Zebra Z4MPLUS, Z6MPLUS USER MANUAL

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Z4Mplus/Z6Mplus
Industrial/Commercial Printer
User Guide
Page 2
© 2007 ZIH Corp. The copyrights in this manual and the software and/or firmware in the label printer describe d
therein are owned by ZIH Corp. Unauthorized reproduction of this manual or the software and/or firmware in the label printer may result in imprisonment of up to one year and fines of up to $10,000 (17 U.S.C.506). Copyright violators may be subject to civil liability.
®
, ZPL II®, and ZebraLink™ programs; Element Energy Equalizer® Circuit; E3®; and
ZebraLink and all product names and numbers are trademarks, and Zebra, the Zebra logo, ZPL, ZPL II, Element Energy Equalizer Circuit, and E
All other brand names, product names, or trademarks belong to their respective holders. For additional trademark information, please see “Trademarks” on the product CD.
3
Circuit are registered trademarks of ZIH Corp. All rights reserved worldwide.
Proprietary Statement This manual contains proprietary information of Zebra Technologies Corporation and its
subsidiaries (“Zebra Technologies”). It is intended solely for the information and use of parties operating and maintaining the equipment described herein. Such proprietary information may not be used, reproduced, or disclosed to any other parties for any other purpose without the express, written permission of Zebra Technologies Corporation.
Product Improvements Continuous improvement of products is a policy of Zebra Technologies Corporation.
All specifications and designs are subject to change without notice.
Liability Disclaimer Zebra Technologies Corporation takes steps to ensure that its published Engineering
specifications and manuals are correct; however, errors do occur. Zebra Technologies Corporation reserves the right to correct any such errors and disclaims liability resulting therefrom.
Limitation of Liability In no event shall Zebra Technologies Corporation or anyone else involved in the creation,
production, or delivery of the accompanying product (including hard ware and software) be liab le for any damages whatsoever (including, without limitation, consequential damages including loss of busin ess profi ts, business interruption, or loss of business information) arising out of the use of, the results of use of, or inability to use such product, even if Zebra Technologies Corporation has been advised of the possibility of such damages. Some jurisdictions do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages, so the above limitation or exclusion may not apply to you.
Part Number: 13163L-002 A
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Declaration of Conformity

Declaration of Conformity
I have determined that the Zebra printers identified as the
3
ZM™ Series
Z4M, Z6M, Z4Mplus, Z6Mplus, R4Mplus
manufactured by:
Zebra Technologies Corporation
333 Corporate Woods Parkway
Vernon Hills, Illinois 60061-3109 U.S.A.
Have been shown to comply with the applicable technical standards of the FCC
For Home, Office, Commercial, and Industrial use
If no unauthorized change is made in the equipment,
and if the equipment is properly maintained and operated.
9/18/07 Z4Mplus/Z6Mplus User Guide 13163L-002 A
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Compliance Information

4
Compliance Information
Compliance Information
FCC Compliance Statement
This device complies with Part 15 rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions:
1. This device may not cause harmful interference, and
2. This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause
undesired operation.
The user is cautioned that any changes or modifications not expressly approved by Zebra Technologies Corporation could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment. To ensure compliance, this printer must be used with Shielded Communication Cables.
FCC Radiation Exposure Statement (for printers with RFID encoders)
This equipment complies with FCC radiation exposure limits set forth for an uncontrolled environment. This equipment should be instal led and operated with minimum distance 20cm between the radiator and your body.
This transmitter must not be co-located or operating in conjunction with any other antenna or transmitter.
Canadian DOC Compliance Statement
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.
13163L-002 A Z4Mplus/Z6Mplus User Guide 9/18/07
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Contents

Declaration of Conformity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Compliance Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
About This Document . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Who Should Use This Document . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
How This Document Is Organized . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Contacts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11
Web Site. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11
The Americas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11
Europe, Africa, Middle East, and India . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11
Asia Pacific. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11
Document Conventions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
1 • Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
External View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Control Panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Control Panel Buttons. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Control Panel Lights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Printer Media Compartment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
2 • Printer Setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Before You Begin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Handling the Printer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Unpack and Inspect the Printer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Store the Printer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Ship the Printer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
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Contents
6
Select a Site for the Printer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Select a Surface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Provide Proper Operating Conditions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Allow Proper Space . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Provide a Data Source . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Provide a Power Source. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Select a Data Communication Interface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Data Cables and Wireless Cards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Connect the Printer to the Computer or Network . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Connect the Printer to a Power Source . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
Power Cord Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Types of Media . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Ribbon Overview. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
When to Use Ribbon. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
Coated Side of Ribbon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
3 • Operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
Media Loading Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
Print Modes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
Start a Roll of Media . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
Insert Media into the Printer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
Load Media in Tear-Off Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
Load Media in Peel-Off Mode or Liner Take-Up Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
Remove Liner in Peel-Off with Liner Take-up Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
Load Media in Cutter Mode. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
Load Media in Rewind Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
Remove Printed Labels or Liner from the Rewind Spindle. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
Adjust Media Alignment for Rewind Option . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
Load Ribbon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62
Remove Used Ribbon. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65
Calibrate the Printer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67
Auto Calibration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67
Manual Calibration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67
Position the Media Sensors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68
Select or Position the Transmissive Sensor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68
Adjust the Reflective Sensor. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70
Adjust Printhead Pressure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72
Install Memory Card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74
13163L-002 A Z4Mplus/Z6Mplus User Guide 9/18/07
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Contents
4 • Configuration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75
Setup Mode. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76
Enter Setup Mode. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76
Exit Setup Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77
Change Password-Protected Parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78
Default Password Value . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78
Disable the Password Protection Feature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78
Print a Configuration Label . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79
Print a Network Configuration Label. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80
Control Panel Parameters. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81
How to View or Modify Parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81
Additional Parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81
5 • Routine Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105
Replacing Printer Components. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106
Ordering Replacement Parts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106
Recycling Printer Components. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106
Lubrication . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106
Cleaning Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107
Clean the Exterior. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107
Clean the Printhead and Platen Roller . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108
Clean the Media Compartment and Sensors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .110
Clean the Rewind Option . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .111
Clean the Peel-Off Assembly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .112
Clean the Cutter Module. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .115
Fuse Replacement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .117
7
6 • Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119
Troubleshooting Checklists. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 120
LCD Error Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 121
Print Quality Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 124
Calibration Problems. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 127
Communications Problems. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 128
Miscellaneous Printer Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 129
Printer Diagnostics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 131
Power-On Self Test. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 131
CANCEL Self Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 132
PAUSE Self Test. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 133
FEED Self Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 134
FEED and PAUSE Self Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 138
Communications Diagnostics Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 138
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Contents
8
7 • Data Ports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 139
Parallel Data Port . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 140
Parallel Cabling Requirements. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 140
Parallel Port Interconnections. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 140
Serial Data Port. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 142
Hardware Control Signal Descriptions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 142
Pin Configuration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 143
RS-232 Interface Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 144
8 • Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 147
General Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 148
Agency Approvals. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 149
Printing Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 150
Media Specifications. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 151
Ribbon Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 153
Printer Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 154
ZPL II Features. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 155
Supported Bar Codes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 155
End User License Agreement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 157
Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 163
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Page 9

About This Document

This section provides you with contact information, documen t struc ture and organization, and additional reference documents.
Contents
Who Should Use This Document. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
How This Document Is Organized . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Contacts. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Document Conventions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
9/18/07 Z4Mplus/Z6Mplus User Guide 13163L-002 A
Page 10
About This Document
10

Who Should Use This Document

Who Should Use This Document
This User Guide is intended for use by any person who needs to operate or troubleshoot problems with the printer.

How This Document Is Organized

The User Guide is set up as follows:
Section Description
Introduction on page 15 This section shows the operational controls and
Printer Setup on page 21 This section provides the tasks that you must
Operations on page 35 This section provides the procedures for loading
location of major components used when loading media and ribbon.
complete and the issues that you must consider before you load and configure your printer.
and calibrating the printer.
Configuration on page 75 This section describes the control panel parameters
that are used to configure the printer for operation.
Routine Maintenance on page 105 This section provides routine cleaning and
maintenance procedures.
Troubleshooting on page 119 This section provides information about errors that
you might need to troubleshoot. Assorted diagnostic tests are included.
Data Ports on page 139 This section describes the standard communication
ports available to connect the printer to your computer or network.
Specifications on page 147 This section provides the features of and
specifications for the printer.
13163L-002 A Z4Mplus/Z6Mplus User Guide 9/18/07
Page 11

Contacts

Web Site

The Americas

About This Document
Contacts
You can contact Zebra Technologies Corporation at the following.
http://www.zebra.com
Technical Support via the Internet is available 24 hours per day, 365 days per year. Go to
http://www.zebra.com/support.
Regional Headquarters Technical Support Customer Service Dept.
Zebra Technologies International, LLC 333 Corporate Woods Parkway Vernon Hills, Illinois 60061.3109 U.S.A T: +1 847 793 2600 Toll-f ree +1 800 423 0422 F: +1 847 913 8766
T: +1 877 ASK ZEBRA (275 9327) F: +1 847 913 2578
Hardware: ts1@zebra.com Software: ts3@zebra.com
For printers, parts, media, and ribbon, please call your distributor, or contact us.
T: +1 877 ASK ZEBRA (275 9327) E: clientcare@zebra.com
11

Europe, Africa, Middle East, and India

Regional Headquarters Technical Support Internal Sales Dept.
Zebra Technologies Europe Limited Zebra House The Valley Centre, Gordon Road High Wycombe Buckinghamshire, HP13 6EQ, UK
T: +44 (0)1494 472872 F: +44 (0) 1494 450103
T: +44 (0) 1494 768298 F: +44 (0) 1494 768210 Germany: Tsgermany@zebra.com France: Tsfrance@zebra.com Spain/Portugal: Tsspain@zebra.com All other areas: Tseurope@zebra.com

Asia Pacific

Regional Headquarters Technical Support Customer Service
Zebra Technologies Asia Pacific, LLC 120 Robinson Road #06-01 Parakou Building Singapore 068913 T: +65 6858 0722 F: +65 6885 0838
T: +65 6858 0722 F: +65 6885 0838 E: China: tschina@zebra.com All other areas: tsasiapacific@zebra.com
For printers, parts, media, and ribbon, please call your distributor, or contact us.
T: +44 (0) 1494 768316 F: +44 (0) 1494 768244 E: cseurope@zebra.com
For printers, parts, media, and ribbon, please call your distributor, or contact us.
T: +65 6858 0722 F: +65 6858 0836
9/18/07 Z4Mplus/Z6Mplus User Guide 13163L-002 A
Page 12
About This Document
12

