Sato SX5M User Manual

Quick Start Guide

SX5M / TXPSX5

PN:$9001259$(A)

www.satoamerica.com

Revised 01/23/15

SX5M / TXPSX5

Table of contents

Read this Quick Start manual before beginning.

For the best printing results, we recommend the use of SATO genuine labels and
ribbons.

Contact your SATO authorized reseller for further details.

More information can be found on the internet at www.satoamerica.com

i

SX5M / TXPSX5

Table of contents

Table of contents

1 General 1

1.1 Important Information 1

1.2 Limitation of liability 1

1.3 Explanation of symbols 1

2 Safety 2

2.1 Intended use 2

2.2 Operating Tips 3

3 Transporting 5

3.1 Packing 5

3.2 Storage 5

4 Unpacking the printer 6

5 Installation 7
6 Overview 8

6.1 Parts and functions 8

7 Setup and initial operation 11

7.1 Connecting the device 11

7.2 Loading the ribbon 12

7.3 Inserting media 13

7.4 Adjusting label guide 13

7.5 Locating the sensor 14

7.6 Setting the sensor 15

8 Print head use and maintenance 16

8.1 Print head replacement 17

8.2 Print head alignment 18

8.3 Test Print 19

9 Disposal 20

10 Troubleshooting 21

ii

SX5M / TXPSX5

General

1 General

1.1 Important Information

This quick start guide provides important information on how to setup your new SATO
product. Be sure to read this quick start guide thoroughly before using this printer. It is
an integral part of the product and should be kept in the immediate vicinity of the device
and available to the operating staff.

1.2 Limitation of liability

The manufacturer will not be held liable for damage resulting from:

• Disregarding these instructions

• Unintended use of the printer

• Unauthorized technical modifications

• Use of unapproved consumables

1.3

Explanation of symbols

WARNING!

Indicates neglectful or erroneous use may cause irreparable damage to
the product, serious injury to the operator or worse.

CAUTION!

Indicates a specific point where caution should be used. The graphic
within the triangle will indicate the specific issue, i.e.; the sign on the left
indicates a caution for potential electrical shock.

CAUTION!
Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, may
result in damage to your product or host equipment.

1

SX5M / TXPSX5

Safety

2 Safety

This paragraph provides you with an overview of the important safety aspects associated
with the operation of your printer.

Disregarding the operating instructions and safety regulations specified in this manual
may result in considerable damage to your printer and endanger the operator.

2.1 Intended use

The printer should only be used for printing on materials recommended by the
manufacturer.

WARNING!
Danger when device is used inappropriately!

Any use for purposes exceeding and/or deviating from the intended use of
the device must be avoided.

Therefore, use the device only for its intended purpose and strictly adhere
to all information provided in this manual.

No liability shall be assumed for any claims arising from damages resulting from the
inappropriate use of this printer or its accessory's.

Damages resulting from inappropriate use shall be the sole responsibility of the operator.

CAUTION!

Do not disassemble the printer or alter it's components in any way.

Never attempt to service any internal component of your printer without
permission of Technical Support. Attempting such will void your
warranty and may cause serious personal injury.

2

SX5M / TXPSX5

Safety

2.2 Operating Tips

Your new SX5M / TXPSX5 Thermal Printer is a very durable and dependable piece of
equipment, but we suggest you follow a few guidelines when installing using your printer.

• Do not operate in unstable locations such as an unsteady, slanted or extreme

vibrating table. It may cause the equipment to shift from its desired location.

• Do not operate or store the printer in applications where high humidity with

extreme condensation are prevalent. Be sure to follow the printer's environment
operation requirements as defined in the later in this Quick Start Guide. Failure to
follow these operating instructions may damage your printer and void your
warranty.

• When moving the printer from a location, be sure to avoid potential shock or

damage to your printer and its cabling by first powering off the printer, then
unplug the printer from its power receptacle and disconnect the communication
cable (if non-wireless).

• Do not insert or drop anything metallic or flammable into the openings of the

printer, i.e.; cable outlet and vents.

• In the event that a foreign object should accidentally fall inside the printer,

immediately turn off the power, unplug the printer from the power receptacle and
contact SATO Technical Support before continuing to use your printer. Using
your printer under such conditions may cause fire or electrical shock.

• Do not move or ship the printer with the media loaded inside. This will avoid

damaging the components of your printer.

• The printer is heavy. If possible, seek assistance when attempting to move

the printer from one location to another.

• We highly recommend allocating the printer to its own dedicated power outlet

and source line. This avoids having the printer consuming power from the
same source as another electric appliance which may consume power at
various levels and creating a fluctuating power supply. Power surges may
negatively impact your printer's performance and longevity.

