S8400
OPERATOR’S MANUAL
SATO Internatio n a l P te L td
438A Alexandra Road
#05-01/02
Alexandra Technopark
Singapore 119967
Tel: (65) 6271 2122
Fax: (65) 6271 2151
Email: customerservice@sato-int.com
Be sure to ask your dealer about our maintenance contracts
to ensure peace of mind during your usage of SATO products
Version: SI-S84xxe-01rA-10-06-OM
© Copyright 1994 – 2006
SATO International
Warning: This equipment compli es with the req uir ement s 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 inter fer ence.
All rights reserved. No part of this document may be reproduced or issued to third par ti es in
any form whatsoever without the express permissi on of SATO. The materials in this
document are provided for general information and are subj ect to change without notice.
SATO assumes no responsibiliti es for any errors that may appear.
Table of Contents
CHAPTER 1: OVERVIEW
1.1 General Specifications.............................................................................................1-2
CHAPTER 2: INSTALLATION
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS ..............................................................................................2-2
2.1 Unpacking................................................................................................................2-4
2.1.1 Included Accessories...................... ..............................................................2-5
2.1.2 Parts Identification........... ..............................................................................2-6
2.2 Loading the Carbon Ribbon............................................................... .. ....................2-10
2.2 Loading the Carbon Ribbon on a cartridge-based S8400...................... ..................2-11
2.3 Loading Labels.................. ................................................................. ......................2-12
2.3.1 Loading Roll Paper ......................................................................................2-13
2.3.1 Loading Paper (Ribbon Cassette installed)........... .. ......................................2-14
2.3.2 Using the Dispenser......................................................................................2-15
2.3.3 Adjusting the Pitch Sensor............................................................................2-16
2.4 Changing o r R e p la c in g th e P ri n t H e ad ............. ... .. ..................................................2-17
CHAPTER 3: OPERATION AND CONFIGURATION
3.1 Operating Modes .....................................................................................................3-1
3.2 The Operation Panel........................................ .. ................................ .. .. .. .. .. ............3-3
3.3 Screen Icons And Their Meaning........................ .....................................................3-4
3.4 ONLINE And OFFLINE Modes ................................................................................3-6
3.4.1 Online Mode..................................................................................................3-6
3.4.2 Offline Mode..................................................................................................3-6
3.4.3 SEMBL Operation .........................................................................................3-6
3.5 User Mode .. ... .. .......................................................................................................3-7
3.5.1 Enterin g U s e r Mo d e ............ ..........................................................................3-7
3.5.2 Settin g P rint Speed ............. .. ........................................................................3-8
3.5.3 Settin g P rint Darkness .............. .. ..................................................................3-9
3.5.4 Settin g P itch Offset .......................................................................................3-9
3.6 Interface Mode.........................................................................................................3-10
3.6.1 Enteri n g In t e rface Mode................................................................................3-10
3.6.2 Enabling Interface Card Configuration ..........................................................3-10
3.6.3 Data Port Assignment ...................................................................................3-11
3.6.4 Handling CR/LF CODES...............................................................................3-11
3.6.5 Handling CAN/DLE .......................................................................................3-11
3.6.6 Other In t e rf ac e S e tting Options...... .. .. ...........................................................3-11
3.7 CF CARD Mode.......................................................................................................3-12
3.7.1 Entering CF CARD Mode..............................................................................3-12
Table of Contents (cont’d)
3.7.1 CF CARD Format option...............................................................................3-12
3.8 Advanced Mode.......................................................................................................3-13
3.8.1 Entering Advanced Mode..............................................................................3-13
3.8.2 Selecting The Print Density...........................................................................3-13
3.8.3 Choosing Continuous or Dispenser Operation............... .. .............................3-13
3.8.4 Backfeed Operation Settings ........................................................................3-13
3.8.5 Settin g th e P rint Mode........... .. ......................................................................3-1 4
3.8.6 Configuring the Pitch Sensor ........................................................................3-14
3.8.7 Configuring the Pitch Sensor Type ...............................................................3-15
3.8.8 Turning Head Check Function ON/OFF......................... ...............................3-15
3.8.9 Choosing the Type of Head Check ...........................................................3-15
3.8.10 Enabling/Disabling External Signal Output........................ .........................3-16
3.8.11 Selecting the Type of External Signal Output .............................................3-17
3.8.12 Selecting Reprint via External Signal Output............... .. .............................3-17
3.8.13 Setting Zero Slash Changeover.......................................... .......................3-17
3.8.14 Using the Auto Online Feature....................................................................3-18
3.8.15 Setting P ri n t O ff se t ..... .................................................................................3-1 8
3.8.16 Setting the Calendar ..................................................................................3-19
3.8.17 Setting Proportional Pitch............................................................................3-19
3.8.18 Specifying the Protocol Code Format ..................................... .. ..................3-19
3.8.19 Specifying SEMBL AUTO START...............................................................3-20
3.8.20 Setting the Ribbon Saver feature................................................................3-20
3.9 HEX Dump Mode.....................................................................................................3-21
3.9.1 Enterin g H EX D u mp Mod e............. ...............................................................3-21
3.9.2 Selecting Data To Dump...............................................................................3-21
3.9.3 Controlling the Hex Dump Mode...................................................................3-21
3.10 Test Print Mo d e..... ... ..............................................................................................3-22
3.10.1 Entering Test Print Mode ............................................................................3-22
3.10.2 Choosing What The Test Print Contains.....................................................3-22
3.10.3 Setting Test Print Options ...........................................................................3-23
3.10.4 Setting th e Size of the Factory Te s t P ri n t....................................................3-23
3.10.5 Starting the Test Print .................................................................................3-23
3.11 Service Mode.........................................................................................................3-24
3.11.1 Entering Service Mode................................................................................3-24
3.11.2 Selecting the I-Mark Sensor Level Offset....................................................3-24
3.11.3 Selecting the I-Mark Sensor Slice Level .....................................................3-24
3.11.4 Selecting the Gap Sensor Level Offset.......................................................3-25
3.11.5 Selecting the Gap Sensor Slice Level.........................................................3-25
