TSC TDM-30 Series, TDM-30 User Manual

i

USER’S

MANUAL

TDM-30 Series

Direct Thermal Portable Printer

ii

Copyright Information

© 2019 TSC Auto ID Technology Co., Ltd,
The copyright in this manual, the software and firmware in the printer
described therein are owned by TSC Auto ID Technology Co., Ltd, All
rights reserved.

CG Triumvirate is a trademark of Agfa Corporation. CG Triumvirate Bold
Condensed font is under license from the Monotype Corporation. Windows
is a registered trademark of Microsoft Corporation.
All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

Information in this document is subject to change without notice and does
not represent a commitment on the part of TSC Auto ID Technology Co.
No part of this manual may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by
any means, for any purpose other than the purchaser’s personal use,
without the expressed written permission of TSC Auto ID Technology Co.,
Ltd,

iii

Agency Compliance and Approvals

2014/30/EU(EMC), 2014/35/EU(LVD), 2011/65/EU(RoHS 2.0)
EN 55032 Class B
EN 55024
EN61000-3-2:2014
EN61000-3-3:2013
EN 60950-1

FCC part 15B, Class B

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a
Class B digital device, pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are
designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a
residential installation. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio
frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the
instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications.
However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular
installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or
television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off
and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or
more of the following measures:

-Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.

-Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.

-Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which
the receiver is connected.

-Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/ TV technician for help.
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to

the following two conditions: (1) This device may cause harmful interference,
and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including
interference that may cause undesired operation.

This Class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003

Cet appareil numérique de la classe B est conforme à la norme

NMB-003 du Canada.

AS/NZS CISPR 22 Class B
AS/NZS CISPR 32 Class B

NOM-019-SCFI-1998

10 C.F.R. Section 430.23(aa) (Appendix Y to Subpart B of part 430)

TP TC 004/2011
TP TC 020/2011

LP0002

iv

GB 4943.1
GB/T9254
GB 17625.1

IS 13252(Part 1)/
IEC 60950-1

CNS 13438
CNS 14336-1
CNS 15663

KN 32 / KN 35

Important safety instructions:

1. Read all of these instructions and keep them for later use.

2. Follow all warnings and instructions on the product.

3. Disconnect the power plug from the AC outlet before cleaning or if fault happened.
Do not use liquid or aerosol cleaners. Using a damp cloth is suitable for cleaning.

4. The mains socket shall be installed near the equipment and easily accessible.

5. The unit must be protected against moisture.

6. Ensure the stability when installing the device, Tipping or dropping could cause
damage.

7. Make sure to follow the correct power rating and power type indicated on marking
label provided by manufacture.

8. Please refer to user manual for maximum operation ambient temperature.

重要安全說明：

1. 閱讀所有這些說明，並保留以備未來使用。

2. 按照產品上的所有警告和說明進行操作。

3. 在清潔前或發生故障時，拔除電源插頭與交流電源插座的連接。

不要使用液體或噴霧清潔劑。建議使用濕布清潔。

4. 電源插座應安裝在設備附近及方便使用處。

5. 本機器必須防止潮濕。

6. 確保安裝設備時的穩定性，翻倒或跌落可能會導致設備損壞。

7. 確保按照製造商提供的標籤上標明之正確的額定功率和電源類型進行設定。

8. 請參考使用手冊以確認環境溫度的最大值。

WARNING:

Hazardous moving parts, keep fingers and other body parts away.

v

CAUTION:

(For equipment with RTC (CR2032) battery or rechargeable battery pack)
Risk of explosion if battery is replaced by an incorrect type.
Dispose of used batteries according to the Instructions as below.

1. DO NOT throw the battery in fire.

2. DO NOT short circuit the contacts.

3. DO NOT disassemble the battery.

4. DO NOT throw the battery in municipal waste.

5. The symbol of the crossed out wheeled bin indicates that the battery should not be
placed in municipal waste.

警告：

（對於帶有 RTC（CR2032）電池或可充電電池組的設備）

如果更換不正確的電池類型，會有爆炸的危險。

請按照以下說明處理廢電池：

1. 請勿將電池投入火中。

2. 請勿使觸點短路。

3. 請勿拆卸電池。

4. 請勿將電池丟入都市廢棄物。

5. 垃圾桶畫叉圖案表示電池不應放置在都市廢棄物中。

Caution: The printhead may be hot and could cause severe burns. Allow the

printhead to cool.

CAUTION:
Any changes or modifications not expressly approved by the grantee of this device

could void the user's authority to operate the equipment.