• Avoid operating in direct sunlight as this product contains optical sensors.

Prolonged direct sunlight may damage these sensors and cause erroneous
operation. Ensure the printer cover is closed when operating.

3

SX5M / TXPSX5

Safety

DANGER!

To avoid possible electrical shock, do not operate the power switch
or handle the power cable with a wet hand. Keep the power cable
away from open flame or excessive heat. When disconnecting the
power cable from its receptacle be sure to pull at the plugs
receptacle end to avoid damaging the cable or ex- posing the
operator to possible electrical shock.

4

SX5M / TXPSX5

Transport and storage

3 Transporting

3.1 Packing

It may be necessary to send the printer in for repair and these precautions must be taking
anytime the printer is shipped in order to avoid damage during shipment.

1) Use only the original carton and packing materials the printer was shipped in. If original

carton and packing materials were lost or worn out contact your reseller for purchase.

2) Do not use foam peanuts or crinkles.

3) Ship only the printer, do not ship accessories such as ribbon, tags or power cables.

4) Remove the front label support plate, and do not ship with the printer. Damage to the

plate can occur if attached during shipping.

5) Print head must be in the up position during shipping.

6) Write the RMA number on the shipping label and leave a brief description of problem

enclosed in the box.

7) When shipping your SX5 printer, be sure to use the Velcro strap and rubber band
that was sent with your new printer to keep the print head carriage assembly locked
down during transit. (see page 6.) If you do not have these items or the shipping
instructions contact your reseller

3.2 Storage

When storing the printer for an extended period of time, protect it against influences such
as extreme temperatures changes, direct sun exposure, and high levels of moisture.

5

SX5M / TXPSX5

Unpacking the printer

4 Unpacking the printer

1 Open the carton

2 Unpack the accessories

3 Unpack the inserts and the printer from the carton

4 Remove the inserts

5 Remove the rubber band (A) and the Velcro strap (B) from inside the printer

CAUTION!

Do not discard these parts; they are needed for your printer's protection
during shipping. Failure to use these parts in the event your printer
needs to be sent to SATO for maintenance and/or repair will result in
print head and armature damage. SATO will not be liable for any
damage related to improper packaging.

Fig. 1 Do not discard parts

6

SX5M / TXPSX5

Installation

5 Installation

Place the printer in a level place

If installed in a rough or slanting place, quality printing will not be available. It may cause
malfunction and shorten the life of the printer.

Use a stable platform

Use a stable platform. Do not carry the printer with the media inside. Do not rock the
printer.

Avoid high heat and humidity

Do not install in a place of high temperature or humidity. High temperature or humidity
may cause malfunction.

Avoid dust

Dust may deteriorate the quality of printing. It may cause malfunction and shorten the life
of the printer.

Avoid direct sunlight

Since this product is provided with optical sensors, direct sunlight may cause erroneous
operation. Ensure that the cover is closed when printing.

Use a dedicated AC outlet

We highly recommend the printer having its own dedicated power outlet and source line.
This will avoid having the printer in-line consuming power from the same source as
another electric appliance which may consume power at various levels and thereby create
power surges which may negatively impact your printer's performance and longevity.

7

SX5M / TXPSX5

Overview

6 Overview

6.1 Parts and functions

1 Operation panel (display,
buttons, LED)

2 Thermal Print head
3 Front roller
4 Front cover

1 2 3 4

Fig. 2 Printer main body, front

Fig. 3 Thermal print head

8

SX5M / TXPSX5

Overview

Fig. 4 Printer, internal

1 2 3 4

1 Head Lever
2 Platen
3 Ribbon Shaft
4 Label Holder

Fig. 5 Printer main body, back

1

2
3

4

5

6

1

2

3

4

5

6

PCMCIA Card Slot (Option)
USB Connector (Option)
LAN Connector (Option)

Parallel Interface Connector
(Centronics)

Serial Interface Connector
(RS-232C)

Expansion I/O Interface Connector

Power Switch

AC Power Inlet

9

SX5M / TXPSX5

Overview

1 2 3 4 1 LCD Message Display

When the power is turned on and it is ready to
print, ONLINE is displayed.
.

2 POWER LED (Green)

Lights when the power is turned on.

3 ON-LINE LED (Green)

• Flashes when communicating with a host

PC.

• Lights while printing.

5

6

7

4

5

6

7

ERROR LED (Red)

Lights when the printer does not operate
correctly.

FEED key

Feeds paper.

RESTART key

Resets the printer when paused or when an
error occurs.

PAUSE key

Pauses printing.
Message display shows PAUSE and a
remaining count.