3.11.6 Setting the Auto Online Feed ......................................................................3-25
3.11.7 Setting the Feed on Error feature................................................................3-26
3.11.8 Setting the Forward/Backward Feed Distance................................ ............3-26
3.11.9 Setting the EXT Port Status Signal.............................................................3-26
3.11.10 Setting the Backfeed Speed..................... .. ...............................................3-27
3.11.11 Setting the Symbol for the Euro currency .................................................3-27
3.11.13 Enabling or Disabling the Display Priority for System Commands............3-27
3.11.14 Enabling or Disabling the Ribbon Near End Warning.......................... .....3-28
Table of Contents (cont’d)
3.11.14 Enabling or Disabling the Label Pitch Re-Detection .................................3-28
3.11.15 Assigning the Function Button ..................................................................3-28
3.11.16 Setting the Password Feature..................................................................3-29
3.11.17 Setting the Compatibility Mode .................................................................3-29
3.11.17 Setting the Media Length..................... .....................................................3-29
3.11.18 Copying Firmware Data ............................................................................3-30
3.11.19 Setting the TRACE Mode..........................................................................3-30
3.11.20 Saving the Print Log..................................................................................3-31
3.11.21 Clearing the Print Log ...............................................................................3-31
3.11.22 Setting the Print Log to Output at the Subport.................... ......................3-31
3.12 Boot Download Mode.............................................................................................3-32
3.12.1 Entering Boot Download Mode...................................................................3-32
3.13 Simple STA N DA L O NE M o d e.................................................................................3-33
3.13.1 Entering Simple Standalone Mode................... ..................... .. ....................3-33
3.14 Workshift Mode......................................................................................................3-34
3.14.1 Enteri ng Wo r ks h ift Mode... .. .. ......................................................................3-34
3.15 Overview of All Modes ...........................................................................................3-35
3.15 Overview of Interface Mode Configurations.................................... .......................3-39
3.15 Overview of Interface/SEMBL Mode Configurations..............................................3-44
3.15 Overview of Advanced Mode Configurations.........................................................3-45
3.15 Overview of Hex Dump Mode Configurations.......................................... ..............3-48
3.15 Overview of Test Print Mode Configurations .........................................................3-49
3.15 Overview of Default/Download Mode Configurations............................................3-50
3.15 Overview of Service Mode Configurations...................................... .......................3-51
3.15 Overview of Boot Download Mode Configurations ................................................3-57
3.15 Overview of RFID/Default Mode Configurations................................ .. ..................3-58
3.15 Overview of Hidden and WorkShift Modes............................... .............................3-59
3.16 Restoring Factory DeFault Settings.......................................................................3-60
3.16.1 Entering Default Mode ................................................................................3-60
3.16.2 If You Cho s e to Re s e t P rin t e r S e tti n g s .......................................................3-60
3.16.2 If You Chose Alt Protocol Code ..................................................................3-61
3.16.3 Setting of Print Resolution for New Print Head ..........................................3-61
3.16.4 Comple tion of Default Setting ...... ...............................................................3-61
3.17 Understanding DISPENSER AND Continuous Print Operation.............................3-63
CHAPTER 4: CLEANING AND MAINTENANCE
4.1 Introduction..............................................................................................................4-1
4.2 Cleaning The Print Head, Platen and Rollers............................................... ...........4-1
4.3 How To Clean The Printer (Cleaning SET)..............................................................4-2
4.4 How To Clean The Printer (Cleaning SHEET)..................... ....................................4-3
4.5 Adjusting Print Quality..............................................................................................4-4
4.5.1 Adjusting Print Darkness...............................................................................4-4
4.5.2 Adjusting Print Speed....................................................................................4-5
Table of Contents (cont’d)
CHAPTER 5: INTERFACE SPECIFICATIONS
5.1 Interface types .........................................................................................................5-1
5.2 Interface Card DIP SWITCH Settings (RS-232C)....................................................5-2
5.3 Interface Card DIP SWITCH Settings (LAN)............................................................5-3
5.4 Interface Card DIP SWITCH Settings (Wireless LAN).............................................5-3
5.5 External Signal Interface..........................................................................................5-4
5.6 Serial Interface Specifi cations (RS-232C) .............. .................................................5-5
5.7 READY/BUSY..........................................................................................................5-6
5.8 Single Job Buffer......................................................................................................5-7
5.9 Multi Job Buffer........................................................................................................5-8
5.10 X-ON/X-OFF ..........................................................................................................5-9
5.11 Single Job Buffer....................................................................................................5-10
5.12 Multi Job Buffer......................................................................................................5-11
5.13 Parallel Interface Specifications (Centronics) ........................................................5-12
5.14 Single Job Buffer....................................................................................................5-14
5.15 Multi Job Buffer......................................................................................................5-16
5.16 IEEE 1284 Interface...............................................................................................5-19
5.17 Interface Signals....................................................................................................5-21
5.18 Single Job Buffer....................................................................................................5-22
5.19 Multi Job Buffer......................................................................................................5-24
CHAPTER 6: TROUBLESHOOTING
6.1 Initial Checklist.........................................................................................................6-1
6.2 Using the Centronics (Parallel) Interface .................................................................6-1
6.3 Using the RS232C (SERIAL) Interface....................................................................6-3
6.4 Understanding the LED INDICATORS .......................... .. .. .. .. .. ................................6-4
6.5 Understanding the LCD Error Messages.......................................... .......................6-5
6.6 LCD Warning Messages......................... .................................................................6-9
6.7 Troubleshooting Guide.............................................................................................6-10
CHAPTER 7: OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES
7.1 Introduction..............................................................................................................7-1
7.2 Available Interface Boards.......................................................................................7-1
7.3 Optional Accessories...............................................................................................7-2
Section 1: Introduction
S8400 Series Operator’ s Manual Page 1-1
1
OVERVIEW
Thank you for your investment in this SATO printer product.