CE Statement:

This equipment complies with EU radiation exposure limits set forth for an
uncontrolled environment. This equipment should be installed and operated with
minimum distance 20 cm between the radiator & your body.

RF exposure warning (For Bluetooth)
The equipment complies with FCC RF exposure limits set forth for an uncontrolled
environment.

vi

The equipment must not be co-located or operating in conjunction with any other
antenna or transmitter.

Canada, Industry Canada (IC) Notices
This Class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003 and RSS-210.
Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause
interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference, including interference
that may cause undesired operation of the device.

Radio Frequency (RF) Exposure Information
The radiated output power of the Wireless Device is below the Industry Canada (IC)
radio frequency exposure limits. The Wireless Device should be used in such a
manner such that the potential for human contact during normal operation is
minimized.

This device has also been evaluated and shown compliant with the IC RF Exposure
limits under portable exposure conditions. (Antennas are less than 20 cm of a
person's body). (For Bluetooth)

Canada, avis de l'Industry Canada (IC)
Cet appareil numérique de classe B est conforme aux normes canadiennes ICES-003
et RSS-210.
Son fonctionnement est soumis aux deux conditions suivantes : (1) cet appareil ne
doit pas causer d'interférence et (2) cet appareil doit accepter toute interférence,
notamment les interférences qui peuvent affecter son fonctionnement.

Informations concernant l'exposition aux fréquences radio (RF)

La puissance de sortie émise par l’appareil sans fil est inférieure à la limite

d'exposition aux fréquences radio de l'Industry Canada (IC). Utilisez l’appareil sans fil

de façon à minimiser les contacts humains lors du fonctionnement normal.

Ce périphérique a également été évalué et démontré conforme aux limites
d'exposition radio-fréquence par l'IC pour des utilisations par des opérateurs mobiles
(les antennes sont à moins de 20 cm du corps d'une personne). (Pour le Bluetooth)

vii

NCC 警語:

經型式認證合格之低功率射頻電機，非經許可，公司、商號或使用者均不得擅自變更頻

率、加大功率或變更原設計之特性及功能。(即低功率電波輻射性電機管理辦法第十二
條)

低功率射頻電機之使用不得影響飛航安全及干擾合法通信；經發現有干擾現象時，應立

即停用，並改善至無干擾時方得繼續使用。

前項合法通信，指依電信法規定作業之無線電通信。低功率射頻電機須忍受合法通信或

工業、科學及醫療用電波輻射性電機設備之干擾。(即低功率電波輻射性電機管理辦法
第十四條)

警告：

本電池如果更換不正確會有爆炸的危險，請依製造商說明書處理用過之電池。

viii

單元Unit

限用物質及其化學符號

Restricted substances and its chemical symbols

鉛Lead

(Pb)

汞Mercury

(Hg)

鎘Cadmium

(Cd)

六價鉻

Hexavalent

chromium

(Cr+6)

多溴聯苯

Polybrominate

d biphenyls

(PBB)

多溴二苯醚

Polybrominate

d diphenyl

ethers (PBDE)

內外塑膠件

○ ○ ○ ○ ○

○

內外鐵件

- ○ ○ ○ ○

○

滾輪

○ ○ ○ ○ ○

○

銘版

○ ○ ○ ○ ○

○

電路板

- ○ ○ ○ ○

○

晶片電阻

- ○ ○ ○ ○

○

積層陶瓷表面

黏著電容

○ ○ ○ ○ ○

○

集成電路-IC

- ○ ○ ○ ○

○

電源供應器

○ ○ ○ ○ ○

○

印字頭

- ○ ○ ○ ○

○

馬達

- ○ ○ ○ ○

○

液晶顯示器

- ○ ○ ○ ○

○

插座

- ○ ○ ○ ○

○

線材

- ○ ○ ○ ○

○

備考 1.〝超出 0.1 wt %〞及〝超出 0.01 wt %〞係指限用物質之百分比含量超出百分比含量基準值。

Note 1：“Exceeding 0.1 wt %” and “exceeding 0.01 wt %” indicate that the percentage content of the restricted substance exceeds the
reference percentage value of presence condition.

備考 2.〝○〞係指該項限用物質之百分比含量未超出百分比含量基準值。

Note 2：“○” indicates that the percentage content of the restricted substance does not exceed the percentage of reference value of presence.

