Zebra Technologies Z4M User Manual

Customer order # 77965L

Manufacturer part # 77965LB Rev. 1

Proprietary Statement

This manual contains proprietary information of Zebra Technologies Corporation. It is intended solely for the information and use of parties operating and maintaining the equipment described herein. Such proprietary information may not be used, reproduced, or disclosed to any other parties for any other purpose without the expressed written permission of Zebra Technologies Corporation.

Product Improvements

Continuous improvement of products is a policy of Zebra Technologies Corporation. All specifications and signs are subject to change without notice.

FCC Compliance Statement

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

Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.

Increase the separation between the equipment and the receiver.

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

Consult the dealer or an experienced Radio/TV technician for help.

NOTE: This unit was tested with shielded cables on the peripheral devices. Shielded cables must be used with the unit to insure compliance.

“The user is cautioned that any changes or modifications not expressly approved by Zebra Technologies Corporation could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.”

Canadian DOC Compliance Statement

This digital apparatus does not exceed the Class A limits for radio noise emissions from digital apparatus as set out in the radio interference regulations of the Canadian Department of Communications.

Liability Disclaimer

Zebra Technologies Corporation takes steps to assure that its published Engineering Specifications and Manuals are correct; however, errors do occur. Zebra Technologies Corporation reserves the right to correct any such errors and disclaims liability resulting therefrom.

No Liability for Consequential Damage

In no event shall Zebra Technologies Corporation or anyone else involved in the creation, production, or delivery of the accompanying product (including hardware and software) be liable for any damages whatsoever (including, without limitation, damages for loss of business profits, business interruption, loss of business information, or other pecuniary loss) arising out of the use of or the results of use of or inability to use such product, even if Zebra Technologies Corporation has been advised of the possibility of such damages. Because some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of liability for consequential or incidental damages, the above limitation may not apply to you.

Copyrights

This copyrighted manual and the label printers described herein are owned by Zebra Technologies Corporation. All rights are reserved. Unauthorized reproduction of this manual or the software in the label printer may result in imprisonment of up to one year and fines of up to $10,000 (17 U.S.C.506). Copyright violators may be subject to civil liability.

ii Zebra Z4M Printer User’s Guide

I have determined that the Zebra printer identified as the

Zebra Z4M Printer

manufactured by:

Zebra Technologies Corporation

333 Corporate Woods Parkway

Vernon Hills, Illinois 60061-3109 U.S.A.

has been shown to comply with the applicable technical standards of the FCC

™

for Home, Office, Commercial, and Industrial use

if no unauthorized change is made in the equipment,

and if the equipment is properly maintained and operated.

Zebra Z4M Printer User’s Guide iii

iv Zebra Z4M Printer User’s Guide

Table of Contents

Welcome

Hello! .......................................1

Unpacking and Inspection ............................1

Reporting Damage...............................2

Storage.....................................2

Media and Ribbon Requirements .........................2

Printer Power ...................................3

Printer Overview .................................4

Calibrating the Printer

Purpose ......................................5

Types of Media ..................................6

Non-Continuous Web Media .........................6

Non-Continuous Black Mark Media .....................7

Continuous Media ...............................7

Choosing the Print Mode .............................8

Loading the Media ................................9

Positioning the Media Sensor ..........................10

Reflective Sensor...............................10

Adjusting the Reflective Sensor .......................11

Transmissive Sensor .............................12

Zebra Z4M Printer User’s Guide v

Loading the Ribbon ...............................12

Auto Calibration .................................13

Operator Controls ................................14

POWER Switch ...............................14

Front Panel ..................................14

Configuring the Printer .............................15

Configuring the Software of Printer Driver ...................16

Printing a Test Label...............................16

Establishing Communication

System Considerations..............................17

Interfaces ...................................17

Data Specifications..............................17

Cabling Requirements ..............................18

Printer Basics

Front Panel....................................19

Front Panel Display .............................19

Front Panel Keys ...............................20

Front Panel Lights ..............................21

Roll Media Loading ...............................22

Tear-Off Mode ................................22

Cutter Mode .................................24

Value Peel-Off Mode.............................26

Power Peel-Off Mode ............................28

PowerRewindMode.............................30

vi Zebra Z4M Printer User’s Guide

Fanfold Media Loading .............................32

Ribbon Loading .................................34

Loading the Ribbon .............................34

Ribbon Removal .................................36

Configuration

Entering the Setup Mode ............................37

Changing Password-Protected Parameters ...................38

Leaving the Setup Mode.............................39

Configuration and Calibration Sequence ....................40

Routine Care and Adjustments

Cleaning .....................................55

Cleaning the Exterior ..............................56

Cleaning the Interior .............................56

Cleaning the Printhead and Platen Roller ..................56

Cleaning the Sensors .............................57

Cleaning the Power Peel-Off Module ....................58

Cleaning the Value Peel-Off Module ....................59

Cleaning the Cutter Module .........................60

Lubrication....................................61

Printhead Pressure Adjustment .........................62

Power Peel-Off/Power Rewind Media Alignment . . . ............64

Fuse Replacement ................................66

Zebra Z4M Printer User’s Guide vii

Troubleshooting

LCD Error Conditions and Warnings ......................67

Print Quality Problems..............................69

Communications Problems ...........................71

Printer Diagnostics................................73

Power-On Self Test .............................73

Additional Printer Self Tests .........................73

CANCEL Key Self Test ...........................74

PAUSE Key Self Test ............................75

FEED Key Self Test .............................76

Loading Factory Defaults ............................77

Specifications

General Specifications ..............................79

Printing Specifications..............................80

Ribbon Specifications ..............................80

Media Specifications...............................81

Options......................................81

Zebra Programming Language (ZPL II).....................82

Bar Codes ....................................82

AC Power Cord .................................83

Appendix

Printer Interface Technical Information .....................85

Serial Data Communications.........................85

Parallel Data Communications ........................89

Index

viii Zebra Z4M Printer User’s Guide

Welcome

Hello!

This user’s guide provides all the information you will need to operate the printer.

The ZPL II®Programming Guide Volume I and Volume II (part #45540L) show you how to create the perfect label format for your application. These books also explain how, through optional ZBI allowing custom programs to be written that operate within the printer, directly interfacing with, for example, bar code scanners and keyboard display devices. In addition, the books contain information about the enhanced operating system features of your printer. There are three ways to obtain these books: on the accessory CD-ROM (supplied with the printer), on our web site (www.zebra.com), and printed manuals can be ordered from your distributor.

The ZebraNet®Networking: PrintServer II™Installation and User’s Guide (part # 45537L) explains how you can quickly set up your printer on an IP network (optional ZebraNet PrintServer II required).

There is also a maintenance manual for your printer. This manual (part # 77259L) contains the information you will need to maintain your printer.

™

, you can extend the power of ZPL II by

Unpacking and Inspection

Inspect the printer for possible shipping damage:

Check all exterior surfaces.

Raise the media access door and inspect the media compartment.

In case shipping is required, save the carton and all packing material. Contact your authorized Zebra reseller for instructions.

Zebra Z4M Printer User’s Guide 1

Reporting Damage

If you discover shipping damage:

Immediately notify the shipping company and file a damage report. Zebra Technologies Corporation is not responsible for any damage incurred during the shipment of the equipment and will not repair this damage under warranty.

Keep the carton and all packing material for inspection.

Notify your local Zebra reseller.

Storage

If you are not placing the printer into operation immediately, repackage it using the original packing materials. The printer may be stored under the following conditions:

Temperature: -40° Fto140° F (-40° Cto60° C)

Relative humidity: 5% to 85%, non-condensing

Media and Ribbon Requirements

Since print quality is affected by media and ribbon, printing speeds, and printer operating modes, it is very important to run tests for your applications.

We strongly recommend the use of Zebra Technologies Corporation-brand supplies for continuous high-quality printing. A wide range of paper, polypropylene, polyester, and vinyl stock has been specifically engineered to enhance the printing capabilities of the printer and to ensure against premature printhead wear.

Continuous roll media, fanfold media, or card stock with optional perforations and registration holes may be used.

Printhead life may be reduced by the abrasion of exposed paper fibers when using perforated media.

The ribbon MUST be as wide as or wider than the media being used. If the ribbon is narrower than the media, areas of the printhead will be unprotected and subject to premature wear. (When printing in direct thermal mode, ribbon is not used and should not be loaded in the printer.)

2 Zebra Z4M Printer User’s Guide

Printer Power

The power supply in the printer automatically detects the applied line voltage and works in the 90 to 265 VAC range.

WARNING!!! For personnel and equipment safety, always use a three-prong plug with an earth ground connection.

NOTE: Depending on how your printer was ordered, a power cord may or may not be included. If one is not included, or if the one included is not suitable for your requirements, refer to “Power Line Cord Specifications” on page 83.

Refer to Figure 1.

The AC power cord connector must be plugged into the mating connector at the rear of the printer.

Make sure that the POWER switch is in the “off” position before connecting the power cord to an electrical outlet.

AC power switch

Connector

Figure 1

Zebra Z4M Printer User’s Guide 3

Printer Overview

Depending on the options you have selected, your printer may look slightly different.

Front

housing

assembly

Printhead assembly

Printhead

open lever

Transmissive

sensor

Ribbon

sensor

Media

guide

Media

alignment

spindle

Media supply guide

Dancer

Thumbscrew

Media

supply

hanger

Take-up

spindle

Rewind

media

guide

Figure 2

4 Zebra Z4M Printer User’s Guide

Calibrating the Printer

This chapter of the user’s guide is so important that we’ve printed it on a different color paper! That way, it will be easy for you to find when you must calibrate (set up) the printer for your particular application.

Purpose

To calibrate the printer.

To verify that the printer is properly set up by printing a test label.

NOTE: This procedure must be performed when the printer is first installed or when it cannot properly detect the top of the label.