This Operator’s Manual contains basic information about the installation, setup,
configuration, operation and maintenance of the printer.
A total of seven topics are covered herein, and they are organized as follows:
Section 1: Overview
Section 2: Installation
Section 3: Configuration and Operation
Section 4: Cleaning and Maintenance
Section 5: Interface Speci fications
Section 6: Troubleshooting
Section 7: Optional Accessories
It is recommended that you become familiar with each section before installing and maintaining the printer. Refer to the Table Of Contents at the front of this manual to search
for the relevant information needed. All page numbers in this manual consist of a section
number followed by the page number within the stated section.
For specialized pro gr am m i ng , re fer to the separate Programming Ma nu al l ocated on the
utility CD-ROM.
Section 1: Introduction
Page 1-2 S8400 Serie s Oper ator ’s Man ual
1.1 GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS
The SATO S8400 series OEM print engine (Thermal Transfer and Direct Thermal) is a
complete, high-performance labeling system designed for integration into in-line production facilities.
The key features of the S8400 series are:
• High-end, high resolution print engine with industry-leading functionality
• Large 128 dot by 64 dot LCD panel with graphical icon display
• Super crisp printing at resolutions of 203 dpi, 305 dpi or 609 dpi
• Tool-less changing of print heads for easier maintenance
• Optional cassette tray ribbon loading for reduced turnaround time
• Support for a wid e range of legacy as well as modern I/O interfaces
• Enhanced print position accuracy even in high volume print jobs
• Support for SATO Barcode Programming Language for enhanced customizab ility
• Support for SEMBL programming for standalone operation customizability
• Supports for Radio Frequency IDentification technology for enhanced productivity
• Built-in calendar function for time and date data labeling
• Lightweight and easy-to-mount chassis
• All three models are available in Left-hand and Right-hand orientations
• User friendly label and ribbon path management
• Support for a wide range of accessories and peripherals for custom-applications
All printer par ameter s are pr ogra mmabl e usin g the fro nt p anel controls an d via software.
All popular bar codes, including 2- D codes, seven human-readable fonts and two fast
and efficient vector fonts, are resident in memory, providing literally thousands of combinations of type styles and sizes.
Section 1: Introduction
S8400 Series Operator’ s Manual Page 1-3
1.1 GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS
Specification Model S8408 Model S8412 Model S8424
Electrical Characteristics
Print method Thermal transfer and direct thermal
Head density 8 dots/ mm (203 dpi) 12 dots/ mm (305 dpi) 24 dots/ mm (609 dpi)
Printable Area W104 mm x pitch 2500 mm W104 mm x pitch 1500 mm W104 mm x pitch 400 mm
Not printable for 3 mm from the inner edge
Print speed (Max) 4 to 16 inches/sec @203dpi 4 to 14 inches/sec @305dpi 2 to 6 inches/sec @609dpi
Note:
Maximum speed may be further dependent on the type of print layout, paper,
or carbon ribbon in use.
CPU 32-bit RISC
Onboard Memory 4 MB FLASH ROM, 16 MB SDRAM main memory (2.95 MB allocated for Receive Buffer),
32 KB FRAM, 8 KB SRAM for built-in calendar
Memory cartridge
Built-in CF card reader for optional factory-installed CF card
Print Characteristics
Print/Dispensing Modes Continuous, Dispenser, Linerless (when selecting linerless media)
Print Formats Transmitted from host (computer)
Paper Thickness 0.05 mm to 0.31 mm supported
Note: Be sure to use only printer supplies manufactured or certified by SATO.