備考 3.〝－〞係指該項限用物質為排除項目。

Note 3：The “−” indicates that the restricted substance corresponds to the exemption.

ix

Contents

1. Introduction................................................................................................ ....... 1

1.1 Product Introduction........................................................................................ 1

1.2 Product Features ............................................................................................. 2

1.2.1 Printer Standard Features ................................................................. 2

1.2.2 Printer Optional Features .................................................................. 3

1.3 General Specifications .................................................................................... 4

1.4 Print Specifications ......................................................................................... 5

1.5 Media Specifications ....................................................................................... 5

2. Operations Overview ........................................................................................ 7

2.1 Unpacking and Inspection ............................................................................... 7

2.2 Printer Overview .............................................................................................. 8

2.2.1 Front View .......................................................................................... 8

2.2.2 Interior View ..................................................................................... 10

2.2.3 Rear View ......................................................................................... 11

2.3 Operator control ............................................................................................ 12

2.3.1 LED Indication, LCD screen, and Keys ........................................... 12

3. Setup ............................................................................................................... 15

3.1 Install the Battery ................................ ................................ ........................... 15

3.2 Charge the Battery ......................................................................................... 16

3.2.1 Charge the Battery ................................ ........................................... 16

3.2.2 Charge by Charger Station (Optional) ............................................. 18

3.3 Communicate ................................................................................................. 20

3.3.1 Connecting with the Communication Cable ................................... 20

3.3.2 Connecting with Bluetooth (Optional) .......................................... 20

3.4 Loading the Media ......................................................................................... 21

4. Accessories ..................................................................................................... 22

4.1 Install the Belt Clip......................................................................................... 22

4.2 Install the IP54-rated environmental case with shoulder strap (Optional) ... 23

5. Power-on Utilities................................................................ ............................ 25

5.1 Media Sensor Calibration .............................................................................. 25

5.2 Self-test and Dump Mode .............................................................................. 26

5.3 Printer Initialization ................................................................ ....................... 29

6. Diagnostic Tool ............................................................................................... 30

6.1 Start the Diagnostic Tool .............................................................................. 30

6.2 Printer Function ............................................................................................ 31

x

6.3 Calibrating Media Sensor by Diagnostic Tool .............................................. 32

6.3.1 Auto Calibration ............................................................................... 32

6.4 Setting Bluetooth by Diagnostic Tool (Optional) ......................................... 33

7. Troubleshooting ............................................................................................. 34

7.1 Common Problems ........................................................................................ 34

8. Maintenance .................................................................................................... 36

Revise History ..................................................................................................... 37

1. Introduction

1.1 Product Introduction

Thank you very much for purchasing TSC bar code printer.

Enjoy TSC’s reputation for cost-efficient, high durability printers with the TDM-30
mobile barcode printer. The TDM-30 is a comfortable, light-weight printer capable of
working with any mobile printing application where you need quick, simple
receipts/labels on demand.

Our TDM-30 is designed for a rough life, inside the IP54-rated environmental case to
resist dust and water and with its durable design prepared to take up to 2.1 meters fall
and keep printing.

These small and light printers can be worn comfortably for a full shift, without interfering
with the user’s tasks. Use USB, optional Bluetooth to connect to a mobile computer or
even a smartphone and produce clear easy-to-read receipts hour after hour.

This document provides an easy reference for operating the TDM-30.
The online version of the Programmer's manual, or more information can be
downloaded from our official website.

To print label formats, please refer to the instructions provided with your labeling
software; if you need to write the custom programs, please refer to the TSPL/TSPL2
programming manual that can be found on the accessories or at TSC official website.

− Applications

 Direct store deliveries (DSD)
 Proof of Delivery and Pickup
 Field Sales/Repairs
 Mobile Point-of-Sale
 Parking Citations
 Mobile Ticketing
 Onboard Transportation Ticketing
 Utility Billing/Meter Reading
 Fleet Management

2

1.2 Product Features

1.2.1 Printer Standard Features

The printer offers the following standard features.

Product standard feature

Direct thermal printing

Black mark reflective sensor

Gap reflective sensor

Head open sensor

3 operation buttons (On/off, feed/pause, and cover-open buttons)

LED version:
 5 LEDs: 1 for printer states; 3 for Battery capacity; 1 for RF status
LCD version:
 LCD color display: showing battery status, media type, firmware version,

and error messages

 1 LED for Printer Status
 1 LED for RF connection (3 colors)

Audible alert Programmable buzzer

Rechargeable Li-ion battery

Micro USB 2.0 (High speed mode) interface

32 MB DRAM

16 MB NOR Flash memory

32-bit RISC high performance processor

Eltron® EPL, Epson® ESC-POS, and Zebra® ZPL emulation languages
support

Fonts and bar codes can be printed in any one of the four directions (0,
90,180, 270 degree)

