ZEBRA
ZXP Series 3™
P1058486-004
User’s Manual
Copyright Notice
© 2014 ZIH Corp.
This document contains information proprietary to Zebra Technologies Corporation. This
document and the information contained within is Copyrighted by Zebra Technologies
Corporation and may not be duplicated in ful l or in part by any person without written
approval from Zebra.
While every effort has been made to keep the information contained within current and
accurate as of the date of publication, no guarantee is given that the document is error-free or
that it is accurate with regard to any specification. Zebra Technologies Corporation reserves
the right to make changes, for the purpose of product improvement, at any time.
Trademarks
ZXP Series 3 is a trademark and Zebra is a registered trademark of Zebra Technologies
Corporation. Windows is a registered trademark of Microsoft Corporation in the United States
and other countries. All other trademarks or registered trademarks are marks of their
respective holders.
Product Disposal
Product Disposal Information • Do not dispose of this product in unsorted municipal
waste. This product is recyclable, and should be recycled ac co rding to your local
standards. For more information, please our web site at:
http://www.zebra.com/environment
P1058486-004 Rev. A
Contents
1 • Getting Started . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
ZXP Series 3 Part Numbers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Features, Controls, and Indicators. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Rear Panel Connectors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Multi-Function LCD Panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
2 • Printer Installation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Unpacking Your Card Printer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Installing the Printer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Setting up the Printer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Connecting Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11
Connecting the Printer to your Computer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Viewing Printer Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Installing the Windows Printer Driver. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Installing the USB Printer Driver . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Installing the Ethernet Printer Driver . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Setting Up a Network Printer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Printer Pooling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
3 • Printer Setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Printer Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Loading Ribbon Cartridge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Loading Cards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
Card Hopper. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
Printing a Test Card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
Typical Printer Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
Creating a Sample Card. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
Printing the Sample Card. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
P1058486-004 Zebra ZXP Series 3 Card Printer User’s Manual i
Contents
4 • Printer Settings and Adjustments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
Introduction. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
Printer Properties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
General Tab . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Sharing Tab . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
Ports Tab . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
Advanced Tab. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
Color Management Tab . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
Security Tab . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
Device Settings Tab . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
Printing Preferences. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Card Setup Tab. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
Encoding Tab . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65
About Tab. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68
5 • Cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69
Cleaning the System. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69
When to Clean . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69
How to Clean . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70
Cleaning the Printhead. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71
6 • Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73
Introduction. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73
Troubleshooting Procedures. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74
LCD Panel Warnings and Error Messages. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74
Print Quality Issues. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78
7 • Technical Specifications. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85
Printer Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85
ISO Standard Card Dimensions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89
Compliance Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90
A • Advanced Sharing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93
B • Magnetic Encoder Option . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103
C • Smart Card Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107
D • Half-Panel Ribbon Operation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113
E • CardSense Single Card Feed Mode. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119
F • Enclosure Lock Option. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 125
G • Worldwide Support. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 127
ii Zebra ZXP Series 3 Card Printer User’s Manual P1058486-004
1
Getting Started
This manual contains installation and operation information for the Zebra ZXP Series 3 Card
Printer, manufactured by Zebra Technologies Corporation.
The printer provides full color dye sublimation or monochrome thermal transfer printing on
standard 2.125 inch by 3.375 inch (54 mm by 86 mm) PVC or PVC Composite plasti c 1 0-mil
to 40-mil cards. The integrated card feeder and flipper minimizes printer size while
maximizing performance. Zebra ZXP Series 3 Load-N-Go™ ribbon cartridges are used with
an integrated card cleaning roller for easy ribbon changing or replacement. A variety of
options (some of which can be factory-installed or field-installed as upgrades) are available,
making the printers configurable for varied application environments:
• Magnetic Encoder
• USB only or USB and 10/100 Ethernet
• Contact + Contactless MIFARE Smart Card
• Contact Station
• Security (Enclosure Lock)
™
•CardSense
Its auto-switching 100 ~ 240 Volts AC, 50 ~ 60 Hz external power supply uses interchangeable power cords for maximum flexibility.
This manual describes single- and dual-sided ZXP Series 3 Card Printers. References to “the
printer” in this document apply to either single-sided or the dual-side d printer models.
single-card feed mode
P1058486-004 Zebra ZXP Series 3 Card Printer User’s Manual 1
1: Getting Started
ZXP Series 3 Part Numbers
ZXP Series 3 Part Numbers
The Part Number of a particular Zebra ZXP Series 3 Card Prin ter is shown on a label af fixed to
the bottom of the printer; that Pa rt Number identifi es the specific confi guration for that printer.
This chart shows the configurations that are available:
PART NUMBER DESCRIPTION
Z3_ -____________ BASE UNIT
__1-_____2______ Single-Sided
__2-_____2______ Dual-Sided
SMART CARD OPTIONS
___-0____2______ None
___-A____2______ PC/SC Contact Encoder + Contactless MIFARE, see NOTE
___-E____2______ Contact Station, NOTE
___-_0__________ None
___-_M___2______ ISO HiCo/LoCo Mag S/W-selectable
___-__0_________ None
___-0_A_________ Enclosure Lock: Includes 2 keys, and Output Bin cover
___ -A_A_________ Enclosure Lock: Includes 2 keys, and Output Bin with cover
___ -E_A_________ Enclosure Lock: Includes 2 keys, and Output Bin with cover
___-___0________ USB Only
___-___C________ USB & 10/100 Ethernet, see NOTE
___-____0_______ None
___-____G_______ Starter Kit: Monochrome ( Incl: 1 Monochrome Ribbon,
___-____H_______ Starter Kit: Color ( Incl: 1 YMCKO Ribbon, 200 PVC Cards )
___-____I_______ Starter Kit: Dual-Sided Color ( Incl: 1 YMCKOK Ribbon,
___-_____000____ None
___-_____2______ ZXP Series 3 Release 2.0
___-________00__ No power cords
___-________AP__ Britain
___-________US__ Americas
___-________BR__ Brazil
_ _ _ - _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ E M _ _ EMEA (Europe, the Middle East, and Africa)
___-________CN00 China
___-________IN00 India
___-__________00 State / Province / Project / Other
ACCESSORIES
105862-001 CardSense
105999-301 Cleaning Kit: 4 printer-path and 4 feeder cleaning cards
NOTE: Field-Upgradeable Option
MAG ENCODER OPTIONS
SECURITY OPTIONS, NOTE
INTERFACE OPTIONS
SOFTWARE / KIT
200 PVC Cards )
200 PVC Cards )
MISCELLANEOUS
COUNTRY CODE (power cord option)
CUSTOM CODE
TM
single card feed option, see NOTE
2 Zebra ZXP Series 3 Card Printer User’s Manual P1058486-004
Features, Controls, and Indicators
Card Feeder
Cover
Lid Release
Button
Multi-Function LCD
Display Panel
Multi-Function
Control Button
Card Hopper
Zebra Print
Touch Tag
Quick Help
QR Code
The picture below points out some of the printer’s external features; see Section 3 for an
interior view.
1: Getting Started
Features, Controls, and Indicators
• Card Feeder Cover - Opening the Card Feeder Cover gives access to the automatic card
feeder. The translucent cover allows you to when the card supply is running low. The
feeder has a 100-card capacity (30-mil cards).
• Lid Release Button - Pressing the Lid Release Button allows the printer’s lid to swing
open. This gives internal access for changing the Ribbon Cartridge, changing Cleaning
Rollers, and cleaning the printer.
• Multi-Function LCD Display Panel - The Multi-Function LCD Display Panel displays
printer status information. Messages also alert the user of the need for action and indicate
certain fault conditions.
• Multi-Function Control Button - The Multi-Function Control Button initiates several
functions; these are described in the appropriate sections of this document.
• Card Hopper - Front-side Card Hopper has a 45-card capacity. Note that ZXP Series 3
Card Printers with a Smart Card Option have a different Card Hopper; refer t o
Appendix C for details.
• Quick Help QR Code - The QR code launches web-based help pages to find user videos
for simple set-up and maintenance instructions; go to http://www.zebra.com/zxp1-info
for details.
• Zebra Print Touch - This touch point uses NFC technology to provide key information
about the printer; go to http:\\www.zebra.com/nfc
for details.
P1058486-004 Zebra ZXP Series 3 Card Printer User’s Manual 3
1: Getting Started
USB
Connector
Power
Socket
Power
Switch
Security
Cable Slot
Power
Switch
Power
Socket
Ethernet Connector
DB-9 Connector if Smart
Card Contact Station
Option is installed
USB
Connector
Security
Cable Slot
Link LED Powe r LED
Rear Panel Connectors
Rear Panel Connectors
Standard USB Connection
The figure below shows the rear of the Printer with the USB interface.
Ethernet Connection
The figure below shows the rear of the printer with the standard USB interface with the
Ethernet and DB-9 Smart Card Contact Station Options.
The Ethernet Connector has two LED status indicators:
• Power LED (amber): When illuminated, indicates power is on.
• Link LED (green): When illuminated, indicates valid Printer-Ethernet connectivity.
4 Zebra ZXP Series 3 Card Printer User’s Manual P1058486-004
Multi-Function LCD Panel
Your printer is equipped with a Multi-Function LCD Panel to provide printer status
information. The readout is controlled by the Multi-Function Control Button directly below
the viewing window.
Multi-Function LCD Panel messages fall into three categories: Operational, Warning,
and Error.
Operational Messages
Operational Messages are displayed during the Printer’s normal operation.
CARD READY
CLEANING PRINTER
CLOSE FEEDER DOOR
CONTACT ENCODING
1: Getting Started
Multi-Function LCD Panel
OPERA TIONAL
CONTACTLESS ENCODING
DOWNLOADING DATA
DOWNLOADING FIRMWARE
EMPTY FEEDER THEN CLOSE COVER
FEED LONG CLEANING CARD IN EXIT
INITIALIZING
INSERT CARD
INSERT FEEDER CLEANING CARD
MAG ENCODING
PRINTING BLACK
PRINTING CYAN
PRINTING MAGENTA
PRINTING MONO
PRINTING OVERLAY
PRINTING YELLOW
PUSH BUTTON TO CONTINUE
READY
REMOVE FEEDER CLEANING CARD
REMOVE LONG CLEANING CARD
REMOVE RIBBON THEN CLOSE LID
SINGLE CARD READY-PRINT OR EJECT
P1058486-004 Zebra ZXP Series 3 Card Printer User’s Manual 5
1: Getting Started
Multi-Function LCD Panel
Warning Messages
Warning messages alert the operator to action that should be taken; the printer will generally
continue operation.
Error Messages
Error messages are displayed when a situation causes the printer to stop operating. Depending
on the cause of the error message, restarting the printer or curing the displayed Error may
return the printer to operational status, or the printer may require troubleshooting and repair.