Document Conventions

Document Conventions
The following conventions are used throughout this document to convey certain information.
Alternate Color (online only) Cross-references contain hot links to other sections in this guide. If you are viewing this guide online in .p df format, you can click the cross-reference (blue text) to jump directly to its location.
LCD Display Examples Text from a printer’s Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) appears in
Bubbledot ICG font.
Command Line Examples Command line examples appear in Courier New font. For example, type
Files and Directories File names and directories appear in Courier New font. For example, the
Icons Used
ZTools to get to the Post-Install scripts in the bin directory.
Zebra<version number>.tar file and the /root directory.
Caution • Warns you of the potential for electrostatic discharge.
Caution • Warns you of a potential electric shock situation.
Caution • Warns you of a situation where excessive heat could cause a burn.
Caution • Advises you that failure to take or avoid a specific action could result in physical
harm to you.
Caution • (No icon) Advises you that failure to take or avoid a specific action could result in
physical harm to the hardware.
Important • Advises you of informatio n that is essential to complete a task.
Note • Indicates neutral or positive information that emphasizes or supplements important
points of the main text.
Example • Provides an example, often a scenario, to better clarify a section of text.
Tools • Tells you what tools you need to complete a given task.
13163L-002 A Z4Mplus/Z6Mplus User Guide 9/18/07
Page 13
About This Document
PAUSE
Document Conventions
Illustration Callouts Callouts are used when an illustration contains information that needs to be labeled and described. A table that contains the labels and descriptions follows the graphic. Figure 1 provides an example.
Figure 1 • Sample Figure with Callouts
21
FEED button
1
CANCEL button
2
13
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About This Document
14
Document Conventions
Notes • ___________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
13163L-002 A Z4Mplus/Z6Mplus User Guide 9/18/07
Page 15
1

Introduction

This section shows the operational controls and location of major components used when loading media and ribbon.
Contents
External View. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Control Panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Control Panel Buttons . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Control Panel Lights. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Printer Media Compartment. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
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Introduction
16

External View

External View
Figure 2 shows the outside of the printer.
Figure 2 • External View
1
2
Electronics cover
1
Control panel
2
Media door
3
3
13163L-002 A Z4Mplus/Z6Mplus User Guide 9/18/07
Page 17

Control Panel

PAUSE
The control panel display shows the printer’s operating status and allows you to change settings as needed to work with your media and label formats.
The control panel buttons and lights are sho wn in Figure 3. Descriptions for each are located in
Ta ble 1 and Table 2.
Figure 3 • Control Panel
1 2 3 4
5
Introduction
Control Panel
17
12
11
10
6
7
8
9
Power LED
1
Pause LED
2
Error LED
3
Data LED
4
LCD
5
PLUS (+) button
6
SETUP/EXIT button
7
CANCEL button
8
PAUSE button
9
FEED button
10
SELECT button
11
MINUS (–) button
12
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Introduction
18
Control Panel

Control Panel Buttons

Button Function
Table 1 • Control Panel Buttons
FEED
PAUSE
CANCEL
SETUP/EXIT SELECT
PLUS (+)
(scroll mode)
PLUS (+)
(change mode)
Forces the printer to feed one blank label each time the button is pressed.
• Printer not printing: one blank label immediately feeds.
• Printing: one blank label feeds after the current batch of labels is complete. Starts and stops the printing process.
• Printer not printing: no printing occurs. (Press
PAUSE again to resume printing.)
• Printing: printing stops after the current label is complete. Cancels print jobs when in the pause mode.
• Printer not printing: the next stored label format does not print.
• Printing: current label completes printing, and the next label format is cancelled. Press and hold for several seconds to cancel all print jobs in memory.
Enters and exits the configuration mode. Toggles the function of PLUS (+) and MINUS (–) between the Scroll and Change
Modes.
• Press once to use
PLUS (+) and MINUS (–) to change the values of the selection.
• Press again to use PLUS (+) and MINUS (–) to scroll through the menu items. Scrolls to the next selection.
• Increases the value.
• Answers yes.
• Prints a label (when applicable).
MINUS (–)
Scrolls to the previous selection.
(scroll mode)
MINUS (–)
(change mode)
• Decreases the value.
• Selects the digit you wish to change.
• Answers no.
13163L-002 A Z4Mplus/Z6Mplus User Guide 9/18/07
Page 19

Control Panel Lights

Table 2 • Control Panel Lights
Light Status Indication
POWER Off The printer is off, or no power is applied.
On The printer is on.
PAUSE Off Normal printer operation.
On The printer has stopped all printing operati ons. Flashing The Pause light flashes when initializing FLASH or PCMCIA
memory and in Peel-Off Mode when the label is available.
ERROR Off Normal printer operation (no errors).
Introduction
Control Panel
19
Slow flashing
Fast flashing On
DATA Off Normal printer operation (no data being received or processed).
One flash Slow flashing The printer cannot accept more data from the host. Fast flashing The printer is receiving data. On A partial format has been received and no subsequent data activity.
RIBBON IN warning, HEAD UNDER TEMP warning, or HEAD OVER TEMP
error.
HEAD OPEN error. MEDIA OUT error
CANCEL was pressed and a format is successfully cancelled.
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Introduction
20

Printer Media Compartment

Printer Media Compartment
Figure 4 shows a simplified view of your printer. Depending on installed options, your
printer may look slightly different.
Figure 4 • Media Compartment
3 4 5
2
1
Printhead assembly
1
Transmissive sensor
2
Ribbon supply spindle
3
Ribbon take-up spindle
4
Label supply guide
5
Label supply hanger
6
Dancer
7
Label guide
8
Printhead open lever
9
789
6
13163L-002 A Z4Mplus/Z6Mplus User Guide 9/18/07
Page 21
2

Printer Setup

This section provides the tasks that you must complete and the issues that you must consider before you load and configure your printer.
Contents
Before You Begin. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Handling the Printer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Unpack and Inspect the Printer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Store the Printer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Ship the Printer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Select a Site for the Printer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Select a Surface. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Provide Proper Operating Conditions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Allow Proper Space . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Provide a Data Source. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Provide a Power Source . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Select a Data Communication Interface. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Data Cables and Wireless Cards. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Connect the Printer to the Computer or Network. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Connect the Printer to a Power Source . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
Power Cord Specifications. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Types of Media. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Ribbon Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
When to Use Ribbon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
Coated Side of Ribbon. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
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Printer Setup
22

Before You Begin

Before You Begin
Review this checklist, and resolve any issues before you set up or use your printer.
Unpack and Inspect the Printer Have you unpacked the printer and inspected it for
Select a Site Have you selected an appropriate location for the printer? If y ou have no t,
Attach a Power Cord Do you have the correct power cord for your printer? If you are
Connect to a Data Source Have you determined how the printer will connect to a
Select Media Do you have the correct media for your application? If you are unsure,
Select Ribbon Do you need to use ribbon, and is the appropriate ribbon available, if
damage? If you have not, see Unpack and Inspect the Printer on page 23.
see Select a Site for the Printer on page 24.
unsure, see Power Cord Specifications on page 30. To attach the power cord and connect the printer to a power source, see Connect the Printer to a Power Source on page 29.
data source (usually a computer)? For more information, see Select a Data
Communication Interface on page 25.
see Types of Media on page 31.
needed? If you are unsure, see Ribbon Overview on page 33.
13163L-002 A Z4Mplus/Z6Mplus User Guide 9/18/07
Page 23

Handling the Printer

This section describes how to handle your printer.

Unpack and Inspect the Printer

When you receive the printer, immediately unpack it and inspect for shipping damage.
• Save all packing materials.
• Check all exterior surfaces for damage.
• Raise the media door, and inspect the media compartment for damage to components.
If you discover shipping damage upon inspection:
• Immediately notify the shipping company and file a damage report.
• Keep all packaging material for shipping company inspection.
• Notify your authorized Zebra reseller.
Important • Zebra Technologies Corporation is not responsible for any damage incurred
during the shipment of the equipment and will not repair this damage under warranty.
Printer Setup
Handling the Printer
23

Store the Printer

If you are not placing the printer into immediate operation, repackage it using the original packing materials. You may store the printer under the following conditions:
• Temperature: –40°F to 140°F (–40°C to 60°C)
• Relative humidity: 5% to 85%, non-condensing

Ship the Printer

• Turn off (O) the printer, and disconnect all cables.
• Remove any media, ribbon, or loose objects from the printer interior.
• Close the printhead.
• Carefully pack the printer into the original container or a suitable alternate container to avoid damage during transit. A shipping container can be purchased from Zebra if the original packaging has been lost or destroyed.
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Printer Setup
24

Select a Site for the Printer

Select a Site for the Printer
Consider the following when selecting an appropriate location for your printer.

Select a Surface

Select a solid, level surface of sufficient size and strength to accommodate the printer and other equipment (such as a computer), if necessary. The choices include a table, countertop, desk, or cart.

Provide Proper Operating Conditions

This printer is designed to function in a wide range of environmental and electrical conditions, including a warehouse or factory floor. For more information on the required conditions, see
General Specifications on page 148. Ta ble 3 shows the temperature and relative humidity requirements for the printer when it is
operating.
Table 3 • Operating Temperature and Humidity
Mode Temperature Relative Humidity
Thermal Transfer 41° to 104°F (5° to 40°C) 20 to 85% non-condensing Direct Thermal 32° to 104°F (0° to 40°C) 20 to 85% non-condensing

Allow Proper Space

The printer should have enough space around it for you to be able to open the media door. To allow for proper ventilation and cooling, leave open space on all sides of the printer.
Caution • Do not place any padding or cushioning material behind or under the printer
because this restricts air flow and could cause the printer to overheat.

Provide a Data Source

If the printer will be located away from the data source, the selected site must provide the appropriate connections to that data source. For more information on the types of communication interfaces, see Select a Data Communication Interface on page 25.

Provide a Power Source

Place the printer within a short distance of a power outlet that is easily accessible.
13163L-002 A Z4Mplus/Z6Mplus User Guide 9/18/07
Page 25

Select a Data Communication Interface

Select a Data Communication Interface
Ta ble 4 provides basic information about data communication interfaces that you can use to
connect your printer to a computer. You ma y send label formats to the printer through a ny data communication interface that is available. Select an interface that is supported by both your printer and your computer or your Local Area Network (LAN).
Table 4 • Characteristics of the Data Communication Interfaces
Standard or
Interface
RS-232 Serial Standard • Maximum cable length of 50 ft (15.24 m).
Optional on Printer
Characteristics
• You may need to change printer parameters to match the host computer.
• You need to use a null-modem adaptor to connect to the printer if using a standard modem cable.
Printer Setup
25
IEEE 1284 Bidirectional Parallel
Standard • Maximum cable length of 10 ft (3 m).
• Recommended cable length of 6 ft (1.83 m).
• An Ethernet print server takes up or covers this port on the printer.
• No printer parameter changes required to match the host computer.
USB Standard • Maximum cable length of 16.4 ft (5 m).
• No printer parameter changes required to match the host computer.
Internal wired Ethernet print server
Optional • Can print to the printer from any computer on your LAN.
• Can communicate with the printer through the printer’s web pages.
• Computer must be equipped with an Ethernet board.
• The printer must be configured to use your LAN.
Wireless Ethernet print server (available as a special order on Z4Mplus printers only)
Optional • Can print to the printer from any computer on your Wireless
Local Area Network (WLAN).
• Can communicate with the printer through the printer’s web pages.
• Computer must be equipped with an Ethernet board.
• The printer must be configured to use your WLAN.
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Page 26
Printer Setup
26
Select a Data Communication Interface

Data Cables and Wireless Cards

You must supply all data cables or wireless cards for your application.
Data Cables Ethernet cables do not require sh ielding, but all o ther data cabl es must be fully shielded and fitted with metal or metallized connector shells. Unshielded data cables may increase radiated emissions above the regulated limits.
To minimize electrical noise pickup in the cable:
• Keep data cables as short as possible.
• Do not bundle the data cables tightly with the power cords.
• Do not tie the data cables to power wire conduits.
Wireless Cards For supported wireless cards, refer to the ZebraNet Wireless Print Server and Wireless Plus Print Server User Guide. A copy of the manual is available at
http://www.zebra.com/manuals or on the user CD that came with your printer.