8 alpha-numeric bitmap fonts

One Monotype Imaging® CG Triumvirate Bold Condensed scalable font

Built-in Monotype True Type Font engine

Downloadable fonts from PC to printer memory

Downloadable firmware upgrades

Support TPH Care function

3

Text, bar code, graphics/image printing (Please refer to the TSPL/TSPL2
programming manual for supporting code page)

Supported bar code

Supported image

1D bar code

2D bar code

BITMAP,
BMP,
PCX
(Max. 256 colors
graphics)

Code128 subsets
A.B.C,Code128UCC,
EAN128, Interleave 2 of
5,Code 39,Code 93,
EAN-13, EAN-8,
Codabar, POSTNET,
UPC-A, UPC-E, EAN
and UPC 2(5) digits
add-on, MSI, PLESSEY,
China Post, ITF14,
EAN14, Code 11,
TELPEN, PLANET,
Code 49, Deutsche Post
Identcode, Deutsche
Post Leitcode,
LOGMARS

CODABLOCK F
mode, DataMatrix,
Maxicode, PDF-417,
Aztec,
MicroPDF417, QR
code, RSS Barcode
(GS1 Databar)

1.2.2 Printer Optional Features

The printer offers the following optional features.

Product option feature

User

options

Factory
options

Micro USB 2.0 (high-speed mode) + MFi
Bluetooth V4.2

○

NFC tag

○

TSPL-EZD and TSPL-EZ with CPCL or ESC-POS
emulation

○

1-bay printer wireless charging station

○

4-bay printer wireless charging station

○

1-bay printer charger station

○

4-bay printer charger station

○

1-bay battery charger station

○

4-bay battery charger station

○

12-60V DC automobile cigarette lighter plug

○

Vehicle Charger

○

Vehicle Charger Converter

4

IP54-rated protective case with shoulder strap

○

Micro USB 2.0 cable (1.5M)

○

10.8-60 VDC power source with dummy battery

○

Rechargeable Li-ion battery

○

Smart battery pack

○

External charging pin (for wireless charging cover
and cradle only)

○

3” paper core adapter

○

Linerless mode

○

CD

○

1.3 General Specifications

General Specifications

Physical dimensions

105 mm (W) x 49.5 mm (H) x 116 mm (D)

Enclosure

Plastic

Weight (w/ battery)

385g

Electrical

 Internal charging capability (battery-in)

Input: AC 100-240V, 2.5A, 50-60Hz

Output: DC 12V/ 1A

 12-24V DC automobile cigarette lighter plug
 Auto-switching AC adapter

External charging capability (battery-out)

 Single printer charger station

Input: 12V/ 2A
Output: 12V/ 2A

 4-bay printers charger station

Input: 12V/ 5A
Output:12V/ 5A

 1 bay battery charger station

- Input: 12V/ 2A

- Output: 8.4V/ 1.5A

 4 bay batteries charger station

- Input: 24V/ 2.5A DC

- Output: 8.4V/ 1.5A*4 DC

Note: The printer will automatically turn off when stopping

5

operation after 30 minutes.

Environmental
condition

Operation Temperature: -15 ~ 50˚C (5 ~ 122˚F)
Charging Temperature: 0 ~ 40˚C (32 ~ 104˚F)
Storage Temperature: -30 ~ 70 ˚C (-22 ~ 158˚F)

Relative Humidity:

- Operation: 10% to 90% non-condensing

- Storage: 10% to 90% non-condensing
IP54 w/ protective case
Drop 1.8m (5.9ft) w/o IP54-rated environmental case
Drop 2.1m (6.9ft) w/ IP54-rated environmental case

1.4 Print Specifications

Print Specifications

TDM-30

Print head resolution

203 dots/inch (8 dots/mm)

Printing method

Direct thermal

Dot size
(width x length)

0.125 x 0.125 mm(1 mm = 8 dots)

Print speed
(inches per second)

Max. 4 ips (102 mm/sec)

Max. print width

72 mm (2.83")

Max. print length

Continuous receipt paper: 2,794 mm (110”)

(associate with DRAM)

Printout bias

Vertical: 1 mm max.

Horizontal: 1 mm max.

1.5 Media Specifications

Media Specifications

TDM-30

Media roll capacity

Max. O.D.: 40 mm

Media type

Continuous, die-cut, receipt, liner free label, and black

mark

Media wound type

Outside wound

Media length

10 mm (0.39”) ~ 2,794 mm (110”)

Tear mode: 50 mm (1.97”) ~ max. print length

Media width

Max. 80 mm (includes liner)

6

Black mark label: min.8 mm (w) x 2 mm (h)

Gap label: min.8 mm (w) x 2 mm (h)

Media thickness

0.06mm ~ 0.16 mm

In lowest print speed: 0.06mm ~0.18 mm

Note: Please locate the black mark on the printing side when using black mark continuous label.