To calibrate the printer, you must do the following (all of the instructions are contained in this chapter):

Determine the type of media (labels) being used.

Choose the print method.

Position the media sensor (if necessary).

Configure the printer and software or driver based on the label being used.

Print a test label.

Zebra Z4M Printer User’s Guide 5

Types of Media

Non-Continuous Web Media

Non-continuous web media (refer to Figure 3) refers to individual labels that are separated by a gap, notch, or hole. When you look at the media, you can tell where one label ends and the next one begins.

Hole

Label gap

Notch

Non-continuous media with a hole or notch

Label gap

Non-continuous media with gaps between the labels

(individual labels on a continuous liner)

Figure 3

6 Zebra Z4M Printer User’s Guide

Non-Continuous Black Mark Media

Non-continuous black mark media has black marks printed on the back that indicate the start and end of each label (refer to Figure 4).

Black mark

Non-continuous media for black mark sensing

Figure 4

Continuous Media

Continuous media (refer to Figure 5) is one uninterrupted roll of material that allows the image to be printed anywhere on the label.

Continuous media (no gaps, holes, notches, or black marks)

Figure 5

Zebra Z4M Printer User’s Guide 7

Choosing the Print Mode

Tear-off mode allows you to tear off each label, or a strip of labels, after it is printed.

In peel-off mode, backing material is peeled away from the label as it is printed. After this label is removed from the printer, the next one is printed.

When in cutter mode, the printer automatically cuts the label after it is printed.

In rewind mode, the media and/or backing are rewound onto a core as the labels are printed.

8 Zebra Z4M Printer User’s Guide

Loading the Media

Figure 6 illustrates one method of media loading. For more detailed instructions, as well as information about how to load the different types of media and the various printing modes, refer to the instructions that begin on page 22.

Media supply guide

Transmissive

sensor

Printhead assembly

Ribbon sensor

Printhead open lever

Media guide

Dancer

Media

supply

hanger

Figure 6

Zebra Z4M Printer User’s Guide 9

Positioning the Media Sensor

The correct positioning of the media sensor is important. It can make the difference between a perfect label and a call to Technical Support!

There are two media sensors in this printer: “reflective” and “transmissive.”

Reflective Sensor

The reflective sensor detects the “start-of-label indicator” (the notch, hole, black mark, or gap between die-cut labels).

The reflective sensor must be positioned:

directly under the notch, hole, or black mark, or

anywhere along the width of the media if there is a gap between labels

The glow of the red light through the media will help you to accurately position the reflective sensor.

NOTE: If you are using continuous media, position the reflective sensor anywhere under the media so that the printer can detect an out-of-paper condition.

NOTE: The reflective sensor is compatible with most types of media. However, if you encounter difficulties with calibration, use the transmissive sensor. See “Transmissive Sensor” on page 12.

10 Zebra Z4M Printer User’s Guide

Adjusting the Reflective Sensor

Printhead

Refer to Figure 7.

1. Open the printhead assembly by pressing the printhead open lever.

2. Locate the reflective sensor positioning lever.

3. Move the reflective sensor positioning lever across the width of the media until

the reflective sensor aligns with the start-of-label indicator. The glow of the red light will assist in the proper placement of the reflective sensor.

4. Close the printhead assembly.

assembly

Reflective

sensor

Reflective

sensor

positioning

Printhead open

lever

Figure 7

Zebra Z4M Printer User’s Guide 11

Transmissive Sensor

Ribb

The transmissive sensor is in a fixed position and enabled via the front panel (details in “SENSOR SELECT” on page 41).

Loading the Ribbon

Refer to Figure 8.

For more detailed information, refer to the instructions that begin on page 34.

on take-up spindle

Ribbon

Printhead assembly

guide plate

Ribbon

supply spindle

Printhead o

en lever

Figure 8

12 Zebra Z4M Printer User’s Guide

Auto Calibration

When auto calibrating, the printer is determining the label length and media/ribbon sensor settings.

Auto calibration occurs when the printer is turned on and each time the printer recovers from an error condition. (To clear an error, open and close the printhead assembly and then press the PAUSE key.) The printer will begin to auto calibrate when all errors have been cleared.

The results of the auto calibration are stored in the printer's memory and are retained even if printer power is removed. These parameters remain in effect until the next calibration is performed.

NOTE: The auto calibration process will not take place if the ZPL command or front panel setting for “MEDIA POWER UP” or “HEAD CLOSE” is set to either “feed” or “no motion.” In these cases, the printer assumes the media is correctly positioned and starts printing without auto calibrating.

Zebra Z4M Printer User’s Guide 13

Operator Controls

POWER Switch

The POWER switch is located at the back of the printer above the power cord. Turn on the printer.

Front Panel

For a more detailed explanation of the front panel keys and lights (as shown in Figure 9), refer to the instructions that begin on page 19.

PAUSE

Figure 9

14 Zebra Z4M Printer User’s Guide

Configuring the Printer

The configuration procedure in the next table contains the information you need to get your printer up and running, but it is not comprehensive. Refer to page 40 for more information.

Press the SETUP/EXIT key at the “PRINTER READY” display to enter the configuration mode.

NOTE: You will need to press the INCREMENT (+) key more than once to advance to some of the displays.

Press the INCREMENT (+) or DECREMENT (-) key to scroll to the setting you wish to change.

Press the SELECT key to toggle the functionality of the INCREMENT (+) and DECREMENT (-) keys.

Press the INCREMENT (+) or DECREMENT (-) keys to increase or decrease the value; answer “yes” or “no”; print a label; or, select the digit you wish to change.

Press the SELECT key again to use the INCREMENT (+) and DECREMENT (-) keys to scroll to the desired menu item.

Parameter Selections/Explanation

PRINTER READY

DARKNESS

PRINT MODE

MEDIA TYPE

SENSOR TYPE

PRINT METHOD

After you have configured the print method, press the SETUP/EXIT key to save

You are ready to configure the printer.

0 to 30 (default setting is “10”)

Tear-off, peel-off, cutter, rewind (default is “tear-off”)

Non-continuous, continuous (default setting is “non-continuous”)

Web, mark (default setting is “web”)

Thermal transfer, direct thermal (default setting is “thermal transfer”)

the changes and exit the configuration mode.

Zebra Z4M Printer User’s Guide 15

Configuring the Software of Printer Driver

Many printer settings may also be controlled by your printer’s driver or label preparation software. Refer to the driver or software documentation for more information.

Printing a Test Label

To print a test label:

1. Turn off the printer.

2. Press and hold the CANCEL key while

turning on the printer.

3. Release the key after the DATA light turns

off (approximately five seconds).

A configuration label, which shows the printer’s currently stored parameters, will print (similar to the one shown in Figure 10).

If you encounter any problems while you are configuring the printer or printing a test label, refer to Troubleshooting, which starts on page 67. Otherwise, refer to Establishing Communication on page 17 to set up the communication parameters.

Figure 10

16 Zebra Z4M Printer User’s Guide

Establishing Communication

System Considerations

Interfaces

The method of interfacing this printer to a data source depends on the communication options installed in the printer. The standard interfaces are an RS-232/RS-422/RS-485 serial data port and a bi-directional parallel port. The optional ZebraNet PrintServer II enables printers to be connected to 10Base-T Ethernet networks.

Data Specifications

When communicating via an asynchronous serial data port (refer to Figure 11), the baud rate, number of data and stop bits, parity, and handshaking are user selectable (default settings are 9600 baud, 8 data bits, 1 stop bit, no parity, and XON/XOFF). Parity only applies to data transmitted by the printer since the parity of received data is ignored.

Printer

Male

Null modem adapter

(if using a standard

modem cable)

50’ (15 m) maximum

Figure 11

Male

Computer

Female

Zebra Z4M Printer User’s Guide 17

When communicating via the parallel port (refer to Figure 12), the previously mentioned parameters are not considered. Refer to page 46 to configure the communication parameters for the printer. The values selected must be the same as those used by the host equipment connected to the printer.

For serial and parallel pinout and technical information, refer to the Appendix on page 85.

Cabling Requirements

36-pin

male

ComputerPrinter

25-pin

female

25-pin

male

Data cables must be fully shielded and fitted with metal or metalized connector shells. Shielded cables and connectors are required to prevent radiation and reception of electrical noise.

To minimize electrical noise pickup in the cable:

Keep data cables as short as possible.

Do not bundle the data cables tightly with the power cords.

Do not tie the data cables to power wire conduits.

NOTE: Zebra printers comply with FCC “Rules and Regulations,” Part 15, for Class B Equipment, using fully shielded data cables. Use of unshielded cables may increase radiated emission above the Class B limits.

NOTE: RS-422 and RS-485 applications should use twisted shielded pairs as recommended in the Appendix of the TA/EA.-485 Specification.

10’ (3 m) maximum

Figure 12

18 Zebra Z4M Printer User’s Guide

Printer Basics

Front Panel

This section discusses the functions of the various controls and indicators on the printer. The operator should become familiar with each of these functions.

Front Panel Display

The front panel display communicates operational status and programming modes and parameters.

PAUSE

Figure 13

Zebra Z4M Printer User’s Guide 19

Front Panel Keys

Key Function

Forces the printer to feed one blank label each time the key is pressed.

Printer not printing: one blank label immediately feeds.

FEED

PAUSE

CANCEL

SETUP/EXIT

SELECT

INCREMENT (+)

(”scroll” mode)

INCREMENT (+)

(”change” mode)

DECREMENT (-)

(”scroll” mode)

DECREMENT (-)

(”change” mode)

•

Printing: one blank label feeds after the current batch of labels is complete.

•

Starts and stops the printing process.

Printer not printing: no printing occurs. (Press PAUSE again to resume

•

printing.) Printing: printing stops once the current batch is complete.