Connect the Printer to the Computer or Network

Ta ble 5 shows how to connect the different types of data cables to your printer and computer.
The connectors on the back of your computer may be in different locations than on the samp le computer shown in this section.
Caution • Ensure that the printer power is off (O) before connecting data communications
cables. Connecting a data communications cable while the power is on ( printer.
I) may damage the
Table 5 • Connecting the Printer to a Computer or Network
Interface Connection and Configuration
RS-232 Serial The baud rate, number of data and stop bits, the parity, and the
XON/XOFF or DTR control must match those of the host computer. See
Control Panel Param eters on page 81 to view or change these paramet ers.
13163L-002 A Z4Mplus/Z6Mplus User Guide 9/18/07
Page 27
Select a Data Communication Interface
Table 5 • Connecting the Printer to a Computer or Network (Continued)
Interface Connection and Configuration
Printer Setup
27
IEEE 1284 Bidirectional
No additional configuration is necessary. An Ethernet print server takes u p or covers this port on the printer.
Parallel
USB No additional configuration is necessary.
Caution • Be careful not to plug the USB cable into the wired Ethernet
print server connector on the printer because doing so will damage the connector.
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Page 28
Printer Setup
28
Select a Data Communication Interface
Table 5 • Connecting the Printer to a Computer or Network (Continued)
Interface Connection and Configuration
Internal wired Ethernet print server
Wireless Ethernet print server
Refer to the ZebraNet 10/100 Print Server User and Reference Guide for configuration instructions. A copy of this manual is available at
http://www.zebra.com/manuals or on the user CD that came with your
printer.
Refer to the ZebraNet Wireless Print Server and Wireless Plus Print Server User Guide for configuration instructions. A copy o f this manual is available at http://www.zebra.com/manuals or on the user CD that came with your printer.
13163L-002 A Z4Mplus/Z6Mplus User Guide 9/18/07
Page 29

Connect the Printer to a Power Source

The AC power cord must have a three-prong female connector on one end that plugs into the mating AC power connector at the rear of the printer. If a power cable was not included with your printer, refer to Power Cord Specifications on page 30.
Caution • For personnel and equipment safety, always use an approved three-conductor
power cord specific to the region or country intended for installation. This cord must use an IEC 320 female connector and the appropriate region-specific three-conductor grounded plug configuration.
To connect the printer to a power source, complete these steps:
1. Turn the printer power switch to the Off (O) position.
2. Refer to Figure 5. Plug the power cord into the AC power connector on the rear of the
printer.
3. Plug the other end of the power cord into a power outlet near the printer.
Printer Setup
Connect the Printer to a Power Source
29
Figure 5 • Power Connection
Power switch
1
AC power connector
2
1
2
9/18/07 Z4Mplus/Z6Mplus User Guide 13163L-002 A
Page 30
Printer Setup
30
Connect the Printer to a Power Source

Power Cord Specifications

Caution • For personnel and equipment safety, always use an approved three-conductor
power cord specific to the region or country intended for installation. This cord must use an IEC 320 female connector and the appropriate region-specific, three-conductor grounded plug configuration.
Depending on how your printer was ordered, a power cord may or may not be included. If one is not included or if the one included is not suitable for your requirements, refer to the following guidelines:
• The overall cord length must be less than 9.8
ft. (3.0 m).
• The cord must be rated for at least 10 A, 250 V.
• The chassis ground (earth) must be connected t o ensure safety and redu ce electromagnetic
interference. The third wire in the power cord grounds the connection (Figure 6).
Figure 6 • Power Cord Specifications
2
1
4
AC power plug for your country—This should bear
1
3
the certification mark of at least one of the known international safety organizations (Figure 7).
3-conductor HAR cable or other cable approved for
2
your country. IEC 320 connector—This should bear the
3
certification mark of at least one of the known international safety organizations (Figure 7).
Length 9.8 ft. (3 m). Rating 10 Amp, 250 VAC.
4
Figure 7 • International Safety Organization Certifications
13163L-002 A Z4Mplus/Z6Mplus User Guide 9/18/07
Page 31

Types of Media

The printer can use various types of media (Table 6). Zebra strongly recommends the use of Zebra-brand supplies for continuous high-quality printing. A wide range of paper, polypropylene, polyester, and vinyl stock has been specifically engineered to enhance the printing capabilities of the printer and to prevent premature printhead wear.
Table 6 • Types of Media
Media Type How It Looks Description
Printer Setup
Types of Media
31
Non-Continuous Roll Media
Roll media is wound on a 3-in. (76-mm) core. Labels have adhesive backing that sticks them to a liner, and they are separated by gaps, holes, notches, or black marks. Tags are separated by perforations.
Figure 8 • Non-Continuous Web Media
Figure 9 • Black Mark Media
Figure 10 • Tag Stock
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Page 32
Printer Setup
32
Types of Media
Table 6 • Types of Media (Continued)
Media Type How It Looks Description
Non-Continuous Fanfold Media
Continuous Roll Media
RFID “Smart” Media (for use only with printers that have an RFID reader/encoder installed)
Fanfold media is folded in a zigzag pattern. Fanfold media can have the same label divisions as non­continuous roll media. The division s would fall on or near the folds.
Continuous media is wound on a core and is without gaps, holes, notches, or black marks. This allows the image to be printed anywhere on the label. With continuous media, use the transmissive sensor so the printer can detect when the media runs out.
Radio frequency identification (RFID) “smart” labels are made from the same materials and adh esives as non-RFID labels. Each label has an RFID transponder, made of a chip and an antenna, embedded between the label and t he liner (sometimes called an “inlay”). The shape of the transponder varies by manufacturer and is visible through the label.
All “smart” labels have memory that can be read, and many have memory that can be encoded.
Important • Transponder placement within a
label depends on the transponder type and th e printer model. Make sure that you are using the correct “smart” media for your printer.
13163L-002 A Z4Mplus/Z6Mplus User Guide 9/18/07
Page 33

Ribbon Overview

Note • This section applies only to printers that have the Thermal Transfer option installed.
Ribbon is a thin film that is coated on one side with wax, resin, or wax resin, which is transferred to the media during the thermal transfer process. The media determines whether you need to use ribbon and how wide the ribbon must be.
When ribbon is used, it must be as wide as or wider than the media being used. If the ribbon is narrower than the media, areas of the printhead are unprotected and subject to premature wear.

When to Use Ribbon

Thermal transfer media requires ribbon for printing while direct thermal media does not. To determine if ribbon must be used with a particular media, perform a media scratch test.
To perform a label scratch test, complete these steps:
Printer Setup
Ribbon Overview
33
1. Scratch the print surface of the media rapidly with your fingernail.
2. Did a black mark appear on the media?
If a black mark... Then the media is...
Does not appear on the media Thermal transfer. A ribbon is required. Appears on the media Direct thermal. No ribbon is required.

Coated Side of Ribbon

Ribbon can be wound with the coated side on the inside or outside (Figure 11). This printer can only use ribbon that is coated on the outside. If you are unsure which side of a particular roll of ribbon is coated, perform an adhesive test or a ribbon scratch test to determine which side is coated.
Figure 11 • Ribbon Coated on Outside or Inside
Outside Inside
9/18/07 Z4Mplus/Z6Mplus User Guide 13163L-002 A
Page 34
Printer Setup
34
Ribbon Overview
Adhesive Test
If you have labels available, perform the adhesive test to determine which side of a ribbon is coated. This method works well for ribbon that is already installed.
To perform an adhesive test, complete these steps:
1. Peel a label from its liner.
2. Press a corner of the sticky side of the label to the outer surface of the roll of ribbon.
3. Peel the label off of the ribbon.
4. Observe the results. Did flakes or particles of ink from the ribbon adhere to the label?
If ink from the ribbon...
Then...
Adhered to the label The ribbon is coated on the outer surface. Did not adhere to
the label
The ribbon is coated on the inner surface and cannot be used in this printer. To verify this, repeat the test on the other surface of the roll of ribbon.
Ribbon Scratch Test
Perform the ribbon scratch test when labels are unavailable.
To perform a ribbon scratch test, complete these steps:
1. Unroll a short length of ribbon.
2. Place the unrolled section of ribbon on a piece of paper with the outer surface of the
ribbon in contact with the paper.
3. Scratch the inner surface of the unrolled ribbon with your fingernail.
4. Lift the ribbon from the paper.
5. Observe the results. Did the ribbon leave a mark on the paper?
If the ribbon... Then...
Left a mark on the paper The ribbon is coated on the outer surface. Did not leave a mark on
the paper
The ribbon is coated on the inner surface and cannot be used in this printer. To verify this, repeat the test on the other surface of the roll of ribbon.
13163L-002 A Z4Mplus/Z6Mplus User Guide 9/18/07
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3

Operations

This section provides the procedures for loading and calibrating th e pri nt er.
Note • Complete the tasks and resolve the issues in Printer Setup on page 21 before
operating the printer.
Contents
Media Loading Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
Print Modes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
Start a Roll of Media. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
Insert Media into the Printer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
Load Media in Tear-Off Mode. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
Load Media in Peel-Off Mode or Liner Take-Up Mode. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
Remove Liner in Peel-Off with Liner Take-up Mode. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
Load Media in Cutter Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
Load Media in Rewind Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
Remove Printed Labels or Liner from the Rewind Spindle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
Adjust Media Alignment for Rewind Option . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
Load Ribbon. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62
Remove Used Ribbon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65
Calibrate the Printer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67
Auto Calibration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67
Manual Calibration. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67
Position the Media Sensors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68
Select or Position the Transmissive Sensor. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68
Adjust the Reflective Sensor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70
Adjust Printhead Pressure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72
Install Memory Card. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74
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Operations
36

Media Loading Overview

Media Loading Overview
The printer can print on roll or fanfold media and use different print modes for label removal.

