoFMXdloBdesnednoCsrevinU)Hstod42xWstod42( tnoFAOA-RCO)Hstod22xWstod51( tnoFBOB-RCO)Hstod42xWstod02(

stnoFgnihtoomSotuA

BW)Hstod02xWstod81(tnoFBW

LW)Hstod25xWstod82(tnoFLW

BX dloBdesnednoCsrevinU)Hstod84xWstod84(tnoFBX

LXfireSsnaS)Hstod84xWstod84(tnoFLX

tnoFrotceV

stnoFelbadaolnwoD

lortnoCretcarahC

gnicapSdexiFrolanoitroporP

stod999x999otstod05x05eziStnoF

snoitairaVtnoF01,acitevleH

draCyromeMlanoitpOhtiwstnoFepyTeurT

setanidroocYroXehtrehtieniX21otpunoisnapxE

lortnochctiPretcarahC lortnocecapSeniL ytilicaFtnirPlanruoJ

09,

081,

072dna

noitatoR

SATO M-5900RV Operator and Technical Reference ManualPage 1-6

PN 9001081 Rev. C

1.5 Bar Codes

seigolobmyS

Section 1. Printer Overview

NOITACIFICEPSVR0095-M

)latnemelppuSNAE/CPU(dnalkooB

31-NAE,8-NAE

RABADOC 93edoC 39edoC

821edoC

5fo2devaelretnI

5fo2lairtsudnI

5fo2xirtaM

ISM

TENTSOP

821-NAE/CCU

E-CPUdnaA-CPU

xirtaMataD

edocixaM

714FDP

soitaRshtdiwrabelbanifedresu5:2,:1,2:1

thgieHraBelbammargorpresU,stod006ot4

noitatoR0

09,

081,

072dna

serutaeFrehtO

gnirebmuNlaitneuqeS sedocrabdnasciremunhtobfognirebmunlaitneuqeS

sretcarahCmotsuCsretcarahclaicepsrofegarotsMAR

scihparG XCProyraniB/xeHOTAS,scihpargelbasserddatodlluF

yalrevOmroF stamrofxelpmocfognitidedeeps-hgihrofyalrevomroF

PN 9001081 Rev. C

SATO M-5900RV Operator and Technical Reference Manual

Page 1-7

Section 1. Printer Overview

1.6 Physical Specifications

NOITACIFICEPSVR0095-M

69 145.l.9854 Tm(69 145.o626 0 Td(F)Tj-0i563 0 Td(-)Tj-07.9854 Tm(69 145.l.9854 Td(-)Tj-0 -1.2 TD87(69 145.m626 0 Td(F)Tj-0i563 0 Td(I)Tj-0D814 0 Td(4)TjET/CS3 cs 0.2690.48Tw 128 513.728 72.84 -23.269 ref0 0 0 1 kBT/T1_0 1 Tf11.9969 0 15.3922 634.590 5 69e.9854 Td(-)Tj-0d626 0 Td(F)Tj-0i563 24.7335)Tj25.90386 Tw 2W)89 0 Td(Sw 0.3569 145.m626 0 Td(-)Tj-0m626 0 Td6420)Tj-0.563 0 Td(-)Tj-06563 0 Td(-)Tj-02563 0 Td(-)Tj-0(563 0 Td5120)Tj-0.563 0 Td0169 145.l.9854 Td(F)Tj-0i563 0 Td6420)Tj-02.9854 Td(F)Tj-0.563 0 Td(-)Tj-0.563 0 Td(0)Tj-01814 0 Td(4)TjET/CS3 cs 0.2667.709w 128 513.728 72.84 -23.269 ref0 0 0 1 kBT/T1_0 1 Tf11.9969 0 1 0.259 65 1220165 69p.9854 Td(-)Tj-0 -1.2 TDd(-)Tj-0 -1.2Sw 987

1.7 Optional Accessories

SATO M-5900RV Operator and Technical Reference ManualPage 1-8

PN 9001081 Rev. C

Section

Installation and Configuration

2.1 Introduction

This section is provided to assist you in taking the M-5900RV Printer from the shipping container to the application environment.

The following information is provided in this section:

 Unpacking and Parts Identification

 Setting Up the M-5900RV

 Printer Features

 Operator Panel

 Rear Panel

 Loading Labels or Tags

 Dip Switch Settings

 Printer Adjustments

 Printing Test Labels

 Advanced Mode

 Potentiometer Adjustments

 Hex Dump Diagnostic Labels

PN 9001081 Rev. C

SATO M-5900RV Operator and Technical Reference Manual Page 2-1

Section 2. Installation and Configuration

2.2 Unpacking and Parts Identification

Unpack the printer as follows:

 Place the box upright on a solid, flat surface.

 Open the box and remove any loose items and the first layer of packing

material.

 Carefully lift the printer from the box and place it on a solid flat surface.

Inspect the shipping container and printer for any signs of damage that may have occurred during shipping.

 Remove the plastic covering from the printer.

 Remove the accessory items from their protective containers.

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

room temperature before powering it on.

. NOTE: The following illustrations are representative only. Your printer may not be

packed exactly as shown here, but the unpacking steps are similiar.

REMOVE P ACKING MA TERIAL

LIFT THE PRINTER FROM THE BOX CAREFULLY

Page 2-2

SATO M-5900RV Operator and Technical Reference Manual

PN 9001081 Rev. C

Unpacking and Parts Identification (Cont)

Verify that you have the following items when unpacking:

 Printer

 Power Cord

 Operator's Manual/Programmer and Technical Reference Manual

 CD containing Label Wizard SE

Section 2. Installation and Configuration

2.3 Setting Up the M-5900RV

PN 9001081 Rev. C

Consider the following when setting up the printer:

 Locate a solid flat surface to set the printer. Make sure there is

enough room at the top and right-hand side (facing the printer) to provide clearance for the right side access door to swing open.

 The location should be near the host computer or terminal. The

maximum distance for RS232 cables is 50 feet and six feet for Centronics Parallel cables. Cables can be purchased locally, and their configuration will depend upon the host system being used.

 For information on interfacing the printer to a host system, see

Section 5: Interface Specifications.

SATO M-5900RV Operator and Technical Reference Manual

Page 2-3

Section 2. Installation and Configuration

2.4 Printer Features

LEFT SIDE

ACCESS P ANEL

OPERATION

PANEL

POTENTIOMETERS

AND DIP SWITCHES

RIGHT SIDE

ACCESS DOOR

PRINT HEAD

AND TEAR BAR

LABEL OUT SLOT

FLIP-DOWN

RIGHT SIDE

ACCESS DOOR

COVER

FANFOLD MEDIA

FEED SLOT

CONNECTIONS

Page 2-4

LEFT SIDE

ACCESS P ANEL

REAR P ANEL

SATO M-5900RV Operator and Technical Reference Manual

PN 9001081 Rev. C

Printer Features

PRINT HEAD ASSEMBLY

SHOWN IN OPEN

POSITION

Section 2. Installation and Configuration

LABEL UNWIND ARM

FANFOLD MEDIA

FEED SLOT

LABEL UNWIND

GUIDE

ADJUSTABLE

LABEL EDGE

GUIDE

GREEN PLASTIC LEVER

GUARDS MARKED

"PUSH" "PULL"

PRINT HEAD ASSEMBLY

SHOWN IN CLOSED

POSITION

PN 9001081 Rev. C

SATO M-5900RV Operator and Technical Reference Manual

Page 2-5

Section 2. Installation and Configuration

Printer Features

FRAME

PRINT HEAD

FRONT VIEW

TOP HALF

NOTCH/ GAP

SENSOR

REFLECTIVE

EYE-MARK

SENSOR

BOTTOM HALF

NOTCH/ GAP

SENSOR

PLATEN

FRAME

LABEL UNWIND

GUIDE

LABEL UNWIND

ARM

LABEL

TENSION

BAR

SENSORS

HEAD OPEN

SWITCH

Page 2-6

ACCESSORY

COVER

REAR VIEW

ADJUST ABLE LABEL

EDGE GUIDE

SATO M-5900RV Operator and Technical Reference Manual

PN 9001081 Rev. C

Section 2. Installation and Configuration

2.5 Operation Panel

The M-5900RV Operation Panel has an LCD screen, user input keys and user adjustable potentiometers and dip switches, which are located underneath a flip-down cover on the operation panel.

The power switch is located at the back of the printer.

LCD SCREEN: 2 LINE x 16 Character LCD display. Used for setting operational parameters of the printer and displaying error conditions.

LINE KEY: Momentary switch. Pressing this key toggles the printer between the on-line and off-line mode. When the printer is online, it is ready to receive data from the host. This key acts as a pause during a print job by taking the printer off-line.

FLIP-DOWN

COVER

FEED KEY: Momentary switch. Pressing

this key feeds one blank label through the printer when it is off-line. When the printer is on-line, another copy of the last label will be printed.

POTENTIOMETERS: Used to fine tune your printer. Refer to Potentiometer Adjustments,

page 2-40

DSW 2 & 3: Dip switches are used to set operational parameters of the printer. Refer to Dip Switch Settings,

page 2-13 through 2-18. NOTE: DSW 1 is located on the RS232S Serial Interface

Card and is used to set transmit/receive parameters. This card is attached to the main PCB board and can be removed to access the switches. Refer to Dip Switch Settings, page 2-13, 2-17 and 2-18.

PN 9001081 Rev. C

SATO M-5900RV Operator and Technical Reference Manual

Page 2-7

Section 2. Installation and Configuration

2.6 Rear Panel

FANFOLD MEDIA

FEED SLOT

MODULAR INTERF ACE

BOARD (CENTRONICS

P ARALLEL SHOWN)

MEMORY CARD OPTION SLOTS

EXTERNAL

CONNECTOR

MEMORY CARD OPTION SLOTS:

PLUG - IN INTERF ACE MODULES AVAILABLE:

POWER ON/OFF SWITCH: AC INPUT CONNECTOR:

OFF/ON SWITCH

AC INPUT

CONNECTOR

Two slots for PCMCIA Memory Cards (up to 2MB each)

Ethernet, RS232C, RS422/485, Coax/Twinax or Centronics Parallel Universal Serial Bus

To turn the printer on or off Connect to 115V 50/60 Hz.with

cable provided

Page 2-8

EXT. PORT CONNECTOR:

SATO M-5900RV Operator and Technical Reference Manual

External signal connector

PN 9001081 Rev.C

Section 2. Installation and Configuration

2.7 Loading Labels or Tags

CAUTION: If your labels are less than the full width of the print head, the outside edge will eventually wear out a small portion of the print head, resulting in an area that will not print. Special care must be taken if you plan to use multiple widths of labels since the damaged portion of the print head caused from edge wear on a more narrow label may affect the printing on a wider label. We suggest you plan your print formats carefully to avoid using the area of possible damage on the print head when using a wider label. The small area of damage will have no effect on printing with the undamaged part of the print head.