•

When in the pause mode, this key will cancel print jobs.

Printer not printing: the next stored label format will not print.

•

Printing: the label format currently printing is canceled.

•

Press and hold for several seconds to cancel all print jobs in the printer’s memory.

Enters and exits the configuration mode.

Toggles the function of the INCREMENT (+) and DECREMENT (-) keys between the “scroll” and “change” modes.

Press once to use the INCREMENT (+) and DECREMENT (-) keys to change the

•

value of the selection. Press again to use the INCREMENT (+) and DECREMENT (-) keys to scroll

•

through the menu items.

Scrolls to the next selection.

•

Increases the value

•

Answers “yes”

•

Prints a label (when applicable)

Scrolls to the previous selection.

•

Decreases the value

•

Selects the digit you wish to change

•

Answers “no”

20 Zebra Z4M Printer User’s Guide

Front Panel Lights

Light Status Indication

POWER

PAUSE

ERROR

DATA

Off

Flashing

Off

Slow flashing

Fast flashing

Off

One flash

Slow flashing

Fast flashing

The printer is off or no power is applied.

The printer is on.

Normal printer operation.

The printer has stopped all printing operations.

In peel-off mode, the PAUSE light flashes when the label is available for removal, and when initializing FLASH or PCMCIA memory.

Normal printer operation (no errors).

“RIBBON IN” warning, “HEAD UNDER TEMP” warning, or “HEAD OVER TEMP” error

“HEAD OPEN” error

“PAPER OUT,” “RIBBON OUT,” or “CUTTER JAM” errors

Normal printer operation (no data being received or processed).

The CANCEL key is pressed and a format is successfully canceled.

The printer is unable to accept more data from the host.

The printer is receiving data.

A partial format has been received and there has been no subsequent data activity.

Zebra Z4M Printer User’s Guide 21

Roll Media Loading

Tear-Off Mode

Refer to Figure 14.

1. Press the printhead open lever. The printhead assembly springs up.

2. Flip down the media supply guide.

3. Slide out the media guide as far from the printer frame as possible.

4. Place the roll of media on the media supply hanger.

5. Flip up the media supply guide. Slide in the media supply guide so that it just

touches, but does not restrict, the edge of the roll.

6. Feed the media under the dancer, through the slot in the transmissive sensor,

under the ribbon sensor, and out the front of the printer.

7. Ensure that the media is against the back of the transmissive sensor. Slide in the

media guide so that it just touches, but does not restrict, the edge of the media.

8. Close the printhead assembly.

22 Zebra Z4M Printer User’s Guide

Printhead assembly

Transmissive

Media supply guide

sensor

Ribbon

sensor

Printhead open lever

Media guide

Dancer

Figure 14

Media supply

hanger

Zebra Z4M Printer User’s Guide 23

Cutter Mode

(Cutter option required)

Refer to Figure 15.

1. Press the printhead open lever. The printhead assembly springs up.

2. Flip down the media supply guide.

3. Slide out the media guide as far from the printer frame as possible.

4. Place the roll of media on the media supply hanger.

5. Flip up the media supply guide. Slide in the media supply guide so that it just

touches, but does not restrict, the edge of the roll.

6. Feed the media under the dancer, through the slot in the transmissive sensor,

under the ribbon sensor, and through the cutter module.

7. Ensure that the media is against the back of the transmissive sensor. Then, slide

in the media guide so that it just touches, but does not restrict, the edge of the media.

8. Close the printhead assembly.

24 Zebra Z4M Printer User’s Guide

Cutter

module

Media supply guide

Printhead

assembly

Ribbon

sensor

Media guide

Printhead open lever

Transmissive

sensor

Figure 15

Dancer

Media supply

hanger

Zebra Z4M Printer User’s Guide 25

Value Peel-Off Mode

(Value peel option required)

Refer to Figure 16.

1. Press the printhead open lever. The printhead assembly springs up.

2. Flip down the media supply guide.

3. Slide out the media guide as far from the printer frame as possible.

4. Place the roll of media on the media supply hanger.

5. Flip up the media supply guide. Slide in the media supply guide so that it just

touches, but does not restrict, the edge of the roll.

6. Feed the media under the dancer, through the slot in the transmissive sensor, and

under the ribbon sensor.

7. Pull approximately 12” (305 mm) of media through the front of the printer.

8. Ensure that the media is against the transmissive sensor. Then, slide in the media

guide so that it just touches, but does not restrict, the edge of the roll.

9. Pull down the lever to open the pivot bracket assembly.

10. Feed the media over the tear-off/peel-off bar and behind the pivot bracket

assembly.

11. Close the printhead assembly.

12. Close the pivot bracket assembly.

13. Peeling will automatically start. Press the FEED key to test.

26 Zebra Z4M Printer User’s Guide

Lever

Transmissive

Media supply guide

sensor

Printhead

assembly

Label

Ribbon

sensor

Printhead open lever

Media guide

Dancer

Figure 16

Media

supply

hanger

Zebra Z4M Printer User’s Guide 27

Power Peel-Off Mode

(Power peel-off option required)

Refer to Figure 17.

1. Press the printhead open lever. The printhead assembly springs up.

2. Flip down the media supply guide.

3. Slide out the media guide as far from the printer frame as possible.

4. Place the roll of media on the media supply hanger.

5. Flip up the media supply guide. Slide in the media supply guide so that it just

touches, but does not restrict, the edge of the roll.

6. Feed the media under the dancer, through the slot in the transmissive sensor, and

under the ribbon sensor.

7. Pull approximately 36” (1 m) of media through the front of the printer.

8. Ensure that the media is against the transmissive sensor. Then, slide in the media

guide so that it just touches, but does not restrict, the edge of the media.

9. Open the front housing assembly by lifting the handles; then, pivot down the

front housing assembly.

10. Remove at least 12” (305 mm) of labels from the backing material.

11. Feed the backing material over the tear-off/peel-off bar, through the rectangular

cutout in the mounting bracket, and under the media alignment spindle.

12. Close the front housing assembly by slightly lifting and then hooking it onto the

pins on the tear-off/peel-off bar.

13. Loosen the thumbscrew and slide out the rewind media guide to the end of the

take-up spindle.

14. Wrap the backing around a core placed on the take-up spindle; then, turn the take-up

spindle counterclockwise to wind up the excess backing material.

15. Slide the rewind media guide against the backing material, and tighten the

thumbscrew to lock it into position.

16. Close the front housing assembly.

17. Close the printhead assembly.

28 Zebra Z4M Printer User’s Guide

umbscre

Front

housing

assembly

Label

Transmissive

Media supply guide

sensor

Printhead assembly

Media supply

hanger

Take-up

spindle

Rewind

media

guide

Ribbon

sensor

Printhead

open lever

Media

guide

Media

alignment

spindle

Dancer

Figure 17

Backing Removal

1. Cut the backing material prior to where it winds onto the take-up spindle.

2. Rotate the take-up spindle until the rewind media guide is in the “12 o’clock”

position.

3. Loosen the thumbscrew and slide out the rewind media guide to the end of the

take-up spindle.

4. Slide the core and backing material from the take-up spindle.

Zebra Z4M Printer User’s Guide 29

Power Rewind Mode

(Power rewind option required)

Refer to Figure 18.

1. Press the printhead open lever. The printhead assembly springs up.

2. Flip down the media supply guide.

3. Slide out the media guide as far from the printer frame as possible.

4. Place the roll of media on the media supply hanger.

5. Flip up the media supply guide. Slide in the media supply guide so that it just

touches, but does not restrict, the edge of the roll.

6. Feed the media under the dancer, through the slot in the transmissive sensor, and

under the ribbon sensor.

7. Pull approximately 36” (1 m) of media through the front of the printer.

8. Ensure that the media is against the back of the transmissive sensor. Then, slide

in the media guide so that it just touches, but does not restrict, the edge of the media.

9. Remove at least 12” (305 mm) of labels from the backing material.

10. Feed the backing material over the front housing assembly, through the rewind

base, and under the media alignment spindle.

11. Loosen the thumbscrew and slide out the rewind media guide to the end of the

take-up spindle.

12. Wrap the media around a core placed on the take-up spindle; then turn the spindle

counterclockwise to wind up the excess material.

13. Slide the rewind media guide against the media, and tighten the thumbscrew to

lock it into position.

14. Close the printhead assembly.

30 Zebra Z4M Printer User’s Guide

umbscre

Front

housing

assembly

Transmissive

Media supply guide

sensor

Printhead assembly

Media

supply

hanger

Take-up

spindle

Rewind

media

guide

Ribbon sensor

Printhead

open lever

Media

guide

Media

alignment

spindle

Dancer

Figure 18

Media Removal

1. Cut the media prior to where it winds onto the take-up spindle.

2. Rotate the take-up spindle until the rewind media guide is in the “12 o’clock”

position.

3. Loosen the thumbscrew and slide out the rewind media guide to the end of the

take-up spindle.

4. Slide the core and roll of media from the take-up spindle.

Zebra Z4M Printer User’s Guide 31

Fanfold Media Loading

Fanfold media feeds through either the bottom or rear access slot.

Refer to Figure 19.

1. Press the printhead open lever. The printhead assembly springs up.

2. Flip down the media supply guide.

3. Slide out the media guide as far from the printer frame as possible.

4. Pass the fanfold media over the media supply hanger.

5. Flip up the media supply guide. Slide in the media supply guide so that it just

touches, but does not restrict, the edge of the media.

6. Thread the media under the dancer, through the slot in the transmissive sensor,

under the ribbon sensor, and out the front of the printer.

7. Ensure that the media is against the back of the transmissive sensor. Then, slide

in the media guide so that it just touches, but does not restrict, the edge of the media.