Fig. 6 Operation panel

10

SX5M / TXPSX5

Setup and initial operation

7 Setup and initial operation

7.1 Connecting the device

7.1.1

Connecting the interface cable

1

2
3

4

5

6

1

Connect the interface cable to the interface
connector (1, 2, 3, 4) on the printer and your
PC.

Fig. 7 Printer main body, back

7.1.2 Turning on the device

1 Connect the power cable to the power supply connector (6) on the printer and to

your power outlet.

2 Press the POWER button on "I". The POWER LED lights up.

7.1.2 Turning off the device

2 Press the POWER button on "O". The POWER LED turns off.

7.1.4 Removing the power cable

1 Before removing the power cable, make

sure to turn off the printer by pressing the
POWER (5) button.

2 Pull the power cable from the power outlet
3 Pull the power cable from the printer.

11

SX5M / TXPSX5

Setup and initial operation

7.2 Loading the ribbon

1 Open the front cover.
2 The new roll of ribbon should be mounted on the spool to the rear of the print head

assembly.

3 The ribbon should be oriented so the shiny side faces up as it lays on top of the label

stock. The dull side should face down, this is the transfer side.

Fig. 8 Loading the ribbon

12

SX5M / TXPSX5

Setup and initial operation

7.3 Inserting media

1 Open the front cover. .
2 Slide the media stock in from the side of the

printer. Do not push the media from behind.

3 Media stock should be pushed all the way

onto the label shaft up against the round
metal plate.

4 Follow the label path as shown.

Fig. 9 Label path

7.4 Adjusting label guide

1 Open the front cover.

2 SX5M

Loosen the thumb screw.

TXPSX5

Slide the outside and inside guides to the
edge of the media on both sides.

3 SX5M

Adjust the label guide so the guide is
against the edge of the media on both
sides.

Fig. 10 Label guides

13

SX5M / TXPSX5

Setup and initial operation

7.5 Locating the sensor

1 Open the front cover.
2 You might have to slide the ribbon out of the way to view the sensor.

3 Looking down, the sensor is located between the two ribbon spindles at the base of

the machine.

Fig. 11 Sensor location

14

SX5M / TXPSX5

Setup and initial operation

7.6 Setting the sensor

Fig. 12 Sensor placement

15

SX5M / TXPSX5

Print head use and maintenance

8 Print head use and maintenance

Thermal print heads are sensitive and can be easily damaged if mishandled.

Care should be taken during the installation to avoid dropping the print head or otherwise
impacting the printing element.

CAUTION!

The edge of the print head is the area where printing takes place. Use
care to avoid damage when cleaning the print head as to only touch the
element with the cleaner.

The print head is sensitive to contamination. Do not use media stock that has been
contaminated by dirt, sand or has been dropped on the floor. Keep the labels in their
original plastic bag when not in use.

The print head should be cleaned at least every 1000 labels or every roll of label stock
used. Wipe the edge of the print head with a clean, soft lint-free cloth and isopropyl
alcohol.

If you require technical assistance please contact

SATO Technical Support at [phone].

16

SX5M / TXPSX5

Print head use and maintenance

8.1 Print Head Replacement

Caution:

1. NEVER touch the printing element area except to clean it using a soft cloth with
alcohol.

2. NEVER touch the connector pins to avoid the failure of the print head by static
electricity.

NOTE: Do not remove the side cover screws or side cover during this procedure.

1. There are four screws that hold the print head in place. Note: Using the magnetic

screwdriver attached to the back of the printer remove only the two center screws as

shown in the picture below.

2. Once the two screws are removed, drop the print head down and then pull out,

remove the connections by pulling on the wires as close the connectors as possible

straight back.

3. Replace the new print head, being careful to push the connections in tightly.

4. Reinstall the screws into the print head and tighten lightly..

17

SX5M / TXPSX5

Print head use and maintenance

8.2 Print Head Alignment

After the print head is installed or after changing labels it may become necessary to re-align

the print head to get the best print quality. Caution: Do not over tighten the screws, they do

not need to be cranked down tight, they are small screws and can be damaged easily if not

careful.

1. Using a magnetic screwdriver start by loosing by one turn

the two outside screws on the front of the print head block as

shown on the left.

2. Adjustments are made one side at a time. Start by

loosing and sliding one of the inside screws on the side

that is printing poorly. Place the tip of the screwdriver in

the screw, loosen the screw one turn then without

removing the screwdriver rock the handle forward or

backward depending on which way you want to move

the print head.

Note: Pulling the screwdriver handle to the front moves

the print head on that side backward, pushing the

screwdriver handle toward the back moves the print head

on that side forward. Adjustment is done in very small

nudges. It helps to place your index finger on side of the

print head so you can feel the slightest movement.