Damage from a label edge is physical damage and is unavoidable. It is not covered by warranty.

Refer to the following and previous illustrations while loading your media.

STEP PROCEDURE

1. Raise the printer right side access door. Page. 2-4

2. Open the Print Head Assembly by pulling down forward on the green

Lever Guard atop the assembly. Page. 2-5

3. Slide the green plastic Label Unwind Guide to the outside edge of the label. If using roll labels (or tags), load the roll onto the Label Unwind Arm so that the printed side of the label faces upward as it unwinds from the roll. Page. 2-5, 2-6, 2-10, 2-11, 2-12

4. Push the roll all the way to the inside of the printer, then slide the Label Unwind Guide against the label roll to hold the roll in place. Page. 2-10

5. If using fanfold labels or tags, set them on a flat surface behind the printer. Locate the Feed Slot opening at the rear of the printer. Pass the labels (printed side up) through the slot and over the Label Unwind Arm.

Page. 2-10

6. Slide the adjustable Label Edge Guide to the outside edge of the bracket. Feed the labels or tags under the Label Tension Bar, through the open Print Head Assembly and out the front of the printer.

Set the Adjustable Label Edge Guide to keep the labels against the inside of the printer.

PN 9001081 Rev. C

NOTE: If the Label Dispenser option has been purchased, see Appendix D, for proper routing instructions. The M-5900RV must be configured for the Label Dispenser Mode for proper operation. Please refer to DIP Switch Settings (page 2-15).

SATO M-5900RV Operator and Technical Reference Manual

Page 2-9

Section 2. Installation and Configuration

Loading Labels or Tags

STEP PROCEDURE

Continued from previous page

7. Close the Print Head Assembly by pushing down at the front of the plate atop the assembly (green plastic piece marked "PUSH") until the assembly clicks into its locked position. Page 2-11

8. Close the right side access door.

LABEL SUPPLY

SPINDLE

FANFOLD FEED SLOT

(COVERS REMOVED

FOR CLARITY)

LABEL

TENSION BAR

PRINT HEAD

SHOWN IN OPEN

POSITION

FANFOLD LABELS - PLACE

ON A FLA T SURFACE

BEHIND PRINTER

FANFOLD FEED

SLOT

LABEL

UNWIND GUIDE

Page 2-10

SATO M-5900RV Operator and Technical Reference Manual

PN 9001081 Rev. C

Loading Labels or Tags

Section 2. Installation and Configuration

PRINT HEAD SHOWN

IN OPEN POSITION

LATCH OPEN

PRINT HEAD SHOWN

IN CLOSED POSITION

LATCH CLOSED

PN 9001081 Rev. C

SATO M-5900RV Operator and Technical Reference Manual

Page 2-11

Section 2. Installation and Configuration

Loading Labels or Tags

LABEL

TENSION BAR

LABEL

UNWIND GUIDE

LABELS OUT

LABEL UNWIND

ARM

ADJUSTABLE

LABEL EDGE

GUIDE

Page 2-12

SATO M-5900RV Operator and Technical Reference Manual

PN 9001081 Rev. C

Section 2. Installation and Configuration

2.8 Dip Switch Settings

Two DIP switches (DSW2 & DSW3) are located underneath a flip-down cover on the operation panel. These switches can be used to set:

 Sensor Type

 Head Check Mode

 Hex Dump Mode

 Receive Buffer Size

 Protocol Code

 Compatible Mode

DSW2

 Print Mode

 Pitch Sensor

 Backfeed

 Print Start Signal

 External Signal Type

 Repeat Signal

DSW3

A third DIP Switch (DSW1) is located on a RS232 Serial Interface Card and is used to set transmit/receive parameters. This card is installed by inserting it through the slot in the back of the printer directly to the main PCB board. The switches can be set by either removing the card or by opening the left side panel.

DSW1

Each switch is an eight section "toggle" switch. The ON position is always to the top. To set the switches, first power the unit Off, then position the DIP switches. Finally after placing the switches in the desired positions, power the printer back on. The switch settings are read by the printer electronics during the power-up sequence. They will not become effect until the power is cycled

PN 9001081 Rev. C

SATO M-5900RV Operator and Technical Reference Manual

Page 2-13

Section 2. Installation and Configuration

Dip Switch Settings

Printer Setup

Reserved for future use (DSW2-1)

DSW2-1 Reserved

Reserved

OFF

1 2 3 4

DSW2

5 6 7 8

Sensor Type Selection (DSW2-2): Selects between the use of a label gap or a reflective Eye-Mark. See page 2-6 for the location of these sensors.

DSW2

DSW2-2 SETTING Off Gap

OFF

On Eye-Mark

1 2 3 4

5 6 7 8

Head Check Selection (DSW2-3): When selected, the printer will check for head elements that are electrically malfunctioning.

DSW2

DSW2-3 SETTING Off Disable

OFF

On Enable

1 2 3 4

5 6 7 8

Hex Dump Selection (DSW2-4): Selects Hex Dump mode. (See page 2-38.)

DSW2

DSW2-4 SETTING Off Disable

OFF

On Enable

1 2 3 4

5 6 7 8

Receive Buffer Selection (DSW2-5): Selects the operating mode of the receive buffer. See Section 5: Interface Specifications for more information.

DSW2

DSW2-5 SETTING

Page 2-14

Off Single Job On Multi-Job

SATO M-5900RV Operator and Technical Reference Manual

OFF

1 2 3 4

5 6 7 8

PN 9001081 Rev. C

Dip Switch Settings

Printer Setup

Section 2. Installation and Configuration

Reserved for future use (DSW2-6)

DSW2

DSW2-6 Reserved

Reserved

OFF

1 2 3 4

5 6 7 8

Protocol Code Selection (DSW2-7): Selects the command codes used for protocol control. Refer to Appendix E for more information.

DSW2

DSW2-7 SETTING Off Standard

OFF

On Non-Std.

1 2 3 4

5 6 7 8

Emulation Mode (DSW2-8): For emulating features of the original M-5900 software.

DSW2

DSW2-8 SETTING

Off Normal

Operation

OFF

PN 9001081 Rev. C

On Orig.M-5900

1 2 3 4

5 6 7 8

Mode Selection (DSW3-1 and DSW3-2): Selects the operating mode of the printer. Batch/Continuous disables the label taken (Dispense option) sensor.

DSW3

DSW3-1 DSW3-2 SETTING

Off Off Batch/Continuous Off On Tear Off

OFF

1 2 3 4

5 6 7 8

On Off Cutter On Off Dispenser

SATO M-5900RV Operator and Technical Reference Manual

Page 2-15

Section 2. Installation and Configuration

Dip Switch Settings

Printer Setup

Label Sensor Selection (DSW3-3): Enables or disables the Label Pitch sensor. If the sensor is enabled, it will detect the edge of the label and position it automatically. If it is disabled, the positioning must be under software control using Line Feed commands for continuous media printing.

DSW3

DSW3-3 SETTING Off Enable

OFF

On Disable

1 2 3 4

5 6 7 8

Back-Feed Selection (DSW3-4): When Back-Feed is enabled, the printer will position the label for dispensing/cutting and retract it before printing the next label. See page 2-40 for information on setting the amount of offset.

DSW3

DSW3-4 SETTING Off Enable

OFF

On Disable

1 2 3 4

5 6 7 8

External Signal Interface

The EXT connector on the printer rear panel is intended for use with the external printer accessories such as label rewinders or applicators. The 14-pin Centronics type connector provides a choice of four different output signals along with various error conditions.

DSW3-5 SETTING Off Disabled

On Enabled

Note: This switch must be in the On position if an external device is used to control the printer via the EXT connector.

Page 2-16

EXT Print Start Signal Selection (DSW3-5): Allows an external device to initiate a label print. See page 5-12 for a description of signal requirements.

DSW3

OFF

1 2 3 4

SATO M-5900RV Operator and Technical Reference Manual

5 6 7 8

PN 9001081 Rev. C

Section 2. Installation and Configuration

Dip Switch Settings

Printer Setup

External Signal Type Selection (DSW3-6 and DSW3-7): Selects the type of output signal. See page 5-13 for a description of signal types.

DSW3-6 DSW3-7 SETTING

DSW3

Off O ff Type 4

OFF

Off O n Type 3 On Off Type 2

1 2 3 4

5 6 7 8

On O n Type 1

Repeat Print via External Sign (DSW3-8): Allows an external device to control the reprint of the label in the print buffer. See page 5-12 for a description of the signal requirements.

DSW3

DSW3-8 SETTING Off Disabled

OFF

On Enabled

1 2 3 4

5 6 7 8

RS232 Transmit/Receive Setting (Located on RS232S Serial Interface Card)

Data Bit Selection (DSW1-1): This switch set the printer to receive either 7 or 8 bit data bits for each byte transmitted.

DSW1

DSW1-1 SETTING Off 8 data bits

On 7 data bits

Parity Selection (DSW1-2 and DSW1-3): Selects the type of parity used for error detection.

DSW1-2 DSW1-3 SETTING Off Off No Parity

Off On Even On Off Odd

OFF

1 2 3 4

DSW1

1 2 3 4

5 6 7 8

PN 9001081 Rev. C

On On Not Used

SATO M-5900RV Operator and Technical Reference Manual

Page 2-17

Section 2. Installation and Configuration

Dip Switch Settings

RS232 Transmit/Receive Setting

Stop Bit Selection (DSW1-4): Selects the number of stop bits to end each byte transmission.

DSW1

DSW1-4 SETTING Off 1 Stop Bit

On 2 Stop Bits

Baud Rate Selection (DSW1-5 and DSW1-6): Selects the data rate (bps) for the RS232 port.

OFF

1 2 3 4

5 6 7 8

DSW1-5 DSW1-6 SETTING Off Off 9600

DSW1

OFF

Off On 19200 On Off 4800

1 2 3 4

5 6 7 8

On On 2400

Protocol Selection (DSW1-7 and DSW1-8): Selects the flow control and status reporting protocols. See Section 5: Interface Specifications for more information.

DSW1-7 DSW1-8 SETTING Off Off Rdy/Bsy

DSW1

OFF

Off On Xon/Xoff On Off Bi-Com

1 2 3 4

5 6 7 8

On On Status 2

Page 2-18

SATO M-5900RV Operator and Technical Reference Manual

PN 9001081 Rev. C

Section 2. Installation and Configuration

2.9 Default Settings

Switch Selections

All switches are placed in the Off position (default) for shipping. This will result in the following operating configuration:

Communications: Protocol: Sensor: Gap Sensor Receive Buffer: Single Job Mode: Batch Continuous Label Sensor: Sensor Used Backfeed: Disabled External Signals: Disabled

(1) Active only if an RS232 Interface Card is installed in the printer.