8. Close the printhead assembly.

32 Zebra Z4M Printer User’s Guide

Printhead assembly

Transmissive

Media supply guide

sensor

Ribbon

sensor

Printhead open lever

Printhead assembly

Transmissive

Printhead open lever

Media guide

sensor

Ribbon sensor

Dancer

Media guide

Figure 19

Media supply

hanger

Media supply guide

Media supply

hanger

Zebra Z4M Printer User’s Guide 33

Ribbon Loading

NOTE: The ribbon supply spindle in your printer is a "dual tension" variety. Most applications require the spindle to be in the "normal" position. The "low tension" position is recommended only when wide ribbon is used and normal tension hampers the ribbon movement.

To place this spindle in the "normal" position, firmly pull out the spindle end cap until it clicks into place as shown in Figure 20. To place the spindle in the "low tension" position, firmly push in the spindle end cap until it clicks into place.

Spindle end cap

extended

Normal position

Figure 20

Spindle end cap

retracted

Low tension position

Loading the Ribbon

CAUTION: Always use ribbon that is wider than the media. The smooth backing of the ribbon protects the printhead from wear. (For direct thermal printing, do not load ribbon in the printer.)

Refer to Figure 21.

1. Press the printhead open lever. The printhead assembly springs up.

2. Push the ribbon roll completely onto the ribbon supply spindle.

3. Pull the end of the ribbon over the ribbon sensor, under the printhead assembly,

and out the front of the printer.

4. Close the printhead assembly, keeping the ribbon snug and free of wrinkles and

in line with the guide mark near the left edge of the ribbon guide plate.

5. Wind the ribbon clockwise onto the ribbon take-up spindle.

34 Zebra Z4M Printer User’s Guide

Ribb

Printhead assembly

on take-up spindle

Ribbon

guide plate

Ribbon

supply spindle

Printhead assembly

Printhead open lever

Ribbon

guide plate

Printhead o

en lever

Ribbon take-up spindle

Ribbon

supply spindle

Ribbon sensor

Figure 21

Zebra Z4M Printer User’s Guide 35

Ribbon Removal

To remove the ribbon:

1. Break the ribbon between the ribbon guide plate and the ribbon take-up spindle.

2. While turning the ribbon take-up spindle release knob counterclockwise, squeeze

the ribbon against the ribbon take-up spindle tension blades.

3. When the tension blades collapse into the ribbon take-up spindle, hold the release

knob and rotate the spent ribbon toward the rear of the printer. Then, slide off the ribbon.

36 Zebra Z4M Printer User’s Guide

Configuration

After you have installed the media and ribbon and the power-on self test (POST) is complete, the front panel display will show “PRINTER READY.” (If the printer fails its POST, refer to page 73.) You may now set printer parameters for your application using the front panel display and the four keys directly below it.

NOTE: Printers that are operating on an IP network can be quickly configured via ZebraNet WebView

™

(optional ZebraNet PrintServer II

required). For information, refer to ZebraNet Networking: PrintServer II Installation and User’s Guide.

NOTE: Unless otherwise noted, all parameters are listed in the order they are displayed, starting with “DARKNESS.”

Entering the Setup Mode

To enter the programming mode, press the SETUP/EXIT key.

Press the INCREMENT (+) or DECREMENT (-) key to scroll to the setting you wish to change.

Press the SELECT key to toggle the functionality of the INCREMENT (+) and DECREMENT (-) keys.

Press the INCREMENT (+) or DECREMENT (-) keys to increase or decrease the value; answer “yes” or “no”; print a label; or, select the digit you wish to change.

Press the SELECT key again to use the INCREMENT (+) and DECREMENT (-) keys to scroll to the desired menu item.

An asterisk (*) in the upper left-hand corner of the display indicates that the value displayed is different than the currently stored value.

Zebra Z4M Printer User’s Guide 37

Changing Password-Protected Parameters

Certain parameters are password protected by factory default.

NOTE: You have the option of making ALL parameters password protected. See “PASSWORD LEVEL” on page 52.

CAUTION: Do not change password-protected parameters unless you are sure you know what you are doing! If they are set incorrectly, these parameters could cause the printer to function in an unpredictable way.

The first attempt to change one of these parameters will require you to enter a four-digit password. This is done via the “ENTER PASSWORD” display. The DECREMENT (-) key changes the selected digit position. The INCREMENT (+) key increases the selected digit value. After entering the password, press the SELECT key. The parameter you wish to change will be displayed. If the password was entered correctly, you can now change the value.

The default password value is 1234. The password can be changed using the ^KP (Define Password) ZPL II instruction.

NOTE: Once the password has been entered correctly, it will not have to be entered again unless you leave and re-enter the programming mode using the SETUP/EXIT key.

NOTE: You can disable the password protection feature so that it no longer prompts you for a password by setting the password to ØØØØ via the ^KPØ ZPL/ZPL II command. To re-enable the password-protection feature, send the ZPL/ZPL II command ^KPx, where “x” can be any number, one to four digits in length, except Ø.

38 Zebra Z4M Printer User’s Guide

Leaving the Setup Mode

You can leave the program mode at any time by pressing the SETUP/EXIT key. The “SAVE CHANGES” display will appear. There are five choices, described below. Pressing the INCREMENT (+) or DECREMENT (-) key displays other choices and pressing the SELECT key selects the displayed choice.

PERMANENT -- Permanently saves the changes. Values are stored in the printer even when power is turned off.

TEMPORARY -- Saves the changes until changed again or until power is turned off.

CANCEL -- Cancels all changes since pressing the SETUP/EXIT key except the darkness and tear-off settings (if they were changed).

LOAD DEFAULTS -- Loads factory defaults.

LOAD LAST SAVE -- Loads values from the last permanent save.

Zebra Z4M Printer User’s Guide 39

Configuration and Calibration Sequence

Display Shows Action/Explanation

PRINTER READY Normal printer operation.

Setting Print Parameters

Adjusting Print Darkness Press the INCREMENT (+) key to increase darkness.

Press the DECREMENT (-) key to decrease darkness.

Default: +10 Range: 0to+30

Darkness settings are dependent upon a variety of factors, including ribbon type, media, and the condition of the printhead. You may adjust the darkness for consistent high-quality printing.

DARKNESS

TEAR OFF

If printing is too light, or if there are voids in printed areas, you should increase the darkness. If printing is too dark, or if there is spreading or bleeding of printed areas, you should decrease the darkness.

The FEED key self test on page 76 can also be used to determine the best darkness setting. Since the darkness setting takes effect immediately, you can see the results on labels that are currently printing.

CAUTION: Set the darkness to the lowest setting that provides good print

quality. Darkness set too high may cause ink smearing and/or it may burn through the ribbon.

Darkness settings also may be changed by the driver or software settings.

Adjusting the Tear-Off Position Press the INCREMENT (+) key to increase the value, press the DECREMENT (-) key to decrease the value. Each press of the key adjusts the tear-off position by four dot rows.

Default: +0 Range: -120 to +120

This parameter establishes the position of the media over the tear-off/peel-off bar after printing. The label and backing can be torn off or cut between labels.

40 Zebra Z4M Printer User’s Guide

Display Shows Action/Explanation

Selecting Print Mode Press the INCREMENT (+) or DECREMENT (-) key to

display other choices. Default: Tear-off

PRINT MODE

MEDIA TYPE

SENSOR TYPE

SENSOR SELECT

Selections: Tear-off, peel-off, cutter, rewind Print mode settings tell the printer the method of media delivery that you wish

to use. Be sure to select a print mode that your hardware configuration supports since some selections displayed are for optional printer features.

Setting Media Type Press the INCREMENT (+) or DECREMENT (-) key to display other choices.

Default: Continuous Selections: Continuous, non-continuous

This parameter tells the printer the type of media you are using. Selecting continuous media requires that you include a label length instruction in your label format (^LLxxxx if you are using ZPL or ZPL II).

When non-continuous media is selected, the printer feeds media to calculate label length (the distance between two detections of the inter-label gap, webbing, or alignment notch or hole).

Setting the Sensor Type Press the INCREMENT (+) or DECREMENT (-) key to display other choices.

Default: Web Selections: Web, mark

This parameter tells the printer whether you are using media with a web (gap/space between labels, notch, or hole) to indicate the separation between labels or if you are using media with a black mark printed on the back. If your media does not have black marks on the back, leave your printer at the default setting (web).

Setting the Sensor Select Press the INCREMENT (+) or DECREMENT (-) key to display other choices.

Default: Auto select Selections: Auto select, reflective, transmissive

This parameter tells the printer the sensor you wish to use. “Auto select” is compatible with most types of media. However, if you encounter difficulties with calibration, refer to “Types of Media” on page 6 to help you choose the appropriate sensor for your media. (Select the reflective sensor with either continuous or non-continuous black mark media: choose the transmissive sensor if you are using non-continuous web media.)

Zebra Z4M Printer User’s Guide 41

Display Shows Action/Explanation

Selecting Print Method Press the INCREMENT (+) key for the next value;

press the DECREMENT (-) key for the previous value. Default: Thermal transfer

PRINT METHOD

PRINT WIDTH

Selections: Thermal transfer, direct thermal The print method parameter tells the printer the method of printing you wish

to use: direct thermal (no ribbon) or thermal transfer (using thermal transfer media and ribbon).

NOTE: Selecting direct thermal when using thermal transfer media and

ribbon creates a warning condition, but printing will continue.

Setting Print Width Press the INCREMENT (+) key to increase the value, press the DECREMENT (-) key to decrease the value. To change the unit of measurement, press the DECREMENT (-) key until the unit of measurement is active, then press the INCREMENT (+) key to toggle to a different unit of measure (inches, mm, or dots).

Default:, Range: The default and range of acceptable values may vary depending on what printer you have. Refer to “Printing Specifications” on page 80 for further information about the ranges available for your model.

Print width determines the printable area across the width of the label.