Print Modes

The methods for loading media for each print mode follow in this section. Use a print mode that matches the media being used and the printer options available (Table 7). For more information on the types of media, see Types of Media on page 31.
Mode When to Use Printer Action
Table 7 • Print Mode Options
Tear-Off (default setting) Use for most applications.
Peel-Off Use only if printer has the
Cutter Use only if printer has a
Rewind Use only if printer has the

Start a Roll of Media

Exposed media may become dirty when han dled or stored. To start a roll of media, remove and discard one full revolution of labels or tags and any liner.
See Load Media in Tear-Off
Mode on page 39.
Peel-Off or Liner Take-Up option. See Load Media in
Peel-Off Mode or Liner Take-Up Mode on page 42.
cutter option. See Load
Media in Cutter Mode on page 48.
Rewind option. See Load
Media in Rewind Mode on page 52.
Each label or strip of labels can be torn off after printing.
The liner is peeled away from the label during printing. When the printed label is removed, the next label prints.
The printer automatically cuts the label after it is printed.
The media and/or liner are rewound onto a core as they are printed.
Labels Tag Stock
Remove all labels that are held by adhesives or tape.
13163L-002 A Z4Mplus/Z6Mplus User Guide 9/18/07
Detach all exposed tags.
Page 37

Insert Media into the Printer

This section shows how to insert roll or fanfold media in to the printer. Fanfold medi a is loaded the same way as roll media, except the media is stored outside of the printer. See Figure 12
on page 39 for an illustration.
Note • Depending on the media hanger that came with your printer, the size of the media
core that can be used may vary. See Media Specifications on page 151 for the core sizes that your printer supports.
Roll Media
To insert roll media, complete these steps:
1. Flip down the media supply guide.
Operations
Media Loading Overview
37
2. Place the roll of media on the media supply hanger. Push the roll as far back as it will go.
3. Flip up the media supply guide, and then slide it in until it touches, but does not restrict,
the edge of the roll.
4. Continue with the media loading procedure for the desired print mode.
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Operations
38
Media Loading Overview
Fanfold Media
To insert fanfold media, complete these steps:
1. Flip down the media supply guide.
2. Thread the fanfold media through the bottom or rear access slot.
3. Drape the media over the media supply hanger.
4. Flip up the media supply guide, and then slide it in until it touches, but does not restrict,
the edge of the media.
5. Continue with the media loading procedure for the desired print mode.
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Load Media in Tear-Off Mode

Figure 12 shows roll and fanfold media loaded in Tear-Off mode, which is the default print
mode. The instructions in this section apply to all printers, including those that have the peel-off, cutter, and rewind options.
Figure 12 • Tear-Off Mode
1
Roll Media
Operations
Load Media in Tear-Off Mode
3
2
5678
4
39
Fanfold Media,
Rear Feed
Fanfold Media,
Bottom Feed
3
2
1
5678
2
1
5678
4
3
4
Printhead assembly
1
Transmissive sensor
2
Media supply guide
3
Media supply hanger
4
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Dancer
5
Media guide
6
Printhead release latch
7
Printed label
8
Page 40
Operations
40
Load Media in Tear-Off Mode
To load media in Tear-Off Mode, complete these steps:
Caution • While performing any tasks near an open printhead, remove all rings, watches,
hanging necklaces, identification badges, or other metallic objects that could touch the printhead. You are not required to turn off the printer power when working near an open printhead, but Zebra recommends it as a precaution. If you turn off the power, you will lose all temporary settings, such as label formats, and you must reload them before you resume printing.
1. Set the printer to Tear-Off mode. See Select Print Mode on page 83 for instructions.
2. Insert media into the printer. See Inse rt Med ia in to the Printer on page 37 for instructions.
3. Press the printhead release latch to open the printhead assembly. Lift the printhead until it
latches open.
4. Slide out the media guide.
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Operations
123
1
Load Media in Tear-Off Mode
5. Feed the media under the dancer assembly (1), through the slot in the transmissive
sensor (
6. Push the media to the back of the transmissive sensor (1). Slide in the media guide (2)
2—standard transmissive sensor shown), and under the ribbon senso r (3).
until it just touches the edge of the media.
41
2
7. Close the printhead assembly.
8. If the printer is paused (the Pause light is blinking), press PAUSE to enable printing.
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Operations
42

Load Media in Peel-Off Mode or Liner Take-Up Mode

Load Media in Peel-Off Mode or Liner Take-Up Mode
This section applies only if the Peel-Off option or the Liner Take-Up option is installed (Figure 13).
Note • The Liner Take-Up option is not available on the Z6Mplus printer.
The peel assembly consists of several spring-loaded rollers to ensure the proper roller pressure. Use the peel release lever and your right hand to open and close the peel assembly. Doing this will keep your fingers away from the rollers.
Caution • Do not use your left hand to assist in closing the peel assembly. The top edge of
the peel roller/assembly could pinch your fingers.
Figure 13 • Peel-Off and Peel-Off with Liner Take-Up Modes
Peel-Off Mode
Peel-Off with
Liner Take-Up
Mode
12
11
4
3
1
1
2
13
3
2
4
5
6
8910
5
12
11
10
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9
8
6
7
Page 43
Operations
Load Media in Peel-Off Mode or Liner Take-Up Mode
43
Peel lever
1
Tear-off /peel-off bar
2
Printhead assembly
3
Transmissive sensor
4
Media supply guide
5
Media supply hanger
6
Liner take-up spindle
7
Caution • While performing any tasks near an open printhead, remove all rings, watches,
hanging necklaces, identification badges, or other metallic objects that could touch the printhead. You are not required to turn off the printer power when working near an open printhead, but Zebra recommends it as a precaution. If you turn off the power, you will lose all temporary settings, such as label formats, and you must reload them before you resume printing.
Dancer
8
Media guide
9
Printhead release latch
10
Peel assembly
11
Label
12
Label liner
13
To load media in Peel-Off or in Peel-Off with Liner Take-Up mode, complete these steps:
1. Set the printer to Peel-Off mode. See Select Print Mode on page 83 for instructions.
2. Insert media into the printer. See Inse rt Med ia in to the Printer on page 37 for instructions.
3. Press the printhead release latch to open the printhead assembly.
4. Lift the printhead until it latches open.
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Operations
44
Load Media in Peel-Off Mode or Liner Take-Up Mode
5. Slide out the media guide.
6. Feed the media under the dancer assembly (1), through the slot in the transmissive
sensor (2—standard transmissive sensor shown), and under the ri bbon sensor (
3).
123
7. Push down the peel-off mechanism release lever to open the peel assembly.
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Page 45
Load Media in Peel-Off Mode or Liner Take-Up Mode
8. Pull approximately 18 in. (500 mm) of media through the front of the printer.
9. Remove the exposed labels so that only the liner remains.
Operations
45
10. Feed the liner over the tear-off/peel-off bar (1) and behind the peel assembly (2). Make
sure that the end of the liner falls outside of the printer.
1
2
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Operations
46
Load Media in Peel-Off Mode or Liner Take-Up Mode
11. Push the media to the back of the transmissive sensor (1). Slide in the media guide (2)
until it just touches the edge of the media.
12. Close the printhead assembly.
1
2
13.
Caution • Use the peel release lever and your right hand to close the peel assembly.
Do not use your left hand to assist in closing. The top edge of the peel roller/assembly could pinch your fingers.
Close the peel assembly using the peel-off mechanism release lever.
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Load Media in Peel-Off Mode or Liner Take-Up Mode
14. In which mode do you wish to operate?
To operate in... Then...
Peel-Off mode If the printer is paused (the pause light is on), press PAUSE to
enable printing. Peeling starts automatically.
Operations
47
Liner Take-Up mode
1. Slide the liner into the slot in the liner take-up spindle (1).
Ensure that the liner is resting against the back plate of the spindle assembly.
2. Turn the spindle assembly counterclockwise a few times
to snug the liner.
3. If the printer is paused (the pause light is on), press
PAUSE to enable printing. Peeling starts automatically.

Remove Liner in Peel-Off with Liner Take-up Mode

To remove liner when in Peel-Off with Liner Take-Up mode, complete these steps:
1. See Figure 14. Pull the line r slide t ab (1) toward you until it stops about a third of the way
down the liner take-up spindle (
2).
1
Figure 14 • Removing Liner from Liner Take-up Spindle
2
1
2. Slide the liner from the take-up spindle.
Note • The liner slide moves back in place after the liner is removed.
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Operations
48

Load Media in Cutter Mode

Load Media in Cutter Mode
This section applies only if the Cutter Mode is installed (Figure 15).
Figure 15 • Cutter Mode
2
1
8
9
Printhead assembly
1
Transmissive sensor
2
Media supply guide
3
Media supply hanger
4
Dancer
5
Media guide
6
Printhead release latch
7
Cutter module
8
Catch tray
9
3
4
567
Caution • While performing any tasks near an open printhead, remove all rings, watches,
hanging necklaces, identification badges, or other metallic objects that could touch the printhead. You are not required to turn off the printer power when working near an open printhead, but Zebra recommends it as a precaution. If you turn off the power, you will lose all temporary settings, such as label formats, and you must reload them before you resume printing.
To load media in Cutter-Off Mode, complete these steps:
1. Set the printer to Cutter mode. See Select Print Mode on page 83 for instructions.
2. Insert media into the printer. See Insert Media into the Printer on page 37 for instructions.
13163L-002 A Z4Mplus/Z6Mplus User Guide 9/18/07
Page 49
3. Press the printhead release latch to open the printhead assembly.
4. Lift the printhead until it latches open.
Operations
Load Media in Cutter Mode
49
5. Slide out the media guide.
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Operations
1
50
Load Media in Cutter Mode
6.
Caution • The cutter blade is sharp. Do not touch or rub the blade with your fingers.
Feed the media under the dancer assembly (1), through the slot in the transmissive sensor ( through the cutter (
2—standard transmissive sensor shown), under the ribbon sen s or (3), and
4).
1234
Push the media to the back of the transmissive sensor (1). Slide in the media guide (2)
7.
until it just touches the edge of the media.
2
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Load Media in Cutter Mode
8. Close the printhead assembly.
9. If the printer is paused (the Pause light is on), press PAUSE to enable printing.
Operations
51
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Operations
52

Load Media in Rewind Mode

Load Media in Rewind Mode
This section applies only if the Rewind option is i nsta lle d (Figure 16). Follow the instructions in this section to load media in Rewind mode or in Peel-Off with Liner Take-Up mode in a printer with the rewind option.
Figure 16 • Rewind Mode and Peel-Off with Liner Take-Up Mode
Rewind Mode
2
1
14
13
12
11
2
1
3
10
3
9
4
5
6
8
4
7
Peel-Off Mode
(without rewind or
liner take-up)
15
14
13
12
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10
9
5
Page 53
Operations
Load Media in Rewind Mode
53
Peel-Off with
Liner Take-Up
Mode
Peel lever
1
Printhead assembly
2
Transmissive sensor
3
Media supply guide
4
Media supply hanger
5
Rewind spindle
6
Rewind media guide
7
Thumbscrew
8
1
15
14
13
12
2
11
3
10
9
Dancer
9
Media guide
10
Media alignment spindle
11
Rewind base assembly
12
Printhead release latch
13
Peel assembly
14
Label
15
4
5
6
8
7
Caution • While performing any tasks near an open printhead, remove all rings, watches,
hanging necklaces, identification badges, or other metallic objects that could touch the printhead. You are not required to turn off the printer power when working near an open printhead, but Zebra recommends it as a precaution. If you turn off the power, you will lose all temporary settings, such as label formats, and you must reload them before you resume printing.
To load media in a printer that has the Rewind option, complete these steps:
1. Set the printer to Rewind mode. See Select Print Mode on page 83 for instructions.
2. Insert media in the printer. See Insert Media into the Printer on page 37 for instructions.
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Operations
54
Load Media in Rewind Mode
3. Press the printhead release latch to open the printhead assembly.
4. Lift the printhead until it latches open.
5. Slide out the media guide.
6. Feed the media under the dancer assembly (1), through the slot in the transmissive sensor
2—standard transmissive sensor shown), and under the ribbon sensor (3).
(
123
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Load Media in Rewind Mode
7. Push down the peel-off mechanism release lever to open the peel assembly.
8. Pull approximately 18 in. (500 mm) of media through the front of the printer.
Operations
55
9. Remove the exposed labels so that only the liner remains.
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Operations
56
Load Media in Rewind Mode
10. In which mode do you wish to operate?
To operate in... Then...
Peel-Off mode (without rewind or liner take-up)
Peel with Liner Take-Up mode
1. Feed the liner over the tear-o ff/peel-off bar and behind the
peel assembly. Make sure that the end of the liner falls outside of the printer.
1
2
Tear-off/peel-off bar
1
Peel assembly
2
2. Continue with step 18 on page 59.
1. Feed the liner over the tear-off/peel-o ff bar (1) and behind
the peel assembly (
2).
Rewind mode
1
2
2. Continue with the next step.
1. Feed the liner over the peel assembly (1).
1
2. Continue with the next step.
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Load Media in Rewind Mode
11. Feed the liner under the media alignment roller.
12. Loosen the thumbscrew on the rewind media guide.
13. Slide the rewind media guide all the way out, and then fold it down.
Operations
57
14. Slide an empty core onto the rewind spindle.
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Operations
58
Load Media in Rewind Mode
15. Wrap the liner around the core and turn the rewind spindle counterclockwise to wind up
the excess liner . The line r must be a ttache d to the rewind spindle for the pri nter to operate properly. Ensure that the edge of the liner is flush against the backplate of the rewind spindle.
16. Fold up the rewind media guide, and then slide it in until it touches the liner.
17. Tighten the thumbscrew on the rewind media guide.
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Operations
Load Media in Rewind Mode
18. Push the media to the back of the transmissive sensor (1). Slide in the media guide (2)
until it just touches the edge of the media.
1
2
19. Close the printhead assembly.
59
20. Close the peel assembly using the peel lever.
21. If the printer is paused (the pause light is on), press PAUSE to enable printing. Peeling
starts automatically.