Software Default Settings - The printer stores any software settings upon receipt from the host and uses them until they are again changed by receipt of a command containing a new setting. These settings are stored in non-volatile RAM and are not affected by powering the printer off. The printer may be reset to use the default software settings by depressing the LINE and FEED keys simultaneously while powering the printer on. This will result in the following default configuration:

(1)

8 data bits, no parity, 1 Stop bit, 9600 Baud Ready/Busy

retemaraPsgnitteStluafeD

ssenkraDtnirP"3"

deepStnirP.cesrep.ni3

ecnerefeRtnirP1000=latnoziroH,1000=lacitreV

oreZhsalS

eniL-nOotuAdelbanE

Once the default operation is completed, a DEFAULT SETTING COMPLETED message will be displayed on the LCD panel and a single "beep" will be heard. The printer should be powered off while this message is being displayed. This saves the default settings in the EEPROM where they will be automatically loaded the next time the printer is powered on.

DEFAULT SETTING COMPLETED

PN 9001081 Rev. C

SATO M-5900RV Operator and Technical Reference Manual

Page 2-19

Section 2. Installation and Configuration

2.10 Printer Adjustments

The LCD Panel on the M-5900RV is used in conjunction with the LINE and FEED switches by the operator to manually enter printer configuration settings. Many of the settings can also be controlled via software commands and in the 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 Operation 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.

POWER ON

Normal/User Mode

POWER

User Test Print

FEED+POWER

Advanced Mode

LINE+POWER

Load SATO Default Settings

LINE+FEED+POWER

User Download Defined Protocol Codes

DSW2-7=ON +LINE+POWER

Reset to SATO Default Protocol Codes

DSW2-7=ON +LINE+FEED+POWER

ONLINE QTY:000000

USER TEST PRINT SMALL LARGE

ADVANCED MODE SETUP

DEFAULT SETTING COMPLETED

USER DOWNLOAD

ALT. PROTOCOL DEFAULT COMPLETED

Page 2-21

Page 2-36

Page 2-24

Page 2-19

Page E-2

Page 2-20

Emulation Mode

DSW2-8=ON+POWER

Print Hex Dump Label

POWER

Print Hex Dump Label

DSW2-4=ON+POWER

SATO M-5900RV Operator and Technical Reference Manual

ONLINE QTY:000000

PRINT BUFFER Hex Dump Label

RECEIVE BUFFER Hex Dump Label

Page 2-15

Page 2-38

PN 9001081 Rev. C

Section 2. Installation and Configuration

Printer Adjustments

Normal Mode

When the printer is powered on, the readout should display the following message:

ONLINE

QTY: 000000

The LCD Panel will display the Online status on the top line of the display. The bottom line will contain the label quantity (QTY) status. The On Line message will be changed to OFF LINE whenever the printer is switched offline by depressing the LINE key. As soon as a print job is received, the QTY message will indicate the number of labels to be printed. As soon as the label job begins to print, the display will indicate the number of labels remaining in the print job that remain to be printed.

User Mode

To enter the USER mode, perform the following steps:

STEP PROCEDURE

1. The printer is first taken offline by pressing the LINE key once.

The display will change to OFFLINE.

OFFLINE

000000

2. Press the FEED and LINE keys simultaneously for more than one

second. The printer now displays the first USER mode adjustment (Print Darkness).

Print Darkness Setting

There are five Darkness (or heat range) settings on the printer. The higher numbers represent darker settings. The current setting is indicated by a line under one of the range settings.

To change the setting perform the following steps:

STEP PROCEDURE

1. Use the LINE key to step the underlined cursor to the desired

setting.

1 = Light 2 = Slightly Light 3 = Medium 4 = Slightly Dark 5 = Dark

2. Once the correct setting is underlined, press the FEED key to

accept the setting and advance to the next adjustment.

PRINT DARKNESS 12 345

PN 9001081 Rev. C

Note: The setting can be overridden by software. Finer adjustments can also be made using the PRINT potentiometer setting on the adjustment panel.

SATO M-5900RV Operator and Technical Reference Manual

Page 2-21

Section 2. Installation and Configuration

Printer Adjustments

Print Speed Adjustment

There are four Speed settings on the printer. The setting is listed on the bottom line of the display. The current setting is indicated by an underline under one of the speed settings. To change the setting:

STEP PROCEDURE

1. Use the LINE key to step the underlined cursor to the desired

speed setting.

2 = 2 in/s (50mm/s) 3 = 3 in/s (75mm/s) 4 = 4 in/s (100mm/s) 5 = 5 in/s (125mm/s)

2. Once the correct setting is underlined, press the FEED key to

accept the setting and advance to the next adjustment.

Note: The setting can be overridden by software.

PRINT speed

2 345

Pitch Offset and Direction

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 printing. The leading edge position of the label can be adjusted relative to the print head +/- 49 mm in increments of 1 mm using the following procedure. Once the position is set, it can be adjusted +/- 3.75 mm using the PITCH potentiometer on the adjustment panel, (see page 2-40).

LABEL FEED DIRECTION

Page 2-22

MOVED WITH MINUS

(-) OFFSET

ORIGINAL PRINT LINE

MOVED WITH POSITIVE

(+) OFFSET

SATO M-5900RV Operator and Technical Reference Manual

PN 9001081 Rev. C

Section 2. Installation and Configuration

Printer Adjustments

Pitch Offset and Direction

To change the setting perform the following steps:

STEP PROCEDURE

1. Use the LINE key to step the underlined cursor to either the positive

(+) or the negative (-) selection. A positive selection increases the pitch offset direction while a negative selection decreases the pitch offset direction.

2. Once the desired setting is underlined, press the FEED key to accept

the (+/-) setting and advance to the first numerical position. Press the LINE key to set a value in the first position (0-4 only). Each time the line key is pressed, it will increment one step. Press the FEED key to advance to the second position to set a value. Press the line key repeatedly to advance to the desired value (0-9). Once the setting is correct, press the FEED key to accept the setting and advance to the Cancel Print job display.

3. You may wish to check your settings by printing a test label after you have completed the adjustments to ensure that they are correct. See page 2-36 for instructions on how to print a test label.

PN 9001081 Rev. C

SATO M-5900RV Operator and Technical Reference Manual

Page 2-23

Section 2. Installation and Configuration

Printer Adjustments

Cancel Print Job

If the printer has a print job(s) loaded in memory, selecting YES will cause the job(s) to be cleared. The default selection is NO. Make sure that you want to cancel the print job before selecting YES as the job cannot be recovered and will have to be retransmitted to the printer.

To cancel the print, perform the following steps:

cancel print job

noyes

STEP PROCEDURE

1. Use the LINE key to step the underlined cursor to either No or Yes.

2. Once the correct setting is underlined, press the FEED key to accept the setting and terminate the user mode of operation and return to the normal mode OFFLINE display.

If you wish to change any of the settings, you must enter the user mode again by simultaneously pressing FEED and LINE keys for more than one second.

2.11 Advanced Mode Settings and Adjustments

Advanced mode is provided to make adjustments that require only occasional adjustments. Since they affect the basic operation of the printer, the procedure for entering this mode is designed to prevent someone from accidentally changing the settings.

To Enter Advanced Mode:

Power on the printer while pressing the LINE key. The printer will emit an audible signal and display Advanced Mode Setup on the LCD panel.

advanced mode

setup

From the advanced mode display, the advanced settings are accessed in sequence by pressing the FEED key.

Page 2-24

SATO M-5900RV Operator and Technical Reference Manual

PN 9001081 Rev.C

Advanced Mode

Section 2. Installation and Configuration

advanced mode

setup

FEED KEY

zero slash

yes no

auto online

yes no

vert. offset

v: 1051

FEED KEY

calendar enabled

No yes

calendar enabled

25/25/25 25:25

ignore cr/lf

yes no

print darkness

type 1

Hor. offset

h: +/-0001

gap [0.1v] input [1.6v]

FEED KEY

exit adv. mode

no yes

advanced mode

setup

Press FEED Key to recycle back through the

ADVANCED MODE SETUP Section or press

the LINE key to select the Counters Section.

For the Counters Section refer to Page 2-35

Refer to the pages 2-26 through 2-36 for details of each setting

offline

000000

PN 9001081 Rev. C

SATO M-5900RV Operator and Technical Reference Manual

Page 2-25

Section 2. Installation and Configuration

Advanced Mode

Zero Slash Setting

advanced mode

setup

This setting determines if a zero is printed with a slash or without a slash. This setting can also be controlled via software commands. When YES is selected, the U, S, M, WB, WL, XU, XS, XM, XB, XL and vector fonts will have a slash through the center of the zero character.

To access this setting, perform the following steps:

STEP PROCEDURE

1. From the Advanced Mode Setup, press the FEED key to move to the Zero Slash display.

2. Use the LINE key to step the underlined cursor to either YES or NO.

3. Once the correct setting is underlined, press the FEED key to accept the setting and advance to the Auto Online display.

Feed Key

zero slash

yes no

Auto Online Setting

This setting determines the mode in which the printer powers up. If the YES selection is made, the printer powers up in the ONLINE mode and is ready to print. If NO is selected, the printer powers up in the OFFLINE mode and must be manually placed in the ONLINE mode by pressing the LINE key before it is ready to print.

To access this setting perform the following steps:

STEP PROCEDURE

1. Use the LINE key to step the underlined cursor to either YES or NO.

auto online

yes no

2. Once the correct setting is underlined, press the FEED key to accept the setting and advance to the Vertical Offset display.

Page 2-26

SATO M-5900RV Operator and Technical Reference Manual

PN 9001081 Rev. C

Section 2. Installation and Configuration

Advanced Mode

Vertical Of fset Setting

Vertical Offset is the distance down from the leading edge, (the edge of the label that comes out of the printer first) to the first vertical print position. It is always a positive setting since making it negative would move it up and off the printable label. This setting changes the base reference point for all subsequent label jobs. Its effect is identical to the printer moves the label in discrete steps equal to the size of the print dot, the units of measure for Vertical Offset distance is dots. The maximum value that can be set is 1424 (2848 in Expanded mode). Each dot is .0049 inches (.125mm)

Note: This setting can be overridden by the Base Reference Point Command. It is recommended that you relocate printing in your software as adjustments made here will affect all of you label formats.