WARNINGS (Printer will still operate)
CHECKING RIBBON
CLEAN PRINTER
CLOSE LID
ENCODING ERROR
FLASH ERROR
INVALID MAGNETIC DATA
READING ERROR
ERRORS (Printer will not operate)
CHECK RIBBON
COMMAND ERROR
COVER OPEN
LID OPEN
MECHANICAL ERROR
OUT OF CARDS
OUT OF RIBBON
PARAMETERS ERROR
6 Zebra ZXP Series 3 Card Printer User’s Manual P1058486-004
Icons
1: Getting Started
Multi-Function LCD Panel
Throughout this manual, different icons highlight important information, as follows:
Note • Indicates information that emphasizes or supplements important points of the
main text.
Important • Advises you of information that is essential to complete a task, or points out
the importance of specific information in the text.
Provides an example or scenario to demonstrate or clarify a section of text.
Electrostatic Discharge Caution • W arns you of th e potential for electrost atic discharge.
Electric Shock Caution • Warns you of a potential electric shock situation.
Hot Surface • 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, or could result in physical damage to the hardware.
1.1 Zebra Supplies
Genuine Zebra supplies meet stringent quality standards and are recommended for optimal
printing quality and proper printer performance; see
for details.
ZXP Series 3 printers are designed to work only with Zebra ZXP Series 3 True Colours
ix Series high-performance ribbons.
http://www.zebra.com/supplies
®
P1058486-004 Zebra ZXP Series 3 Card Printer User’s Manual 7
8 Zebra ZXP Series 3 Card Printer User’s Manual P1058486-004
Printer Installation
Unpacking Your Card Printer
Your ZXP Series 3 Card Printer ships in a cardboard carton, protected by foam inserts and a
protective anti-static bag. Keep all packaging material in case you need to move or re-ship
the printer.
2
Step 1. Before opening and unpacking the printer, inspect the carton to ensure that no
damage occurred during shipment.
Step 2. Ensure that you have a clean and nearly dust free environment for proper operation
and storage of the printer.
Step 3. Unlatch and remove the handle, open the carton, and remove the box containing the
printer accessories from the shipping carton.
Step 4. Remove the foam packing material from the top of the printer.
Step 5. Lift the printer out of the carton by holding it on both sides of the bottom and lifting
the printer gently from the carton.
Step 6. Make sure the following accessories are included with your printer:
a. Software CD-ROM
b. Quick Start Guide
c. Power Cords (one or two depending on the configuration)
d. Power Supply
e. USB Printer Cable
If any items are missing, please contact your dealer. To reorder; refer to Appendix G of
this manual.
P1058486-004 Zebra ZXP Series 3 Card Printer User’s Manual 9
2: Printer Installation
Installing the Printer
Installing the Printer
Setting up the Printer
Step 1. Place the printer in a location that allows easy access to all sides. The printer should
never be operated while resting on its side or upside down.
Step 2. Remove the yellow CAUTION label from the back of the printer.
Step 3. Ensure that the printer’s power switch is in the OFF (O) position.
10 Zebra ZXP Series 3 Card Printer User’s Manual P1058486-004
Connecting Power
120 VAC
230 VAC
Caution • Limit electrical power supplied to the printer to 24 VDC. Limit excess current
draw to 16 amps or less, using an associated circuit breaker or other such device. Never
operate the printer in a location where operator, computer, or printer can get wet.
Personal injury could result. The printer must be connected to an earthed electrical
power supply and properly protected against electr ical surges and groundin g fault s. The
power supply pack can only be replaced by the same product from the manufacturer.
Caution • Do not power the printer with USB attached to your computer at this time.
THE DRIVER WILL PROMPT YOU WHEN IT IS TIME TO PLUG IN AND POWER UP
YOUR PRINTER.
Step 1. Insert the power supply plug into the po wer socket, attach the power cord (120VAC
or 230VAC) to the power supply, then plug the power cord in to a grounded elect rical
socket of the proper voltage and type.
2: Printer Installation
Installing the Printer
Step 2. Ensure that the printer’s power switch is in the OFF (O) position.
P1058486-004 Zebra ZXP Series 3 Card Printer User’s Manual 11
2: Printer Installation
Ethernet
USB
Installing the Printer
Connecting the Printer to your Computer
Step 1. If your printer has only the USB interface, attach the included USB cable to your
computer and the printer.
Step 2. If your printer has the optional Ethernet interface (as well as the USB interface),
connect either the USB cable to printer and computer or the Ethernet cable to the
printer and the Ethernet network.
Important • Do not connect both the USB and the Ethernet interfaces at the same time!
12 Zebra ZXP Series 3 Card Printer User’s Manual P1058486-004
Viewing Printer Information
LCD Display
Panel
Control
Button
To check the configuration parameters of the printer without being connected to a computer:
Step 1. Ensure that the printer power switch is in the OFF (O) position.
Step 2. While holding down the Control Button, place the printer power switch in the
ON ( | ) position. The LCD Display Panel will glow blu e.
2: Printer Installation
Viewing Printer Information
Step 3. Keep pressing the Control Button and observe the LCD Display Panel show
Initializing and
Step 4. When the
CHECKING RIBBON.
PRINTER INFO message appears in the display panel, momentarily release
and press the Control Button to display the first parameter: Model Name.
Step 5. Continue to tap the Control Button to advance thro ugh the parameters and cy cle back
to the beginning:
a. Model Name (including the printer configuration)
b. Serial Number
c. Firmware Version
d. Head Resistance
e. X & Y Offset (front)
f. X & Y Offset (back)
g. EC Offset (front and back)
h. Ribbon Type
i. Smart Offset
j. IP Address (note this address for Ethernet installation; see page 19)
k. Mask
l. Gateway
m. DHCP (enabled or disabled)
Step 6. A long press of the Control Button (about 1 second) will escape the sequence. Idle
time of 15 seconds will also escape the sequence.
P1058486-004 Zebra ZXP Series 3 Card Printer User’s Manual 13
2: Printer Installation
Installing the Windows Printer Driver
Installing the Windows Printer Driver
Installing the USB Printer Driver
Note • To install the Ethernet driver, see page 19.
Step 1. If not already done, connect power to the printer. Turn power OFF.
Step 2. Connect the USB port on the rear of the printer to the computer’s USB port.
Step 3. Ensure that the Printer’s power switch is in the OFF (O) position.
Step 4. Insert the User Documentation and Drivers CD into the CD drive of the host
computer. The Main Menu will open.
Step 5. From the Main Menu, click Install Zebra Printer Driver.
Step 6. The InstallShield Wizard window will open. To proceed with the installation, click
the Next button.
14 Zebra ZXP Series 3 Card Printer User’s Manual P1058486-004
2: Printer Installation
Installing the Windows Printer Driver
Step 7. Select Install USB printer drivers, and click the Next button.
Step 8. Ensure that the Printer’s power switch in the OFF (O) position; and then click the
OK button.
Step 9. This will bring up the License Agreement window. To proceed with the installation,
click the Yes button.
P1058486-004 Zebra ZXP Series 3 Card Printer User’s Manual 15
2: Printer Installation
Installing the Windows Printer Driver
Step 10. This will bring up the Setup Type window. Select Complete to install all program
features, and click the Next button.
Step 11. This will bring up the Select Program Folder window. Type in a new folder name or
select one from the existing folders list, and click the Next button.
16 Zebra ZXP Series 3 Card Printer User’s Manual P1058486-004
Step 12. Observe the Setup Status window.
Step 13. The Congratulations window will appear.
2: Printer Installation
Installing the Windows Printer Driver
Step 14. At this point, turn on your printer; and then click the Next button. The Windows
New Hardware Found wizard will find the printer.
P1058486-004 Zebra ZXP Series 3 Card Printer User’s Manual 17
2: Printer Installation
Installing the Windows Printer Driver
Step 15. When the InstallShield Wizard Complete window appears, click the Finish button.
Step 16. This completes the USB driver installation.
Note • You may need to change the card setup (card orientation, ribbon type, etc.), encoding,
overlay, and/or black panel settings via the Printer Driver; see Printing Preferences
on page 51.
Note • You may also need to set the card thickness adjustment to the thickness of the cards
being used; see Loading Cards on page 34.
18 Zebra ZXP Series 3 Card Printer User’s Manual P1058486-004
Installing the Ethernet Printer Driver
Note • To install the USB driver, see page 14.
Important • The Ethernet Network must be configured correctly, with the Printer and the
host computer on the same subnet mask. If you are not sure how to verify this or change the
configuration, consult someone knowledgeable on Ethernet Networks.
Step 1. If not already done, connect power to the printer. Turn power ON.
Step 2. Connect the Ethernet port on the rear of the printer to the Ethernet network
connection or directly to the computer’s Ethernet port.
Step 3. Ensure that the Printer’s power switch in the ON ( | ) position.
Step 4. Insert the User Documentation and Drivers CD into the CD drive of the host
computer. The Main Menu will open.
Step 5. From the Main Menu, click Install Printer Driver.
2: Printer Installation
Installing the Windows Printer Driver
Step 6. The InstallShield Wizard window will open. To proceed with the installation, click
the Next button.
P1058486-004 Zebra ZXP Series 3 Card Printer User’s Manual 19
2: Printer Installation
Installing the Windows Printer Driver
Step 7. Select Install Ethernet printer drivers, and click the Next button.
Step 8. This will bring up the License Agreement window. To proceed with the installation,
select the I accept the terms of the license agreement option, and then click the
Next button.
20 Zebra ZXP Series 3 Card Printer User’s Manual P1058486-004
2: Printer Installation
Installing the Windows Printer Driver
Step 9. This will bring up the Setup Type window. Select Complete to install all program
features, and click the Next button.
Important • To get the printer’s IP Address, see Viewing Printer Information on page 13.
Step 10. Select the Zebra ZXP Series 3 Printer radio button (circled below), and click the
Refresh button.
Step 11. Setup will find and list all the Zebra ZXP Series 3 Printers on the network. Select the
printer from the list (if listed), or enter the IP Address (arrow above); and click the
Next button.
P1058486-004 Zebra ZXP Series 3 Card Printer User’s Manual 21
2: Printer Installation
Installing the Windows Printer Driver
Step 12. This will bring up the Select Program Folder window. Type in a new folder name,
or select one from the existing folders list; and click the Next button.
Step 13. Observe the Setup Status window.
Step 14. When the Congratulations window will appears, click the Next button.
22 Zebra ZXP Series 3 Card Printer User’s Manual P1058486-004
2: Printer Installation
Installing the Windows Printer Driver
Step 15. When the InstallShield Wizard Complete window appears, click the Finish button.
Step 16. This completes the Ethernet driver installation.
Note • You may need to change the card setup (card orientation, ribbon type, etc.), encoding,
overlay, and/or black panel settings via the Printer Driver; see Printing Preferences
on page 51.
Note • You may also need to set the card thickness adjustment to the thickness of the cards
being used; see Loading Cards on page 34.
P1058486-004 Zebra ZXP Series 3 Card Printer User’s Manual 23
2: Printer Installation
Setting Up a Network Printer
Setting Up a Network Printer
Use this procedure if you have already installed an Ethernet printer on your system (refer
to Section 2), and you want to install a second Ethernet printer on the network via the
Microsoft Add Printer Wizard.