Paper Size
*in continuo us mode
Width: 22 mm to 128 mm (25 mm to 131 mm including liner)
Pitch: 6 mm to 356 mm (9 mm to 359 mm including liner)
Paper Supply Method Via external unwinder
Pitch (paper) Sensor Reflective type (I-mark) and Transmissive type (Gap)
Optional I-mark sensor for detecting I-marks located on the top (printable) side of labels
Carbon ribbon
Dimensions
Thickness of base material
Color
Winding direction
(Be sure to use the specified carbon ribbons manufactured or specified by SATO)
W25mm to 128m by up to 1000 m/roll (max outer diameter should be within 108 mm)
4.5 µm
Black (standard) with other colors available as optional consumables
Face-In and Face-out winding (see table below)
Labels and Ribbons available for the S8400 series
Ribbons
Type
Wax T102C, T101A, T104C
Wax/Resin T110A, T112D, T123A, T122B, T123B
Resin
T222A, R335A, R236A, R333A
Labels
Type
(0.05 mm to
0.31 mm)
Paper Fasson: Vellum extra, MC Primecoat, Premium TT1C
Raflatac: TOP E, ECO, Mactac KL370 (thermal), Raflagloss
Film Fasson: 2mil Gloss White, PE transparent
Raflatac: PE Gloss White
Section 1: Introduction
Page 1-4 S8400 Serie s Oper ator ’s Man ual
1.1 GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS (CONT’D)
Specification/
Model Name
S8400
Interface Characteristics
External connectivity
(Slot 1)
Interface boards available:
¤ Parallel (IEEE1284)
¤ RS-232C
• READY/BUSY
• XON/XOFF
• Status 2/3
• Driver specific protocol
• Status 5
¤ USB (Ver. 1.1)
¤ LAN (10BASE-T/ 100BASE-TX automatic changeover)
¤ Wireless LAN (IEEE802.11b)
¤ Centronics
¤ RS-422/485
External connectivity
(Slot 3)
Standard 14-pin Amphenol External (EXT) signal interface
Optional D-Sub 25-pin External (EXT) signal interface
Configuration and Funct ions
User settings (via LCD) 1. Settings indications
2. Print speed
3. Print darkness
4. Print position adjustments
5. Zero slash changeover
6. Proportional pitch adjustments
Operation
Panel
Buttons
LINE, FEED, ENTER, CANCEL, FUNCTION, 4 navigation buttons (up/down/
left/right)
Switch POWER ON/OFF
LCD Green LCD (with backlight), Vertical 64 dots x horizontal 128 dots
LEDs POWER (Green), ONLINE (Green), LABEL (Red), RIBBON (Red) indicators
Adjustment
Potentiometers
VOLUME: buzzer loudness adjustment
PITCH: print position adjustment
OFFSET: dispense adjustment
DARKNESS: print darkness adjustment
Other
Functions
Status Monitor
Commands for drawing of graphics
Sequential numbering
Form overlay support
Storage of Customized Font Characters in memory
Reverse printing function (White text on a black background)
Function for printing of lines and boxes
Label format storage function
Zero-slash character switching, HEX Dump Print function, Calendar function.
DIP Switches One 8-bit DIP switch
Programming Language SATO Barcode Printer Language Ver 4.2
Automatic diagnostics Head check (for detection of failed heating elements in the print head)
Head resolution diagnostic
“Paper-End” detection
“Cover Open” detection
Test Print
Ribbon End detection
Ribbon Near End detection
Calendar Check
Section 1: Introduction
S8400 Series Operator’ s Manual Page 1-5
1.1 GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS (CONT’D)
Specification/
Model Name
S8400
Barcoding Functions
Barcodes
Supported
Onedimensional
code
• UPC-A/E, EAN8/13
• NW-7
• INTERLEAVED 2 of 5 (ITF)
• INDUSTRIAL 2 of 5
• MATRICES 2 of 5
• CODE39, CODE93, CODE128
• UCC/EAN128
• RSS-14
• MSI
• POSTNET
• BOOKLAND
• Customer barcode
Twodimensional
code
• QR code model 2, Micro QR (Ver 8.1)
• PDF417 (Ver. 2.4, including micro PDF)
• MAXI code (Ver. 3.0)
• Data matrices code ECC200 (Ver. 2.0)
• Composite Symbols Ver 1.0 (UPC-A/E, EAN8/13, JAN8/13, CODE39, CODE128 CC-A/
B/C supported with RSS-14)
Stored
Font Types
Standard XU 5 x 9 dots (alphanumeric, symbol, and kana)
XS 17 x 17 dots (alphanumeric, symbol, and kana)
XM 24 x 24 dots (alphanumeric, symbol, and kana)
XB 48 x 48 dots (alphanumeric, symbol, and kana)
XL 48 x 48 dots (alphanumeric, symbol, and kana)
Outline font
(alphanumeric, symbol,
and kana)
OCR-A for 203/305/609 dpi (15x22, 22x33 and 44x66 dots respectively)
OCR-B for 203/305/609 dpi (20x24, 30x36 and 60x72 dots respectively)
Raster Fonts CG Times, CG Triumvarite
Print Magnification Vertical 1 to 12 times
Horizontal 1 to 12 times (characters)
1 to 12x (barcodes)
Print Rotation Characters: 0°, 90°, 180°, and 270°
Barcode: Parallel 1 (0°), Serial 1 (90°), Parallel 2 (180°), Serial 2 (270°)
Barcode Ratio 1:2, 1:3, 2:5; Arbitrary user settings allowed
Accessories
Options
For PCI-bus mini slot
•
Mini-sized USB I/F card
• Mini-sized LAN I/F card
• Mini-sized RS-232C I/F
card
For Standard slot
•
High Speed RS-232C
(25-pin) I/F card
• IEEE 1284 I/F card
• USB I/F card
• Wireless LAN (802.11b)
I/F card
• RS-422/485 I/F card
• 10/100 Mbps LAN I/F
card
• Centronics I/F card
For EXT slot
• EXT connector (Amphe-
nol 14-pin or D-Sub 25pin for connection to
peripherals)
Other options
•
Linerless option kit
• I-mark sensor kit for
detecting top-side Imarks
• Ribbon Loading Cas-
sette (factory option)
• Ribbon Saver option
• Compact Flash memory
card
• RFID Kit
• LVDS Kit (a cable for
allowing the operational
panel to be accessed
from a few meters away
Section 1: Introduction
Page 1-6 S8400 Serie s Oper ator ’s Man ual
1.1 GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS (CONT’D)
Specification/
Model Name
Model S8408 Model S8412 Model S8424
Physical Characteristics
Dimensions W 245 mm x D 408 mm x H 300 mm (Basic Chassis without handles and interfaces)
W 245 mm x D 478 mm x H 300 mm (Chassis with handles and interfaces installed)
W 245 mm x D 417 mm x H 300 mm (Ribbon direct and interfaces installed)
Weight 15.5 kg for a standard configuration; 16.0kg for configuration with ribbon cassette
Power Supply Input voltage: AC 100 V to 240 V ±10%, 2.7 A to 1.1 A
Power Consumption 220 W (peak)
Standards Compliance Noise emission: VCCI Class B, FCC Class B, ENN55022 Class B
Safety Standards: MET, NEMKO-GS, CCC
Energy Saving: International Energy Star Program
Environmental Conservation: Manufactured according to environment friendly processes
In-house equipment level: Class B conformance
Package Fall: ISTA-2A
Operating Environment Operational ambient temperature: -5 to 40 degrees Celsius
Operational ambient humidity: 15 to 85% (no condensation)
Section 2: Installation
S8400 Series Operator’s Manual Page 2-1
2
INSTALLATION
This section assists you in unpacking and installing the printer from the shipping container .