To access this setting perform the following steps:

STEP PROCEDURE

<ESC> A3 Base Reference point command. Since the

1. Use the LINE key to step to the desired setting. The display will increment one step each time the LINE key is pressed. Press the FEED key to advance to each subsequent digit.

vert. offset

v: 0000

2. Once the setting is correct, press the FEED key to accept the setting and advance the display to the Horizontal Direction display.

ORIGINAL PRINT

LINE LOCA TION

PRINT LINE

VERTICALLY

RELOCA TED USING

THE LINE KEY IN

LABEL FEED DIRECTION

STEP 1

PN 9001081 Rev. C

SATO M-5900RV Operator and Technical Reference Manual

Page 2-27

Section 2. Installation and Configuration

Advanced Mode

Horizontal Offset and Direction Setting

Horizontal Offset is the distance that the label image is shifted either to the right or left on the label. The image is shifted to the left (towards the inside edge of the label) for a positive setting and is shifted to the right (towards the outside edge of the label) for a negative setting. This setting changes the base reference point for all subsequent label jobs. Its effect is identical to the printer can only print in discrete steps equal to the size of the print dot, the units of measure for the Horizontal Offset distance is dots.

Note: This setting can be overridden by the Base Reference Point Command. It is recommended that you relocate printing in your software as adjustments made here will affect all of your label formats.

To access this setting perform the following steps:

STEP PROCEDURE

1. Use the LINE key to step the underline to either the positive (+) or

negative (-) selection. A positive selection increases (moves) the horizontal reference point for the label to the right edge of the label, towards the outside, while a negative selection moves the horizontal reference point for the label to the left, towards the inside of the printer.

<ESC> A3 Base Reference point command. Since the

hor. offset

h:+0000

2. Once the setting is underlined, press the FEED key to accept the setting

and advance the display to the Horizontal Offset adjustment.

3. Use the LINE key to step the counter to the desired setting. The display will increment one step each time the LINE key is pressed. Press the FEED key to advance to each subsequent digit. The horizontal direction set in the previous step will be displayed in front of the Offset setting.

4. Once the setting is correct, press the FEED key to accept the setting and advance to the Sensor Threshold display.

Page 2-28

SATO M-5900RV Operator and Technical Reference Manual

PN 9001081 Rev. C

Advanced Mode Printable Area

Section 2. Installation and Configuration

For Sensor locations, see page 2-6

14 mm

Eye-Mark Sensor

Feed Direction

1.5 mm .06 in.

4.4" Max.

Eye-Mark

1.5 mm .06 in.

LABEL

1.5 mm .06 in.

3 mm

.12 in.

1.5 mm .06 in.

3 mm

.12 in.

Feed Direction

Gap

Feed Direction

1.5 mm .06 in.

4.4" Max.

LABEL

1.5 mm .06 in.

LABEL

1.5 mm .06 in.

3 mm

.12 in.

1.5 mm .06 in.

PN 9001081 Rev. C

Tag

SATO M-5900RV Operator and Technical Reference Manual

Page 2-29

Section 2. Installation and Configuration

Advanced Mode

Sensor Threshold Level

The M-5900RV printer determines the location of the leading edge of the label by measuring the difference between light levels when it sees either a label edge or a black Eye-Mark. This adjustment allows you to manually set the threshold voltage level between the maximum and minimum light levels. DIP switch DSW2-2 selects the sensor type. If DSW2-2 is in the OFF position, the setting will be for a See-Thru (or Gap) sensor and the LCD will display GAP on the top line along with the current setting. If DSW2-2 is in the ON position, the LCD will display Eye on the top line with its current setting. If the value entered for the bottom line setting is 0.0V, then the printer will automatically calculate the setting when the first label is fed after the printer is powered on or the head is closed. There are some instances where the automatically calculated value must be adjusted to ensure reliable label feeding, such as when the backing opacity or the reflectance of the Eye-Mark varies significantly within a roll of labels or between label rolls. In these instances the value should be set using the following procedures.

gap [x.xv] input [x.xv]

GAP SENSOR: When setting the gap threshold, the voltage shown on the top line of the display must be measured with nothing but the backing paper in the sensor and then again with a label still attached to the backing. The formula to be used for setting the threshold is:

(High Voltage Level + Low Voltage Level) x 0.5 = Input Value

Perform the steps on the following page:

Page 2-30

SATO M-5900RV Operator and Technical Reference Manual

PN 9001081 Rev. C

Section 2. Installation and Configuration

Advanced Mode

GAP SENSOR:

Perform these steps:

STEP PROCEDURE

1. Insert a label still attached to the backing into the sensor and close the head. Record the voltage shown on the top line of the LCD panel. This line should have the message "GAP" on the top line (DIP switch DSW2-2 = OFF). Make sure the label is all the way under the sensor and the See through Sensor is aligned over your label.

2. Stip the label from the backing and insert the backing strip under the sensor and close the head. Record the voltage shown on the top line of the LCD panel. The voltage ranges measured should be within the following ranges:

Backing with Label Label Backing Only

2.0V to 3.5V 1.0V or less

If the measured values are outside this range, you may have trouble finding a value that will work properly under all conditions. If this is the case, a higher quality label may be needed to get adequate performance.

3. Calculate the input point voltage using the formula shown on page 30.

4. Use the LINE key to step the counter to the desired value. The display will increment one step for each time the LINE key is pressed. If the LINE key is held down for more than two seconds, it will automatically go into the fast scroll mode. The reading will advance to a setting of 4.9 (the maximum voltage) after which it will automatically wrap and start at 0.0" again. If a value of 0.0" is set, the printer will automatically set the level half way between the two measured voltages each time the printer is powered on with labels loaded.

5. Repeat this procedure using values slightly higher of lower until the optimum performance is obtained. If you cannot find a setting between the high and low readings that gives adequate performance, then the label stock has too much variation in its opacity and a better quality stock should be used.

PN 9001081 Rev. C

6. Once the setting is correct, press the FEED key to accept the setting.

SATO M-5900RV Operator and Technical Reference Manual

Page 2-31

Section 2. Installation and Configuration

Advanced Mode

Sensor Threshold Level (Cont)

"Eye-Mark" (Reflective) Sensor: When setting the "Eye-Mark" threshold, the voltage must be measured with nothing but the label over the sensor and then again with the printed "Eye-Mark" over the sensor. The formula for this is:

(High Voltage Level + Low Voltage Level) x 0.5 = Input Value

To access this setting, perform the following steps:

STEP PROCEDURE

1. Insert a label into the sensor and close the Label Hold-Down. Make sure the printed Eye is not over the sensor. Record the voltage shown on the top line of the LCD panel. This line should have the message Eye on the top line (DIP switch DSW2-2 =ON).

2. Now pull the label forward until the Eye-mark" is positioned over the sensor (the voltage reading should be at its highest point). Record the voltage shown on the top line of the LCD panel. The voltage ranges measured should be within the following ranges:

Label Only Eye Mark

1.0V or less 2.5V to 3.5V

3. Calculate the input point voltage using the formula shown at the beginning of this page.

4. Use the LINE key to step the counter to the desired setting. The

display will increment one step for each time the LINE key is pressed. If the LINE key is held down for more than two seconds, it will automatically go into the fast scroll mode. The reading will advance to a setting of 4.9 (the maximum voltage) after which it will automatically wrap and start at 0.0 again. If a value of 0.0" is set, the printer will automatically set the level each time the printer is powered on with labels loaded or the head is closed.

5. Repeat this procedure using values slightly higher or lower until the optimum performance is obtained. If you cannot find a setting that will give you adequate performance, then the label stock or printed "EyeMark" too much variation in its reflectance and a better quality stock should be used.

6. Once the setting is correct, press the FEED key to accept the setting and advance to the Calendar Set display.

Page 2-32

SATO M-5900RV Operator and Technical Reference Manual

PN 9001081 Rev. C

Advanced Mode

Calendar Set

Section 2. Installation and Configuration

calendar enabled

no yes

STEP PROCEDURE

1. Year: The first display shown will have the two digit year selection underlinded. Press the LINE key to scroll through the dates. The year number will increase by one value each time the LINE key is pressed.

2. Month: After you have set the correct year, press the FEED key to advance the underline cursor to the two digit Month position. Press the LINE key to scroll through the numbers corresponding to the month. The month number will increase by one value each time the LINE key is pressed.

3. Day: After you have set the correct month, press the FEED key to advance the underline cursor to the two digit Day position. Press the LINE key to scroll through the numbers corresponding to the date. The date number will increazse by one value each time the LINE key is pressed.

4. Hour: After you have set the correct date, press the FEED key to advance the underline cursor to the two digit Hour position. Press the LINE key to scroll through the numbers corresponding to the hour (using a 24 hour clock). The hour number will increase by one value each time the LINE key is pressed.

Feed Key

Calendar 00/00/00 00:00

PN 9001081 Rev.C

5. Minute: After you have set the correct hour, press the FEED key to advance the underline cursor to the two digit minute position. Press the LINE key to scroll through the numbers corresponding to the minute. The minute number will increase by one value each time the LINE key is pressed.

6. After you have set the calendar, press the FEED key to accept the setting and advance to the next display.

SATO M-5900RV Operator and Technical Reference Manual

Page 2-33

Section 2. Installation and Configuration

Advanced Mode

Ignore Carriage Return/Line Feed

This setting is an entry provided to ignore a Carriage Return or Line Feed command in the data stream.

STEP PROCEDURE

1. Use the LINE key to step the underline cursor to the desired setting.

ignore cr/lf

yes no

2. Once the desired setting is underlined, press the FEED key to

accept the setting and advance to the next adjustment.

Print Darkness Setting

There are two Darkness (or heat range) settings. If you are printing large amounts of coverage on each label you will want to choose TYPE 2 to prevent head saturation or excessive heat buildup. The current setting is indicated by a line under one of the range settings. Refer to Page 2-40 for user mode darkness settings that work in conjunction with these two broad range settings.

STEP PROCEDURE

1. Use the LINE key to step the underline cursor to the desired setting.

print darkness type 1

2. Once the desired setting is underlined, press the FEED key to

accept the setting and advance to the next adjustment.

Exit Advanced Mode

To access this setting, perform the following steps:

STEP PROCEDURE

1. Use the LINE key to step the underline cursor to either NO or Yes.

2. Once the desired setting is underlined, press the FEED key to accept the setting and advance to the next adjustment. If you selected Yes the display will advance to OFFLINE. If you selected NO you will continue in the Advanced Mode for access to the Advanced Mode Counters. Once the desired setting is underlined, press the FEED key.

exit adv. mode

Page 2-34

no yes

Feed Key

advanced mode

setup

SATO M-5900RV Operator and Technical Reference Manual

offline

000000

PN 9001081 Rev. C

Section 2. Installation and Configuration

Advanced Mode

Advanced Mode Counters

The Advance Mode Counters is provided for reading and clearing internal counters. These counters allow the user to keep track of the number of centimeters of label material that has passed through the printer, how many labels have been dispensed or how many labels have been cut. The Advanced Mode Counters display is entered by pressing the LINE key from the Advanced Mode Setup; then press the FEED key to advance through the counters.

advanced mode

setup

The Couters display allows you to select the counter to be viewed or cleared.