Step 1. Click on the Start button, then select Devices and Printers.
Step 2. Observe the Devices and Printers window.
Step 3. Click on the Add a printer option in the Taskbar (arrow above).
Step 4. Observe the What type of printer do you want to install window.
Step 5. Select Add a local printer (arrow above), and click the Next button.
24 Zebra ZXP Series 3 Card Printer User’s Manual P1058486-004
2: Printer Installation
Setting Up a Network Printer
Step 6. Observe the Choose a printer port window.
Step 7. Select the Create a new port radio button (1st arrow above).
Step 8. From the dropdown menu, select Standard TCP/IP Port (2nd arrow above).
Step 9. Click on the Next button.
Step 10. Observe the Type a printer hostname or IP address window .
Step 11. Ent er the IP address of your printer in the Hostname or IP address text box (circled
above). Note that the Port name will automatically be filled in when you enter the
IPAddress. Do not change the Port Name.
Step 12. Ensure that the Query the printer ... checkbox is selected (arrow above).
Step 13. Click on the Next button.
P1058486-004 Zebra ZXP Series 3 Card Printer User’s Manual 25
2: Printer Installation
Setting Up a Network Printer
Step 14. Observe the Install the printer driver window.
Step 15. Select the Manufacturer and the Printer (arrows above).
Step 16. Click on the Next button.
Step 17. Observe the Which version of the driver do you want to use window.
Step 18. Select the Use the driver that is currently installed radio button (arrow above).
Step 19. Click the Next button.
26 Zebra ZXP Series 3 Card Printer User’s Manual P1058486-004
2: Printer Installation
Setting Up a Network Printer
Step 20. Observe the Type a printer name window.
Step 21. Enter the printer name: use the default name, or add more information to indicate the
printer location; e.g., Ed’s Printer, Mike’s Office, Room 33, etc.
Step 22. Click the Next button.
Step 23. Observe the You’ve successfully added ... window.
Step 24. If appropriate, select the Set as the default printer checkbox (arrow above).
Step 25. Click on the Finish button to complete the Add Printer Wizard.
You have successfully installed the network printer.
P1058486-004 Zebra ZXP Series 3 Card Printer User’s Manual 27
2: Printer Installation
Printer Pooling
Printer Pooling
Setting Up Printer Pooling
Printer Pooling is a standard feature of Windows, which lets you spread the printed output
across a pool of several printers. In this example, we will install and setup the three network
printers to be used for pooling.
Step 1. Before proceeding to pool the printers, test them individually, and be sure they are
configured similarly. Specifically, check the following:
• Ribbon panel configuration (ribbon type, and what prints on which side of
the card).
• Mag encoding configuration.
• Black extraction configuration (if applicable).
Step 2. Access the Ports Tab.
T o access the Ports tab, sele ct Start > Devices and Printers. Right click on the Zebra
ZXP Series 3 USB Card Printer listing. Select Printer properties > Ports.
Step 3. Select the three network printers by selecting the associated checkbox (circle above).
Step 4. Select the Enable printer pooling checkbox (arrow above).
Step 5. Click the Apply button, then click the OK button.
28 Zebra ZXP Series 3 Card Printer User’s Manual P1058486-004
Using Printer Pooling
Important • Send print jobs to the printer pool, not to an individual printer.
When the first printer has taken as many jobs as it can handle (that being two jobs - one to be
printed immediately, the other waiting), the following jobs “spill over” to the second printer,
and then to the third printer.
Note that if you are only printing two jobs, they would both go to the first printer. Pooling is
a spill-over methodology. It does not balance printer usage.
Once the pool has been set up, maintenance and configuration changes should be done
through the menus for each individual printer, not through the pool (which can produce
undesirable results).
Important • The effect of any maintenance and/or changes can (and should) be tested by
sending print jobs separately to each printer, not to the pool.
2: Printer Installation
Printer Pooling
P1058486-004 Zebra ZXP Series 3 Card Printer User’s Manual 29
30 Zebra ZXP Series 3 Card Printer User’s Manual P1058486-004
Printer Features
Lid
Printhead
Card Feeder
Card Hopper
Ribbon Cartridge
Card Thickness
Adjustment
The following shows an interior view of the ZXP Series 3 Card Printer.
3
Printer Setup
P1058486-004 Zebra ZXP Series 3 Card Printer User’s Manual 31
3: Printer Setup
Loading Ribbon Cartridge
Loading Ribbon Cartridge
The Printer requires approved ribbon cartridges. The Resin Thermal Transfer and Dye
Sublimation ribbons are specifically designed for your Printer.
- Only use Zebra i Series ribbons designed to work with ZXP Series 3 Card Printers.
- Each ribbon cartridge includes an integrated adhesive cleani ng roller assembl y that is
used to clean the cards entering the printer. Improper cleaning will reduce printer life
and degrade print quality
- When the ribbon is completely used, change the whole cartridge assembly.
Electrostatic Discharge Caution • DO NOT TOUCH the printhead or the electronic
components on the printhead. Discharge of electrostatic charge from the human body or other
surfaces can damage the printhead or other electronic components
Step 1. Open printer lid by pressing the Cover Release button on the top of your printer.
Step 2. Peel protective wrapper from the adhesive cleaning roller by gently pulling on the
tape. Discard the protective wrapper.
32 Zebra ZXP Series 3 Card Printer User’s Manual P1058486-004
3: Printer Setup
Loading Ribbon Cartridge
Step 3. Insert the ribbon cartridge with the cleaning roller facing down, so the gears on the
ends of the rollers fit into the appropriate slots.
Step 4. Clos e the printer lid and push down until you hear an audible click.
Note • After the lid is closed, the ribbon automatically synchronizes when the printer
power is on.
P1058486-004 Zebra ZXP Series 3 Card Printer User’s Manual 33
3: Printer Setup
Loading Cards
Loading Cards
Card Feeder
The card feeder is used for loading cards, it can hold up to 100 cards of 30-mil thickness. The
card feeder is located under the card feeder cover of the Printer
Caution • Hold the cards by the edges only. DO NOT touch print surfaces as this can
reduce print quality.
Step 1. Set the card thickness adjustment (arrow below) to the number corresponding to the
thickness of the cards being loaded. Note that the thickness adjustment ranges from
10 mils to 40 mils.
34 Zebra ZXP Series 3 Card Printer User’s Manual P1058486-004
3: Printer Setup
Loading Cards
Step 2. Open the card feeder cover.
Step 3. Slide the card guide all the way to the right until it locks in place with an
audible click.
Caution • Hold the cards by the edges only. DO NOT touch print surfaces as this can
reduce print quality.
Step 4. Remove the wrapper from the card stack.
Step 5. Examine the cards, and discard any cards with damaged edges.
Step 6. Holding the card stack by its sides, fan the cards (like flexing a deck of playing
cards) at least once from each end, so as to separate all the cards.
Step 7. Restore the card stack to its original squared-off condition.
Step 8. Place the stack of cards into the card feeder. When loading magnetic stripe cards
or contact smart cards, see Appendix B or Appendix C respectively for proper
card orientation.
Step 9. Close the card feeder cover. When card feeder cover is closed, the card guide locking
mechanism will be released automa tically.
P1058486-004 Zebra ZXP Series 3 Card Printer User’s Manual 35
3: Printer Setup
Loading Cards
Card Hopper
Step 1. Raise the printer lid, and pull the card hopper down to place it in its functional
position.
Step 2. When not using the printer, place the card hopper back in its closed position to
protect the printer from dust.
36 Zebra ZXP Series 3 Card Printer User’s Manual P1058486-004
Printing a Test Card
Standard: Printer Parameters: Encoder Parameters:
With ribbon cartridge and cards loa ded, your printer is ready to print. To check the operation of
the printer, you should pri nt a test card.
Step 1. Select Start > Devices and Printers. Right click on the Zebra ZXP Series 3 Card
Printer listing. Select Printer properties > Device Settings; and click on the
Tools button.
Step 2. Observe the Tools window.
3: Printer Setup
Printing a Test Card
Step 3. From the Print Test Card dropdown menu, select the desired test card (circled above).
Step 4. Click on the Print button (arrow above) to print the selected test card; see sample
test cards below.
P1058486-004 Zebra ZXP Series 3 Card Printer User’s Manual 37
3: Printer Setup
SAMPLE CARD
http://www.zebra.com
M. CHRIS JONES
SALES DIRECTOR
Typical Printer Operation
Typical Printer Operation
The ZXP Series 3 Card Printer can be used with your software applicat ion prog ram, using the
Drivers on the CD provided with your Printer; refer to Installing the Windows Printer Driver
on page 14.
Creating a Sample Card
Before you begin a new printing session, print a sample card to ensure that the cards will be
printed correctly. Follow the steps below to print your first card.
Step 1. Open a new Microsoft Word document.
Step 2. If the Zebra Printer was not set as the default printer, select the ZXP Series 3 Card
Printer as the default.
Step 3. From the Microsoft Word document., set the Page Layout:
a. Size: 3.14 in x 2.13 in (86 mm x 54 mm) Card
b. Orientation: Portrait or Landsca pe
c. Margins: Top, Bottom, Left, and Right = 0 (zero).
Step 4. The card appears as a Microsoft Word document.
Step 5. Design a card with both black and colored text and with colored images similar to the
sample card shown below.
Printing the Sample Card
Once you complete creating your sample card, you are ready to print. Ensure your printer has a
True Colours
feeder. See Section 3 for instructions on installing the ribbon and loading the cards.
Step 1. Pri nt your sample card to the ZXP Series 3 Card Printer.
Step 2. Once the printing is completed, remove the sample card from the car d hopper; and
TM
Card Printer Ribbon Cartridge installed and there is card stock in the card
check for any discrepancies. For quality issues, see Troubleshooting on page 73.
Step 3. If the sample card is correct, your printer is ready to produce more cards.
38 Zebra ZXP Series 3 Card Printer User’s Manual P1058486-004
Introduction
This section describes the settings and adjustments that can be made to your ZXP Series 3
Printer Driver:
4
Printer Settings and
Adjustments
Printer Properties. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
Printing Preferences . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
P1058486-004 Zebra ZXP Series 3 Card Printer User’s Manual 39
4: Printer Settings and Adjustments
Printer Properties
Printer Properties
Note • The screen shots shown in this section are for a printer using the USB interface. If
you are using the Ethernet interface, the screens will refer to the “Network Printer.” Screen
shots may also look different depending on your Operating System.
Access to Card Printer Properties varies depending on your Operating System (OS); e.g., for
Windows 7, select Start > Devices and Printers. Right click on the Zebra ZXP Card Printer
listing, then select Printer properties.
General Tab . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Sharing Tab. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
Ports Tab. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
Advanced Tab. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
Color Management Tab . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
Security Tab . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
Device Settings Tab . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
The OK button applies and saves the settings.