7

2. Operations Overview

2.1 Unpacking and Inspection

This printer has been specially packaged to withstand damage during shipping. Please
carefully inspect the packaging and printer upon receiving the bar code printer. Please
retain the packaging materials in case you need to reship the printer.

Unpacking the printer, the following items are included in the carton.

 One printer unit
 One Li-ion battery
 One quick installation guide
 One Auto-switching AC adapter
 One belt clip

If any parts are missing, please contact the Customer Service Department of your
purchased reseller or distributor.

8

2.2 Printer Overview

2.2.1 Front View

For LED version

1. Power on/off button

2. Feed/stop button

3. LED indicators

4. Media cover

5. Media cover window

6. Media cover release button

1

5

6

2

3

4

9

For LCD version

1. Power on/off button

2. Feed/stop button

3. LED indicators & LCD screen

4. Media cover

5. Media cover window

6. Media cover release button

6

3

5

4

1

2

10

2.2.2 Interior View

1. Tear edge

2. Print head

3. Platen roller

4. Black mark sensor

3

2

4

1

11

2.2.3 Rear View

1. Li-ion Battery

2. Battery open clasp

3. Interface cover

4. Power jack

5. USB interface

1

3

2

4

5

12

2.3 Operator control

2.3.1 LED Indication, LCD screen, and Keys

For LED version

1. Power on/off button

2. Feed/Pause button

3. Printer status LED indicator

4. Battery charge level LED indicators

5. Wireless status LED indicator

1

2

5

4

3

13

For LCD version

1. Power on/off button

2. Feed/Pause button

3. Printer status/Wireless status LED indicator

4. LCD screen (indicates battery status/media type/firmware version/error

messages)

Keys

Function

1. Press and hold for 2-3 seconds to turn on the printer.

2. Press and hold for 2-3 seconds to turn off the printer.

1. Ready status: Feed one label

2. Printing status: Pause the print job

4

3

2

1

14

LED

Status

Indication

Printer status LED
indicator

Off

Printer is ready

Green (blinking)

Printer is paused

Green (blinking every two
seconds)

Sleep mode/ entered the
sleep mode after stop
working over 2 minutes
(The interval can be
changed by revising the
command, refer to
TSPL/TSPL2
programming manual on

TSC website).

Red (solid)

Media cover is open

Red (blinking)

Printer error

Battery status LED
indicator

Green (blinking)

Recharge the battery

Amber (solid)

Battery is charging

Green
(solid)

Fully charged

2/3 charged level

1/3 charged level

Wireless/Bluetooth

status LED
indicator

Bluetooth
Blue (solid)

Bluetooth device is ready

Blue (blinking)

Bluetooth device is
communicating

15

3. Setup

3.1 Install the Battery

1. Insert battery to the left side of
battery slot on the rear of the
printer.

2. Push the right side of the battery
down.

3. Pull the battery clasp to lock the
battery.

Battery safety warning:
DO NOT throw the battery in fire. DO NOT short circuit the contacts.
DO NOT disassemble the battery. DO NOT throw the battery in municipal waste.

The symbol of the crossed out wheeled bin ( ) indicates that the battery should not
be placed in municipal waste.

PUSH

16

3.2 Charge the Battery

It takes 1.5 to 2 hours to fully charge the battery before the first time usage. The
lifetime of the battery is 300 times for charge/discharge cycles.

3.2.1 Charge the Battery

1. Open the interface cover and plug the
power cord in to the power jack.

Note:

Please switch OFF printer power prior to plug
in the power cord to printer power jack.
When the battery is charging, please do not
remove the battery from the printer,
otherwise, please re-plug the power cord into
a power outlet.

2. Plug the power cord into a properly
power outlet.

3. When the battery installed on printer and start charging, the printer will
automatically open and color of battery status LED indicator is solid amber.
The amber LED indicator will turned off after the battery is fully charged.

Battery charging Battery fully charged Auto power off

Note:

1. When printer start charging, the printer will automatically open and could not turn-off

the power.

2. When checking the battery status, please connect the adapter to printer, the LED

indicator will turn to green then extinguished when the battery is fully charged.

17

Charging Temperature

The battery normal working condition is from 0°C to 40°C (32 °F to 104 °F). The device or
battery charger always perform battery charging in a safe and optimum manner. At higher
temperatures (e.g. approximately +40 °C (+104 °F) or charging when turning on the
printers), the printer or battery charger may stop charging for a period of time to keep the
battery at acceptable temperatures.