Remove Printed Labels or Liner from the Rewind Spindle

To remove printed labels or liner from the rewind spindle, complete these steps:
1. Cut the liner between the media alignment spindle and the rewind spindle.
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Operations
60
Load Media in Rewind Mode
2. Rotate the take-up spindle counterclockwise until the rewind media guide is fully upright.
3. Loosen the thumbscrew on the rewind media guide.
4. Slide the rewind media guide all the way out, and then fold it down.
5. Slide the core with the liner from the take-up spindle.
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Page 61

Adjust Media Alignment for Rewind Option

The instructions below apply only if the printer has a Rewind option. The liner should be installed flush against the backplate of the rewind spindle to prevent the media/backing from winding too loosely.
Perform the adjustments in the order given. Do only what is needed to solve the problem.
To adjust the media alignment for printers with the Rewind option, complete these steps:
1. Turn the adjustment dial (1) clockwise to move the media toward the backplate (2).
Operations
Load Media in Rewind Mode
61
2
1
2. Turn the adjustment dial (1) counter clockwise to move the media away from the
backplate (
2).
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Operations
62

Load Ribbon

Load Ribbon
Note • This section applies only to printers that have the Thermal Transfer option installed.
The ribbon supply spindle in your printer is a dual-tension variety. Most applications require the spindle to be in the normal position. The lo w tension position is reco mmended only when a narrow ribbon is used or if normal tension hampers the ribbon movement.
Note • Always use ribbon that is wider than the media to protect the printhead from wear.
For direct thermal printing, do not load ribbon in the printer.
Figure 17 • Ribbon Path
3
2
1
Printhead assembly
1
Ribbon supply spindle
2
Ribbon take-up spindle
3
Tension blades
4
4
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Page 63
Load Ribbon
Caution • While performing any tasks near an open printhead, remove all rings, watches,
hanging necklaces, identification badges, or other metallic objects that could touch the printhead. You are not required to turn off the printer power when working near an open printhead, but Zebra recommends it as a precaution. If you turn off the power, you will lose all temporary settings, such as label formats, and you must reload them before you resume printing.
To load ribbon, complete these steps:
1. Set the ribbon supply spindle for normal or low tension.
To place the ribbon supp ly spi ndle in t he normal position, firmly pull out the spindle
end cap until it extends and c licks in place , as sh own in Figure 18. Use this setting for most applications.
T o place the ribbon supply spindle in the low-tension position, firmly push in the end
cap until it retracts and clicks in place, as shown in Figure 18. Use this setting when using a narrow ribbon or if normal tension hampers ribbon movement.
Figure 18 • Ribbon Spindle—Normal and Low Tension
Operations
63
1 2
Normal Position (Spindle End Cap Extended)
1
Low-Tension Position (Spindle End Cap Retracted)
2
2. Press the printhead release latch to open the printhead assembly. Lift the printhead until it
latches open.
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64
Operations
Load Ribbon
3. Orient the ribbon with the loose end unrolling clockwise.
4. Place the ribbon roll onto the ribbon supply spindle (1) and push it all the way back.
1
5. Pull the end of the ribbon under the printhea d assembly ( 2) and out the front of the printer.
2
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Page 65
6. Close the printhead assembly.
7. Wind the ribbon clockwise onto the ribbon take-up spindle (3).
Operations
Load Ribbon
65
3

Remove Used Ribbon

Remove used ribbon from the printer after the ribbon runs out or when switching from thermal transfer mode to direct thermal mode.
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66
Operations
Load Ribbon
To remove used ribbon, complete these steps:
1. If the ribbon has not run out, cut or break it before the ribbon take-up spindle (1).
Caution • Do not cut the ribbon directly on the ribbon take-up spindle. Doing so may
damage the spindle.
1
2. To loosen the ribbon, squeeze the ribbon against the ribbon take-up spindle tension
blades ( counterclockwise (
1). At the same time, turn the ribbon take-up spindle release knob
2).
The tension blades collapse into the ribbon take-up spindle, loosening the ribbon.
1
2
3. Slide the ribbon off of the ribbon take-up spindle.
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Page 67

Calibrate the Printer

Auto Calibration

By default, the printer automatically calibrates on power up or when the printhead is closed. During auto calibration, the printer determines the label length and sensor settings.
The results of the auto calibration are stored in the printer’s memory and are retained even if printer power is removed. These parameters remain in effect until the next calibration is performed.
Note • If the control panel settings for MEDIA POWER UP or HEAD CLOSE are set to
LENGTH, NO MOTION, or FEED, the printer starts printing without auto calibrating. See
Select Media Power-Up Option on page 98 or Select Head Close Option on page 99.

Manual Calibration

Perform a media and ribbon sensor calibration to reset the sensitivity of the sensors so the media and ribbon are detected more accurately. If you change the type of ribbon or media, your printer may operate better if you perform this calibration.
Operations
Calibrate the Printer
67
For instructions, refer to Calibrate Media and Ribbon Sensor Sensitivity on page 92.
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Operations
1
68

Position the Media Sensors

Position the Media Sensors
This printer uses two types of media sensors: transmissive and reflective.

Select or Position the Transmissive Sensor

The standard transmissive sensor (Figure 19) is in a fixed position and enabled from the control panel. An adjustable transmissive sensor, which is available as an option for the Z4Mplus or Z6Mplus, can be adjusted for optimal print performance. For more information about the operation of this sensor, see Select a Sensor on page 84.
Figure 19 • Standard and Adjustable Transmissive Sensors
2
Standard Transmissive Sensor
1
Adjustable Transmissive Sensor (optional)
2
The lower section of the adjustable transmissive sensor has two white vertical positioning marks and a movable adjustment tab pointer (Figure 20).
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Position the Media Sensors
Figure 20 • Transmissive Sensor with Adjustment Tab Pointer
Operations
69
2
Positioning marks
1
Adjustment tab pointer (outer position)
2
Adjustment tab pointer (inner position)
3
To adjust the transmissive sensor, complete these steps:
1. Press the printhead open lever to release the printhead assembly.
2. See Figure 19. Locate the transmissive sensor.
3. Locate the white adjustment tab pointer on the back of the transmissive sensor.
4. What type of media are you using?
If you are using… Then…
Non-continuous media with notched edges
1
3
Move the adjustment tab pointer to the inner positioning mark. The point of the tab should align with the mark.
1
Non-continuous media without notched edges
Move the adjustment tab to the outer positioning mark. The point of the tab should align with the mark.
Continuous media Move the adjustment tab to the outer positioning mark. The
point of the tab should align with the mark.
5. Ensure the media and ribbon are properly positioned.
6. Close the printhead assembly.
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Operations
70
Position the Media Sensors

Adjust the Reflective Sensor

The reflective sensor is compatible with most types of media. W ith non-continuous media, the reflective sensor detects the sta r t-of-label indicator (the notch, hole, black mark, or gap between die-cut labels). With both continuous media and non-continuous media, the sensor detects an out-of-paper condition. If you have difficulties with calibration while using this sensor, use the transmissive sensor (see Select or Position the Transmissive Sensor
on page 68).
Position the reflective sensor in the following way:
• directly under the notch, hole, or black mark with these types of labels
• anywhere along the width of the media if there is a gap between labels
• anywhere under the media for continuous media
The glow of the red light through the media may help you accurately positi on the senso r.
Figure 21 • Adjusting the Reflective Sensor
4
Printhead assembly
1
Reflective sensor
2
Reflective sensor positioning lever
3
Printhead release latch
4
1
2
3
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Position the Media Sensors
To adjust the reflective sensor, complete these steps:
1. See Figure 21. Press the printhead release latch.
2. Lift the printhead until it latches open.
3. Locate the reflective sensor positioning lever.
4. Move the reflective sensor positioning lever across the width of the media until the
reflective sensor aligns with the gap or notch.
5. Close the printhead assembly.
Operations
71
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Operations
72

Adjust Printhead Pressure

Adjust Printhead Pressure
You may need to adjust printhead pressure if printing is too light on one side or if you use thick media.
See Figure 22. The Z4Mplus pressure adjustment dials have four possible settings designated by blocks of increasing size embossed on the print mechanism. The smallest block (fully counterclockwise) is considered position 1, and the largest bloc k (fully clockwise) is considered position 4. For the Z6Mplus, the dials have seve n settings instead of four.
Figure 22 • Printhead Pressure Adjustment Dials
1
1 2
2
Outside dial Inside dial
To set printhead pressure, complete these steps:
1. Use Table 8 or Table 9 to select the initial dial settings for your media, depending on
which printer you have.
Table 8 • Z4Mplus Printhead Pressure
Media Width
1 in. (25.4 mm) 2 in. (51 mm) 3 in. (76 mm)
3.5 in. and up (89 mm and up)
13163L-002 A Z4Mplus/Z6Mplus User Guide 9/18/07
Inside Dial Outside Dial
31 41 32 33
Page 73
Table 9 • Z6Mplus Printhead Pressure
Operations
Adjust Printhead Pressure
73
Media Width
Inside Dial Outside Dial
2 in. (50 mm) 6 1 3 in. (75 mm) 6 2 4 in. (100 mm) 7 3 5 in. (125 mm) 7 4
5.5 in. and up (140 mm and up) 6 6
2. If necessary, adjust the pressure adjustment dials as follows:
If the media... Then...
Requires higher pressure to
Increase both dials one position.
print well Shifts left while printing Increase the outside dial setting one position, or
decrease the inside dial setting one position.
Shifts right while printing Increase the inside dial setting one position, or
decrease the outside dial setting one position.
Prints too lightly on the left side
Increase the inside dial setting one position.
of the label. Prints too lightly on the right
side of the label.
Increase the outside dial setting one position.
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Operations
74

Install Memory Card

Install Memory Card
The printer can use Type I or Type II compliant Personal Computer Memory Card International Association (PCMCIA) cards.
Caution • Observe proper electrostatic safety precautions when handling any
static-sensitive components such as circuit boards and printheads.
Note • The PCMCIA card is hot-swappable. It can be installed while the printer is On (l).
To install the PCMCIA memory card, complete these steps:
1. Remove the PCMCIA card shield from the rear of the printer.
2. Insert the PCMCIA card, with the notch UP, into the card slot as shown (see Figure 23).
Insert the card far enough to cause the eject button to pop out.
Figure 23 • Installing the PCMCIA Card
2
3
1
e
s
F
u
u
F
s
e
PCMCIA card
1
Notch
2
Card eject button
3
3. Reinstall the PCMCIA card shield over the PCMCIA card and card slot.
The printer is now ready to operate with the additional memory or font option.
Note • Initialization of the PCMCIA card may take a few minutes; the PAUSE LED flashes
while the card initializes. If the card is already initialized, th e PAUSE LED flashes only once or twice. To verify that the card has successfully initialized, print a configuration label and review it to see if the new memory card information is listed.
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4