The Cancel button exits Printer Properties. Changes made are abandoned.
The Apply button applies, but does not save, the settings.
The Help button enables you to view a corresponding page of help information.
40 Zebra ZXP Series 3 Card Printer User’s Manual P1058486-004
General Tab
The General tab shows the selected printer and lists the features of the printer.
4: Printer Settings and Adjustments
Printer Properties
• Location - Lets you specify where the printer is located.
• Comment - Lets you specify general information about the printer, such as the type
of print device and who is responsible for it. Once set, these fields can be displayed
by applications.
• Model - Specifies the name of the printer driver installed.
- Features - Specifies whether various options are available on the printer.
The Printing Preferences button takes you to Printing Preferences used to set selected
configuration parameters; see Printing Preferences on page 51.
The Print Test Page button sends the standard Windows test page to the printer.
P1058486-004 Zebra ZXP Series 3 Card Printer User’s Manual 41
4: Printer Settings and Adjustments
Printer Properties
Sharing Tab
On the Sharing tab, you can choose to share the printer over the network and install additio nal
drivers to accommodate different operating systems. See Appendix A for the various pri nter
sharing options allowed and the configurations required.
Printer sharing tasks that you can perform include:
• To share a printer, select the Share this printer checkbox; and specify a name for the
shared resource. Click the OK button when you are finished.
• To change the shared name, simply enter a new name in the Share name field; and
click the OK button.
• To quit sharing a printer, deselect the Share this printer radio button. Click the OK
button when you are finished.
Drivers: If this printer is shared with users running different versions of Windows, you may
want to install additional drivers, so that the users do not have to fi nd the print driver when
they connect to the shared printer.
For Printer Sharing Configurations and Advanced Sharing Settings, refer to Appendix A
for details.
42 Zebra ZXP Series 3 Card Printer User’s Manual P1058486-004
Ports Tab
Use the Ports tab to specify the computer po rt to which the printer is connected. This will have
been established at the initial installa tion of the printer, and will not normally requ ire attention.
4: Printer Settings and Adjustments
Printer Properties
An exception to this is if you wish to use printer pooling, the ability to distribute print jobs to
multiple printers; see Printer Pooling on page 28 for details.
To enable printer pooling, select the Enable printer pooling checkbox and the Enable
bidirectional support checkbox, then check the additional ports boxes. Each port should have a
single Zebra printer installed on it. All the pooled printers must be identical models with the
same configuration (e.g., all with YMC front, K back); and each must have its own printer
driver installed.
Now, when you print to the “main printer” (that is, whichever printer you right-clicked in
Devices and Printers to get to this screen), this printer wil l get print jobs un til it has buf fered as
many jobs as it can take. The remaining jobs will then “spill over” to other printers until all
printers in the pool are busy.
P1058486-004 Zebra ZXP Series 3 Card Printer User’s Manual 43
4: Printer Settings and Adjustments
Printer Properties
Advanced Tab
The Advanced tab determines the spooling (queuing) of print jobs and determines how
spooled jobs are handled relative to the most recent job.
You can make the printer always available by selecting the Always available radio button, or
you can limit availability by selecting the Available from radio button and specifying the
“Available from” and “To” times. Click the Apply button, and then the OK button.
• To enable spooling: Select the radio button labeled Spool print documents so program
finishes printing faster.
- Select Start printing after last page is spooled if you want the entire document to be
spooled before printing begins. This option ensures that the entire document is sent to
the print queue before printing. If for some reason printing is canceled or not
completed, the job will not be printed.
- Select Start printing immediately if you want printing to begin immediately when the
print device is not already in use. This option is preferable when you want print jobs
to be completed faster or when you want to ensure that the application returns control
to users as soon as possible.
• To disable spooling: Select the radio button labeled Print directly to the printer.
Printing Defaults: When the printer is set up as a network printer on a server, Printing
Defaults needs to be used to set the printer options. The values from this screen will be filled
into the Windows Drivers when they are installed on local PCs with the Add Printer Wizard.
44 Zebra ZXP Series 3 Card Printer User’s Manual P1058486-004
Color Management Tab
This is the standard Windows color management screen, showing user access to various
printer control options.
4: Printer Settings and Adjustments
Printer Properties
P1058486-004 Zebra ZXP Series 3 Card Printer User’s Manual 45
4: Printer Settings and Adjustments
Printer Properties
Security Tab
This is the standard Windows security screen, showing user access to various printer
control options.
46 Zebra ZXP Series 3 Card Printer User’s Manual P1058486-004
Device Settings Tab
The Device Settings tab provides device information, security status, and printer usage.
4: Printer Settings and Adjustments
Printer Properties
Device Information
•Model: Specifies the printer model number.
• Fw version: Specifies the installed firmware version.
• Serial number: Specifies the printer serial number.
• Ribbon type: Specifies the ribbon installed in the printer.
• Head resistance: Specifies the printhead resistance value.
• Mag encoder: Specifies if this option is present.
• Panels printed: Shows the total number of panels printed for the lifetime of the printer.
• Remaining count: Shows the remaining card count for the ribbon installed. For
monochrome ribbons, this will display Unknown.
• Smart card: Specifies if a smart card encoder is present and type of encoder.
Click on the Save/Restore button to save your printer and/or driver settings. You can later
restore those saved settings; see Page 48 for details.
Click on the Tools button to access a dialog box that allows you to test and communicate with
the printer; see Page 49 for details.
P1058486-004 Zebra ZXP Series 3 Card Printer User’s Manual 47
4: Printer Settings and Adjustments
Printer Properties
Save/Restore
Dialog box for saving printer and driver settings or restoring previously saved settings.
To save settings:
Step 1. Click on the appropriate Save button (Printer Settings or Driver Settings).
Step 2. Observe a browse window showing the default location where the configuration files
are saved. The location depends on the Operating System; e.g., for Windows 7,
C:\Program Data\ZXPS3\config.
Step 3. Enter an appropriate file name, and click the Save button. Note: A prefix, P_ or D_,
will be added to the file name for printer settings and driver settings respectively.
Step 4. Your selected settings (Printer Settings or Driver Settings) will be saved.
To restore settings:
Step 1. Click on the appropriate Restore button (Printer Settings or Driver Settings).
Step 2. Observe a browse window showing the default location where the configuration files
are saved. The location depends on the Operating System; e.g., for Windows 7,
C:\Program Data\ZXPS3\config.
Step 3. Select the desired file, and click the Open button. Note that prefixes P_ and D_
indicate printer settings and driver settings respectively.
Step 4. Your selected settings (Printer Settings or Driver Settings) will be restored.
48 Zebra ZXP Series 3 Card Printer User’s Manual P1058486-004
Tools
4: Printer Settings and Adjustments
Printer Properties
Dialog box for testing and communicating with the printer.
• Command to send to printer - Enter a printer command (all capitals without the leading
escape character) in the top edit box; e.g., MI MO, which will pick and eject one card.
Then click on the Execute button. Printer Status will show the status of the command.
Contact Zebra Technical Support for a complete list of the printer commands.
• Print test card - Select the desired test card type from the dropdown menu: Standard,
Printer Parameters, and Encoder Parameters. Click on the Print button to print the
selected test card.
• Cleaning - Select the desired cleaning to be performed from the dropdown menu: Printer
only or Magnetic encoder. Click on the Clean button to run the cleani ng process.
• Offset setting - Enter the Front and Back X and Y direction offsets, and click on the
Set Offsets button to set the offsets for printing the card.
• Firmware download: see Page 50 for details.
• Send file - This command will allow a .prn or .txt file to print.
- The .prn file must be created with a Zebra printer driver using the same ribbon as
present in the printer.
- The .txt file must contain firmware commands only with only one command per line.
The first line must only contain MASTER; the last line must only contain SLAVE.
P1058486-004 Zebra ZXP Series 3 Card Printer User’s Manual 49
4: Printer Settings and Adjustments
Printer Properties
Firmware Download
This option is used to install the ZXP Series 3 firmware, downloaded from the Zebra web site
at http://www.zebra.com
correct firmware file for the printer model.
Important • Do not turn off the power to the printer until the process is done and the OCP
displays READY. If the download process is interrupted, the printer will not operate.
under Drivers & Downloads. Ensure th at you download the
Step 1. Download the firmware from Zebra web site ( http://www.zebra.com
a location you can easily find.
Step 2. In the Tools window, click on the Select File button.
), and save it to
Step 3. From the Browse window, “find” and select the firmware file (BIN file type) you
downloaded in step 1; and click on the Open button.
Step 4. Click on the Start Firmware Dow nl oa d button to install the firmware.
Step 5. Wai t while the firmwa re downloads an d installs , and then wa it while th e printer reset s
and initializes.
Step 6. When the installation is complete, the Status field will display Firmware
Downloaded Successfully.
50 Zebra ZXP Series 3 Card Printer User’s Manual P1058486-004
Printing Preferences
Note • The screen shots shown in this section are for a printer using the Ethernet interface.
The screens refer to the “Network Card Printer.” If you are using the USB interface, the
screens will refer to the “USB Card Printer.” If you are using a network driver on a server,
set the parameters from the Advanced Tab, Printing Defaults.
Access to Card Printing Preferences varies depending on your Operating System (OS); e.g.,
for Windows 7, select Start > Devices and Printers. Right click on the Zebra ZXP Card
Printer listing, then select Printing preferences.
4: Printer Settings and Adjustments
Printing Preferences
Card Setup Tab. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
Encoding T ab . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65
About Tab. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68
Click on the Job Log button to create and manage a database of card transactions; see Job
Log on page 62 for details.
Click on the Image Control button to adjust the image colors; see Image Control on
page 64 for details.
The OK button applies and saves the settings.
The Cancel button exits Printer Properties. Changes made are abandoned.
The Apply button applies, but does not save, the settings.
The Help button enables you to view a corresponding page of help information.
P1058486-004 Zebra ZXP Series 3 Card Printer User’s Manual 51
4: Printer Settings and Adjustments
Portrait
Landscape
Printing Preferences
Card Setup Tab
Card Setup tab allows the user to adjust selected card and print job parameters.
• Printing options
- Orientation: Selection for portrait or land scape printing.
- Print on both sides: Selection for single-sided or dual-sided printing.
o
- Rotate 180
: Selection for rotating the image 180o. The options are None, Front,
Back, and Front & Back.
52 Zebra ZXP Series 3 Card Printer User’s Manual P1058486-004
4: Printer Settings and Adjustments
Printing Preferences
- Monochrome Conversion: Specifies the method of monochrome conversion used in
printing. Different selections have different effects on the way the image is printed.
The options are Diffusion, Halftone, Barcode, Text Mode, and Auto.
• Diffusion: Error diffusion is used primarily where you
have a full color (RGB image with 8 bits per pixel) or
full gray (single color but still 8 bits per pixel) that
you need to print with binary printing (can only print
full-on or full-off; i.e., 1 bit per pixel). Typically
preferred over halftoning (see below) for most images.