STEP PROCEDURE

1. Press the FEED key to advance through the Counters display.

Line Key

advanced mode

counters

counters hd dsp cut life

HD: Head Counter DSP: Dispense Counter CUT: Cutter Counter LIFE: Life Counter

2. Use the LINE key to step the underline cursor to the counter to be

reset or displayed; the Head counter (HD), Dispenser (DSP) counter, CUT (Cutter) counter, or the LIFE counter.

PN 9001081 Rev. C

3. Once the desired setting is underlined, press the FEED key to

display the values stored for that particular counter.

head counter

cut counter

0.0

0.0 life counter

SATO M-5900RV Operator and Technical Reference Manual

0.0

Page 2-35

Section 2. Installation and Configuration

Page 2-36

SATO M-5900RV Operator and Technical Reference Manual

PN 9001081 Rev. C

Section 2. Installation and Configuration

Printing Test Labels

Print Size

STEP PROCEDURE

3. If SMALL is underlined, the Print Size message will be displayed. You

must enter the size of the label. The minimum label size that can be selected is 4 cm (1.6) and the maximum size is 10 cm (3.9). Press the FEED key and then press the LINE key to increment the setting by 1 cm each time the key is pressed. Once the maximum size is reached, the display will wrap around and start incrementing at 4 cm again. Once the correct label width is selected, press the FEED key to initiate the print.

4. If you wish to pause the printer after it starts to print a test label,

press the FEED key. Press the FEED key again to resume the test label printing. To stop the test label print, pause the printer and then turn power off.

PN 9001081 Rev. C

LARGE LABEL

SATO M-5900RV Operator and Technical Reference Manual

SMALL LABEL

Page 2-37

Section 2. Installation and Configuration

2-13 Hex Dump Diagnostic Labels

In addition to the Printing Test Labels, the printer contents of the receive and print buffers can be examined using the Hex Dump Test Labels.

Print Buffer Hex Dump

The contents of the Print Buffer can be examined using the Hex Dump mode. The label numbers each line of data received in the left-hand column, the data in hexadecimal format in the center columns followed by the same data in ASCII format in the right-hand column.

STEP PROCEDURE

1. Turn the printer ON.

2. Create and print a label.

3. Place the printer in the Off-Line mode by pressing the LINE key.

4. Place DSW2-4 in the ON position.

5. Press the LINE key to place the printer back in the On-Line status.

6. Press the FEED key.

7. A label should be printed containing the contents of the print buffer in hexadecimal format.

8. Return DSW2-4 to the OFF position.

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

Receive Buffer Hex Dump

The data that is being received by the printer (before it is placed in the Print Buffer) can be examined by using the Hex Dump Mode. The label numbers each line of data received in the left-hand column, the data in hexadecimal format in the center columns followed by the same data in ASCII format in the right-hand column.

STEP PROCEDURE

1. Turn the printer OFF.

2. Place DSW2-4 in the ON position.

3. Turn the printer ON.

4. Transmit the data to the printer.

5. The data received is printed out on a label in hexadecimal format.

6. Return DSW2-4 to the OFF position.

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

Page 2-38

SATO M-5900RV Operator and Technical Reference Manual

PN 9001081 Rev. C

Hex Dump Diagnostic Labels

LINE

NUMBERS

DATA IN HEXADECIMAL

PRINT BUFFER HEX LABEL

Section 2. Installation and Configuration

DATA IN ASCII

FORMAT

PN 9001081 Rev. C

RECEIVE BUFFER HEX LABEL

SATO M-5900RV Operator and Technical Reference Manual

Page 2-39

Section 2. Installation and Configuration

2.14 Potentiometer Adjustments

Three potentiometers are located underneath a snap-on cover on the front panel. These are used to fine tune your printer as follows:

 Print Potentiometer to adjust print darkness/lightness of your print output.

 Offset Potentiometer to adjust amount of back/forward feed for

dispenser/cutter/tear-off bar position (+/- 3.75 mm).

 Pitch Potentiometer to adjust home position of the label (+/- 3.75 mm).

Affects stop position of label feed, print position and dispense position.

OFFSET

PITCH

This potentiometer is used to adjust the darkness/lightness of your printer output. Slowly turn the potentiometer counterclock wise to lighten or clockwise to darken.

Offset

When the printer is in the dispenser mode, (dip switch setting, page 2-15) the Feed Offset is used to correctly position the label for dispensing/cutting. Once the correct Feed Offset is obtained, the printer will position the label for dispensing/cutting and then reposition the next label before printing.

The amount of backfeed is controlled by the OFFSET potentiometer on the front panel. When turned all the way clockwise, the amount of backfeed adjustment is +3.75 mm and -3.75 mm when it is turned all the way counterclockwise.

STEP PROCEDURE

1. Turn the printer on.

2. Press the LINE key to place the printer Off line.

3. Press the FEED key to feed out a blank label.

4. Adjust the position using the OFFSET potentiometer on the front control panel and feed another label by depressing the FEED key.

5. When the adjustment is correct, turn the printer off.

Page 2-40

SATO M-5900RV Operator and Technical Reference Manual

PN 9001081 Rev. C

Section 2. Installation and Configuration

Potentiometer Adjustments

Pitch

After the pitch has been set, it is sometimes desirable to make minor adjustments. This can be done using the PITCH potentiometer ont the front panel. This potentiometer is set at the factory so that it has a range of +/- 3.75 mm. The midpoint setting should have no effect on the pitch. Turning the potentiometer all the way clockwise should move the print position 3.75 mm up towards the top edge of the label. Turning it all the way counterclockwise should move the print position down 3.75 mm.

STEP PROCEDURE

1. While depressing the FEED key on the front panel turn the printer on.

2. Refer to Page 2-36, "Printing Test Labels" and print a label, large or small.

3. Adjust the PITCH potentiometer on the front panel until the first print position is at the desired location on the label. If the potentiometer does not have enough range, then you will must change the pitch setting using the front panel display.

4. Press the FEED key to stop the printer.

Adjusting the PITCH potentiometer will affect the stop position of the

label and the cut/dispense/tear-off postition.

Label Feed

Direction

ABCDEFGH

Moved with Minus (-) Pitch Potentiometer

Original Position on Label

Moved with Positive (+) Pitch Potentiometer

PN 9001081 Rev. C

SATO M-5900RV Operator and Technical Reference Manual

Page 2-41

Section 2. Installation and Configuration

Page 2-42

SATO M-5900RV Operator and Technical Reference Manual

PN 9001081 Rev. C

Section

Adjustments and Maintenance

3.1 Introduction

The following information is presented in this section:

 Adjusting the Print Quality

 Cleaning the Print Head and Platen

 Replacing the Print Head

3.2 Adjusting the Print Quality

The M-5900RV printer is equipped with two different methods of adjusting the quality of the print; print darkness and speed. When adjusting the printer for optimum print quality, a bar code verifier system should be used. The human eye is a poor judge of the relative widths of the bars in a symbol, a characteristic that is extremely important for good bar code quality.

Darkness (Print)

This adjustment allows the user to control (within a specified range), the amount of power that is used to activate the individual print head 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 will defined.

You can select a value from the Print Darkness range by using the front LCD panel or by downloading a setting using the Print Darkness software command. If you use the LCD panel there are five Darkness (or heat range) settings. See page 2-21 for method.

If you use the Print Darkness software command you can input a precise value of 1 to 5. See page 4-58, Programming Reference for method.

Once the value has been selected, the PRINT Potentiometer on the front panel can be used to make finer adjustments. See next page for method.

PN 9001081 Rev. C

SATO M-5900RV Operator and Technical Reference Manual Page 3-1

Section 3. Adjustments and Maintenance

Print Potentiometer

If necessary, use the PRINT potentiometer on the operator panel to make fine adjustments for print darkness. It provides a continuous range of adjustment, allowing you to make precise changes. Use a small cross-point screwdriver, turning clockwise for darker prints and counterclockwise for lighter prints.

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

Print Speed

The other method of controlling print quality is by controlling the speed at which the label is printed. This adjustment is made only on an individual label basis using either the Print Speed command code or the LCD display panel. For more details on this command, see Page 4-64 in Section 4: Programming Reference. Changing the print speed allows the user to control the amount of time allowed for print element cooling before the media is stepped to the next print position. It is especially critical when printing "ladder" bar codes (bar codes printed with the bars parallel to the print line). When printing a "ladder" bar code, it is important to allow the head to cool sufficiently before stepping to the next position. If it does not have sufficient time to cool, the bar will be "smeared" on the trailing edge.

You can select a value from the Print Speed adjustment range by using the front LCD panel or by downloading a setting using the Print Speed software command. If you use the LCD panel there are four settings. See page 2-22 for method.

If you use the Print Speed software command you can input a precise value of 1 to 5. See page 4-64, Programming Reference for method. The sofware command will override any setting entered using the LCD panel.

SATO M-5900RV Operator and Technical Reference ManualPage 3-2

PN 9001081 Rev. C

Section 3. Adjustments and Maintenance

3.3 Cleaning the Print Head and Platen

Cleaning the M-5900RV print head and platen is a necessary maintenance procedure to ensure the best print quality and life expectancy of each item. This section explains the steps that should be taken to properly clean the print head and platen.

NOTE: Only solvent recommended by SATO should be used to periodically remove paper residue from the print head. Apply with a cotton swab using due care. Frequency of cleaning depends upon paper type and mechanical factors but should be done at least every two rolls of labels.

 Do not use abrasive materials in cleaning.

 Only clean when the print head has been de-energized and cooled to room

ambient temperature to avoid thermal shock damage.

 Do not operate the machine for at least 15 minutes after cleaning to ensure the

head is totally dry of any cleaning fluids.

Print Head

Supplies needed: SATO SA070 Cleaning Kit (or equivalent)

STEP PROCEDURE

1. Turn OFF the Power Switch

2. Raise the printer side door. Figs. Page 3-4

3. Open the PRINT HEAD ASSEMBLY by pulling forward on the bar atop the

assembly (green lever guard marked "PULL"). Figs. Page 3-4

4. Apply the SATO Thermal Print Head and Platen Cleaner to a cotton swab.

5. With the dampened portion of the cotton swab, gently wipe along the entire length of the print head. (Note that the print head faces downward along the front edge of the assembly.) Figs. Page 3-4

6 Check for any adhesive on the swab after cleaning.

7. Repeat if necessary.

PN 9001081 Rev. C

NOTE: The print head should be cleaned after every two rolls of printed labels. Cleaning will greatly improve the life of the print head.