42 Zebra Z4M Printer User’s Guide

Listing Printer Information

Display Shows Action/Explanation

List Fonts Press the INCREMENT (+) key to print a label listing all of the

available fonts.

LIST FONTS

LIST BAR CODES

LIST IMAGES

LIST FORMATS

LIST SETUP

LIST ALL

This selection is used to print a label that lists all of the fonts currently available in the printer, including standard printer fonts plus any optional fonts. Fonts may be stored in RAM, FLASH memory, font EPROMs, or font cards.

List Bar Codes Press the INCREMENT (+) key to print a label listing all of the available bar codes.

This selection is used to print a label that lists all of the bar codes currently available in the printer.

List Images Press the INCREMENT (+) key to print a label listing all of the available images.

This selection is used to print a label that lists all of the images currently stored in the printer’s RAM, FLASH memory, optional EPROM, or optional memory card.

List Formats Press the INCREMENT (+) key to print a label listing all of the available formats.

This selection is used to print a label that lists all of the formats currently stored in the printer’s RAM, FLASH memory, optional EPROM, or optional memory card.

List Setup Press the INCREMENT (+) key to print a label listing the current printer configuration.

This selection is used to print a label that lists the current printer configuration information. (Same as the CANCEL key self test.)

List All Press the INCREMENT (+) key to print a label listing all of the available fonts, bar codes, images, formats, and the current printer configuration.

This selection is used to print a label that lists the five previous selections, as described.

Zebra Z4M Printer User’s Guide 43

Display Shows Action/Explanation

Initialize Memory Card CAUTION: Perform this operation only when it is necessary to erase all

previously stored information from the optional memory card. Press the SETUP/EXIT key to bypass this function.

1. Press the INCREMENT (+) key to select “YES.” If your printer is set to require a password, you will now be

prompted to enter the password. Enter the password and then press the SELECT key.

2. The display will ask “INITIALIZE CARD?”. Press the INCREMENT (+)

key “YES.”

INITIALIZE CARD

INIT FLASH MEM

3. The front panel LCD will ask “ARE YOU SURE?”.

4. Press the INCREMENT (+) key “YES” to begin initialization.

Press the DECREMENT (-) key “NO” to cancel the request and return to the “INITIALIZE CARD” prompt.

5. Press the SETUP/EXIT key followed by the SELECT key. If initialization

is still in process, the front panel display will flash back and forth between the two phrases “CHECKING B: MEMORY” and “PRINTER IDLE.”

When initialization is complete, the printer will automatically exit the configuration mode and the front panel will display “PRINTER READY.”

NOTE: Depending on the amount of memory in the memory card,

initialization may take up to five minutes to complete.

Initialize Flash Memory CAUTION: Perform this operation only when it is necessary to erase all

previously stored information from the FLASH memory. Press the SETUP/EXIT key to bypass this function.

1. Press the INCREMENT (+) key to select “YES.” If your printer is set to require a password, you will now be prompted

to enter the password. Enter the password and then press the SELECT key.

2. The display will ask “INITIALIZE FLASH?”. Press the INCREMENT (+)

key “YES.”

3. The front panel LCD will ask “ARE YOU SURE?”.

4. Press the INCREMENT (+) key “YES” to begin initialization.

Press the DECREMENT (-) key “NO” to cancel the request and return to the “INITIALIZE FLASH” prompt.

5. Press the SETUP/EXIT key followed by the SELECT key. If initialization

is still in process, the front panel display will flash back and forth between the two phrases “CHECKING E: MEMORY” and “PRINTER IDLE.”

When initialization is complete, the printer will automatically exit the configuration mode and the front panel will display “PRINTER READY.”

NOTE: Depending on the amount of free FLASH memory, initialization may

take up to one minute to complete.

44 Zebra Z4M Printer User’s Guide

Media and Ribbon Sensor Calibration

Performing the manual calibration procedure first resets the sensitivity of the sensors to better detect the media and ribbon you are using. With the sensors at their new sensitivity, the printer then performs the manual calibration. Changing the type of ribbon and/or media may require resetting the sensitivity of the media and ribbon sensors.

Display Shows Action/Explanation

Sensor Profile Press the INCREMENT (+) key to print a media sensor profile.

See Figure 22. The media sensor profile may be used to troubleshoot

SENSOR PROFILE

MANUAL

CALIBRATION

registration problems that may be caused when the media sensor detects preprinted areas on the media or experiences difficulty in determining web location. If the sensitivity of the media and/or ribbon sensors MUST be adjusted, use the manual calibration procedure.

Manual Calibration Press the INCREMENT (+) key to start the calibration procedure.

This procedure is used to reset the sensitivity of the media and ribbon sensors. Then, the manual calibration is performed.

Figure 22

Zebra Z4M Printer User’s Guide 45

Setting Communication Parameters

Communication parameters must be set correctly for the printer to communicate with the host. These parameters make sure that the printer and host are “speaking the same language.” All communication parameters are password protected.

Display Shows Action/Explanation

Setting Parallel Communications Press the INCREMENT (+) or

DECREMENT (-) key to display other choices.

PARALLEL COMM

SERIAL COMM

BAUD

DATA BITS

Default: Parallel Selections: Parallel, twinax/coax

Select the communications port that matches the one being used by the host computer.

Setting Serial Communications Press the INCREMENT (+) or DECREMENT (-) key to display other choices.

Default: RS232 Selections: RS232, RS422/485, RS485 multidrop

Select the communications port that matches the one being used by the host computer.

Setting Baud Press the INCREMENT (+) or DECREMENT (-) key to display other choices.

Default: 9600 Selections: 600, 1200, 2400, 4800, 9600, 14400, 19200, 28800, 38400

The baud setting of the printer must match the baud setting of the host for accurate communications to take place. Select the value that matches the one being used by the host.

Setting Data Bits Press the INCREMENT (+) or DECREMENT (-) key to display other choices.

Default: 7-bits Selections: 7-bits, 8-bits

The data bits of the printer must match the data bits of the host for accurate communications to take place. Set the data bits to match the setting being used by the host.

NOTE: Must be set to 8 data bits to use Code Page 850.

46 Zebra Z4M Printer User’s Guide

Display Shows Action/Explanation

Setting Parity Press the INCREMENT (+) or DECREMENT (-) key to display

other choices. Default: Even

PARITY

HOST HANDSHAKE

PROTOCOL

Selections: Even, odd, none The parity of the printer must match the parity of the host for accurate

communications to take place. Select the parity that matches the one being used by the host.

Setting Host Handshake Press the INCREMENT (+) or DECREMENT (-) key to display other choices.

Default: XON/XOFF Selections: XON/XOFF, DTR/DSR

The handshake protocol of the printer must match the handshake protocol of the host for communications to take place. Select the handshake protocol that matches the one being used by the host.

Setting Protocol Press the INCREMENT (+) or DECREMENT (-) key to display other choices.

Default: None Selections: None, Zebra, ACK_NACK

Protocol is a type of error checking system. Depending on the selection, an indicator may be sent from the printer to the host signifying that data has been received. Select the protocol that is requested by the host. Further details on protocol can be found in the ZPL II Programming Guide Volume I.

NOTE: Zebra is the same as ACK_NACK except that with Zebra the response

messages are sequenced.

NOTE: If Zebra is selected, printer must use DTR/DSR host handshake

protocol.

Zebra Z4M Printer User’s Guide 47

Display Shows Action/Explanation

Setting Network ID Press the DECREMENT (-) key to move to the next

digit position, press the INCREMENT (+) key to increase the value of the digit. Default: 000

NETWORK ID

COMMUNICATIONS

Range: 000 - 999 Network ID is used to assign a unique number to a printer used in an

RS-422/RS-485 network. This gives the host the means to address a specific printer. If the printer is used in a network, you must select a network ID number. This does not affect TCP/IP or IPX networks.

Setting Communications Mode Press the INCREMENT (+) or DECREMENT (-) key to display other choices.

Default: Normal mode Selections: Normal mode, diagnostics

The communication diagnostics mode is a troubleshooting tool for checking the interconnection between the printer and the host. When “diagnostics” is selected, all data sent from the host to the printer will be printed as straight ASCII hex characters. The printer prints all characters received including control codes, like CR (carriage return). A sample printout is shown in Figure 32 on page 77.

NOTES on diagnostic printouts:

• An FE indicates a framing error.

• An OE indicates an overrun error.

• A PE indicates a parity error.

• An NE indicates noise.

For any errors, check that your communication parameters are correct. Set the print width equal to or less than the label width used for the test. See page 42 for more information.

48 Zebra Z4M Printer User’s Guide

Selecting Prefix and Delimiter Characters

Prefix and delimiter characters are 2-digit hex values used within the ZPL/ZPL II formats sent to the printer. The printer uses the last prefix and delimiter characters sent to it, whether from a ZPL II instruction or from the front panel.

NOTE: DO NOT use the same hex value for the control, format, and delimiter character. The

printer needs to see different characters to function properly.

Display Shows Action/Explanation

Control Prefix Character Press the DECREMENT (-) key to move to the

next digit position, press the INCREMENT (+) key to increase the value of the digit.

CONTROL PREFIX

FORMAT PREFIX

DELIMITER CHAR

Default: 7E (tilde - displayed as a black square) Range: 00-FF

The printer looks for this 2-digit hex character to indicate the start of a ZPL/ZPL II control instruction.

Format Prefix Character Press the DECREMENT (-) key to move to the next digit position, press the INCREMENT (+) key to increase the value of the digit.

Default: 5E (caret) Range: 00-FF

The printer looks for this 2-digit hex character to indicate the start of a ZPL/ZPL II format instruction.

Delimiter Character Press the DECREMENT (-) key to move to the next digit position, press the INCREMENT (+) key to increase the value of the digit.