• Halftone: To simulate gray in graphics, halftones are
printed. Halftones are arrays of dots arranged in a grid
(e.g., 6x6 or 8x8) to represent each image pixel as a
shade of gray. For dark gray, more grid dots are black.
For light gray, more grid dots are white As the grid
size goes up so does the number of possible output
levels, 6x6 cell has 36 possible output levels while
8x8 has 64. But as cell size increases, there is a
corresponding decrease in resolution.
• Barcode: This is the simplest method for converting
from 8 bits per pixel to 1 bit per pixel.
For example, the input pixel can be a value from 0 to
255. If the threshold is 128, any pixel over 128
becomes full on (1); and any pixel that is less than 128
becomes full off (0). This mode works best for text,
barcodes, line art, logos -- everything except
continuous-tone pictures.
• Text Mode: This mode can be used when you have
black anti-aliased text. Black anti-aliased text is
typically black in the center; but on the edges, it has
shades of gray that get lighter as you move out form
the center of the text. This anti-aliased te xt will have a
softer looking edge that is less sharp than non antialiased text.
• Auto (default): This mode analyz es the image and optimizes the co nversion
(diffusion, halftone, barcode, or text mode) automatically.
P1058486-004 Zebra ZXP Series 3 Card Printer User’s Manual 53
4: Printer Settings and Adjustments
Printing Preferences
- Monochrome Conversion SUMMARY
• Diffusion/Halftoning: Use on pictures. Image content dictates if error diffusion
or halftoning would look best. For the majority of time, diffusion is better.
• Barcode: Use on text, barcodes, line art, and simple graphics.
• Text Mode: Use with black anti-alised text.
- Printing Mode - Sets the type of printing required:
• Print.
• Encode Only (use this when magnetic encoding is the only function desired,
printing will not occur).
- Copies - Sets the number of copies of cards printed.
- Auto detect start of image for half panel ribb ons - Enabled only when a half-panel
ribbon is installed. Automatically detects the edge of the color image to be printed;
see Appendix D for setting the edge manually.
• Single Feed options (refer to Appendix E for details on the single-card feed mode)
- Card feeder: The printer will attempt to a pull a card from the Card Feeder. If the
Card Feeder is empty, the printer will generate an
- Single feeder slot: For each print job, the printer will generate an
OUT OF CARDS error message.
INSERT CARD
message. Any cards in the Card Feeder will not be used.
- Auto feed: The printer will attempt to feed cards from Card Feeder first. If Card
Feeder is empty, the printer will generate an
CARDS
error message will be generated.
INSERT CARD message. No OUT OF
• Ribbon info and options
- Ribbon type displays the type of ribbon installed in the printer. Tagged ribbons
(e.g., YMCKO) are detected and displayed automatically. Untagged ribbons (Black
Monochrome and White Monochrome) must be selected from the dropdown menu.
Note that the type of monochrome ribbon selected is critical -- white monochrome
ribbon will not print acceptably with Black Monochrome selected .
- Ribbon combination is based on ribbon type; for example:
YMCKOK
• Front YMCKO, Back K.
• Front YMC, Back KO.
• Front YMCKO, Back YMCKO.
Depending on the printer model and ribbon combination selected, the Black Panel
Options and Overlay Varnish Options buttons are enabled; see Page 55 and
Page 61 respectively.
54 Zebra ZXP Series 3 Card Printer User’s Manual P1058486-004
Black (K) Panel
Black Panel Options
The Black Panel Options pop-up window allows you to manage and configure the use of the
Black Panel (K panel) when the selected Ribbon Co mbi nation shows the K panel on the same
side as the Y, M, and C panels (e.g., YMCKO Front).
Select a Ribbon Combination that has YMC and K all on the same side. The Front K
Extraction… and/or Back K Extraction... bu tto ns wi ll become active.
The figure below shows settings for the front side of the card; settings for the back side of the
card are identical.
4: Printer Settings and Adjustments
Printing Preferences
To set how the printer prints the black areas of color images, several selections must be made:
• Select black panel extraction type:
- Disable black extraction does not use the K panel for any part of the image. This
selection will have the effect of rendering all black images as YMC composite.
- Print YMC composite and K black uses both the K panel and the Y, M, and C
panels to print the portions of the image t hat are identified as black . This selection will
result in a dark, black image; but the edges will be smooth (due to YMC printed under
the K), not the sharp edges typically desired for a barcode.
- Print all black data uses only the K panel to print the portions of the image that are
identified as being black. Note that the areas that are identified as black are based on
the threshold selections made in the blac k level area in the black extraction from color
images area; see Page 57.
P1058486-004 Zebra ZXP Series 3 Card Printer User’s Manual 55
4: Printer Settings and Adjustments
Zebra
Technologies
Printing Preferences
• Apply black extraction on:
Option 1. Black text applies black extraction to areas of the image identified as te xt; e.g.,
company name, address.
Option 2. Black graphics applies black extraction to areas of the image identified
as graphics primitives; e.g., lines, circles, rectangles, area fills, etc.
Option 3. Black color bitmaps applies black extraction to areas of the image identified
as monochrome bitmap data contained in a color bitmap image.
Option 4. Black monochrome bitmaps applies black extraction to areas of the image
identified as monochrome data in a bitmap; e.g., logos.
56 Zebra ZXP Series 3 Card Printer User’s Manual P1058486-004
• Black extraction from color images:
4: Printer Settings and Adjustments
Printing Preferences
- Print black with K panel:
• Defined areas applies black extraction to areas of the image inside of the zones
specified in the Area manager.
• Undefined areas applies black extraction to areas of the image outside of the
zones specified in the Area manager.
• Full card applies black extraction to the entire image.
- Black level: Every dot of a printed image has an RGB color value that ranges
from 0, 0, 0 (pure black) to 255, 255, 255 (pure white). The black level setting
allows the user to specify the threshold value for any given dot to be treated as black.
The maximum setting is R25, G25, B25.
P1058486-004 Zebra ZXP Series 3 Card Printer User’s Manual 57
4: Printer Settings and Adjustments
Printing Preferences
• Area manager: This option is enabled when either the Defined areas (extract inside the
zone) or the Undefined areas (extract outside the zone) radio button is selected.
• Orientation: The Orientation selection sets the image orientation to either
Portrait or Landscape.
• Units: The Units selection sets the units to either inches or mm (millimeters). The
X-dimension, X-offset, Y-dimension, and Y-offset reflect these units.
To create a zone: S elect the rectangle icon , click on an area of the imag e to
establish the first corner of the zone, drag the cursor until the zone is the desi red size
and shape, then release the mouse button. Note that multiple zones can be defined.
To select, move, or resize a zone: Select the arrow icon , click on a zone to select
it, then drag it to move it, or drag on the edges to resize it.
To delete a zone: Select the rectangle icon with an "X" through it , then click on
the zone that you want to delete.
58 Zebra ZXP Series 3 Card Printer User’s Manual P1058486-004
Black Panel Print Overview
This section covers special handling of black data specified on the “Black Panel (K)” tab
and applies only to surfaces of the card on which both YMC (color) and K (black) are to
be printed.
4: Printer Settings and Adjustments
Printing Preferences
Reasons and Behavior for Black Panel Extraction
To print black during the print process, equal amounts of process colors Y, M, and C (printer
ribbon panels) are delivered, with maximum intensity, to create a near-black image.
• However, this “composite” image appears as a dark shade of gray and not machine
readable. For example, a visually-black barcode printed with Y, M and C will not be
detectable by most barcode readers and is not a true Visible Black color.
• The remedy for this is to “extract the black.” In other words, print the same text, graphics,
or barcode, using the K (black) panel, on top of the YMC ba rcode. (You can also choose to
print only in K, omitting YMC from that region.)
Depending on the application used to design the card layout, different elements of the card
image may be identified in different ways to the printer driver. The printer driver needs to
recognize four types of basic elements:
1. Black text
2. Black (monochrome) graphics -- lines, circles, rectangles, and area fills
3. Black (within) color bitmap images
4. Black monochrome bitmap images
These elements may not always be sent to the driver as expected. For example , a barcode may
be sent as black text, a series of black area fills, or a black monochrome bitmap. Results will
depend on the application used to create the card design. Another variable, again controlled by
the card design application, is the precedence (stacking order) of the various element types in
the event that one or more of them overlap.
P1058486-004 Zebra ZXP Series 3 Card Printer User’s Manual 59
4: Printer Settings and Adjustments
Printing Preferences
If the printer is set up to print both YMC and K on the same side, text, lines and pixels, area
fills and monochrome bitmaps, if (and only if) designated black by the application, can be
directed to the K panel. For that to happen, the graphic type in question has to be selected on
the “Black Panel (K)” tab. For text, lines and pixels, area fills and monochrome bitmaps the
designation “black” means just that (0, 0, 0). Near-black doesn’t qualify.
In the Black Panel (K) tab, the “element selection” portion is straightforward – simply
designate any or all of the four graphic types to be printed in K, either K alone, or over process
black (YMC).
Black extraction is quite different. It applies o nly to the fourth gr aphic type – the co lor b itmap
image.To perform black extraction, the driver generates a K image by looking for black
features (pixels) in the color bitmap, that is, instances where all three YMC values are at, or
close to, the maximum (full intensity). Each such true-black or near-black instance generates a
corresponding cluster of black pixels in the extracted image, which will be printed with the
K (black) panel either on top of the YMC image, or replacing it entirely – your choice.
A problem that can arise when K is extracted from an entire card image is over-emphasis of
every black cluster; e.g., dark hair in a portrait photo or scenic background. K overprinting in
such areas can be displeasing. To deal with this, set up exclusion zones within which no
extraction is performed. Six such areas are provided for on each side of the card,
independently. In the default state, all areas are null (0,0 offsets, and zero size).
There is a choice of black extraction within the defined areas or outside the defined areas; see
Print black with K panel: on page 57 for details.
60 Zebra ZXP Series 3 Card Printer User’s Manual P1058486-004
Overlay Varnish Options
The Overlay Varnish Options window allows you to manage and configure the use of the
Overlay when the selected Ribbon Combination shows the O panel (e.g. YMCKO).
The figure below shows settings for the front side of the card; settings for the back side of the
card are identical.
4: Printer Settings and Adjustments
Printing Preferences
Select the overlay varnish type - Option selection for applying overlay varnish ribbon to a
card. Default setting is full edge-to-edge varnish.
There are various varnish options. A preview pane is shown for each selection.
• Full overlay varnish - Applies an edge-to-edge overlay.
• No overlay - Does not apply any overlay.
• Selected area overlay varnish - Applies the overlay inside the area specified by the
user. When this option is selected, position the Left, Right, Top, and Bottom overlay
edges via the buttons (circled above).
• Selected area blank - Applies the overlay outside the area specified by the use r. When
this option is selected, position the Left, Right, Top, and Bottom overlay edges via the
buttons (circled above).
• Bitmap-based overlay varnish - Applies a user -defined bit map (.bmp file extension) in
the overlay panel. When selected, click the Browse button; in the browse window,
find the desired monochrome bitmap (1 bpp); and click the Open button.