CAUTION: Note that the tear bar which is located directly in front of the print head, is very sharp. Be extremely careful around this tear bar when cleaning the print head.

SATO M-5900RV Operator and Technical Reference Manual Page 3-3

Section 3. Adjustments and Maintenance

Cleaning the Print Head and Platen

RAISE THE PRINTER

SIDE DOOR

OPEN THE PRINT HEAD ASSEMBL Y

Apply SA TO Thermal Print

Head and Platen Cleaner to a

cotton swab and gently wipe

across the print head

CAUTION: Be extremely careful

around the tear bar which is

located directly in front of the

print head and is very sharp

PRINT HEAD

SATO M-5900RV Operator and Technical Reference ManualPage 3-4

PN 9001081 Rev. C

Section 3. Adjustments and Maintenance

Cleaning the Print Head and Platen

Platen

Supplies needed: SATO SA070 Cleaning Kit (or equivalent)

STEP PROCEDURE

1. Turn OFF the Power Switch

2. Raise the printer side door. Fig. Page 3-4

3. Open the PRINT HEAD ASSEMBLY by pulling forward on the bar atop the

assembly (green lever guard marked "PULL"). Fig. Page 3-4

4. Apply the SATO Thermal Print Head and Platen Cleaner to one of the clean wipes or a cotton swab.

5. With the dampened portion of the clean wipe or cotton swab, gently wipe along the entire length of the platen. Make sure to rotate the platen so as to clean its entire surface. (Note that the platen is the black rubber roller directly below the print head.) Fig. Page 3-5

6. Repeat if necessary.

NOTE: The platen should be cleaned after every two rolls of printed labels. Cleaning will ensure proper label movement through the printer.

Apply SA TO Thermal Print

Head and Platen Cleaner

to a clean wipe or cotton

swab and gently wipe

across the entire length of

the platen, rotating to

clean the entire surface

PN 9001081 Rev. C

PLATEN

SATO M-5900RV Operator and Technical Reference Manual Page 3-5

Section 3. Adjustments and Maintenance

3.4 Replacing the Print Head

The print head on the M-5900RV is a user-replaceable item. This section explains how a defective print head can be easily removed and replaced. Contact you local SATO representative for information on obtaining a new print head.

NOTE: The print head contains a precision printing surface that must be carefully protected from mechanical damage. Extreme care must be exercised during handling and installing to prevent scratching, chipping, denting or otherwise damaging the exposed substrate surface, particularly in the resistor (printing element) area. A small clean piece of cardboard should be used to protect the substrate during installation if there is a possibility of accidental damage.

Supplies needed:

 Small Flathead Screwdriver  Phillips Screwdriver

STEP PROCEDURE

1. Turn OFF the Power Switch

2. Raise the printer side door. Figs. Page 3-7

3. Leave the print head assembly closed initially.

4. Remove the green plastic lever guard marked "PUSH" by gently prying the

back edge with a small flat heat screwdriver. Figs. Page 3-7

5. Using the phillips screwdriver, remove only the middle set screw on top of

the print head and carefully set it aside. Figs. Page 3-7

6. Gently open the print head assembly by holding down on the front edge of the print head assembly while pulling forward on the green plastic lever guard marked "PULL".

The print head and tear bar will separate from the rest of the assembly.

T ext Continued

on Page 3-8

SATO M-5900RV Operator and Technical Reference ManualPage 3-6

PN 9001081 Rev. C

Replacing the Print Head

RAISE THE

PRINTER SIDE

Hold down on the front edge of the print

head assembly while pulling forward on

plastic lever marked "PULL"

Section 3. Adjustments and Maintenance

DOOR

REMOVE THE

GREEN PLASTIC

LEVER GUARD

PRINT HEAD

REMOVE ONLY THE

MIDDLE SCREW

PN 9001081 Rev. C

TEAR BAR

PRINT HEAD AND TEAR

BAR WILL SEP ARATE

SATO M-5900RV Operator and Technical Reference Manual Page 3-7

Section 3. Adjustments and Maintenance

Replacing the Print Head

STEP PROCEDURE

7. While holding the print head firmly from the sides, carefully disconnect the cable at the back of the print head. Set the damaged print head and tear bar aside. Fig. Page 3-8

8. Carefully attach the new print head to the cable connector.

CAUTION: This connector is keyed and should never be forced together incorrectly. Be careful not to scratch the printing surface

SATO M-5900RV Operator and Technical Reference ManualPage 3-8

PN 9001081 Rev. C

Section

Programming Reference

4.1 Introduction

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

The following information is presented in this section:

 The SATO Command Programming Language

 Protocol Control Codes Selection

 Using Basic

 The Print Area

 Command Codes

4.2 The SATO RISC Programming Language

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

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

<ESC>{Command}

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

PN 9001081 Rev. C

<ESC>{Command} {Data}

SATO M-5900RV Operator and Technical Reference Manual

Page 4-1

Section 4. Programming Reference

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

<ESC>{Command}{Parameter}

These commands set the operational parameters of the printer, like set the print speed to 3.

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

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

4.3 Selecting Protocol Control Codes

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

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

The Protocol Control codes are selected by a DIP switch DSW2-7 on the front panel (see Section 2: Printer DIP Switch Settings, Page 2-13).

LORTNOC

RETCARAHC

DRADNATS

FFO7-2WSD

DRADNATS-NON

NO7-2WSD

NOITPIRCSED

XTSxeH20{=xeHB7ataDfotratS XTExeH30}=xeHD7ataDfodnE

Page 4-2

CSExeHB1^=xeHE5wollofotedocdnammoC

~xeHE7~=xeHE7dnammocrettuC

QNExeH50@=xeH04

NACxeH81!=xeH12

eniL-ffOxeH04]=xeHD5eniL-ffOretnirpekaT

SATO M-5900RV Operator and Technical Reference Manual

moC-iB,sutatsretnirpteG

edom

moC-iB,bojtnirplecnaC

edom

PN 9001081 Rev. C

4.4 Using Basic

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

1. Set the WIDTH of the output device to 255 characters to avoid automatically sending <CR>and <LF> characters after every line. The command string should be continuous and uninterrupted by <CR> and /or <LF> commands. The examples given in this manual are printed on separate lines because they will not fit on one line and do not contain any <CR> and /or <LF> characters. If these characters are needed, they are explicitly noted by the inclusion of <CR>and <LF> notations.

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

Section 4. Programming Reference

OPEN “COM1:9600, E,8,1,CS,DS” AS#1

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

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

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

Printing with the Parallel Port

5 REM Parallel Example:

Identifies the program as a parallel port print label. The "REM" prevents this data from being sent to the printer and displays it only on the screen.

10 E$=CHR$(27)

Sets the "E$" string as an <ESC> character.

PN 9001081 Rev. C

20 WIDTH "LPT1:",255

Sets the width of the output to 255 characters.

30 LPRINT E$; "A";

Sends an "<ESC>A" command code to the LPT parallel port.

SATO M-5900RV Operator and Technical Reference Manual

Page 4-3

Section 4. Programming Reference

Printing with the Parallel Port

40 LPRINT E$;"H400";E$;"V100";E$;"XL1SATO";

50 LPRINT E$;"Q1";

60 LPRINT E$;"Z";

Printing with the RS232 Port:

5 REM RS232 Example

Sends the data "SATO" to be placed 400 dots horizontally and 100 dots vertically on the label and printed in the "XL" font.

Instructs the printer to print one label.

Tells the printer that the last command has been sent. The printer can now create and print the job.

Identifies the program as an RS232 port print label. The "REM" prevents this data from being sent to the printer and displays it only on the screen.

10 E$=CHR$(27)

20 OPEN "COM1:9600,N,8,1,CS,DS" AS #1;

30 PRINT #1,CHR$(2);

40 PRINT #1,E$;"A";

Sets the "E$" string as an <ESC> character.

Opens the COM1 port for output and sets the parameters as 9600 baud, No parity, 8 Data bits,1 Stop bit and instructs the port to ignore the CTS and DSR control signals.

Sends an <STX> (ASCII Code a decimal "2") to the printer instructing it to prepare to receive a message.

Sends an "<ESC>A" command code to Print Port #1 opened by statement 20 above.

Page 4-4

SATO M-5900RV Operator and Technical Reference Manual

PN 9001081 Rev. C

Printing with the RS232 Port:

Section 4. Programming Reference

50 PRINT #1, E$;"H400",E$;"V100";E$;"XL1SATO";

60 PRINT #1, E$;"Q1";

70 PRINT #1, E$;"Z";

80 PRINT #1, CHR$ (3);

4.5 The Print Area

The maximum print area for the M-5900RV is listed in Table 4.1 on Page 4-6. Most of your label applications will not require labels that fill the entire print area, therefore it is important to understand how to work with labels that do not use the entire print area. The goal is to help you avoid printing where no label exists, which may lead to print head damage, not to mention frustration when you cannot see the printed output.

Sends the data "SATO" to be placed 400 dots horizontally and 100 dots vertically on the label and printed in the "XL" autosmoothed font.

Instructs the printer to print a quantity of one label.

Tells the printer that the last command has been sent. The printer can now create and print the job.

Sends an "<ETX> (ASCII Code decimal "3") to the printer telling it that this is the end of the message.

The diagram below illustrates the maximum print area with a sample 2 inch wide by 3 inch long label placed within this area. As can be seen, your label will be oriented against the inside left edge of the printer as viewed from the front of the printer. The normal reference point is located at the H1, V1 position of the print area in the normal print orientation (no rotation).

Label Direction

Feed

Max. Print Width

Max. Print

Length

Label Area

Print Area

Max. Print Width minus 2"

Normal Reference

Point H1, V1 for

Printing Area (Not

the Label)

PN 9001081 Rev. C

SATO M-5900RV Operator and Technical Reference Manual

Page 4-5

The Print Area

There are two methods available to make sure your printed output will appear correctly on your label. They are as follows:

1. Send the Base Reference Point command as part of your data to the printer to set a new base reference point for your label.

Calculate the distance in dots (1 dot = approx. .005") from the normal base reference point to the closest edge of the label. For an 8 dpmm printer, this would be:

The new Base Reference Point then becomes:

For the M-5900RV the new Base Reference Point is:

Section 4. Programming Reference

Label Width = 2" x 25.4 mm/in x 8 dpmm=406 dots

New Base Reference Point = Maximum Print Width - Label Width

New Base Reference Point = 896 dots minus 406 dots = 490 dots

Issue the Base Reference Point command <ESC>A3 after the Start command in your data Stream.