Default: 2C (comma) Range: 00-FF

The delimiter character is a 2-digit hex value used as a parameter place marker in ZPL/ZPL II format instructions. Refer to the ZPL II Programming Guide Volume I for more information.

Zebra Z4M Printer User’s Guide 49

Selecting ZPL Mode

Display Shows Action/Explanation

Selecting ZPL Mode Press the INCREMENT (+) or DECREMENT (-) key to

display other choices. Default: ZPL II

ZPL MODE

Power-Up and Head Close Parameters

MEDIA POWER UP

HEAD CLOSE

Selections: ZPL II, ZPL The printer will remain in the selected mode until it is changed by this front panel

instruction or by using a ZPL/ZPL II command. The printer accepts label formats written in either ZPL or ZPL II. This eliminates the need to rewrite any ZPL formats you already have. Refer to the ZPL II Programming Guide Volume II for more information on the differences between ZPL and ZPL II .

Media Power-Up Press the INCREMENT (+) or DECREMENT (-) key to display other choices.

Default: Feed Selections: Feed, calibration, length, and no motion

This parameter establishes the action of the media when the printer is turned on.

• Calibration: Recalibrates the media and ribbon sensors.

• Feed: Feeds the label to the first web.

• Length: Determines the length of the label.

• No Motion: Media does not move.

Head Close Press the INCREMENT (+) or DECREMENT (-) key to display other choices.

Default: Feed Selections: Feed, calibration, length, no motion

Determines the action of the media after the printhead has been opened and then closed.

• Calibration: Recalibrates the media and ribbon sensors.

• Feed: Feeds the label to the first web.

• Length: Determines the length of the label.

• No Motion: Media does not move.

50 Zebra Z4M Printer User’s Guide

Label Positioning Parameters

Display Shows Action/Explanation

Backfeed Sequence Press the INCREMENT (+) or DECREMENT (-) key to

display other choices. Default: Default (90%)

BACKFEED

LABEL TOP

LEFT POSITION

Selections: Default, after, before, 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%,

This parameter establishes when and how much label backfeed occurs after a label is removed or cut in the peel-off or cutter modes. It has no effect in rewind or tear-off modes. This parameter setting can be superseded by the ~JS instruction when received as part of a label format (refer to the ZPL II Programming Guide Volume I).

NOTE: The difference between the value entered and 100% establishes how

Adjusting Label Top Position Press the INCREMENT (+) key to increase the

value, press the DECREMENT (-) key to decrease the value. The displayed value represents dots.

Default: +0 Range: -120 to +120 dot rows

The label top position adjusts the print position vertically on the label. Positive numbers adjust the label top position further down the label (away from the printhead), negative numbers adjust the position up the label (toward the printhead).

Adjusting Left Position Press the DECREMENT (-) key to move to the next position, press the INCREMENT (+) key to change between + and - and to increase the value of the digit. The displayed value represents dots.

Default: 0000 Range: -9999 to +9999 NOTE: For a negative value, enter the value before changing to the minus

This parameter establishes how far from the left edge of a label the format will begin to print by adjusting horizontal positioning on the label. Positive numbers adjust the printing to the left by the number of dots selected, negative numbers shift printing to the right.

80%, off

much backfeed occurs before the next label is printed. For example, a value of 40 means that 40% of the backfeed takes place after the label is removed or cut. The remaining 60% takes place before the next label is printed. A value of “before” means that all backfeed will take place before the next label is printed.

sign.

Zebra Z4M Printer User’s Guide 51

Display Shows Action/Explanation

WEB S.

MEDIA S.

RIBBON S.

TAKE LABEL S.

MEDIA LED

RIBBON LED

LCD ADJUST

FORMAT CONVERT

PASSWORD LEVEL

These parameters are automatically set during the calibration procedure. They should only be changed by a qualified service technician. Refer to the maintenance manual for more information on these parameters.

Press the SELECT key repeatedly to skip these parameters.

LCD Display Adjustment Press the DECREMENT (-) key to decrease the value (reduce brightness), press the INCREMENT (+) key to increase the value (increase brightness).

Range: 00 to 19 This parameter allows you to adjust the brightness of your display if your

display is difficult to read.

Format Convert Press the INCREMENT (+) or DECREMENT (-) key to display other choices.

Default: None Selections: None, 150 V 300, 150 V 600, 200 V 600, 300 V 600

Selects the bitmap scaling factor. The first number is the original dots per inch (dpi) value; the second, the dpi to which you would like to scale.

Password Level Press the INCREMENT (+) or DECREMENT (-) key to display other choices.

Default: Selected items Selections: Selected items, all items

This parameter allows you to select whether certain Zebra-selected menu items (”selected items”) or all menu items (”all items”) are password protected.

52 Zebra Z4M Printer User’s Guide

Display Shows Action/Explanation

IP Resolution Press the INCREMENT (+) or DECREMENT (-) key to display

other choices. Default: Dynamic

IP RESOLUTION*

IP PROTOCOLS*

IP ADDRESS*

SUBNET MASK*

DEFAULT

GATEWAY*

Selections: Dynamic, permanent Depending on the selection, allows either the user (”permanent”) or the server

(”dynamic”) to select the IP address. For more information, refer to ZebraNet Networking: PrintServer II Installation and User’s Guide.

IP Protocols Press the INCREMENT (+) or DECREMENT (-) key to display other choices.

Default: All Selections: All, gleaning only, RARP, BOOTP, DHCP, DHCP/BOOTP

If “dynamic” was chosen in the previous parameter, this selection determines the method(s) by which the PrintServer II will receive the IP address from the server. For more information, refer to ZebraNet Networking: PrintServer II Installation and User’s Guide.

IP Address Press the DECREMENT (-) key to move to the next digit position, press the INCREMENT (+) key to increase the value of the digit.

This parameter allows you to select the IP address if “permanent” was chosen in “IP RESOLUTION.” (If “dynamic” was chosen, the user cannot select the address.) For more information, refer to ZebraNet Networking: PrintServer II Installation and User’s Guide.

Subnet Mask Press the INCREMENT (+) or DECREMENT (-) key to display other choices.

Default: Permanent (user must set) Selections: Dynamic (user may set, but server can assign), permanent

This parameter selects the part of the IP address that is considered to be part of the local network. It can be reached without going through the default gateway.

Default Gateway Press the DECREMENT (-) key to move to the next digit position, press the INCREMENT (+) key to increase the value of the digit.

This parameter allows you to select the IP address that the network traffic is routed through if the destination address is not part of the local network.

* Option required

Zebra Z4M Printer User’s Guide 53

Display Shows Action/Explanation

Selecting the Display Language Press the INCREMENT (+) or DECREMENT (-)

key to display other choices. Default: English

LANGUAGE

You have now completed the entire configuration and calibration sequence. You may either press the SELECT key or the SETUP/EXIT key.

Selections: English, Spanish, French, German, Italian, Norwegian,

Portuguese, Swedish, Danish, Spanish 2, Dutch, Finnish, Japan

This parameter allows you to change the language used on the front panel display.

You are now back at the first parameter in the configuration sequence.

DARKNESS

SAVE SETTINGS

PRINTER READY

NOTE: If you pressed the SELECT key but are through programming the

printer configuration, you may press the SETUP/EXIT key and continue with the “SAVE SETTINGS” function.

Save Settings Press the INCREMENT (+) or DECREMENT (-) key to display other choices.

Default: Permanent Selections: Permanent, temporary, cancel, load defaults, load last save.

This display appears when you attempt to exit the configuration mode.

• Permanent: Permanently saves the changes, even when printer power is

turned off.

• Temporary: Saves the changes until changed again or until power is turned

off.

• Cancel: Cancels all changes since you entered the configuration mode

except for darkness and tear-off position (if they were changed).

• Load defaults: Loads factory defaults.

• Load last save: Loads the values from the last permanent save.

Press the SETUP/EXIT key to activate the displayed choice. You have exited the configuration and calibration sequence and are now ready

for normal printer operation.

54 Zebra Z4M Printer User’s Guide

Routine Care and Adjustments

Cleaning

This table provides a recommended cleaning schedule. Specific cleaning procedures are provided on the following pages.

Area Method Interval

Printhead Solvent* After every roll of media (or 500 feet of

Platen roller Solvent*

Media sensors Air blow

Ribbon sensor Air blow

Media path Solvent*

Ribbon path Solvent*

Pinch roller (Optional value peel-off option required. See Figure 25.)

If cutting continuous,

Cutter module

Tear-off/peel-off bar Solvent* Once a month.

Take label sensor Air blow Once every six months.

*Zebra recommends using a solvent containing 90% isopropyl alcohol.

pressure-sensitive media

If cutting tag stock or label backing material

Solvent*

Citrus-based adhesive remover

Solvent* and air blow

fanfold media) when printing in the direct thermal mode.

After every roll of ribbon or three rolls of media when printing in the thermal transfer mode.

These intervals are intended as guidelines only. You may have to clean more often, depending upon your application and media.

After every roll of media (or more often, depending upon your application and media).

After every two or three rolls of media.

CAUTION: Use only the cleaning agents indicated. Zebra Technologies Corporation will not be responsible for damage caused by any other cleaning fluids used on this printer.

Zebra Z4M Printer User’s Guide 55

Cleaning the Exterior

The exterior surfaces of the printer may be cleaned with a lint-free cloth. Do not use harsh or abrasive cleaning agents or solvents. If necessary, a mild detergent or desktop cleaner may be used sparingly.

Cleaning the Interior

Remove any accumulated dirt and lint from the interior of the printer using a soft bristle brush and/or vacuum cleaner.

Cleaning the Printhead and Platen Roller

Inconsistent print quality, such as voids in the bar code or graphics, may indicate a dirty printhead. For best results, perform the following cleaning procedure after every roll of ribbon.