• Smartcard ISO - Does not apply overlay in the area of the ISO standard Smart
Card contacts.
• Smartcard AFNOR - Does not apply overlay in the area of the AFNOR standard
Smart Card contacts. AFNOR stands for Agence Française de Normalisation, a
standardization organization based in France.
• Magnetic Stripe - Does not apply overlay in the area of the ISO standard
Magnetic Stripe.
P1058486-004 Zebra ZXP Series 3 Card Printer User’s Manual 61
4: Printer Settings and Adjustments
Printing Preferences
Job Log
The Job Log is a utility that builds a database of card transactions in the printer’s host
computer. The Job Log records the data encoded on the card’s magnetic stripe, together with
date, time, and the printer’s serial number.
The data set can be uploaded at any time to a central archive, thus providing a means for
security officers to validate a card by comparing it with tamper-proof real data.
• Enable logging - If this box is checked, the logging feature is enabled.
• Log File Definition - Choose one of the following options:
- If the “Create new log file each day” box is unchecked, the data is saved to a log file
of your choice (Filename).
- If the box is checked, the data is saved to log file ZXPLog with the day’s date; e.g.,
ZXPLog_2011_8_17.
- In addition to the Filename, you may wish to enter a special field Sepa rator Character.
The default field Separator Character is “|”.
62 Zebra ZXP Series 3 Card Printer User’s Manual P1058486-004
4: Printer Settings and Adjustments
Printing Preferences
• Log File Contents - The Log File Contents group selects the data to be logged in the file
you specified above. The data will be logged in the order displayed on the screen, each
field being separated by the character specified in the Logfile Definition, Separator.
Log File Contents selections include:
- Time: Logs the time a which the card was sent to the printer in the HH:MM:SS
format. The 24-hour clock is used, so 13:00:00 = 1:00 pm, and 05:00:00 = 5:00 am.
- Date: Logs the date the car d was sent to the printer in the
MM/DD/YYYY format.
- Printer serial number: Logs the serial number of the printer that printed the card.
- IP address: Logs the IP address of the PC that sent the card to the printer.
- User name: Logs the username of the person submitting the card print job.
- Spooler job number: Logs the number which the card print job was assigned in the
Windows print spoo le r.
- Magnetic Track 1, 2, 3 Data: Logs the data sent to the printer to be encoded on the
card’s magnetic stripe.
- St atic text: Adds to the record text in the box to the right, 16 characters maximum.
Note • The location of the log files depends on the Operating System; e.g., for Windows 7,
C:\ProgramData\ZXPS3\ directory.
The Delete log files button deletes the log files.
The Save Job Log Settings button saves the Job Log settings.
P1058486-004 Zebra ZXP Series 3 Card Printer User’s Manual 63
4: Printer Settings and Adjustments
Printing Preferences
Image Control
Note • Printed colors can appear different than displayed colors; the following controls
allow you to optimize the printed results.
Allows you to adjust the image colors; these adjustments apply to the entire card, not just
photographic image.
- Intensity - increase or decrease the image intensity by moving the Black, Yellow,
Magenta, and Cyan slider bars left or right. This will change the overall lightness or
darkness of the image. Move the slider to the right (0 to 100) to increase the intensit y
and to the left (0 to -100) to decrease the intensity. Note that color ribbon wrinkling
can be eliminated by reducing the intensity.
Use the Restore Defaults button to reset the settings to the driver defaults.
64 Zebra ZXP Series 3 Card Printer User’s Manual P1058486-004
Encoding Tab
The Encoding tab dialog box is for setting Magnetic Encoder parameters. This feature is not
enabled if the printer does not have the magnetic encoder option.
4: Printer Settings and Adjustments
Printing Preferences
• Enable macro processing - This option is used to set the encoding preamble and other
magnetic encoder parameters.
- Start of Data - Beginning of the data string for the encoder. Note that Start of Data
characters must be immediately followed by a one-digit number representing desired
track where the data will be written. Use the normal Wi nd ows defau lt fo nt s.
- End of Data - Ending of the data string for the encoder.
• Advanced Settings - Click on the Advanced Settings button for additional encoding
options; for details, see Advanced Settings on page 67.
• HiCo/LoCo - Select the type of coercivity of magnetic stripe cards to be used.
• Encoder Position - Select the printer encoder position: Normal.
• Encoder Type - Select the type of encoder: ISO/JIS. Note that JIS is not implemented.
P1058486-004 Zebra ZXP Series 3 Card Printer User’s Manual 65
4: Printer Settings and Adjustments
Printing Preferences
• Direct Encoding - For writing data and reading encoded data.
Track selection:
- To read encoded data: Click on the checkboxes to select the desired track(s), click on
the Read button, and validate the data read.
- To write data: Click on the checkboxes to select the desired track(s), enter the data to
be written, and click on the Encode button.
- To eject the card: Click on the Eject Card button to eject the card.
The Restore Defaults button to reset the settings to the original values.
66 Zebra ZXP Series 3 Card Printer User’s Manual P1058486-004
Advanced Settings
Advanced Settings provides advanced configuration capabilities and tools to manage magnetic
encoder operation. This option is primarily used for Non-ISO encoding.
4: Printer Settings and Adjustments
Printing Preferences
• Track: Select the track you want to co nfigure.
• Track Settings:
- Mode: Select ISO1, ISO2, ISO3, 3 bit, 4 bit, 5 bit, 6 bit, or 7 bit.
- Density: Select 75 bpi or 210 bpi for the tracks.
• Start/Stop Character (For Non-ISO encoding only): Enter an ASCII value for the Start
and Stop characters.
• Encoding Start Position (For Non-ISO encoding only): Enter the encoding start position
in millimeters (mm).
• Character Parity (For Non-ISO encoding only): Choose the Character Parity you want to
work with -- No parity, Even parity, or Odd parity.
• LRC Parity (For Non-ISO encoding only): Choose the LRC Parity you want to work
with -- No parity, Even parity, or Odd parity.
Click the Restore Defaults button to reset the settings to the original values.
P1058486-004 Zebra ZXP Series 3 Card Printer User’s Manual 67
4: Printer Settings and Adjustments
Printing Preferences
About Tab
This tab specifies the Printer Model, the Driver Version, and the Zebra Technologies
Corporation Copyright.
68 Zebra ZXP Series 3 Card Printer User’s Manual P1058486-004
Cleaning the System
5
Cleaning
Caution • PROTECT YOUR FACTORY WARRANTY!
The recommended maintenance procedures must be performed to maintain your
factory warranty. Other than the recommended cleaning procedures described in
this manual, allow only Zebra authorized technicians to service the ZXP Series 3
Card Printer.
NEVER loosen, tighten, adjust, or bend, etc., a part or cable inside the printer.
NEVER use a high-pressure air compressor to remove particles in the printer.
When to Clean
Clean the Printer when:
• Print quality has been degraded.
• The LCD panel displays the message
CLEAN PRINTER.
P1058486-004 Zebra ZXP Series 3 Card Printer User’s Manual 69
5: Cleaning
Path Cleaning
Card
Feeder Cleaning
Card
Card
Feeder
Cover
Multi-Function
Control Button
Multi-Function
LCD Panel
Cleaning the System
How to Clean
Step 1. Place the printer power switch in the ON ( | ) position, and then press and hold the
Multi-Function Control Button for 5 seconds.
Step 2. When the cleaning cycle is initiated, the LCD message
CLOSE LID
will display.
REMOVE RIBBON THEN
Step 3. After the ribbon is removed and the lid is closed, the message
THEN CLOSE COVER
will display.
Step 4. If the lid is opened and closed without re moving t he ribbon, the
THEN CLOSE LID
message will remain.
EMPTY FEEDER
REMOVE RIBBON
Step 5. Once the ribbon is removed and the cover is closed, the firmware will eject any card
inside the printer. The message
Step 6. The LCD will display
FEED LONG CLEANING CARD. When the presence of the
EJECTING CARD will display.
cleaning card is sensed, the rollers will take the card into the printer.
Step 7. When the cleaning process is done, the printer will eject the c leaning card. If the card
sensor still senses the cleaning card, the message
CARD
will display.
REMOVE LONG CLEANING
Step 8. Once the long cleaning card is no longer sensed by the card exit sensor, the message
INSERT FEEDER CLEANING CARD will display. Open the feeder cover, and
insert the feeder cleaning card.
Step 9. When the feeder cleaning card has been sensed by the feeder card sensor, the
message
CLOSE FEEDER COVER will display.
Step 10. When feeder cleaning is complete, the message
CARD
will display.
Step 11. After the card is removed, the LCD will display
REMOVE FEEDER CLEANING
READY. You may now reload the
ribbon and cards and continue printing.
70 Zebra ZXP Series 3 Card Printer User’s Manual P1058486-004
Cleaning the Printhead
Use of the cleaning cards will normally do an adequate job of cleaning the printer. However, a
separate Printhead cleaning, using swabs, can remove more stubborn deposits when print
anomalies persist. To avoid deposits, only use foam-tipped swabs.
Caution • Never use a sharp object to scrape deposits from the printhead. Permanent
damage to the printhead will result
Step 1. Place the printer power switch in the OFF (O) position.
Step 2. Open the printer lid by pressing the cover release button, and open the cover fully to
reveal the Printhead mounted on the inside of the cover.
5: Cleaning
Cleaning the Printhead
Step 3. Clean the Printhead by moving an alcohol-moistened swab tip si de-to-side acro ss the
Printhead elements. Only use moderate force.
Step 4. Allow two to three minutes for the printhead to dry before placing the printer power
switch in the ON ( | ) position.
Step 5. To reorder swabs, refer to the Media List on the Windows Drivers and User
Documentation CD supplied with this printer.
P1058486-004 Zebra ZXP Series 3 Card Printer User’s Manual 71
72 Zebra ZXP Series 3 Card Printer User’s Manual P1058486-004
Introduction
The objective of troubleshooting is to relate a problem to an associated assembly or system
function, in order to most efficiently isolate and repair the problem. Typically, this involves
determining the failure symptom and then checking one or more possible causes of the failure.
6
Troubleshooting
In general, for a given failure symptom one or more possible causes are listed, with su gg este d
corrective action to take. These causes should be checked and corrective actions taken in the
order given; they are listed in order of likelihood and complexity.
P1058486-004 Zebra ZXP Series 3 Card Printer User’s Manual 73
6: Troubleshooting
Troubleshooting Procedures
Troubleshooting Procedures
LCD Panel Warnings and Error Messages
The following tables show possible causes and solutions to symptoms related to improper
operation. Check the table when experiencing any loss of operation o r print quality.
PANEL WARNINGS (printer will still operate)
Problem / Symptom Description or Cause Possible Solution
Note
CHECKING RIBBON Printer is determining type of ribbon
installed.