<ESC>A<ESC>A3H490V0001...

This resets the reference point for all the following data.

2. Use the normal base reference point from the print area and use the horizontal

position for each field to properly locate it on the label.

Calculate the distance (in dots) from the normal base reference point to the closest edge of the label for an 8 dpmm printer:

Label Width = 2" x 25.4 mm/in x 8 dpmm = 406 dots New Base Reference Point = Maximum Print Width - Label Width

For the M-5900RV printer this becomes:

New Base Reference Point = 896 dots - 406 dots = 490 dots

PN 9001081 Rev. C

Each <ESC>H command would have the value "490" added to it to correctly

position each field.

Note: The <ESC>A3 Base Reference Point command (Page 4-21) can also shift the reference point in a negative direction (toward the outside edge of the label).

SATO M-5900RV Operator and Technical Reference Manual

Page 4-7

Section 4. Programming Reference

The Print Area

The Command Code subsection contains a sample label output for each command code. These samples reflect how the printed information would appear on a five inch wide label. If you want to test any of the sample label outputs and are using labels less than five inches in width, we suggest that you add the Base Reference Point command to the data stream in order for the images to print on your labels.

You must be careful not to print off the label surface as the label provides a heat sink for the print head elements. Doing so will cause irreparable damage to the head. This damage is not covered under the print head warranty. The addition of the Base Reference Point command to the sample data stream may help to adjust the print for your labels. See the following two examples or refer to the Base Reference Point command description.

For example, the following illustrates a sample data stream for a M-5900RV printer and the resulting label assuming a 4 inch wide label:

<ESC>A <ESC>H0185<ESC>V0100<ESC>L0303<ESC>XMSATO <ESC>H0164<ESC>V0200<ESC>B103100*SATO* <ESC>H0280<ESC>V0310<ESC>L0202<ESC>XUSATO <ESC>Q1 <ESC>Z

Page 4-8

Label

If you are using a 2 inch wide label, the entire image may not appear on your label. By adding the following Base Reference Point command to the second line of the data stream, the base reference point will be changed, causing the image to be shifted over toward the inside of the printer where it can be printed on the narrower label.

<ESC>A <ESC>A3H406V0001 <ESC>H0185<ESC>V0100<ESC>L0303<ESC>XMSATO <ESC>H0165<ESC>V0200<ESC>B103100"SATO" <ESC>H0280<ESC>V0310<ESC>L0202<ESC>XUSATO <ESC>Q1 <ESC>Z

SATO M-5900RV Operator and Technical Reference Manual

PN 9001081 Rev. C

The Print Area

The image is moved horizontally to the right 2 inches (406 dots) so that it can be printed on a 2 inch wide label.

For more information, see the Base Reference Point command description.

Section 4. Programming Reference

PN 9001081 Rev. C

SATO M-5900RV Operator and Technical Reference Manual

Page 4-9

Section 4. Programming Reference

4.6 Rotated Fields

The M-5900RV printer can rotate each print field in 900 increments using the Rotate command. There are two variations of this command.

 <ESC>% - The field rotates, but the base reference point for the field

remains the same.

 <ESC>R - The field and the base reference point rotate.

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

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

The following data stream will rotate both the field and the base reference point for that field.

<ESC>A<ESC>R<ESC>V0200<ESC>H0100<ESC>L0202<ESC>P02<ESC>XB1E<ESC>Q1<ESC>Z

Page 4-10

SATO M-5900RV Operator and Technical Reference Manual

PN 9001081 Rev. C

4.7 Command Default Settings

Section 4. Programming Reference

There are some types of commands that must have a value specified before a label can be printed. If the data stream does not contain these commands, a "default" value is assumed. The commands and the corresponding default values are:

COMMAND DEFAULT NOTE

Character Expansion 1 (1) Print Darkness 2 (1) Print Speed DSW2-8 On 6 ips (2) Print Speed DSW2-8 Off 4 ips (2) Proportional Spacing Enabled (1) Cutter Command Disabled (1) Print Rotation 0

(1) Vertical Reference Point 0 (1) Horizontal Reference Point 0 (1) Character Pitch 2 (1) Base Reference Point H=0, V=0 (2)

NOTES:

PN 9001081 Rev. C

(1) The settings for these commands will revert to the default value when the

printer receives an <ESC>Z or an <ESC>*.

(2) The values transmitted with these commands will remain in effect until a new

command is received.

SATO M-5900RV Operator and Technical Reference Manual

Page 4-11

Section 4. Programming Reference

4.8 Command Codes

The following pages contain all the RISC printer Command Codes. The commands must be sent to the printer in an organized fashion in order for the label(s) to print.

The purpose of this section is to:

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

2. To provide a detailed reference for programming the M-5900RV printer.

Each command begins on a separate page with its own heading. A uniform layout is used to help you find key information about each command. For each Command Code in this section, there will be a sample data input stream to the printer and the expected print output. By studying the examples, you can learn how to use the particular command within a whole block of printer code. Pay particular attention to the "Special Notes" with each command to learn other important information.

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

The maximum number of characters defined in a parameter is represented by the number of characters shown in the command structure. For example, a command followed by a aaaa can have up to four characters. In general, commands with only one parameter following the command can be entered without the leading zeroes. However, certain commands require the exact number of matching characters. A command with two parameters listed following the command code without a comma delimiter, such as aaaabbbb require the exact number of digits to be entered. If the value of aaaa is "800" and the value of bbbb is "300", then the parameters must be entered as "080000300". It is recommended that you make it a practice to always enter leading zeros to prevent any mistakes.

Page 4-12

NOTE: These examples assume the use of the Standard Protocol Command Codes, a parallel interface and a 4 inch wide label in a M-5900RV printer. The labels for all other printers will be similar, but because of different resolutions and print widths, may be larger or scaled differently.

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

SATO M-5900RV Operator and Technical Reference Manual

PN 9001081 Rev. C

Command Structure

1:3 narrow/wide bar ratio: <ESC>Babbcccd 2:5 narrow/wide ratio: <ESC>BDabbcccd

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

a = Bar Code Symbol

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

Section 4. Programming Reference

Bar Codes

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

Example: <ESC>BD103200 Placement: Immediately preceding data to be encoded Default: None

Command Function

To print bar code images on a label. With this command, there are 13 standard bar code symbologies available to be printed and three two dimensional symbols (see Two Dimensional bar code symbols starting on Page 4-99). Each of the bar codes are unique, and it is important to know the differences. See Appendix B for specific information on using each individual bar code symbol.

0 No human readable text 1 Human readable at top 2 Human readable at bottom

PN 9001081 Rev. C

SATO M-5900RV Operator and Technical Reference Manual

Page 4-13

Section 4. Programming Reference

Printer Input

<ESC>A <ESC>H0025<ESC>V0025<ESC>B103100*CODE 39* <ESC>H0155<ESC>V0130<ESC>XS*CODE 39* <ESC>H0025<ESC>V0200<ESC>BD20210045676567 <ESC>H0075<ESC>V0310<ESC>XM45676567 <ESC>H0025<ESC>V0375<ESC>BD30215001234567890 <ESC>H0025<ESC>V0600<ESC>BD50210012345 <ESC>H0175<ESC>V0710<ESC>XS12345 <ESC>H0025<ESC>V0775<ESC>BD60210012345 <ESC>H0105<ESC>V0885<ESC>XS12345 <ESC>H0025<ESC>V0950<ESC>BA03100123455 <ESC>H0095<ESC>V1060<ESC>XS12345 <ESC>H0025<ESC>V1125<ESC>BC03100081234ABCD <ESC>H0080<ESC>V1240<ESC>XS1234ABCD <ESC>H0525<ESC>V0025<ESC>B002100A12345B <ESC>H0565<ESC>V0135<ESC>XS12345 <ESC>H0475<ESC>V0200<ESC>BD303100123456789012 <ESC>H0525<ESC>V0375<ESC>BD4031001234567 <ESC>H0525<ESC>V0550<ESC>DE03100123456 <ESC>H0500<ESC>V0600<ESC>OB0 <ESC>H0533<ESC>V0655<ESC>OB123456 <ESC>H0350<ESC>V0725<ESC>D30315009827721123 <ESC>L0101<ESC>H0320<ESC>V0800<ESC>OB0 <ESC>H0365<ESC>V0878<ESC>OB98277 <ESC>H0505<ESC>V0878<ESC>OB21123 <ESC>H0665<ESC>V0760<ESC>BF0313021826 <ESC>H0680<ESC>V0730<ESC>OB21826 <ESC>H0425<ESC>V1125<ESC>D30315000633895260 <ESC>L0101<ESC>H0395<ESC>V1200<ESC>OB0 <ESC>H0440<ESC>V1278<ESC>OB06338 <ESC>H0580<ESC>V1278<ESC>OB95260 <ESC>H0730<ESC>V1155<ESC>BF0314024 <ESC>H0745<ESC>V1125<ESC>OB24 <ESC>H0325<ESC>V0950<ESC>BG03100>GAB>B789>C123456 <ESC>H0435<ESC>V1055<ESC>XSAB789123456 <ESC>Q1<ESC>Z

Page 4-14

NOTE: Carriage Returns and Line Feeds have been added to the command listing for clarity and should not be included in the actual data stream.

SATO M-5900RV Operator and Technical Reference Manual

PN 9001081 Rev. C

Printer Output

Section 4. Programming Reference

PN 9001081 Rev. C

SATO M-5900RV Operator and Technical Reference Manual

Page 4-15

Section 4. Programming Reference

UCC-128

Without Incrementing

<ESC>A

<ESC>H0100<ESC>V0100<ESC>B107150101234567000000001 <ESC>Q2<ESC>Z

With Incrementing

<ESC>A <ESC>H0100<ESC>V0100<ESC>F001+001<ESC>B107150101234567000000001 <ESC>Q2<ESC>Z

Page 4-16

SATO M-5900RV Operator and Technical Reference Manual

PN 9001081 Rev. C

Special Notes

1. UPC and EAN bar codes are not affected by the different types of narrow to

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

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

4. See Appendix B for more specific instructions and detailed information

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

Section 4. Programming Reference

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

narrow to wide ratios.

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

regarding individual bar code symbols.

separately (see page 4-99).

6. For UCC128, the FNC1 code is automatically inserted and the Mod 10 and Mod 103 check digits are automatically calculated.

7. For the MSI bar code, the check digit is not automatically calculated.

PN 9001081 Rev. C

SATO M-5900RV Operator and Technical Reference Manual

Page 4-17

Section 4. Programming Reference

Bar Codes, Expansion

Command Structure

<ESC>BWaabbb aa = Expansion factor by which the width of all bars and spaces will be

increased (01-12)

bbb = Bar height by dot (004-600 dots)

Example: <ESC>BW02100

Placement: Immediately follows the <ESC>BT command and precedes data to

be encoded.