You will also be guided through a familiarization tour of the main parts and controls.
The following information is provided:
• Safety Precautions
• Unpacking and Parts Identification
• Loading the Carbon Ribbon (with and without the optional Ribbon Cassette)
• Loading Labels and Tags (with and without the optional Ribbon Cassette)
• Adjusting the Sensors
• Replacing the Print Head
SECTION 2: INSTALLATION
Page 2-2 S8400 Series Operator’s Manual
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
THE CAUTION SYMBOL
Whenever the triangular Caution logo appears in this manual, pay special attention to the warning(s) cited
below it. Failure to abide by the warnings may result in injury or damage to property.
PRINTER PLACEMENT TIPS
• Place the printer on a solid , st ab le,
horizontal surface that is not subject to strong vibrations from adjacent mechanical devices.
• Avoid shaky or slanting tables, or
platforms that are liable to collapse under a heavy
weight. If the printer is dropped or damaged, immediately turn off the power, pull out the power plug and
contact a service center. In this case, continued use
of the printer may cause a fire or electric shocks.
• Avoid installing the printer in direct sunlight, or in
dusty, very hot or slippery areas. Also avoid placement in damp, unventilated or humid areas. If condensation forms, immediately turn off the power, and
do not use the printer until the condensation disappears. Otherwise the moisture may cause electric
shocks.
• Avoid placing the printer near large high-current
equipment, as such equipment can caus e spike s or
undervoltages in the power supply.
• Do not leave containers of
water or chemicals around the
printer. If any liquid is spilled
onto the printer, immediately
turn off the power, pull out the
power cable from the AC outlet, and contact a
sales outlet, dealer, or service center. In this
case, continued use of the printer may cause
fires or electric shocks.
• Do not move the printer with any paper loaded.
The stack of paper may fall off, causing trips
and accidents.
• When laying the printer down, be careful not to
catch your foot or fingers under it.
• When moving the printer, be sure to pull out the
power cable from the AC outlet, and check that
any other external interface cables have been
disconnected. Otherwise, the connected cables
may be damaged, or may cause trips and falls,
in addition to or a fire or electric shocks.
ELECTRICAL PRECAUTIONS
• Do not damage, break, or process the power cable.
Hanging heavy objects on it, heating or pulling it may
damage the power cable and cause fires or electric
shocks.
• When the power cable is damaged (cable conductors
are exposed or cut, etc.), contact a sales outlet,
dealer, or service center. In this case, continued use
of the printer may cause fires or elec tric shocks.
• Do not process, forcibly bend, twist, or pull the power
cable. Continued use of such a cable may cause
fires or electric shocks.
• If the printer emits any smoke or peculiar odors at
any time, turn it OFF and prevent further usage until
you have contacted a qualified service personnel.
• Do not use any other voltage except the specified
power voltage for the printer that matches your
domestic power supply. Otherwise, it may cause fires
or electric shocks.
• Do not operate the power switch or handle the
power cable with a wet hand.
• Do not insert or drop anything metallic or flammable into the openings of the printer (the cable
outlet or mounting hole of the memory cartridge). Otherwise, immediately turn off the
power, pull out the power cable, and contact a
sales outlet, dealer, or service center. In this
case, continued use of the printer may cause
fires or electric shocks.
• To reduce electrical risks, be
sure to connect the printer to
ground before use. Also, try
not to share the printer’s AC
outlet with other electrical
equipment, especially those that draw high
amounts of current or cause electrical interference.
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
Please read the following information carefully before
installing and using the printer
Section 2: Installation
S8400 Series Operator’s Manual Page 2-3
This equipment is a piece of Class B information technology equipment based on the standards of the
Voluntary Control Council for Interference by Information Technology Equipment (VCCI). Although this
equipment is for use in home environment, if it is used close to a radio or television set, it may cause poor
reception. Handle it properly in accordance with the content from the instruction manual.
GENERAL PRECAUTIONS
• Head cleaning liquid (if supplied) is flammable. Never
heat it or throw it into a fire. Keep it out of children’s
reach to avoid accidental consumption. Should this
occur, consult a doctor immediately.
• When opening/closing the cover, beware of getting
your fingers caught. Also, hold the opening/closing
cover well so that it will not slip and fall on your hand.
• After printing, the print head remains hot. When
replacing paper or cleaning the printer immediately
after printing, be careful not to burn yourself.
• Touching even the edge of the printer head may
cause injuries. When replacing paper or cleaning the
printer, be careful not to hurt yourself.
• If the printer will not be used for extended periods of
time, disconnect the power cable for safety.
• When releasing and locking down the printer head,
be careful not to catch any other foreign matter in it
except label paper.
• Do not disassemble or perform modifications to
the printer, as this renders the product unsafe.
For maintenance, troubleshooting and repairs,
consult a sales outlet, dealer, or service center
for help, instead of attempting to perform this
yourself. Renewable annual service contracts
are available.