CLEAN PRINTER Printer cleaning required. Refer to Cleaning the System on
CLOSE LID The lid is open. Make sure that the lid is completely
ENCODING ERROR May be incorrect card type. Check that you are using the correct
FLASH ERROR A flash error occurred. Reset the Printer, and try printing the
INVALID MAGNETIC DATA The magnetic data may be invalid. Check data format.
READING ERROR A reading error occurred. Reset the Printer, and try printing the
No action required -- status message
only.
page 69.
and securely closed.
magnetic card type (for low or high
coercivity encoding).
card again.
card again.
Note:If the problem persists, contact Technical Support; see Worldwide Support on page 127.
74 Zebra ZXP Series 3 Card Printer User’s Manual P1058486-004
6: Troubles hooting
Troubleshooting Procedures
ERROR MESSAGES (printer will not operate)
Problem / Symptom Description or Cause Possible Solution
CHECK RIBBON Wrong type of ribbon may be
installed. Ribbon for P1XX will
not work.
Install proper ribbon.
Note
Ribbon may be improperly installed.
COMMAND ERROR A command error occurred. Reset the Printer, and try printing the
COVER OPEN The cover is open. Make sure that the cover is
LID OPEN The lid is open. Make sure that the lid is completely
MECHANICAL ERROR Check that you are using the correct
card type.
Check that ribbon is loaded correctly.
Check for card jam in card flipper.
Reload ribbon cartridge. Refer to
Loading Ribbon Cartridge on
page 32.
card again.
completely and securely closed.
and securely closed.
See T echnical Specifications on
page 85.
Refer to Loading Ribbon Cartridge
on page 32 for details.
Open the lid, release the card feeder
by pressing the finger tab lever to the
left of the card thickness adjustment
(arrow below), raise the card feeder,
and remove any jammed cards from
the card flipper. Note that you may
need to rotate the card flipper by
hand to access the jammed cards.
Note: If the problem persists, contact Technical Support; see Worldwide Support on page 127.
P1058486-004 Zebra ZXP Series 3 Card Printer User’s Manual 75
6: Troubleshooting
Troubleshooting Procedures
Problem / Symptom Description or Cause Possible Solution
MECHANICAL ERROR
(continued)
ERROR MESSAGES (printer will not operate)
The card feeder feeds two cards
completely onto the feeder.
Calibrate the Card Load Sensor via
the !SAP 1 command. For command
implementation, refer to Tools on
page 49.
Note
The card feeder partially feeds the
second card, thereby blocking flipper
operation.
The card feeder does not feed a card.
This may be because two cards are
stuck together or a leading edge
is damaged.
The card feeder does not feed a card;
and it is not due to stuck-together
cards, damaged cards, or cards that
were not fanned.
OUT OF CARDS Check for cards in the card feeder.
Card did not feed.
The card thickness adjustment
(arrow below) should be closed one
or two clicks, one click at a time.
Remove the card, fan the card stack,
and return the cards to the
card feeder.
The card thickness adjustment
(arrow below) should be opened one
or two clicks, one click at a time.
If no cards present, load cards; then
press the Panel Button for 1 second.
The printing job will restart.
1. Verify that the card thickness
adjustment (arrow below) is set to
the thickness of the cards being used.
2. Fan the card stack to ensure that
cards are not stuck together.
3. Remove the first card in the stack,
and check if the edge is damaged;
discard if it is.
4. Open the card thickness
adjustment one or two detent clicks.
Note: If the problem persists, contact Technical Support; see Worldwide Support on page 127.
76 Zebra ZXP Series 3 Card Printer User’s Manual P1058486-004
6: Troubles hooting
Troubleshooting Procedures
ERROR MESSAGES (printer will not operate)
Problem / Symptom Description or Cause Possible Solution
OUT OF RIBBON Check ribbon. May be defective or
entirely used.
PARAMETERS ERROR A parameter error occurred. Reset the Printer, and try printing the
Load a new ribbon cartridge. Refer
to Loading Ribbon Cartridge on
page 32 for details.
card again.
Note:If the problem persists, contact Technical Support; see Wo rldwide Support on page 127.
Note
P1058486-004 Zebra ZXP Series 3 Card Printer User’s Manual 77
6: Troubleshooting
Troubleshooting Procedures
Print Quality Issues
This section will help you resolve print quality problems.
The print quality is dependent on several factors. The two most important factors that will
increase your print quality are cleanliness and card stock.
To diagnose and fix print quality problems, follow the troubleshooting procedures below:
Small spots - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 79
Non-printing horizontal lines (white) - - - - - - - - - - - - - 80
Pale or inconsistent results - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 81
Blurry printed image - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 82
No printing - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 83
78 Zebra ZXP Series 3 Card Printer User’s Manual P1058486-004
6: Troubles hooting
Troubleshooting Procedures
Example • Small spots
Small spots appear on the printed card with a non-printed area or a different color.
Possible Cause:
• Contamination on the card surface.
Solutions:
• Check that cards are stored in a dust free environment.
• Use a different supply of cards.
Possible Cause:
• Dust inside the printer and/or dirty Cleaning Roller.
Solutions:
• Clean the printer. Refer to Cleaning the System on page 69.
• Check that the protective cover was removed from the ribbon cartridge cleaning
roller. Refer to Loading Ribbon Cartridge on page 32.
P1058486-004 Zebra ZXP Series 3 Card Printer User’s Manual 79
6: Troubleshooting
Troubleshooting Procedures
Example • Non-printing horizontal lines (white)
There are non-printing horizontal lines (white) on the card surfaces.
Possible Cause:
• Ribbon cartridge is not correctly positioned.
Solutions:
• Ensure that the ribbon is properly rolled onto the ribbon cores of the cartridge and that
there are no wrinkles in the ribbon.
• Replace ribbon cartridge. Refer to Loading Ribbon Cartridge on page 32.
Possible Cause:
• Printhead is dirty.
Solutions:
• Clean the Printhead. Refer to Cleaning the Printhead on page 71.
Possible Cause:
• Printhead elements are damaged (e.g., scratched or burnt).
Solutions:
• Call Zebra Customer Service for Printhead replacement information; see Worldwide
Support on page 127.
Possible Cause:
• Loose printhead data cable connection.
Solutions:
• Ensure that the cable connection at the Printhead is secure.
80 Zebra ZXP Series 3 Card Printer User’s Manual P1058486-004
6: Troubles hooting
Troubleshooting Procedures
Example • Pale or inconsistent results
Printing shows very pale or inconsistent results.
Possible Cause:
• Ribbon cartridge have been stored improperly or is damaged.
Solution:
• Change ribbon cartridge, and print again. Refer to Loading Ribbon Cartridge on
page 32.
Possible Cause:
• Cards may not meet specifications. Refer to Technical Specifications on page 85.
Solution:
• Use a different supply of cards.
Possible Cause:
• Dust or embedded contamination on elements of the Printhead.
Solution:
• Clean the Printhead. Refer to Cleaning the Printhead on page 71.
Possible Cause:
• Printing on wrong side of writable back cards.
Solution:
• Reverse direction of cards in feeder.
Possible Cause:
• Improperly adjusted print intensity/density.
Solution:
• Adjust the print intensity/density. Refer to Image Control on page 64.
P1058486-004 Zebra ZXP Series 3 Card Printer User’s Manual 81
6: Troubleshooting
Troubleshooting Procedures
Example • Blurry printed image
Printing shows blurry printed image.
Possible Cause:
• Ribbon cartridge may not be correctly positioned.
Solution:
• Check that the ribbon is properly rolled onto the ribbon cores of the cartridge, with
no wrinkles.
• Replace ribbon cartridge, making sure it locks in place, and print again. Refer to
Loading Ribbon Cartridge on page 32.
Possible Cause:
• Ribbon may not be synchronized on the correct color panel position.
Solution:
• Open lid, then close lid to synchronize ribbon.
Possible Cause:
• Cards may not meet specifications. Refer to Technical Specifications on page 85.
Solution:
• Use a different supply of cards.
Possible Cause:
• Dust or embedded contamination inside the printer.
Solution:
• Clean the Rollers and the Printhead. Refer to Cleaning the System on page 69 and
Cleaning the Printhead on page 71 respectively.
82 Zebra ZXP Series 3 Card Printer User’s Manual P1058486-004
6: Troubles hooting
Troubleshooting Procedures
Example • No printing
No printing on the card.
Possible Cause:
• Ribbon cartridge may not be installed in the printer.
Solution:
• Check for ribbon cartridge in the printer. Refer to Loading Ribbon Cartridge on
page 32.
Possible Cause:
• Cards may not meet specifications. Refer to Technical Specifications on page 85.
Solution:
• Use a different supply of cards.
Possible Cause:
• Cable on Printhead may be disconnected.
• Printhead elements may be scratched or burnt.
Solution:
• Call Service for Printhead repair or replacement information; see Worldwide Support
on page 127.
P1058486-004 Zebra ZXP Series 3 Card Printer User’s Manual 83
84 Zebra ZXP Series 3 Card Printer User’s Manual P1058486-004
Technical Specifications
Printer Specifications
Specifications are provided for reference and are based on printer tests using Zebra brand
consumables. Results may vary in actual application settings or when using other than
recommended Zebra supplies. Zebra recommends always qualifying any application with
thorough testing.
7
Standard Features
•True Colours® ix Series™ ZXP 3 high-performance ribbons with in telligent
media technology
• High capacity, Eco-Friendly Load-N-Go™ drop-in ribbon cartridges
•ZRaster
• Auto calibration of ribbon
• USB V2.0 connectivity
• Microsoft Certified Windows drivers
• Energy Star Certified
• Print Touch NFC tag for online Printer documentation access
• 100-card covered feeder (30 mil)
• 45-card capacity output hopper (30 mil)
• 16-character LCD operator control display
• 300 dpi (11.8 dots/mm) print resolution
• Two-year warranty on printer
• Two-year (unlimited passes) original printhead
• One-year hot swap (U.S. only)
• Secure lock slot
™
host-based image processing
P1058486-004 Zebra ZXP Series 3 Card Printer User’s Manual 85
7: Technical Specifications
Printer Specifications
Printing Specifications
• Dye-sublimation thermal transfer direct to card
• Full color or monochrome printing
• Single- or dual-sided printing
• Edge-to-edge printing on standard CR-80 media
Printing Throughput
Printing throughput (cards/hour) based on click-to-drop printing, average print coverage,
with USB connectivity. Times may vary depending on the computer and configurations.
• 700 cph monochrome single-sided
• 195 cph single-sided YMCKO
• 140 cph dual-sided YMCKOK
Encoding Options and Specifications
• Magnetic stripe encoder – ISO 7811 (new and re-encoded, tracks 1,2, and 3, high
and low coercivity, stripe down, 30-mil card only
• * Smart card contact station ISO 7816
• * Combined MIFARE
Specifications – PC/SC and EMV level 1 certified (50-card capacity [30 mil]
external output hopper)
• Encoding over USB and Ethernet
®
ISO 14443 (13.56 MHz) and ISO 7816 Contact Encoder
Optional Features
• * Built-in 10/100 Ethernet connectivity
• * CardSense™ single-card fe ed mode
• ZebraCare™ extended product warranty programs
• * Lockable enclosure with obscure output bin
Communications Interfaces
• USB V2.0 (cable included) - standard
• * Built-in 10/100 Ethernet - optional
Card Compatibility
NOTE: For optimum print quality and printer perf ormance, use of Zebra genuine
supplies is recommended.