Remember: When tightening snug the screws lightly, do not over tighten. When you have

moved one side, do a test print (see page 19) to see if you are moving the print head in the

right direction. If the print gets worst loosen that side again and go the opposite direction.

18

SX5M / TXPSX5

Print head use and maintenance

8.3 Test Print

TEST PRINT

1. Make sure you have label stock in the printer and the print head is down.

2. Turn the power ON while holding down the PAUSE and FEED keys on the printer

panel.

3. Press the FEED key three times (<4> TEST PRINT appears).

4. Press the PAUSE key (PRINT CONDITION appears).

5. Press the PAUSE key (ISSUE COUNT appears).

6. Press the RESTART key twice (ISSUE COUNT 5 appears).

7. Press the PAUSE key until (LABEL LENGTH 76mm appears).

8. Use the FEED key to input a smaller size. Use the RESTART key to input a

larger size. Note: Set the label size accordingly: 1"= 25mm, 3/4" = 19mm,

9/16" = 14mm, 1/2" =12mm. Use these measurements to figure out different sizes.

9. After you have set the label press PAUSE until (<4> TEST PRINT appears).

10. Press the PAUSE key (PRINT CONDITION appears)

11. Press thee FEED key (SLANT LINE 3 DOT appears)

12. Press the PAUSE key. Five labels should print out.

19

SX5M / TXPSX5

Disposal

9 Disposal

Dispose of the device as specified by the appropriate national regulations.

CAUTION!
Risk of environmental damage in case of inappropriate disposal!

Electric devices and their accessories are subject to special waste
treatment and may only be disposed of by approved specialized
waste disposal companies.

WEEE/RoHS Statement

SATO is committed to being a responsible corporate citizen in the world. We understand
the importance of marketing, designing, manufacturing and distributing products that pre­sent a low burden to the environment.

Company-wide projects have been undertaken to implement both the Waste Electric and
Electronic Equipment (WEEE) and Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS) initiatives.

20

SX5M / TXPSX5

Troubleshooting

10 Troubleshooting

Paper Jam / No Paper, Sensor Related Problems

1) Check the label sensor to make sure it is lined up properly with the media stock you

are using (See page 15 for positioning the feed gap sensor)

2) Check the software sensor settings; should be set to Black Mark for tags, Gap for

adhesive labels.

3) The sensor may need recalibrating. See recalibrating the sensor as described

below:

Recalibrating the Feed Gap Sensor.

1) Turn the printer off.

2) Hold down the FEED and PAUSE key while turning the printer on until <1> Diag.

appears on the screen.

3) Press the FEED key until <5>SENSOR ADJ. appears in the window.

4) Press the PAUSE key until [Trans.] appears in the window.

5) Place a piece of adhesive backing paper under the sensor.

6) Press and hold the RESTART key until an asterisk(*) appears to the right of the

number.

7) Now remove the adhesive backing paper and place a strip of plastic tag material un­der the sensor.

8) Press the PAUSE key until [Reflect] appears in the window

9) Hold down the RESTART key until an asterisk(*) appears to the right of the number.

10) Press the PAUSE key until only SENSOR ADJ. appears in the window, remove

plastic tag material from under the sensor then turn the printer off then back on,
the sensor should now be calibrated, line up the label material and try printing.

11) The label stock may be shifting. If the label stock does not feed through the
machine straight, it will walk out from underneath the label sensor causing a "paper
jam" or "no paper" message. Make sure the media is loaded straight and that the
label guide is in the proper position so the media feeds through the machine
correctly.

Communication errors

Check cable connections to the printer and the computer.

Poor Print Quality

Clean the print head

1) The print head should be cleaned at least every 1000 labels or every roll of label stock
used. Wipe the edge of the print head with a clean, soft lint-free cloth and isopropyl
alcohol.

2) The temperature setting may need to be changed in the software or the machine.

3) Print head may be out of alignment and may need to be adjusted.

If you continue to have problems please contact Technical Support at [phone].

21

SATO America, LLC.

10350A Nations Ford Rd.
Charlotte, NC 28273

Phone: [phone]

Tech Support: [phone]

Limitation of Liability

SATO Corporation and/or its subsidiaries in Japan, the U.S. and other countries,
make no representation or warranties of any kind regarding this material, including,
but not limited to, implied warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular
purpose. SATO Corporation shall not be held responsible for errors contained herein
or any omissions from the materials or for any damages, whether direct, indirect,
incidental or consequential, in connection with the furnishing, distribution,
performance, or use of this material. SATO Corporation reserves the right to change
or improve this product and document without notice.

© 2015 SATO America, LLC.