18

3.2.2 Charge by Charger Station (Optional)

1. Plug the power cord to the power

jack on the charger station.

2. Insert the battery along the slot to

the right side of charger station as
pictured. (Refer to section 3.1 for
battery installation procedure.)

3. Push the battery clasp and

properly install the battery, it will
start charging.

Note:

The battery is completely charged
and the amber of LED indicator will
be off and turns to green.

19

Note:
The four bay batteries charger
station is also available for your
reference.

LED Color

Description

Green / Solid

Battery is completely charged

Green / Blinking

Battery is charging

Red / Blinking

Battery charging error

Off

No battery

Battery is completely charged over 1.5 ~ 2 hrs.

20

3.3 Communicate

3.3.1 Connecting with the Communication Cable

 USB to USB Cable (Optional)

1. Open the interface cover and

connect the printer to the computer
with USB cable.

3.3.2 Connecting with Bluetooth (Optional)

Default

Name

RF-BHS

PIN

0000

Turn on the printer and make sure the Bluetooth
of device is opened.

Note:
Please refer to section 6.5 to change the name of
default and PIN.

USB interface

USB connector
(PC)

USB connector
(Printer)

21

3.4 Loading the Media

1. Open the printer media cover by

pressing the media cover release
button.

2. Place the media roll at the correct

side, and pull out enough paper
over the tear edge.

3. Press the media cover on both

sides to close it and make sure the
media cover have closed correctly.

22

4. Accessories

4.1 Install the Belt Clip

1. Turn the battery to rear side,

remove the battery on the rear of
the printer and lock the belt clip
on the hole above the battery.

2. Press the ball on the belt clip to

the hole as pictured.

3. After reinstalled the battery, the

printer can be hung on the belt.

23

4.2 Install the IP54-rated environmental case with shoulder strap
(Optional)

1. Open the zip along the arrow
direction indicated on case
cover.

2. Place the printer in the case.

Note: The printing side must face the
outside cover as indicated.

Zip of case cover

24

3. Zip up the case cover. The outside cover should be opened and fixed while
printing.

Outside cover

Outside cover fixed

25

5. Power-on Utilities

There are three power-on utilities to set up and test printer hardware. These utilities are
activated by pressing FEED button ( ) then turning on the printer power

simultaneously and release the button at different positions of LED indicator.

Please follow the steps below for different power-on utilities.

1. Turn off the printer power switch.

2. Hold on the FEED button ( ) then turn on the power switch ( ).

3. Release the button ( ) when LED indicates with different positions for different
functions.

Power on utilities

The positions of LED light will be changed as following pattern:

LED

Functions

(solid)

(5 blinks)

(5 blinks)

(5 blinks)

(Solid green)

1. Media sensor calibration

Release

2. Self-test and enter dump
mode

Release

3. Printer initialization

Release

5.1 Media Sensor Calibration

Please follow the steps below to calibrate the media sensor.

1. Turn off the power switch.

2. Hold on the FEED button ( ) then turn on the power switch.

3. Release the FEED button ( ) when the indicator becomes and
blinking. (Any green will do during the 5 blinks)

 It will calibrate the black mark sensor sensitivity.
 The LEDs will be changed as following order:

(amber)  (5 blinks)  (5 blinks) 

(5 blinks)  (solid green)

26

5.2 Self-test and Dump Mode

Please follow the steps below.

1. Turn off the power switch.

2. Hold on the FEED button ( ) then turn on the power switch.

3. Release the FEED button ( ) when the indicator becomes and

blinking. (Any green will do during the 5 blinks)

 The LEDs will be changed as following order:

(amber)  (5 blinks)  (5 blinks) 

(5 blinks)  (solid green)

4. It calibrates the sensor and measures the media length and prints internal settings

then enter the dump mode.

5. Turn off / on the power to resume printer for normal printing.

27

 Self-test

Printer will print the printer configuration after media sensor calibration. Self-test

printout can be used to check if there is any dot damage on the heater element,
printer configurations and available memory space.

Self-test printout

Model name
F/W version
Firmware checksum
Printer S/N
TSC configuration file
System date
System time
Printed mileage (meter)
Cutting counter

Print speed (inch/sec)
Print darkness
Label size (inch)
Gap distance (inch)

Gap/black mark sensor intension

Code page
Country code

ZPL setting information
Print darkness
Print speed (inch/sec)
Label size
Control prefix
Format prefix
Delimiter prefix
Printer power up motion
Printer head close motion

Note:
ZPL is emulating for Zebra®
language.