• When maintaining or cleaning the printer,
always disconnect the power cable for safety.
• Do not insert your hand or other objects into the
cutter.
• When loading roll paper, be careful not to catch
your fingers between the paper and the feeder.
• Be careful not to hurt yourself when detaching
the back cover of the fanfold through the hole
and attaching it.
• The simplified cutter (where installed) is structured as a blade. Be careful not to cut yourself.
SECTION 2: INSTALLATION
Page 2-4 S8400 Series Operator’s Manual
2.1 UNPACKING
When unpacking the printer, take note of the following:
Note
The following illu strations are repr esentative only. Your pri nter may not be packed e xactly as shown, but
the unpacking steps are similar.
The box should stay right-side up.
Lift the printer out of the box carefully.
If the printer was been stored in the
cold, allow it to reach room
temperature before turning it on.
Remove the plastic covering from the
printer.
Set the printer on a so lid, flat surface.
Inspect the shipping container and
printer for any sign of damage that
may have occurred during shipping.
Remove the accessory items from their
protective containers.
1
4
2
5
3
Section 2: Installation
S8400 Series Operator’s Manual Page 2-5
2.1.1 Included Accessories
After unpacking the printer, verify that the following materials are in the accessories or packaging:
Global Warranty
document
Cleaning
Set*
Information
leaflet*
Head cleaning sheet
(wrapping sheet)*
Power cable*
T w o-pole adaptor*Accessory CD-ROM*Operator’s Manual
Items marked with an asterisk may be different fr om what you see here, or may be excluded.
Please fill out the Global Warranty card and submit it
to us in order that we can provide fast and efficient
after-sales service. For malfunctions under normal
usage, this product will be repaired free of charge
according to the warranty terms applicable for the
country of use.
Please do not discard the original packaging box and
cushioning material after installing the printer. They
may be needed in future, if the printer needs to be
shipped for repairs.
Important!
Sample paper*
SECTION 2: INSTALLATION
Page 2-6 S8400 Series Operator’s Manual
2.1.2 Parts Identification
IDENTIFYING THE MAIN PRINTER PARTS
Power switch
Pushing the I side
turns the printer ON.
Pushing the O side
turns the printer OFF.
Operation Panel
and LCD
Remove the panel
by unscrewing the
two nuts at the sides
Front Cover
Operation
panel and LCD
Label Roll
Angled Front View (Left Hand model)
Front View (Left Hand model)
Printer and label
roll mounting
stand
(not supplied)
Print Head
Clear
Window
Front View (Left Hand model with optional Ribbon Cassette frame)
Ribbon
Cassette
handle
Power Switch
Ribbon Roller
Ribbon
Cassette for
preloading
ribbon rolls
Section 2: Installation
S8400 Series Operator’s Manual Page 2-7
2.1.2 PARTS IDENTIFICATION (CONT’D)
IDENTIFYING THE MAIN PRINTER PARTS
Rear View
Slot for Main
Interface card
Internal mechanism of S8400 with Ribbon Cassette
Built-in
14-pin
EXT port
Front View, Cover open
(Left-hand model)
Instructions for
correct label
Ribbon and
label loading
Head Lock Lever
(turn counterclockwise to
release paper)
Label Guide
Ribbon Supply Spindle
Ribbon Take-Up Spindl
e
Pich (paper)
sensor adjustment
Nip Roller
Release Latch
Ribbon Roller
Print Head
Pressure
Balance
Knob
Print Head
Release Latch
Slot for
optional
small form
factor USB/
Lan/RS-232C
card
AC
power
socket
Print Head
Feed Lock
Lever
Platen Roller
Nip Roller assembly
SECTION 2: INSTALLATION
Page 2-8 S8400 Series Operator’s Manual
IDENTIFYING THE MAIN PRINTER PARTS
Head Lock lever
Ribbon Take-up Spindle
Nip Roller Release Latch
Print Head*
* Clean and maintain this part regularly
Pitch Sensor adjustment knob
Ribbon Roller*
Ribbon Supply Spindle
Paper (pitch) Sensors*
Label Guide*
Nip Roller
assy (Brass)
Print Head release lever
Feed Lock lever
Label roller* Platen roller*
Media Path Parts
Section 2: Installation
S8400 Series Operator’s Manual Page 2-9
2.1.2 PARTS IDENTIFICATION (CONT’D)
IDENTIFYING THE MAIN PRINTER PARTS
View of Front Panel
Icons, prompts and system messages
are displayed here.
LCD screen
FUNCTION button: Selects the various setting
modes.
ENTER button: Confirms the choice of a selection
or value.
CANCEL button: Cancels printing data. In each
setting mode, the button also returns you to the
previous menu or menu item.
CURSOR buttons: Each button moves the cursor
up, down, left or right on the LCD screen.
Operation buttons
Feeds the label forward. When it is pressed once,
the equivalent of a sheet of paper or label is ejected.
*There are times when the paper is not aligned prop-
erly when power is turned on or when the paper was
set. In this case, always press the FEED button to
align the paper properly.
FEED button
Status LEDs
POWER LED: Lights up when power is supplied to the
printer.
ONLINE LED: Lights up when communication is available.
LABEL LED: Lights up red at Paper End or Paper Near
End.
RIBBON LED: Flashes red when detecting Ribbon
Near End. Lights up red when detecting Ribbon End.
CANCEL button: Cancels printing data. In each setting
mode, the button also returns you to the previous menu
or menu item.
For details of each indicator’s behavior, see Page 6-4
of Section 6, Understanding the LED Indicators.