Default: None

Command Function

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

Input to Printer

<ESC>A <ESC>H0050<ESC>V0050<ESC>BT001030103<ESC>BW04100*1234*

<ESC>Q1<ESC>Z

Printer Output

Special Notes

1. This command must be preceded by the Variable Ratio Bar Codes <ESC>BT

2. The following bar codes will be affected by the Character Pitch command: Codabar,

Page 4-18

command (see Page 4-19).

Code 39, Interleaved 2 of 5, Matrix 2 of 5.

SATO M-5900RV Operator and Technical Reference Manual

PN 9001081 Rev. C

Bar Codes, Variable Ratio

Command Structure

<ESC>BTabbccddee

a = Bar Code Symbol

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

6 Matrix 2 of 5 bb = Narrow space in dots (01-99) cc = Wide space in dots (01-99) dd = Narrow bar in dots (01-99) ee = Wide bar in dots (01-99)

Example: <ESC>BT101030103

Placement: Following print position commands and preceding <ESC>BW

Section 4. Programming Reference

Default: Current setting

Command Function

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

Printer Input

<ESC>A <ESC>H0050<ESC>V0050<ESC>BT001030103<ESC>BW03100*1234* <ESC>Q1<ESC>Z

Printer Output

PN 9001081 Rev. C

SATO M-5900RV Operator and Technical Reference Manual

Page 4-19

Section 4. Programming Reference

Special Notes

1. This command must be immediately followed by the <ESC>BW Bar Code Expansion command (see Page 4-18).

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

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

ratio used will be based on the previous setting.

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

code symbols.

Page 4-20

SATO M-5900RV Operator and Technical Reference Manual

PN 9001081 Rev. C

Command Structure

<ESC>A3H-aaaaVbbbb

- = This character is optional. When present, it specifies that the horizontal offset is in the negative direction. If it is left out the offset direction is positive.

aaaa = Horizontal Print Offset (see Note 5 for field range)

bbbb = Vertical Print Offset (see Note 5 for field range)

Example: <ESC>A3H100V0050

Command Function

To establish a new base reference point for the current label. The base reference point is the top left corner or "origin" from where all print position commands are based.

Section 4. Programming Reference

Base Reference Point

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

Printer Input

<ESC>A<ESC>L0202 <ESC>H0025<ESC>V0025<ESC>WB0NORMAL REFERENCE POINT <ESC>A3H0300V0075 <ESC>H0100<ESC>V0050<ESC>WB0NEW REFERENCE POINT <ESC>Q1<ESC>Z

Printer Output

PN 9001081 Rev. C

SATO M-5900RV Operator and Technical Reference Manual

Page 4-21

Section 4. Programming Reference

Special Notes

1. Use of this command will set the Vertical/Horizontal Offset setting of the printer configuration until a new Base Reference Point command is issued or the setting is changed from the operator panel. See Section 2: Installation and Configuration.

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

3. An alternative to using this command is to make changes to your current Horizontal and Vertical Print Position commands (see Page 4-61).

Example:

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

4. For a more detailed example of the Base Reference Point command, see

"Print Area" in this section (Page 4-5).

5. The allowable field ranges for this command are:

VR0095-M

latnoziroH

aaaa

lacitreV

bbbb

6980ot2380-

4241ot1000

Page 4-22

SATO M-5900RV Operator and Technical Reference Manual

PN 9001081 Rev. C

Characters, Custom-Designed

Command Structure

Store Command: <ESC>T abcc Recall Command: <ESC>Kab90cc

a = 1 16x16 matrix

2 24x24 matrix

b = Specifies the character encoding method for the data stream

H Hexadecimal characters B Binary characters

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

are 21 to 52 (counting in Hex) or "!" to "R" in Binary. (data) = Data to describe the character Example: <ESC>T1H3F

Section 4. Programming Reference

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

Placement: The Store command is typically sent in its own data stream to the printer,

Default: None

Command Function

To allow for the creation, storage, and printing of custom characters, such as special

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

Printer Input

See Appendix C for a detailed explanation.

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

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

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

PN 9001081 Rev. C

SATO M-5900RV Operator and Technical Reference Manual

Page 4-23

Section 4. Programming Reference

Printer Output

Special Notes

1. When printing the custom character using the Recall command, the character is affected by the following commands:

Character Expansion (see Page 4-25) Character Pitch (see Page 4-28) Line Feed (see Page 4-52) Rotate, Fixed Base Reference Point (see Page 4-70) Rotate, Moving Base Reference Point (see Page 4-72)

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

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

Page 4-24

SATO M-5900RV Operator and Technical Reference Manual

PN 9001081 Rev. C

Characters Expansion

Command Structure

<ESC>Laabb

aa = Multiple to expand horizontally (01-12)

bb = Multiple to expand vertically (01-12)

Example: <ESC>L0305

Placement: Preceding the data to be expanded

Default: <ESC>L0101

Command Function

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

Section 4. Programming Reference

Printer Input

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

Printer Output

PN 9001081 Rev. C

SATO M-5900RV Operator and Technical Reference Manual

Page 4-25

Section 4. Programming Reference

Special Notes

1. This command will expand the following fonts:

Fonts U, S, M, XU, XS, XM, OA, & OB (see Page 4-36) and fonts WB, WL, XB and XL (see Page 4-40).

2. This command will also affect the following commands:

Character Pitch (see Page 4-28) Characters, Custom Designed (see Page 4-23)

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

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

Page 4-26

SATO M-5900RV Operator and Technical Reference Manual

PN 9001081 Rev. C

Character, Fixed Spacing

Command Structure

<ESC>PR Example: See Above

Placement: Preceding the data Default: The default is Proportional Spacing

Command Function

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

Printer Input

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

Section 4. Programming Reference

Printer Output

Special Notes

1. This command only works with the proportionally spaced fonts XU, XM, XS, XL and XB.

PN 9001081 Rev. C

SATO M-5900RV Operator and Technical Reference Manual

Page 4-27

Section 4. Programming Reference

Character Pitch

Command Structure

<ESC>Paa aa = Number of dots between characters (00-99)

Example: <ESC>P03

Placement: Preceding the text to be printed

Default: <ESC>P02

Command Function

To designate the amount of spacing (in dots) between characters. This command provides a means of altering character spacing for label constraints or to enhance readability.

Printer Input

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

Printer Output

Page 4-28

SATO M-5900RV Operator and Technical Reference Manual

PN 9001081 Rev. C

Special Notes

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

2. To avoid confusion, you may want to include the <ESC>L Character

3. This command affect fonts U, S, M, XU, XS, XM, OA and OB (see Page 4-

4. Charter Pitch will always revert to the default value unless it is specified

Section 4. Programming Reference

(see Page 4-25). The character pitch is actually the product of the current horizontal expansion multiple and the designated pitch value.

Example:

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

Expansion command and this command together in your program.

36), fonts WB, WL, XB, and XL (see Page 4-40), and the vector font (see Page 4-38).

before each new font command in the data stream.

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

PN 9001081 Rev. C

SATO M-5900RV Operator and Technical Reference Manual

Page 4-29

Section 4. Programming Reference

Character, Proportional Spacing

Command Structure

<ESC>PS <ESC>PR

Example: See Above

Placement: Preceding the data to be proportional spaced Default: <ESC>PS

Command Function

To specify the printing of proportional or fixed spacing for proportionally spaced fonts.

Input to Printer

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

Printer Output

Special Notes

1. Once this command is sent in the data stream, it is in effect until the end of the print job unless a reset command is sent.

Page 4-30

SATO M-5900RV Operator and Technical Reference Manual

PN 9001081 Rev. C

Clear Print Job(s) & Memory

Command Structure

<ESC>*a a = If the "a" parameter is not included with this command and the printer is

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

a = If the "a" is included with this command, it specifies the internal memory

section to be cleared.

T To clear the custom character memory & To clear the form overlay memory X To clear all internal memory

Example: <ESC>*

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

Section 4. Programming Reference

<ESC>*X

data stream.

Default: None

Command Function

To clear individual memory or buffer areas of the printer.

Printer Input

<ESC>*A <ESC>*

<ESC>*Z

Printer Output

There is no printer output as a result of this command. The current print job in the buffer will be terminated and all other print jobs in the buffer cleared.

Special Notes

1. See Memory Card Functions for variations of this command used to clear data from the memory Card (Page 4-82).

2. It is not necessary to clear the printer's memory between each print job.

PN 9001081 Rev. C

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

4. When the "a" parameter is used, the section of memory specified will not be cleared until the label is printed.

SATO M-5900RV Operator and Technical Reference Manual

Page 4-31

Section 4. Programming Reference

Continuous Forms Printing

Command Structure

None The printer locates the end of an adhesive label by sensing the backing between

labels or through the use of an eye-mark (black rectangle on the reverse side of the backing). It locates the end of a tag from a notch, eye-mark, or a hole between tags. Both sensors should be disabled when printing continouus forms by placing the Label Sensor Selection switch (DSW3-3) in the On position. See Section 2: Installation and Configuration for instructions on configuring the printer using the front panel DIP switch array.

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

Page 4-32

SATO M-5900RV Operator and Technical Reference Manual

PN 9001081 Rev. C

Command Structure

<ESC>WDHaaaaVbbbbXccccYdddd

aaaa = Horizontal position of the top left corner of the area to be copied

bbbb = Vertical position of the top left corner of the area to be copied

cccc = Horizontal length of the image area to be copied

dddd = Vertical length of the image area to be copied

Example: <ESC>WDH0100V0050X0600Y0400

Placement: Anywhere within the data stream, after specifying the location of the

Section 4. Programming Reference

Copy Image Area

duplicate image.

Default: None

Command Function

To copy an image from one location to another on the same label. This may be useful for duplicating individual fields or entire sections of the label with only one

command.

Printer Input

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

Printer Output

PN 9001081 Rev. C

SATO M-5900RV Operator and Technical Reference Manual

Page 4-33

Section 4. Programming Reference

Special Notes

1. Use the Print Position commands (V and H) to locate the new area for the duplicate image (see Page 4-61).

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

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

4. If the reference area of the target image exceeds the print area, it will not be printed.

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

VR0095-M

latnoziroH

aaaa

6980ot1000

cccc

lacitreV

bbbb

4241ot1000

dddd

Page 4-34

SATO M-5900RV Operator and Technical Reference Manual

PN 9001081 Rev. C

SATO M-5900RV User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual

Preface

Overview

Programming Reference