NOTE: The printer can remain on while you are cleaning the printhead. In this way all label formats, images, and all temporary parameter settings stored in the printer's internal memory will be saved.

To clean the printhead, refer to Figure 23 and follow these steps:

1. Open the printhead assembly.

2. Remove the media and ribbon (if loaded).

3. Using a swab soaked in the Zebra-recommended solvent, wipe along the print

elements from end to end. (The print elements are on the brown strip just behind the chrome strip on the printhead.) Allow sufficient time for the solvent to evaporate.

4. Manually rotate the platen roller and clean thoroughly with solvent and a swab.

5. Brush/vacuum any accumulated paper lint and dust away from the media and

ribbon paths.

6. Reload media and/or ribbon, and close the printhead assembly.

56 Zebra Z4M Printer User’s Guide

NOTE: If print quality has not improved after performing this procedure, try cleaning the printhead with Save-a-Printhead cleaning film. This specially coated material removes contamination buildup without damaging the printhead. Call your authorized Zebra reseller for more information.

Printhead assembly

Take label

sensor

Ribbon

sensor

Platen roller

Transmissive

sensor

Reflective

sensor

Figure 23

Cleaning the Sensors

Brush or vacuum any accumulated paper lint and dust away from the printer sensors. Refer to Figure 23. The reflective sensor, transmissive sensor, and ribbon sensor should be cleaned on a regular basis to ensure proper operation of the printer. For printers with the value peel-off, power peel-off, and/or power rewind option(s) installed, clean the take label sensor.

Zebra Z4M Printer User’s Guide 57

Cleaning the Power Peel-Off Module

(Power peel-off option required)

Perform the following procedure if adhesive buildup begins to affect peel performance.

Refer to Figure 24.

1. Open the printhead assembly.

2. Open the front housing assembly by lifting the two handles; then, pivot down the

front housing assembly.

3. Remove the accumulated adhesive by rolling the sticky side of a blank label

against the peel rollers and lifting it away. (Do this step repeatedly until a majority of the adhesive is gone.)

4. Use a swab soaked with the Zebra-recommended solvent to remove adhesive

from the tear-off/peel-off bar and reflective surface.

5. Close the front housing assembly.

6. Close the printhead assembly.

Printhead

assembly

Tear-off/

peel-off

bar

Peel

rollers

Reflective

surface

Front

housing

assembly

Handles

Figure 24

58 Zebra Z4M Printer User’s Guide

Cleaning the Value Peel-Off Module

(Value peel-off option required)

Perform the following procedure if adhesive buildup begins to affect peel-off performance.

Refer to Figure 25.

1. Open the printhead assembly.

2. Open the pivot bracket assembly by pivoting the module toward you.

3. Use a swab soaked with the Zebra-recommended solvent to remove adhesive

from the tear-off/peel-off bar.

4. Manually rotate the pinch roller and clean thoroughly with solvent and a swab.

5. Close the pivot bracket assembly.

6. Close the printhead assembly.

Printhead assembly

Tear-off/

peel-off

bar

Pinch roller

Pivot

bracket

assembly

Figure 25

Zebra Z4M Printer User’s Guide 59

Cleaning the Cutter Module

(Cutter option required)

WARNING!!! For personnel safety, ALWAYS turn off and unplug the printer before performing this procedure.

Refer to Figure 26.

To clean adhesive off of the upper and lower cutter blades:

1. Use a swab moistened with the Zebra-recommended solvent to wipe along the

upper cutter blade.

2. To expose the lower cutter blade, turn the cutter motor thumbnut

counterclockwise until you see the “V”-shaped lower cutter blade.

3. Clean the lower blade, following the instructions in step 1.

4. When you have finished cleaning the cutter module, plug in and turn on the

printer. The lower cutter blade will return to its correct operating positions.

If the cutter continues to perform unsatisfactorily, contact an authorized service technician.

60 Zebra Z4M Printer User’s Guide

Lubrication

CAUTION! No lubricating agents of any kind should be used on this printer! Some commercially available lubricants will damage the finish and the mechanical parts, if used.

Upper

cutter blade

Lower

cutter blade

Cutter

motor

thumbnu

Figure 26

Zebra Z4M Printer User’s Guide 61

Printhead Pressure Adjustment

This adjustment may be necessary if printing is too light on one side or if thick media is used.

Refer to Figure 27.

The pressure adjustment dials each have four possible settings designated by blocks of increasing size embossed on the print mechanism. The smallest block (fully counterclockwise) is considered “position 1” and the largest block (fully clockwise) is considered “position 4.”

The following table will help you to select the initial dial settings for your media.

Media Width Left Dial Right Dial

1” (25.4 mm) 3 1

2” (51 mm) 4 1

3” (76 mm) 3 2

3.5” and up

(89 mm and up)

NOTE: Some media types require higher pressure to print well. For these media, increase both dials one position. If the media tends to shift to the left while printing, increase the right dial setting one position or decrease the left dial setting one position. If the media tends to shift to the right while printing, increase the left dial setting one position or decrease the right dial setting one position.

62 Zebra Z4M Printer User’s Guide

ressure adjustmentdials

Figure 27

Zebra Z4M Printer User’s Guide 63

Power Rewind Media Alignment

(Power rewind option required.)

NOTE: Under normal operating conditions, media alignment should not be necessary if the media/backing was initially installed tightly against the backplate of the take-up spindle.

Perform the following adjustment if the media does not track properly onto the take-up spindle.

Refer to Figure 28.

1. With media and backing material loaded, open the printhead assembly.

2. Turn the adjustment dial clockwise to align the media/backing material more to

the right. (The image will move to the left.)

Turn the dial counterclockwise to align the media/backing material more to the left. (The image will move to the right.)

3. Manually rotate the take-up spindle and ensure the media/backing tracks

properly.

4. Close the printhead assembly.

64 Zebra Z4M Printer User’s Guide

Printhead assembly

Adjustment

Take-up

spindle

dial

Figure 28

Zebra Z4M Printer User’s Guide 65

Fuse Replacement

A user-replaceable AC power fuse is located just below the AC power switch at the rear of the printer. The replacement fuse is a 3AG fast blow style rated at 5 Amp/250 VAC.

Before replacing the fuse, turn off the AC power switch and unplug the AC power cord.

To replace the fuse, insert the tip of a flat blade screwdriver into the slot in the end of the fuse holder end cap. Press in slightly on the end cap and turn the screwdriver slightly counterclockwise. This will disengage the end cap from the fuse holder and permit removal of the fuse.

To install a new fuse, reverse the sequence.

66 Zebra Z4M Printer User’s Guide

Troubleshooting

LCD Error Conditions and Warnings

Error condition RIBBON OUT

Problem Solution

In thermal transfer mode, the ribbon is not loaded or loaded incorrectly.

In thermal transfer mode, the ribbon sensor is not sensing correctly loaded ribbon.

In direct thermal mode, when ribbon is not used:

Error condition PAPER OUT

Problem Solution

The media is not loaded or loaded incorrectly.

The media sensor is not positioned properly.

The printer is set for non-continuous media, but continuous media is loaded.

The incorrect media sensor is being used.

Load the ribbon correctly. See “Ribbon Loading” on page 34.

Perform the media and ribbon sensor calibration (see page 45).

Put the printer in direct thermal mode via the front panel and remove ribbon (if loaded).

Ensure that the printer driver or software settings are correctly set (if applicable).

Reload the media. Refer to “Roll Media Loading” on page 22.

Check the position of the reflective sensor. See “Positioning the Media Sensor” on page 10.

Either load the correct media or set the printer for the correct media type via the front panel.

Ensure that the printer driver or software settings are correctly set (if applicable).

Calibrate the printer (see page 45).

Via the front panel, locate the “SENSOR SELECT” menu item (page 41) and manually select the correct sensing method.

Zebra Z4M Printer User’s Guide 67

Error condition HEAD OPEN

Problem Solution

The printhead is not fully closed. Close the printhead.

The ribbon is loaded incorrectly; it is covering the head open sensor.

Correctly align the ribbon with the guide mark on the ribbon guide plate before closing the printhead assembly. See “Ribbon Loading” on page 34.

Error condition RIBBON IN

Problem Solution

Via the front panel, locate the “PRINT METHOD” menu

Print method is incorrectly set.

The ribbon is loaded.

item (page 42) and select thermal transfer mode.

Ensure that the printer driver and/or software settings are correctly set (if applicable).

Remove the ribbon and set the printer to direct thermal mode. (See “PRINT METHOD” on page 42.)

Ensure that the printer driver and/or software settings are correctly set (if applicable).

Warning HEAD OVER TEMP

Problem Solution

The printhead is over temperature.

Allow the printer to cool. Printing automatically resumes when the printhead elements cool to an acceptable operating temperature.

Warning HEAD UNDER TEMP

Problem Solution

Continue printing while the printhead reaches the

The printhead is under temperature.

correct operating temperature.

The environment may be too cold for proper printing. Relocate the printer to a warmer area.

68 Zebra Z4M Printer User’s Guide

Warning CUTTER JAM

Problem Solution

Cutter blade is in the media path.

OUT OF MEMORY*

Problem Solution

*There is not enough memory to perform the function shown on the second line of the error message.

Print Quality Problems

General print quality issues

Turn off the printer power and unplug the printer. Inspect the cutter module for debris and clean as needed following the cleaning instructions on page 60.

Insufficient DRAM for the label length, downloaded fonts/graphics, and images.

Ensure that the device, such as FLASH memory or PCMCIA card, is installed and not write protected or full.

Ensure that the data is not directed to a device that is not installed or available.

Problem Solution

You are using an incorrect media and ribbon combination for your application.

The printer is set at the incorrect print speed.

The printer is set at the incorrect darkness level.

The printhead is dirty.

There is light printing (or no printing) on the left or right side of the label or the printed image is not sharp.