Adjustment Potentiometers
VOLUME: Adjusts the loudness of the built-in
speaker (buzzer).
PITCH: Adjusts the vertical print position with
reference to the top edge of a label.
OFFSET: Adjusts the stop position offset values
for the cutter, peeler and tear off modes
DARKNESS: Adjusts the print darkness (print
density).
LINE
FEED
POWER ON LINE LABEL RIBBON
FUNCTION
CANCEL
ENTER
volume pitch offset darkness
status LEDs
4 Cursor movement ke
y
Operation
button
Two line text
message
Operation
buttons
Status Icon
Display Area
128 x 64 dot
display
Adjustment potentiometers
LINE button
Takes the printer ONLINE (to proceed with printing) or
OFFLINE (to perform configuration or other settings)
SECTION 2: INSTALLATION
Page 2-10 S8400 Series Operator’s Manual
2.2 LOADING THE CARBON RIBBON
1. Lift up the front cover. Make sure that the cover is
pushed upwards until it locks f irmly i n place so that
it will not fall downwards and injure your hands.
2. Pull the purple Head Lock lever upwards in a
clockwise direction. The print head assembly will
be lifted up to allow ribbon loading.
3. Insert the carbon ribbon in the ribbon supply
spindle.
Push the ribbon roll inwards all the way, with the
ribbon winding in a counterclockwise dire ction, as
shown. Pull the ribbon around the print head
assembly so it reaches the Ribbon Take-up
Spindle.
Note: For maximum print quality and printer
durability use genuine SATO carbon ribbons.
4. Insert an empty ribbon core into the Ribbon TakeUp Spindle. If necessary, secure the ribbon with
adhesive tape, and wind the ribbon around the
core a few times.
Note:
If in doubt about the ribbon p ath, refer t o the us eful
diagram pasted on the front cover.
5. Press the purple Head Lock lever clockwise and
downwards to lock the print head assembly int o
place. The ribbon is now loaded.
Note:
To remove the ribbon, reverse the steps describ ed
here.
Caution
• When replacing the carbon ribbon, bear in mind that the print head and its surrounding area remain hot. Keep your fingers
away from these areas to prevent injury.
• Avoid touching even the edge of the pr in t head with your bare hands.
Front Cover
Ribbon Supply
and Take-up
spindles
Head Lock
Lever
Empty Ribbon
Core
Ribbon Supply
Spindle
New Ribbon
Roll
Ribbon taped
to ribbon core
and wound a
few times
Section 2: Installation
S8400 Series Operator’s Manual Page 2-11
2.2 LOADING THE CARBON RIBBON ON A CARTRIDGE-BASED S8400
1. Pull the blue Head Lock lever upwards i n a clockwise
direction. The print head assembly will be lifted up to
allow ribbon loading.
2. Remove the Ribbon Cassette frame by pulling it by
the two blue handles.
3. Push and open the purple lever to remove the ribbon
boss.
4. Wind the leader tape of a fresh ribbon roll around the
ribbon take-up spindle, using the Surface-Out or
Surface-In orientation as appr opriate. Load the ribbon
roll and ribbon supply-spindle in to the ribbon cassette.
Turn the ribbon take-u p spindle to ti ghten any saggi ng
in the carbon ribbon.
Note: For maximum print quality and printer durabilit y
use genuine SATO carbon ribbons.
5. Reinsert the ribbon cassette into the printer chassis
by holding the handles.
6. Press the blue Head Lock lever countercl ockwise to lock the pr int head assembly into place. The
ribbon is now loaded.
Note:
To remove the ribbon, reverse the steps described here.
Caution
• When replacing the carbon ribbon, bear in mind that the print head and its surrounding area remain hot. Keep your fingers
away from these areas to preve nt in jury.
• Avoid touching even the edge of the print head with your bare hands.
SECTION 2: INSTALLATION
Page 2-12 S8400 Series Operator’s Manual
2.3 LOADING LABELS
This print engine is designed to print on ro ll paper supplied via a separate label supply stand.
The printing mechanism can be set to detect th e I- mark on the paper to feed each label cor rec tly.
Note:
For optimal print performance and durabilit y, please use SATO-certified label and ribbon
supplies on this printer. Using suppl ies not tested and approved for use by SATO can result in
unnecessary wear and damage to vital parts of the printer, and may void the warranty.
Roll Paper Characteristics
Label
Section 2: Installation
S8400 Series Operator’s Manual Page 2-13
2.3.1 Loading Roll Paper
1. Lift up the front cover. Make sure that the cover is
pushed upwards until it locks firmly in place so that it
will not fall downwards and injure your hands.
Use a customized stand to hold the label roll.
2. Release the purple Head Lock lever by pushing it
downwards. The print head assembly will be lifted up
to allow label loading. Push up the Feed Lock Lever.
3. Guide the label between the two halves of the Pitch
(paper) Sensor housing, and then under the print
head. Make sure the label runs parallel to the side of
the printer. The label should emerge at a
perpendicular angle from the print head.
4. Push the Label Guide against the outside edge of the
label to restrict and straighten the label path. Now turn
the purple Head Lock Lever counterclockwise to latch
the print head assembly back in place.
5. To check whether label roll i s loaded correctly, perform a test print. (Install a ribbon roll if you are
not using direct thermal paper)
Caution
• When replacing paper, bear in mind that the print head and its surrounding area remain hot. Keep your fingers away from these
areas to prevent injury.
• Avoid touching even the edge of th e pr int head with your bare hands.