Configuration

This section describes the control panel parameters that are used to configure the printer for operation.
Contents
Setup Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76
Enter Setup Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76
Exit Setup Mode. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77
Change Password-Protected Parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78
Default Password Value. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78
Disable the Password Protection Feature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78
Print a Configuration Label. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79
Print a Network Configuration Label . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80
Control Panel Parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81
How to View or Modify Parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81
Additional Parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81
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Configuration
76

Setup Mode

Setup Mode
After you have installed the media and ribbon and the Power-O n Self T est (PO ST) is complete, the control panel displays application using the control panel display and the buttons directly below it. If it becomes necessary to restore the initial printer defaults, see FEED and PAUSE Self Test on page 138.
Important • Certain printing conditions may require that you adjust printing parameters,
such as print speed, darkness, or print mode. These conditions include (but are not limited to):
• printing at high speeds
• peeling the media
• the use of extremely thin, small, synthetic, or coated labels
Because these and other factors affect print quality, run tests to determine the best combination of printer settings and media for your applic ation. A po or match may li mit print quality or print rate, or the printer may not function properly in the desired print mode.
Note • If the printer is operating on an IP network, you can change the printer’s parameters
in these additional ways:
• with ZebraLink™ WebView (ZebraNet Server required). For information, see the appropriate print server user guide.
• with the SetWLAN configuration utility (ZebraNet Wireless Print Server required). For information, see the ZebraNet Wireless Print Server User Guide.
PRINTER READY. You may now set printer parameters for your
®
10/100 PrintServer or ZebraNet Wireless Print

Enter Setup Mode

To enter Setup Mode, complete these steps:
1. Press SETUP/EXIT.
2. Press PLUS (+) or MINUS (–) to scroll through the parameters.
3. Press SELECT to select and deselect the parameters.
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Exit Setup Mode

To leave Setup mode, complete these steps:
1. Press SETUP/EXIT.
The LCD displays
2. Press PLUS (+) or MINUS (-) to display the save options (Table 10).
LCD Description
SAVE CHANGES.
Table 10 • Save Options When Leaving Setup Mode
Configuration
Setup Mode
77
PERMANENT
TEMPORARY
CANCEL
LOAD DEFAULTS
LOAD LAST SAVE
DEFAULT NET
3. Press SETUP/EXIT to select the displayed choice.
When the configuration and calibration sequence is done,
Stores values in the printer even when power is turned off. Saves the changes until power is turned off. Cancels all changes made since you entered Setup mode,
except for changes made to the darkness and tear-off settings, which go into effect as soon as they are made.
Restores all parameters other than the network settings b ack to the factory defaults. Use care when loading defaults because you will need to reload all settings that you changed manually.
Note • Loading factory defaults causes the printer to
auto-calibrate.
Loads values from the last permanent sav e. Restores the wired and wireless network settings back to
factory defaults.
PRINTER READY displays.
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Configuration
78

Change Password-Protected Parameters

Change Password-Protected Parameters
Certain parameters, including the communication parameters, are password-protected by factory default.
Caution • Do not change password-protected parameters unless you have a complete
understanding of the parameters’ functions. If the parameters are set incorrectly, the printer may function unpredictably.
The first time that you attempt to change a password-protected parameter, the printer displays
ENTER PASSWORD. Before you can change the parameter, you must enter the four-digit
numeric password. After you have entered the password correctly, you do not have to enter it again unless you leave Setup mode by pressing
To enter a password for a password-protected parameter, complete these steps:
1. At the password prompt, use the left oval to change the selected digit position.
2. When you have selected the digit that you wish to change, use the right oval to increase
the selected digit value. Repeat these two steps for each digit of the password.
SETUP/EXIT or by turning Off (O) the printer.
3. After entering the password, press NEXT.
The parameter you selected to change is displayed. If the password was entered correctly, you can change the value.

Default Password Value

The default password value is 1234. The password can be changed using the ^KP (Define Password) ZPL II instruction or through ZebraLink 10/100 Print Server, or Wireless Print Server required).

Disable the Password Protection Feature

You can disable the password protection feature so that it no longer prompts you for a password by setting the password to 0000 via the password-protection feature, send the ZPL/ZPL II command number from 1 to 9999.
^KP ZPL/ZPL II command. T o re-enable the
WebView (ZebraNet® PrintServer II,
^KPx, where x can be any
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Print a Configuration Label

A configuration label lists the printer settings that are stored in configuration memory. After you load the media and ribbon (if necessary), print a configuration label as a record of your printer’s current settings. Keep the label to use when troubleshooting printing problems.
To print a configuration label, complete these steps:
1. On the control panel, press SETUP/EXIT.
2. Press NEXT or PREVIOUS to scroll through the parameters until you reach
LIST SETUP.
3. Press the right oval to confirm printing.
A configuration label prints (Figure 24).
Figure 24 • Configuration Label
Configuration
Print a Configuration Label
79
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Configuration
80

Print a Network Configuration Label

Print a Network Configuration Label
If you are using a print server, you can print a network configuration label after the printer is connected to the network.
To print a network configuration label, complete these steps:
1. On the control panel, press SETUP/EXIT.
2. Press NEXT or PREVIOUS to scroll through the parameters until you reach
LIST NETWORK.
3. Press the right oval to confirm printing.
A network configuration label prints (Figure 25). An asterisk designates whether the wired or wireless print server is active. If n o wireless print server is installed, the wireless portion of the label does not print.
Figure 25 • Network Configuration Label (With a Wireless Print Server Installed)
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Control Panel Parameters

Use the LCD on the control panel to view and adjust printer settings.

How to View or Modify Parameters

While viewing parameters, press PLUS (+) to continue to the next parameter, or press
MINUS (-) to return to the previous parameter in the cycle. Press SELECT when you wish to
modify a parameter or view its options. When a parameter is changed, an asterisk (*) appears in the upper left corner of the display to indicate that the value is different from the one currently active in the printer.
Note • Your label preparation software or the printer driver may override adjustments made
through the control panel. Refer to the software or driver documentation for more information.