• Card Thickness: 10-40 mil
• Card Size: CR-80, ISO 7810 format, Type ID-1, 2.12” (54 mm) x 3.38” (86 mm)
• Card Material: PVC and PVC composite
• Smart Card Contact: ISO 7816-1,2,3,4
• Smart Card Contactless: MIFARE® ISO 14443A/B
• Spot color/monochrome print image only is supported on < 20 mil card thickness
* Field upgradeable options
86 Zebra ZXP Series 3 Card Printer User’s Manual P1058486-004
7: Technical Specifications
Printer Specifications
Supplies Specifications
The ZXP Series 3 printer is designed to work only with Zebra True Colours ix Series, ZXP
Series 3 high-performance ribbons.
• Zebra ix Series media-intelligent technology automatically detects and authenticates
the ribbon
• Integrated cleaning roller included on each ribbon
• Media Starter Kit (single-sided): 1 YMCKO ribbon, 200 30-mil PVC cards,
1 cleaning roll
• Cleaning Kit: 4 print engine cleaning cards and 4 feeder cleaning cards, 1000 images
True Colours ix Series, ZXP Series 3 Ribbon options:
Ribbon Description
YMCKO 200 280
1/2 YMCKO 250 400
YMCKOK 265 230
KdO 500 700
KrO 500 700
Black Monochrome 1000 2000
Red Monochrome 1000 1700
Blue Monochrome 1000 1700
Gold Monochrome 1000 1600
Silver Monochrome 1000 1600
White Monochrome 850 1400
(1) Requires Firmware Release 2.0 or greater
Standard Cartridge
Image Count
New High Capacity
Eco Cartridge Image
Count (1)
Preventative Maintenance
Zebra recommends cleaning the printer on a regular basis using standard Zebra printer
parts and cleaning supplies; see Section 5 for details.
Drivers Supported
Microsoft Windows Certified Printer Drivers:
• Windows XP, Vista, Server 2003, Server 2008
• Windows 7 (32-bit and 64-bit compatible)
• Windows 8 (32-bit and 64-bit compatible)
Refer to http://www.zebra.com
for up-to-date listing of supported environments
Physical Specifications (standard model)
• Height: 9.3 in (236 mm)
• Width: 7.9 in (200.7 mm)
• Depth: 14.5 in (368 mm)
• Weight: 12.2 lbs (5.53 kg)
P1058486-004 Zebra ZXP Series 3 Card Printer User’s Manual 87
7: Technical Specifications
Printer Specifications
Electrical Specifications
• Auto-switching single-phase AC power
• Operating range: 90-132VAC and 190-264VAC RMS.
• Frequency range: 47-63 Hz.
• Power requirement is 100W max continuous and 607W peak (for 450 µ
output power
• FCC Class A
Environmental Specifications
• Operating Temperature: 60º F to 86º F (15º C to/30º C)
• Storage Temperature: 23º F to 158º F (-5º C to 70º C)
• Operating Humidity: 20% to 65% non-condensing
• Storage Humidity: 20% to 70% non-condensing
• Media Storage:
- Temperature: 41F to 77F (5C to 30C)
- Humidity: 35% to 65% non-condensing
- Store in dark location
sec)
Agency Approvals
Zebra ZXP Series 3 Card Printer complies with following applicable directives and
standards for the ITE: Residential, Commercial & Light Industry en vironments
• For US/Canada/Mexico/Australia&NZ
- FCC Class A, cfr47, Part 15 Subpart J
- FCC 15.257 2008, Part 15 Subpart C
- Canadian STD RSS-210
- NOM-ETL (Mexico)
- IEC 60950-1:2005+A1:2009 Safety Standard (TUV & NRTL)
- C-Tick (Australia) Electromagnetic Radiation Standard
•For Europe:
- Applicable Directives and Supporting Standards:
2004/108/EC EMC Directive, EN55022:2010 Class A,
EN55024:2010, EN61000-3-2:2006+A2:2009,
EN61000-3-3:2008, 2006/95/EC LVD Directive,
EN60950-1:2006+A11:2009+A1:2010+A12:2011, CB Scheme
- RFID Enabled
Applicable Directives and Supporting Standards:
99/5/EC R&TTE Directive, EN 301 489-3 V1.4.1,
EN 300 330 V1.5.1
88 Zebra ZXP Series 3 Card Printer User’s Manual P1058486-004
7: Technical Specifications
2.125 ± 0.002 in
(53.98 ± 0.050 mm)
Radius
0.125 in
(3.18 mm)
3.375 ± 0.010 in
(85.72 ± 0.25 mm)
0.009 ~ 0.034 in
(0.23 ~ 0.84 mm)
0.623 in (15.82 mm) min
0~0.115 in (2.92 mm) 0~0.115 in (2.92 mm)
MAGNETIC STRIPE
0.218 in (5.54 mm) max
0.403 in (10.25 mm)
0.782 in (19.87 mm)
0.757 in
(19.23 mm)
1.124 in
(28.55 mm)
ISO Standard Card Dimensions
ISO Standard Card Dimensions
Dimensions for Plain Card ISO Standard 7810
Dimensions for Magnetic Stripe Card ISO Standard 7811
Contact Location for Smart Card ISO Standard 7816
P1058486-004 Zebra ZXP Series 3 Card Printer User’s Manual 89
7: Technical Specifications
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 in terference, and
2. This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause
undesired operation.
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for Class A Digital
Devices, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limi ts are designed to provide reasona ble
protection against harmful interference when the equipment is operated in a commercial
environment. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if
not installed and used in accordance with the product manuals, may cause harmful in terference
to radio communications. Operation of this equipment in a residential area is likely to cause
harmful interference, in which case the user will be required to correct the interference at his
own expense.
The user is cautioned that any changes or modifications not expressly approved by Zebra
Technologies 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 (RLAN)
This equipment complies with FCC radiation exposure limits set forth for an uncontrolled
environment.
Important
1. The radio must be installed with a minimum 20cm separation between the user and
the antenna.
2. The radio must not be co-located or used in simultaneous transmitting condition with
another radio.
3. The host system shall have a label to indicate that the system contains a certified
module. An example is “Contains FCC ID : XXXXX , IC ID: YYYYY”.
Canadian DOC Compliance Statement
Cet appareil numérique de la classe A est conforme à la norme NMB-003 du Canada.
This Class A digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003.
90 Zebra ZXP Series 3 Card Printer User’s Manual P1058486-004
European Union and EFTA
Agência Nacional
de Telecomunicações
The Class 2 RLAN may be operated in the following countries with the restrictions and
limitations indicated below.
AT BE BG CY CZ DK EE
FI FR DE GR HU IE IT
LV LT LU MT NL PL PT
RO SK SI ES SE GB
IS LI NO CH
Japanese Notification
7: Technical Specifications
Compliance Information
Important Notice:
Operation in band 5150 – 5350 MHz shall be
restricted to indoor use.
NCC Warning Message
Brasil - Aviso da Anatel
Este equipamento opera em caráter secundário, isto é, não tem direito a proteção contra
interferência prejudicial, mesmo de estações do mesmo tipo, e não pode causar interferência a sistemas operando em
caráter primário.
“Este produto está homologado pela ANATEL, de acordo com os procedimentos regulamentados pela Resolução 242/
2000, e atende aos requisitos técnicos aplicados”
Para maiores informações, consulte o site da ANATEL www.anatel.gov.br
P1058486-004 Zebra ZXP Series 3 Card Printer User’s Manual 91
92 Zebra ZXP Series 3 Card Printer User’s Manual P1058486-004
APPENDIX A
Advanced Sharing
Printer Sharing Configurations
This section covers:
Microsoft Driver Support Matrix . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94
Client / Server Printer sharing support Matrix . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95
P1058486-004 Zebra ZXP Series 3 Card Printer User’s Manual 93
A: Advanced Sharing
Microsoft Driver Support Matrix
Supported Windows
Drivers Microsoft OS
One-to-One One-to-Many Many-to-One Many-to-Many Printer
1
1 Printer -
1 Host
1 Host - Many
Printers
Multiple Hosts
(Drivers) -
One Printer
Multiple Hosts
(Drivers) -
Many Printers
Pooling
Windows 8 (32-bit) Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Windows 8 (64-bit) Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Server 2008 (64-bit) Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Server 2008 (32-bit) Y es Yes Yes Yes Yes
Server 2003 Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Windows 7 (64-bit) Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Windows 7 (32-bit) Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Vista (64-bit) Yes
Vista (32-bit) Yes
Windows XP Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
2
94 Zebra ZXP Series 3 Card Printer User’s Manual P1058486-004
Client / Server Printer sharing support Matrix
The following Matrix shows the tested configurations between various Microsoft OS in a
shared Client / Server print environment. See
supported configurations.
Sharing Matrix Windows OS Driver Clients
http://www.zebra.com for the latest driver and
A: Advanced Sharing
Windows OS Server
(Driver Host)
Windows 8 (32-bit) Yes
Windows 8 (64-bit)
Server 2012
Server 2008 (64-bit) Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Server 2008 (32-bit)
Server 2003
Windows 7 (64-bit)
Windows 7 (32-bit)
Windows XP
(All Editions)
SP 2 and above
1 Driver installed on individual Client PC’s
2 Printer Pooling Sharing not supported.
Win 8 (32-bit) Win 8 (64-bit) Win 7 (32-bit) Win 7 (64-bit) Win XP
Yes Yes Yes
Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Yes Yes Yes
Yes Yes Yes
Yes Yes
Yes
P1058486-004 Zebra ZXP Series 3 Card Printer User’s Manual 95
A: Advanced Sharing
Advanced Sharing Settings
This section covers the following Advanced Sharing Settings:
Installing and setting up a Windows 2008 Server- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 96
Advanced Sharing Settings for Windows Server 2008 R2- - - - - - - - - - 97
Home or Work Network Settings: - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 97
Public Network Settings:- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 98
Advanced Sharing Settings for Windows Server 2008 - - - - - - - - - 99
Advanced Sharing Settings fo r Windows 7- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 100
Home or Work Network settings: - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 100
Public Network Settings:- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 101
Installing and setting up a Windows 2008 Server
1. Install a new server OS, Windows 2008 Server 64-bit.
2. Log in as Admin user with password.
3. Check the following services by running the command “Services.msc” from the
Start->Run menu, and make sure the following services are started/running:
a. SSDP Discovery –
b. Function discovery resource publication.
c. UPnP device hostd. DNS Client.
4. The services mentioned above should be running to ensure that the following network
settings are saved and take effect.
96 Zebra ZXP Series 3 Card Printer User’s Manual P1058486-004
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