RS232 serial port
configuration

28

Numbers of download files
Total & available memory
space

Print head check pattern

 Dump mode

Printer will enter dump mode after printing printer configuration. In the dump mode,
all characters will be printed in 2 columns as following. The left side characters are
received from your system and right side data are the corresponding hexadecimal
value of the characters. It allows users or engineers to verify and debug the
program.

Note:

1. Dump mode requires 2” wide paper width.

2. Turn off / on the power to resume printer for normal printing.

ASCII Data

Hex decimal data related to left
column of ASCII data

29

5.3 Printer Initialization

Printer initialization is used to clear DRAM and restore printer settings to defaults.
Printer initialization is activated by the following procedures.

1. Turn off the power switch.

2. Hold on the FEED button then turn on the power switch.

3. Release the FEED button when the indicator becomes and blinking.

(Any green will do during the 5 blinks).

 The LEDs will be changed as following order:

(amber)  (5 blinks)  (5 blinks) 

(5 blinks)  (solid green)

Printer configuration will be restored to defaults as below after initialization.

Parameter

Default setting

Speed

50.8 mm/sec (2 ips)

Density

8

Media Width

2.83” (72 mm)

Media Height

4” (101.5 mm)

Sensor Type

Black mark sensor (As paper end sensor)

Black Mark Setting

As paper end sensor

Print Direction

0

Reference Point

0,0 (upper left corner)

Offset

0

Serial Port Settings

9600 bps, none parity, 8 data bits, 1 stop bit

Code Page

850

Country Code

001

Clear Flash Memory

No

IP Address

DHCP

30

6. Diagnostic Tool

TSC’s Diagnostic Utility is an integrated tool incorporating features that enable you to

explore a printer’s settings/status; change a printer’s settings; download graphics,

fonts and firmware; create a printer bitmap font; and send additional commands to a
printer. With the aid of this powerful tool, you can review printer status and settings in
an instant, which makes it much easier to troubleshoot problems and other issues.

6.1 Start the Diagnostic Tool

1. Double click on the Diagnostic tool icon to start the software.

2. There are four features (Printer Configuration, File Manager, Bitmap Font Manager,
Command Tool) included in the Diagnostic utility.

Features tab

Printer functions

Interface

Printer Status

Printer setup

31

6.2 Printer Function

1. Select the PC interface connected with bar code printer.

The default interface setting is
USB interface. If USB interface
is connected with printer, no
other settings need to be
changed in the interface field.

2. Click the “Printer Function” button to setup.

3. The detail functions in the Printer Function Group are listed as below.

Function

Description

Calibrate Sensor

Calibrate the sensor specified in the Printer Setup
group media sensor field

Ethernet Setup

Setup the IP address, subnet mask, gateway for
the on board Ethernet

RTC Setup

Synchronize printer Real Time Clock with PC

Factory Default

Initialize the printer and restore the settings to
factory default. (Please refer section 5.3)

Reset Printer

Reboot printer

Print Test Page

Print a test page

Configuration Page

Print printer configuration (Please refer section

5.2)

Dump Text

To activate the printer dump mode.

Ignore AUTO.BAS

Ignore the downloaded AUTO.BAS program

Exit Line Mode

Exit line mode.

Password Setup

Set the password to protect the settings

For more information about Diagnostic Tool, please refer to the diagnostic utility quick start guide on
TSC website at Downloads \ Manuals \ Utilities \ Diagnostic utility quick start guide.

Note: The three different print modes below are available, you can download the command on
TSPL/TSPL2 programming manual at TSC official website:

Print modes

DRAFT

High print speed with lower density.

OPTIMUM

According to the label content such as barcode, text, and
graphic to lower the print speed for getting higher print quality.

STANDARD

(default)

Standard print speed and quality.

1

2

32

6.3 Calibrating Media Sensor by Diagnostic Tool

6.3.1 Auto Calibration

1. Make sure the media is already installed and media cover is closed. (Please refer to

section 3.4)

2. Turn on the printer power switch.

3. Open Diagnostic tool and set interface. (The default setting is USB)

The default interface setting is
USB interface. If USB interface
is connected with printer, no
other settings need to be
changed in the interface field.

4. Click the “Calibrate Sensor” button.

5. Select the media type and click the “Calibrate” button.

Note: The TDM-30 can only support continuous, die-cut, receipt, and black mark media type.

1

2

1

2

33

6.4 Setting Bluetooth by Diagnostic Tool (Optional)

1. Make sure the media is already installed and media cover is closed. (Please refer

to section 3.4)

2. Turn on the printer power switch.

3. Open Diagnostic tool and set interface. (The default setting is USB)

The default interface setting is
USB interface. If USB interface
is connected with printer, no
other settings need to be
changed in the interface field.