Additional Parameters

Configuration
Control Panel Parameters
81
Additional parameters appear in the following situations:
• When a wired print server is installed in the printer. For more information, see the appropriate manual: the ZebraNet 10/100 Print Server User and Reference Guide or the PrintServer II User and Reference Guide.
• When a wireless print server is installed in the printer (available as a special order on Z4Mplus printers only). For more info rmation, see the ZebraNet W ir eless Print Server and
Wireless Plus Print Server User Guide
Copies of these manuals are available at http://www.zebra.com/manuals or on the user CD that came with your printer.
Standard Printer Parameters
Ta ble 11 shows parameters in the order in which they are displayed when you press PLUS (+)
after entering Setup mode.
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Configuration
82
Control Panel Parameters
Table 11 • Printer Parameters (Page 1 of 22)
Parameter
DARKNESS +10.0
- +
Action/Explanation
Adjust Print Darkness
Darkness (burn duration) settings depend on a variety of factors, including ribbon type, media type, and the cond ition of the printhead . You may adjust the darkness for consistent high-quality printing.
Important • Set the darkness to the lowest setting that provides
good print quality. If the darkness is set too high, the ink may smear, the ribbon may burn through, or the printhead may wear prematurely.
If printing is too light or if there are voids in printed areas, increase the darkness. If printing is too dark or if there is spreading or bleeding of printed areas, decrease the darkness.
The FEED Self Test on page 134 can be used to determine th e best darkness setting. You may want to adjust darkness while performing the PAUSE Sel f
Test on page 133. Because the darkness setting takes effect immediately,
you can see the results on labels that are currently printing. Darkness settings also may be changed by the driver or software settings.
Default: +10 Range: 0 to 30
To change the value shown:
1. Press SELECT to select the parameter.
2. Press PLUS (+) to increase darkness.
3. Press
4. Press
MINUS (-) to decrease darkness. SELECT to accept any changes and deselect the parameter.
PRINT SPEED 2 IPS +
Adjust Print Speed
Adjusts the speed for printing a label (given in inches per second). Slower print speeds typically yield better print quality. Print speed changes take effect upon exiting Setup mode.
Default: 2 IPS Range: 2 to 10 IPS
To change the value shown:
1. Press SELECT to select the parameter.
2. Press
3. Press
4. Press
PLUS (+) to increase the value. MINUS (-) to decrease the value. SELECT to accept any changes and deselect the parameter.
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Table 11 • Printer Parameters (Page 2 of 22)
Configuration
Control Panel Parameters
83
Parameter
TEAR OFF +000
- +
Action/Explanation
Adjust the Tear-Off Position
This parameter establishes the position of the media over the tear-off/peel-off bar after printing.
See Figure 26. Higher numbers move the media out (the tear line moves closer to the leading edge of the next label), and lower numbers move the media in (the tear line moves closer to the edge of the label just printed).
Figure 26 • Tear-Off Position Adjustment
1
2
Media direction
1
Factory-set tear line location at position 00
2
PRINT MODE
-TEAR-OFF +
Default: +0 Range: –120 to +120
To change the value shown:
1. Press SELECT to select the parameter.
2. Press
PLUS (+) to increase the value. Each press adjusts the tear-off
position by four dot rows.
3. Press
MINUS (-) to decrease the value. Each press adjusts the tear-off
position by four dot rows.
4. Press
SELECT to accept any changes and deselect the parameter.
Select Print Mode
Print mode settings tell the printer the method of media delivery that you wish to use. Make sure that your printer can support the selected option.
Default: TEAR-OFF Selections: TEAR-OFF, PEEL-OFF, CUTTER, REWIND
To change the value shown:
1. Press SELECT to select the parameter.
2. Press
3. Press
PLUS (+) or MINUS (-) to scroll through the options. SELECT to accept any changes and deselect the parameter.
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Configuration
84
Control Panel Parameters
Table 11 • Printer Parameters (Page 3 of 22)
Parameter
MEDIA TYPE
-NON-CONTINUOUS +
SENSOR TYPE
-WEB +
Action/Explanation
Set Media Type
This parameter tells the printer the type of media that you are using (see
Types of Media on page 31 for more information). Selecting continuous
media requires that you include a label length instruction in your label format (
^LLxxxx if you are using ZPL or ZPL II).
When non-continuous media is selected, the printer feeds media to calculate label length (the distance between two recognized registration points of the inter-label gap, webbing, or alignment notch or hole).
Default: NON-CONTINUOUS Selections: CONTINUOUS, NON-CONTINUOUS
To change the value shown:
1. Press SELECT to select the parameter.
2. Press
3. Press
PLUS (+) or MINUS (-) to toggle between the options. SELECT to accept any changes and deselect the parameter.
Set the Sensor Type
This parameter tells the printer whether you are using media with a web (gap/space between labels, notch, or hole) to indicate the separations between labels or if you are using media with a black mark printed on the back. If your media does not have black marks for registration on the back, leave your printer at the default (WEB).
Default: WEB Selections: WEB, MARK
SENSOR SELECT
-AUTO SELECT +
To change the value shown:
1. Press SELECT to select the parameter.
2. Press PLUS (+) or MINUS (-) to toggle between the options.
3. Press
SELECT to accept any changes and deselect the parameter.
Select a Sensor
This parameter tells the printer the sensor that you wish to use. AUTO SELECT is compatible with most types of media. Select the reflective sensor with continuous media or with non-continuous black mark media; select the transmissive sensor if you are using non-continuous web media.
Default: AUTO SELECT Selections: AUTO SELECT, REFLECTIVE, TRANSMISSIVE
To change the value shown:
1. Press SELECT to select the parameter.
2. Press
PLUS (+) or MINUS (-) to scroll through the choices.
3. Press SELECT to accept any changes and deselect the parameter.
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Table 11 • Printer Parameters (Page 4 of 22)
Configuration
Control Panel Parameters
85
Parameter
PRINT METHOD
-THERMAL-TRANS. +
PRINT WIDTH
- 104 0/8 MM +
Action/Explanation
Select Print Method
The print method parameter tells the printer the me thod of printin g that you wish to use: direct thermal (no ribbon) or thermal transfer (using thermal transfer media and ribbon).
Default: THERMAL TRANSFER Selections: THERMAL TRANSFER, DIRECT THERMAL
Note • Selecting direct thermal when using thermal transfer media
and ribbon creates an error condition, but printing continues.
To change the value shown:
1. Press SELECT to select the parameter.
2. Press
3. Press
PLUS (+) or MINUS (-) to toggle between the options. SELECT to accept any changes and deselect the parameter.
Set Print Width
Determines the printable area across the width of the label given the resolution of the printer.
Default: 104 0/8 MM
Note • Setting the width too narrow can result in portions of the
label not being printed on the media. Setting the width too wide wastes formatting memory and can cause printing off the label and on the platen roller . This setting can af fect the horizont al position of the label format if the image was inverted using the ^POI ZPL II command.
To change the value shown:
1. Press SELECT to select the parameter.
2. Press
3. Press
MINUS (-) to move the cursor. PLUS (+) to increase the value of the digit.
4. Press SELECT to accept any changes and deselect the parameter.
To change the unit of measurement:
1. Press SELECT to select the parameter.
2. Press
3. Press
MINUS (-) until the unit of measurement is active. PLUS (+) to toggle to a different unit of measure (mm, inches,
or dots).
4. Press
SELECT to accept any changes and deselect the parameter.
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Configuration
86
Control Panel Parameters
Table 11 • Printer Parameters (Page 5 of 22)
Parameter
MAXIMUM LENGTH
-39.0 IN 988 MM
Action/Explanation
Set Maximum Label Length
This parameter is used during the media portion of the calibration process. Always set maximum label length to a value that is at least 1.0 in.
(25.4 mm) greater than the actual label length (Figure 27). If the va lue is set to a smaller value than the label length, the printer assumes that continuous media is loaded, and the printer cannot calibrat e.
For example, if the label length is 5.0 inches (126 mm) including the interlabel gap, set the parameter for 6.0 inches (152 mm). If the label length is 7.5 inches (190 mm), set the parameter for 9.0 inches (229 mm).
Figure 27 • Label Length
2
}
3
1
Label length (including interlabel gap)
1
Interlabel gap
2
Set maximum label length to approximately
3
this value
Default: 39.0 inches (988 mm). Range: Values are adjustable in one-inch (25.4 mm) increments.
To change the value shown:
1. Press SELECT to select the parameter.
2. Press
3. Press
4. Press
PLUS (+) to increase the value. MINUS (-) to decrease the value. SELECT to accept any changes and deselect the parameter.
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Table 11 • Printer Parameters (Page 6 of 22)
Configuration
Control Panel Parameters
87
Parameter
LIST FONTS PRINT
LIST BAR CODES PRINT
LIST IMAGES PRINT
Action/Explanation
List Fonts
This option prints a label that lists the available fonts in the printer, including standard printer fonts plus any optional font s. Fonts may be stored in RAM, Flash memory, optional PCMCIA font cards, or Compact Flash cards.
To print a list of the available fonts:
1. Press SELECT to select the parameter.
2. Press
PLUS (+) to select PRINT.
3. Press SELECT to accept any changes and deselect the parameter.
List Bar Codes
This option prints a label that lists the available bar codes in t he printer. Bar codes may be stored in RAM, Flash memory, optional PCMCIA cards, or Compact Flash cards.
To print a list of the available bar codes:
1. Press SELECT to select the parameter.
2. Press PLUS (+) to select PRINT.
3. Press
SELECT to accept any changes and deselect the parameter.
List Images
This option prints a label that lists the available images stored in the printer’ s RAM, Fl ash memory, optional memory card, PCMCIA cards, or Compact Flash cards.
LIST FORMATS PRINT
To print a list of the available images:
1. Press SELECT to select the parameter.
2. Press
3. Press
PLUS (+) to select PRINT. SELECT to accept any changes and deselect the parameter.
List Formats
This option prints a label that lists the available formats stored in the printer’ s RAM , Flash memo ry, optional EPROM, or optional memory card.
To print a list of the available formats:
1. Press SELECT to select the parameter.
2. Press
3. Press
PLUS (+) to select PRINT. SELECT to accept any changes and deselect the parameter.
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Configuration
88
Control Panel Parameters
Table 11 • Printer Parameters (Page 7 of 22)
Parameter
LIST SETUP PRINT
LIST NETWORK PRINT
LIST ALL PRINT
Action/Explanation
List Setup
This option prints a configuration label (see Figure 24 on page 79), which lists the current printer configuration.
To print a configuration label:
1. Press SELECT to select the parameter.
2. Press PLUS (+) to select PRINT.
3. Press
SELECT to accept any changes and deselect the parameter.
List Network Settings
This option prints a network configuration label (see Figure 25
on page 80), which lists the settings for any print server that is installed.
To print a network configuration label:
1. Press SELECT to select the parameter.
2. Press PLUS (+) to select PRINT.
3. Press
SELECT to accept any changes and deselect the parameter.
List All
This option prints labels that list the available fonts, bar codes, images, formats, and the current printer and network configurations.
To print labels for all settings:
1. Press SELECT to select the parameter.
2. Press PLUS (+) to select PRINT.
3. Press
SELECT to accept any changes and deselect the parameter.
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Table 11 • Printer Parameters (Page 8 of 22)
Configuration
Control Panel Parameters
89
Parameter
FORMAT CARD: A: B:
Action/Explanation
Format Memory Card
This option erases all previously stored information from the optional PCMCIA card or Compact Flash card.
Caution • This option completely erases the selected card.
To format a memory card:
1. Press SELECT to select the parameter.
2. Press
MINUS (-) to select A: or PLUS (+) to select B:.
If your printer is set to require a password, you are prompted to enter the password.
3. Enter the password. For instructions, see Change Password-Protected
Parameters on page 78.
4. Press the appropriate button again to select the desired card. The display shows ARE YOU SURE?.
5. Do you wish to continue?
• Press
MINUS (-) to select NO to cancel the request and return to
FORMAT CARD prompt.
• Press
PLUS (+) to select YES and begin initialization.
When initialization is complete, the printer automatically exits Setup mode, and the control panel displays
PRINTER READY. If you exit
Setup mode while initialization is still in process, the control panel display flashes between the phrases
CHECKING B: MEMORY and
PRINTER IDLE.
Note • Depending on the amount of memory in the memory card,
initialization may take up to 5 minutes to complete.
6. Press
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SELECT to accept any changes and deselect the parameter.
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Control Panel Parameters
Table 11 • Printer Parameters (Page 9 of 22)
Parameter
INIT FLASH MEM. YES
Action/Explanation
Initialize Flash Memory
This option erases all previously stored information from Flash memory.
Caution • This option completely erases the Flash memory.
To initialize Flash memory:
1. Press SELECT to select the parameter.
2. Press
PLUS (+) to select YES.
If your printer is set to require a password, you are prompted to enter the password.
3. Enter the password. For instructions, see Change Password-Protected
Parameters on page 78.
The display shows INITIALIZE FLASH?
4. Press PLUS (+) to select YES. The display shows
ARE YOU SURE?.
5. Do you wish to continue?
• Press
MINUS (-) to select NO to cancel the request and return to the
INITIALIZE FLASH prompt.
• Press PLUS (+) to select YES and begin initialization.
When initialization is complete, the printer automatically exits Setup mode, and the control panel displays
PRINTER READY. If you exit
Setup mode while initialization is still in process, the control panel display flashes between the phrases
CHECKING E: MEMORY and
PRINTER IDLE.
Note • Depending on the amount of free FLASH memory,
initialization may take up to 1 minute to complete.
6. Press
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SELECT to accept any changes and deselect the parameter.
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Table 11 • Printer Parameters (Page 10 of 22)
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91
Parameter
SENSOR PROFILE PRINT
Action/Explanation
Print Sensor Profile
The sensor profile may be used to troubleshoot registration problems that may be caused when the media sensor detects preprinted areas on the media or if it experiences difficulty in determining web location.