Front Cover
Custom
stand for
label roll
Head
Lock Lever
Label Guide
Feed Lock
Lever
Label Guide
Pitch Sensor
housing
Head
Lock lever
latched in
place
SECTION 2: INSTALLATION
Page 2-14 S8400 Series Operator’s Manual
2.3.1 Loading Paper
(Ribbon Cassette installed)
1. Turn the blue head lock lever clockwise to allo w
the ribbon cassette to be removed. Remove the
ribbon cassette and then push up the feed lock
lever.
2. Pull the label guide outward and guide the label roll
between the two halves of the Pitch Sensor
housing, and then under the pri nt head. Make s ure
the label runs parallel to the s ide of the printer. The
label should emerge at a perpendicular angl e from
the print head.
4. Push the Label Guide lightly against the outside
edge of the label to restrict and straighten the label
path. The same applies to the innermost edge of
the label at the print head area of the body frame.
5. Push down the feed lock lever to lock the label
path in place.
7. Finally, latch the print head by turning the Head
Lock lever counterclockwise.
Caution
• When replacing paper, bear in mind that the print head and its
surrounding area remain hot. Keep your fingers away from t hese
areas to prevent injury.
• Avoid touching even the edge of the print head with your bare hand s.
Section 2: Installation
S8400 Series Operator’s Manual Page 2-15
2.3 LOADING LABELS AND TAGS (CONT’D)
2.3.2 Using the Dispenser
1. Load the paper as described in the previous section.
2. Now unlatch the Nip Roller (also called the Pressure
Roller) assembly by pressing the release latch as
indicated on the right.
3. Remove three or four labels from the label roll and
loop the liner from the print head area so that some
exposed liner is threaded into the ni p ro ller . One l abel
will be half removed from the liner at the front of the
printer (see the cyan line for the liner path).
4. Press the Nip Roller assembly upwards and latch it
into place.
5. Latch the print head with the Head Lock level. To
check that the labels are dispensed properly, do a
paper feed. If necessary, go to User Mode to adjust
the paper offset for proper dispensing.
Caution
• When replacing paper, bear in mind that the print head and its surrounding area remain hot. Keep your fingers away from these
areas to prevent injury.
• Avoid touching even the edge of th e pr int head with your bare hands.
Nip Roller
Release
Latch
Nip Roller
assembly
Nip Roller
Release
Latch
Fold liner into
nip roller
Latch the nip
roller assembly
The label
liner now
folds under
the label,
into the nip
roller
SECTION 2: INSTALLATION
Page 2-16 S8400 Series Operator’s Manual
2.3 LOADING LABELS AND TAGS (CONT’D)
Adjusting for the paper width
This printer is adjusted so that quality printing can be obtained without any adjustments.
However, in certain situations, better results can be obtained if you adjust the “head pressure
balance” to compensate for different widths of label paper used.
The head pressure balance knob adjusts the amount of pressure being appli ed along di fferent
sections along the length of the print head. For suggested settings of the pressure knob ( 1 to 4),
see the table below:
Note:
Adjustments are only necessary if print quality is not
satisfactory. Otherwise, you do not need to vary the head
pressure balance.
2.3.3 Adjusting the Pitch Sensor
Adjustment of the pitch sensors is usually not necessary, but the procedure is described here.
1. Lift up the front cover. Make sure that the cover is
pushed upwards until it locks fi rmly in place so that
it will not fall downwards and injure your hands.
2. The green sensor assembly is located just under the Ribbon Supply Spindle. Turn the purple
Sensor Adjustment knob to adjust the sensors’ position. (The gap and I-mark sensors are
underneath the green plastic tabs)
3. After adjustment, feed a few labels and do a test print to see if the sensor is working properly.
Adjust the label pitch if necessary.
Caution
• When closing the fron t co ver, be careful not to injure your fingers due to a sudden release of the hea vy cover.
SETTING PAPER WIDTH MEDIA THICKNESS
1 55~115 mm 0.080~0.200 mm
2 65~115 mm 0.200~0.268 mm
3 15~55 mm 0.080~0.200 mm
4 15~65 mm 0.200~0.268 mm
Print Head Pressure
Balance knob
Pitch Sensors
Sensor
Adjustment
knob
Section 2: Installation
S8400 Series Operator’s Manual Page 2-17
2.4 CHANGING OR REPLACING THE PRINT HEAD
Before attempting to replace the print head, it is advisable to contact
your local dealer or servic e center so that they can assi st you in ca se
of problems.
The S8400 series is designed for tool-less easy attachment and
detachment of the print head.
1. Make sure the printer h as been turne d off for a t least 30 minutes so
that the print head is not hot. Lift up the front cover.
2. Push the Head Lock Lever (the purple slide lever) upwards. in the
direction shown here.
Caution
• Do not touch the print head’s heating elements. If you do so inadvertently, use the
cleaning pen (supplied) to clean the area thoroughly. For more details, see Section 4,
Cleaning and Maintenan ce.
3. Pull up the Print Head Release Latch (circled in red). The print
head will drop downwards. Note the tall metal locking pin (circled
in blue) in the centre of the print head. A spring loaded plate
(controlled by the Print Head Release Latch) is pressed agai nst the
sides of this locking pin to fasten the print head in place.
4. Pull the print head outwards and disconnect the two cables and
connectors attached to it. Connect a replacement pr int head to the
two connectors.
5. Insert the print head back into the print er starting from the point
labeled A here. Make sure the front-most part of the print head
makes contact with the plate circled green.
6. While pulling the print head release latch, push the ar ea label ed B
upward until the print head is horizontal . Let go of t he releas e lat ch
so that the spring loaded plate inside will press against the central
locking pin to hold the print head in place.
C
C
A
B
SECTION 2: INSTALLATION
Page 2-18 S8400 Series Operator’s Manual
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