4. Select “Wireless” tab and “Built-in wireless module” item.

5. Enter the new BT Local Name or BT PIN Code in the editor.

6. Press “Set” button to set the new BT name or BT PIN code of the printer.

7. Press “Get” button to get back the settings. Make sure the Bluetooth module

settings are set properly.

Note:
* The printer connects with the computer via USB cable, which is option.

1

2

3

4 1 2

5

34

7. Troubleshooting

7.1 Common Problems

The following guide lists the most common problems that may be encountered when operating
this bar code printer. If the printer still does not function after all suggested solutions have been
invoked, please contact the Customer Service Department of your purchased reseller or
distributor for assistance.

Problem

Possible Cause

Recovery Procedure

Power indicator does not

illuminate

* The battery is not properly

installed.

* The battery is dead.

* Reinstall the battery.
* Switch the printer on.
* Charge the battery.

- The printer status from

DiagTool shows “Head Open”.

* The printer carriage is open.

* Please close the print carriage.

- The printer status from
DiagTool shows “Out of

Paper”.

* Running out of media roll.
* The media is installed

incorrectly.

* Black mark sensor is not

calibrated.

* Supply a new media roll.
* Please refer to the steps on section 3.4 to

reinstall the media roll.

* Calibrate the black mark sensor.

- The printer status from

DiagTool shows “Paper Jam”.

* Black mark sensor is not set

properly.

* Make sure media size is set

properly.

* Media may be stuck inside

the printer mechanism.

* Calibrate the black mark sensor.
* Set media size correctly.
* Clean the printer mechanism.

Memory full

( FLASH / DRAM )

* The space of FLASH/DRAM

is full.

* Delete unused files in the FLASH/DRAM.
* Run printer self-test and check the

available memory space for DRAM or

FLASH.

* Check the available memory space

for DRAM or FLASH via DiagTool.

Poor Print Quality

* Media is loaded incorrectly
* Dust or adhesive

accumulation on the print
head.

* Print density is not set

properly.

* Print head element is

damaged.

* Reload the supply.
* Clean the print head.
* Clean the platen roller.
* Adjust the print density and print speed.
* Run printer self-test and check the print

head test pattern if there is dot missing in
the pattern.

* Change proper media roll.

35

Missing printing on the left or

right side of label

* Wrong label size setup.

* Set the correct label size.

Gray line on the blank label

* The print head is dirty.
* The platen roller is dirty.

* Clean the print head.
* Clean the platen roller.

Irregular printing

* The printer is in Hex Dump

mode.

* Turn off and on the printer to skip the

dump mode.

36

8. Maintenance

This session presents the clean tools and methods to maintain your printer.

1. Please use one of following material to clean the printer.

 Cotton swab
 Lint-free cloth
 Vacuum / Blower brush
 100% Ethanol or Isopropyl Alcohol

2. The cleaning process is described as following,

Printer Part

Method

Interval

Print Head

1. Always turn off the printer before
cleaning the print head.

2. Allow the print head to cool for a
minimum of one minute.

3. Use a cotton swab and 100%
Ethanol or Isopropyl Alcohol to
clean the print head surface.

Clean the print head when
changing a new label roll

Platen Roller

1. Turn the power off.

2. Rotate the platen roller and wipe it
thoroughly with water.

Clean the platen roller when
changing a new label roll

Tear Bar/Peel

Bar

Use the lint-free cloth with 100%
ethanol to wipe it.

As needed

Sensor

Compressed air or vacuum

Monthly

Exterior

Wipe it with water-dampened cloth

As needed

Interior

Brush or vacuum

As needed

Note:

 Do not touch printer head by hand. If you touch it careless, please use ethanol to clean

it.

 Please use 100% Ethanol or Isopropyl Alcohol. DO NOT use medical alcohol, which

may damage the printer head.

 Regularly clean the print head and supply sensors once change a new ribbon to keep

printer performance and extend printer life.

37

Revise History

Date

Content

Editor

Corporate Headquarters Li Ze Plant

9F., No.95, Minquan Rd., Xindian Dist., No.35, Sec. 2, Ligong 1st Rd., Wujie Township,
New Taipei City 23141, Taiwan (R.O.C.) Yilan County 26841, Taiwan (R.O.C.)
TEL: [phone] TEL: [phone]
FAX: [phone] FAX: [phone]
Web site: www.tscprinters.com

E-mail: [email protected]

[email protected]

TSC Auto ID Technology Co., Ltd.