Figure 28 shows a sensor profile. If the sensitivity of the media and/or
ribbon sensors must be adjusted, use Calibrate Media and Ribbon Sensor
Sensitivity on page 92 to adjust sensor sensitivity.
Figure 28 • Sensor Profile
To print a sensor profile:
1. Press SELECT to select the parameter.
2. Press PLUS (+) to start this standard calibration procedure and print a media sensor profile.
3. Press
SELECT to accept any changes and deselect the parameter.
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Table 11 • Printer Parameters (Page 11 of 22)
Parameter
MEDIA AND RIBBON CALIBRATE
Action/Explanation
Calibrate Media and Ribbon Sensor Sensitivity
Use this procedure to adjust sensitivity of media and ribbon sensors.
Important • Follow this procedure exactly as presented. All of the
steps must be performed even if only one of the sensors requires adjustment. You may press
MINUS (-) at any step in this procedure
to cancel the process.
To perform a media and ribbon sensor calibration:
1. Press SELECT to select the parameter.
2. Press SELECT and then PLUS (+) to start the calibration procedure. The
LOAD BACKING prompt displays.
3. Open the printhead.
4. Remove approximately 8 in. (203 mm) of labels from t he backi ng, and pull the media into the printer so that only the backing is between the media sensors.
5. Leave the printhead open.
6. Press
PLUS (+) to continue.
REMOVE RIBBON prompt displays.
The
7. Remove the ribbon (if used).
8. Close the printhead.
9. Press
PLUS (+) to continue.
The message
CALIBRATING PLEASE WAIT displays.
The printer adjusts the scale (gain) of the signals that it receives from the media and ribbon sensors based on the specific media and ribbon combination being used. On the sensor profile, this essentially corresponds to moving the peak of the graph up or down to optimize the readings for your application.
When calibration is complete,
RELOAD ALL displays.
10. Open the printhead and pu ll the media forward until a label is positioned under the media sensor.
11. Reload the ribbon (if used).
12. Close the printhead.
13. Press
PLUS (+) to continue.
The printer performs an auto-calibration. During this process, the printer checks the readings for the media and ribbon based on the new scale established, determines the labe l len gt h, an d determines the print mode. To see the new readings on the new scale, print a sensor profile.
14. Press
SELECT to accept any changes and deselect the parameter.
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Table 11 • Printer Parameters (Page 12 of 22)
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93
Parameter
PARALLEL COMM.
-BIDIRECTIONAL +
SERIAL COMM
-RS232 +
Action/Explanation
Set Parallel Communications
Select the communications port that match es the one being u sed by the host computer.
Default: BIDIRECTIONAL Selections: BIDIRECTIONAL, UNIDIRECTIONAL
To change the value shown:
1. Press SELECT to select the parameter.
2. Press
PLUS (+) or MINUS (-) to scroll through the options.
3. Press SELECT to accept any changes and deselect the parameter.
Set Serial Communications
Select the communications port that match es the one being u sed by the host computer.
Important • Do not change this parameter from the default. The
printer supports only RS-232. This parameter will be eliminated in a future version of the firmware.
Default: RS232 Selections: RS232, RS422/485, RS485 MULTIDROP
To change the value shown:
1. Press SELECT to select the parameter.
2. Press
3. Press
PLUS (+) or MINUS (-) to scroll through the options. SELECT to accept any changes and deselect the parameter.
BAUD
-9600 +
Set Baud
The baud setting of the printer must match the baud setting of the host computer for accurate communications to take place. Select the value that matches the one being used by the host computer.
Default: 9600 Selections: 110, 300, 600, 1200, 2400, 4800, 9600, 14400, 19200, 28800,
38400, 57600, 1 15 20 0
To change the value shown:
1. Press SELECT to select the parameter.
2. Press
3. Press
PLUS (+) or MINUS (-) to scroll through the options. SELECT to accept any changes and deselect the parameter.
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Table 11 • Printer Parameters (Page 13 of 22)
Parameter
DATA BITS
- 8 BITS
PARITY
- NONE +
Action/Explanation
Set Data Bits
The data bits of the printer must match the data bits of the host computer for accurate communications to take place. Set the data bits to match the setting being used by the host computer.
Note • Code Page 850 requires the data bits to be set to 8 bits. See
the ZPL II Programming Guide for more information.
Default: 8 BITS Selections: 7 BITS, 8 BITS
To change the value shown:
1. Press SELECT to select the parameter.
2. Press
3. Press
PLUS (+) or MINUS (-) to toggle between the options. SELECT to accept any changes and deselect the parameter.
Set Parity
The parity of the printer must match the parity of the host computer for accurate communications to take place. Select the parity that matches the one being used by the host computer.
Default: NONE Selections: EVEN, ODD, NONE
HOST HANDSHAKE
- XON/XOFF +
To change the value shown:
1. Press SELECT to select the parameter.
2. Press PLUS (+) or MINUS (-) to scroll through the options.
3. Press
SELECT to accept any changes and deselect the parameter.
Set Host Handshake
The handshake protocol of the printer must match the handshake protocol of the host computer for communication to take place . Select the handshake protocol that matches the one being used by the host computer.
Default: XON/XOFF Selections: XON/XOFF, DTR/DSR, RTS/CTS
To change the value shown:
1. Press SELECT to select the parameter.
2. Press
3. Press
PLUS (+) or MINUS (-) to scroll through the options. SELECT to accept any changes and deselect the parameter.
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Table 11 • Printer Parameters (Page 14 of 22)
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95
Parameter
PROTOCOL
- NONE +
NETWORK ID
- 000 +
Action/Explanation
Set Protocol
Protocol is a type of error checking system. Depending on the selection, an indicator may be sent from the printer to the host computer signifying that data has been received. Select the protocol that is requested by the host computer. Further details on protocol can be found in the ZPL II Programming Guid e.
Default: NONE Selections: NONE, ZEBRA, ACK_NAK
Note • ZEBRA is the same as ACK_NAK, except that ZEBRA
response messages are sequenced. If must use
To change the value shown:
DTR/DSR for host handshake protocol.
ZEBRA is selected, the printer
1. Press SELECT to select the parameter.
2. Press
PLUS (+) or MINUS (-) to scroll through the options.
3. Press SELECT to accept any changes and deselect the parameter.
Set Network ID
Network ID is used to assign a unique number to a printer. This gives the host computer the means to address a specific printer. This does not affect TCP/IP or IPX networks.
Default: 000 Range: 000 to 999
To change the value shown:
1. Press SELECT to select the parameter.
2. Press
MINUS (-) to move to the next digit position.
3. Press PLUS (+) to increase the value of the digit.
4. Press
SELECT to accept any changes and deselect the parameter.
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Table 11 • Printer Parameters (Page 15 of 22)
Parameter
COMMUNICATIONS
- NORMAL MODE +
Action/Explanation
Set Communications Mode
The communication diagnostics mode is a troubleshooting tool for checking the interconnection between the printer and the host computer.
DIAGNOSTICS is selected, all data sent from the host computer to
When the printer prints as straight ASCII characters, with the hex value belo w the ASCII text. The printer prints all characters received, including control codes, like CR (carriage return). A sample printout is shown in
Communications Diagnostics Test on page 138.
Notes on diagnostic printouts are defined as follows:
• FE indicates a framing error.
• OE indicates an overrun error.
• PE indicates a parity error.
• NE indicates noise.
Default: NORMAL MODE Selections: NORMAL MODE, DIAGNOSTICS
To change the value shown:
1. Press SELECT to select the parameter.
2. Press PLUS (+) or MINUS (-) to toggle between the options.
3. For any errors, check that your communication parameters are correct.
4. Set the print width equal to or less than the label wi dth used for the test. See Set Print Width on page 85 for more information.
5. Press
SELECT to accept any changes and deselect the parameter.
CONTROL PREFIX
- < >7EH +
Set Control Prefix Character
The printer looks for this two-digit hex character to indicate the start of a ZPL/ZPL II control instruction. The “H” that is displayed indicates Hexadecimal and is not part of the value.
Note • Do not use the same hex value for the control, format, and
delimiter character. The printer must see different characters to work properly.
Default: 7E (tilde—displayed as a black square) Range: 00 to FF
To change the value shown:
1. Press SELECT to select the parameter.
2. Press
3. Press
4. Press
MINUS (-) to move to the next digit position. PLUS (+) to increase the value of the digit. SELECT to accept any changes and deselect the parameter.
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Table 11 • Printer Parameters (Page 16 of 22)
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97
Parameter
FORMAT PREFIX
- <^>5EH +
DELIMITER CHAR
- <,>2CH +
Action/Explanation
Set Format Prefix Character
The format prefix is a two-digit hex value used a s a parameter place marke r in ZPL/ZPL II format instructions. The “H” that is displayed indicates Hexadecimal and is not part of the value. The printer looks for this hex character to indicate the start of a ZPL/ZPL II format instruction. See the ZPL II Programming Guide Volume I for more information.
Note • Do not use the same hex value for the control, format, and
delimiter character. The printer must see different characters to work properly.
Default: 5E (caret) Range: 00 to FF
To change the value shown:
1. Press SELECT to select the parameter.
2. Press
MINUS (-) to move to the next digit position.
3. Press PLUS (+) to increase the value of the digit.
4. Press
SELECT to accept any changes and deselect the parameter.
Set Delimiter Character
The delimiter character is a two-digit hex value used as a parameter place marker in ZPL/ZPL II format instructions. See the ZPL II Programming Guide Volume I for more information.
Note • Do not use the same hex value for the control, format, and
delimiter character. The printer must see different characters to work properly.
Default: 2C (comma) Range: 00 to FF
To change the value shown:
1. Press SELECT to select the parameter.
2. Press MINUS (-) to move to the next digit position.
3. Press
4. Press
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PLUS (+) to increase the value of the digit. SELECT to accept any changes and deselect the parameter.
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Control Panel Parameters
Table 11 • Printer Parameters (Page 17 of 22)
Parameter
ZPL MODE
- ZPL II +
MEDIA POWER UP
- CALIBRATION +
Action/Explanation
Select ZPL Mode
The printer remains in the selected mode until it is changed by this parameter or by using a ZPL/ZPL II command. The printer accepts label formats written in either ZPL or ZPL II, eliminating th e need to rewrit e any ZPL formats that already exist. See the ZPL II Programming Guide for more information on the differences between ZPL and ZPL II.
Default: ZPL II Selections: ZPL II, ZPL
To change the value shown:
1. Press SELECT to select the parameter.
2. Press
3. Press
PLUS (+) or MINUS (-) to toggle between the options. SELECT to accept any changes and deselect the parameter.
Select Media Power-Up Option
This parameter sets the action of the media when you turn on the printer.
Default: CALIBRATION Selections: FEED, CALIBRATION, LENGTH, and NO MOTION
Feed—feeds the labels to the first registration point.
Calibration—determines the length of the label and adjusts the
sensor settings.
Length—In continuous mode, feeds the last stored label length. In
noncontinuous mode, calibrates based on the maximum label length setting (see Set Maximum Label Length on page 86).
No Motion—the media does not move. Yo u must press
FEED to
cause the printer to resynch to the start of the next label.
To change the value shown:
1. Press SELECT to select the parameter.
2. Press
PLUS (+) or MINUS (-) to scroll through the options.
3. Press SELECT to accept any changes and deselect the parameter.
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Parameter
HEAD CLOSE
- CALIBRATION +
BACKFEED
- DEFAULT +
Action/Explanation
Select Head Close Option
This parameter sets the action of the media when you close the printhead.
Default: CALIBRATION Selections: FEED, CALIBRATION, LENGTH, and NO MOTION
Feed—feeds the labels to the first registration point.
Calibration—determines the length of the label and adjusts the
sensor settings.
Length—In continuous mode, feeds the last stored label length. In
noncontinuous mode, calibrates based on the maximum label length setting (see Set Maximum Label Length on page 86).
No Motion—the media does not move. You must press
FEED to
cause the printer to resynch to the start of the next label.
To change the value shown:
1. Press SELECT to select the parameter.
2. Press PLUS (+) or MINUS (-) to scroll through the options.
3. Press
SELECT to accept any changes and deselect the parameter.
Select Backfeed Sequence
This parameter sets when label backfeed occurs after a label is removed in some print modes. It has no effect in Rewind mode. This setting is superseded by
~JS when received as part of a label format (see ZPL II
Programming Guide Volume I).
Default: DEFAULT (90%) Selections: DEFAULT, AFTER, BEFORE, 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%,
60%, 70%, 80%, OFF
To change the value shown:
1. Press SELECT to select the parameter.
2. Press
PLUS (+) or MINUS (-) to scroll through the options.
3. Press SELECT to accept any changes and deselect the parameter.
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Table 11 • Printer Parameters (Page 19 of 22)
Parameter
LABEL TOP +000
- +
LEFT POSITION
- ±0000 +
Action/Explanation
Adjust Label Top Position
This parameter adjusts the print position vertically on the label. Positive numbers adjust the label top position farther down the label (away from the printhead); negative numbers adjust the position up the label (toward the printhead). The displayed value represents dots.
Default: +000 Range: –120 to +120 dots
To change the value shown:
1. Press SELECT to select the parameter.
2. Press
3. Press
4. Press
PLUS (+) to increase the value. MINUS (-) to decrease the value. SELECT to accept any changes and deselect the parameter.
Adjust Left Position
This parameter establishes how far from the left edge of a label the format begins to print by adjusting horizontal positioning on the label. Positive numbers adjust the printing away from the main frame by the number of dots selected; negative numbers shift printing toward the main frame. The displayed value represents dots.
Default: 0000 Range: –9999 to +9999 dots
To change the value shown:
1. Press SELECT to select the parameter.
2. Press
3. Press
MINUS (-) to move the cursor. PLUS (+) to change between +/- and to increase the value of the
digit.
4. For a negative value, enter the value before changing to the minus sign.
5. Press
SELECT to accept any changes and deselect the parameter.
13163L-002 A Z4Mplus/Z6Mplus User Guide 9/18/07
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