Zebra Z4M Printer User’s Guide 69

Consult your authorized Zebra reseller/distributor for information and advice.

For optimal print quality, set the print speed to the lowest possible setting via ZPL II, the driver, or the software.

For optimal print quality, set the darkness to the lowest possible setting via the front panel, the driver, or the software.

Clean the printhead according to the instructions on page 56.

The pressure adjustment dials need to be adjusted. Follow the printhead pressure adjustment instructions on page 62.

Gray lines on blank labels with no consistent pattern

Problem Solution

The printhead is dirty.

Clean the printhead according to the instructions on page 56.

Light, consistent vertical lines running through all of the labels

Problem Solution

The printhead or platen roller is dirty.

Clean the printhead, platen roller, or both according to the instructions on page 56.

Intermittent creases on the left and right edges of the label

Problem Solution

There is too much pressure on the printhead.

Reduce the printhead pressure. Refer to the printhead pressure adjustment on page 62.

Wrinkled ribbon

Problem Solution

The ribbon is not loaded correctly.

The darkness setting is incorrect.

Incorrect printhead pressure or balance.

The media is not feeding correctly. It is “walking” from side to side.

Load the ribbon correctly. See “Ribbon Loading” on page 34.

Set the darkness to the lowest possible setting for good print quality. See “Darkness” on page 40.

Set the pressure to the minimum required for good print quality. See “Printhead Pressure Adjustment” on page 62.

Make sure that the media guide and media supply guide touch the edge of the media.

70 Zebra Z4M Printer User’s Guide

Calibration

Problem Solution

Adjust the reflective sensor position. See page 11.

Set the printer for the correct media type. See page 41.

Ensure that the media guides are properly positioned.

Loss of printing registration on labels. Excessive vertical drift in top-of-form registration.

“Auto Calibrate” failed.

Via the front panel, locate the “SENSOR SELECT” menu item (page 41) and manually select the correct sensing method.

Reload the media. Check the reflective sensor position (see page 11).

Clean the platen roller according to the instructions on page 56.

Perform a manual calibration (see page 45).

Load the media. Ensure that the reflective sensor is properly positioned (see page 11).

Communications Problems

A label format was sent to the printer but not recognized. The DATA light does not flash.

Problem Solution

The printer does not respond to label requests.

Zebra Z4M Printer User’s Guide 71

Check the printer driver or software communications settings (if applicable).

Verify the prefix and delimiter characters. See page 49.

Are you using the correct communication cable? See page 18 for the requirements.

Via the front panel, check the protocol setting. It should be set to “none.” See page 47.

Ensure that the correct driver is being used (if applicable).

A label format was sent to the printer. Several labels print, then the printer skips, misplaces, misses, or distorts the image on the label.

Problem Solution

The host is set to EPP parallel communications.

The serial communication settings are incorrect.

Change the settings on the computer host to standard parallel communications.

Check the communication cable length. See page 18 for requirements.

Check the printer driver or software communications settings (if applicable).

A label format was sent to the printer but not recognized. The DATA light flashes but no printing occurs.

Problem Solution

The prefix and delimeter characters set in the printer do not match the ones in the label format.

Incorrect data is being sent to the printer.

Verify the prefix and delimeter characters. See page 49.

Check the communication settings on the computer. Ensure that they match the printer settings.

72 Zebra Z4M Printer User’s Guide

Printer Diagnostics

Power-On Self Test

A power-on self test (POST) is performed automatically each time the printer is turned on. During this test sequence, the front panel lights and liquid crystal display monitor the progress of the POST. If the printer fails any of these tests, the word “FAILED” will be added to the display. If this occurs, notify an authorized Zebra reseller.

Additional Printer Self Tests

These self tests produce sample printouts and provide specific information that help determine the operating conditions for the printer.

Each self test is enabled by pressing a specific front panel key or combination of keys while turning the POWER switch on. Keep the key(s) depressed until the DATA light turns off (approximately five seconds). When the power-on self test is complete, the selected self test starts automatically.

NOTES: When performing self tests, avoid sending a label format to the printer. In the case of a remote host, disconnect all data interface cables from the printer.

When canceling a self test prior to its actual completion, always turn the printer power off and then back on to reset the printer.

When performing these self tests while in the peel-off mode, you must remove the labels as they become available.

If your media is not wide enough or long enough, unexpected and/or undesired results may occur. Make sure that your print width is set correctly for the media you are using before you run any self tests, otherwise the test may print out on the platen roller. See page 42 for information on setting the print width.

Zebra Z4M Printer User’s Guide 73

CANCEL Key Self Test

This self test prints a listing of the configuration parameters currently stored in the printer’s memory. See Figure 29. (Depending on the options ordered, your label may look different.)

1. Turn off the printer.

2. Press and hold the CANCEL key while

turning on the power.

3. Release the key after the DATA light turns

off (approximately five seconds).

The configuration may be changed either temporarily (for specific label formats or ribbon and label stock) or permanently (by saving the new parameters in memory). Refer to page 15 for further information about the configuration procedure.

Figure 29

74 Zebra Z4M Printer User’s Guide

PAUSE Key Self Test

This self test can be used to provide the test labels required when making adjustments to the printer’s mechanical assemblies. See the sample printout in Figure 30.

1. Turn off the printer.

2. Press and hold the PAUSE

Figure 30

key while turning on the power.

3. Release the key after the

DATA light turns off (approximately five seconds).

The initial self test prints 15 labels at 2"/51 mm per second, then automatically pauses the printer. Each time the PAUSE key is pressed, an additional 15 labels print.

While the printer is paused, pressing the CANCEL key alters the self test. Now each time the PAUSE key is pressed the printer prints 15 labels at 6”/152 mm per second.

While the printer is paused, pressing the CANCEL key again alters the self test again. Each time the PAUSE key is pressed the printer prints 50 labels at 2”/51 mm per second.

While the printer is paused, pressing the CANCEL key again alters the self test a third time. Now each time the PAUSE key is pressed the printer prints 50 labels at 6”/152 mm per second.

While the printer is paused, pressing the CANCEL key again alters the self test a fourth time. Each time the PAUSE key is pressed the printer prints 15 labels at the printer’s maximum speed.

To exit this self test at any time, press and hold the CANCEL key.

Zebra Z4M Printer User’s Guide 75

FEED Key Self Test

See Figure 31.

1. Turn off the printer.

2. Press and hold the FEED key while

turning on the power.

3. Release the key after the DATA

light turns off (approximately five seconds).

The FEED key self test prints out at various darkness settings above and below that of the darkness value shown on the configuration label. Look at these labels and determine which one has the best darkness setting for your application. This value can be entered into the printer by setting the darkness during the configuration procedure. Refer to page 40 for more information.

Figure 31

The value printed on that label is added to (plus) or subtracted from (minus) the darkness value specified on the configuration label. The resulting numeric value (0 to 30) is the best darkness value for that specific media/ribbon combination.

76 Zebra Z4M Printer User’s Guide

Communications Diagnostics Test

This test is controlled from the front panel display. Refer to page 48. A typical printout from this test is shown in Figure 32. Turn off the power to exit this self test.

NOTE: This label will be inverted when printed.

Figure 32

Loading Factory Defaults

1. Press the SELECT key two times.

2. Use the INCREMENT (+) or DECREMENT (-) key to scroll through the “SAVE

CHANGES” choices.

3. When “LOAD DEFAULTS” displays, press the SELECT key.

Zebra Z4M Printer User’s Guide 77

78 Zebra Z4M Printer User’s Guide

NOTE: Printer specifications are subject to change without notice.

General Specifications

General Specifications Z4M

Height

Width

Depth

Weight (without options)

Electrical

Agency approvals

Temperature

Relative humidity

Communication interface

Operating

Storage

Operating

Storage

Specifications

13.3” 338 mm

10.9” 277 mm

18.7” 475 mm

32.4 lbs. 14.7 kg

90-265 VAC, 48-62 Hz, 5 Amps (fused)

CISPR 22B, IEC 950, 801-2, -3, and -4 standard. Complies with FCC Class B and Canadian Doc Class A rules. Carries the CE mark of compliance.

40° to 105° F5° to 41° C

-40° to 140° F -40° to 60° C

20% to 85%, non-condensing

5% to 85%, non-condensing

•

RS-232/CCITT V.24 and RS-485 serial data interface; 600 to 38400 baud, parity, bits/character, and XON-XOFF or DTR/DSR handshake protocol required.

•

RS-485 serial data interface; 600 to 38400 baud, parity, bits/character (all selectable). XON/XOFF handshake protocol required.

•

8-bit parallel data interface; supports IEEE 1284 bi-directional parallel communication in “nibble mode.”

•

Error detection CRC protocol.

Zebra Z4M Printer User’s Guide 79

Printing Specifications

Printing Specifications Z4M

Print resolution

Dot size (width x length)

Maximum print width

Minimum print length

Maximum print length

Bar code modulus (”X”) dimension

Programmable constant print speeds

203 dots/inch 0.00492” x 0.00492” 0.125 mm x 0.125 mm

300 dots/inch 0.0033” x 0.0039” 0.84 mm x 0.99 mm

203 dots/inch 105” 2667 mm

300 dots/inch 45” 1143 mm

203 dots/inch 5 mil to 50 mil

300 dots/inch 3.3 mil to 33 mil

203 & 300 dots/inch

Add’l 203 dots/inch

Thin film printhead with energy control

Ribbon Specifications

203 dots/inch 8 dots/mm

300 dots/inch 12 dots/mm

4.1” 104 mm

1 dot row

Per second:

2”, 3”, 4”, 5”, 6”

Per second:

7”, 8”, 9”, 10”

Per second:

51 mm, 76 mm, 102 mm,

127mm, 152mm

Per second: 178 mm, 203 mm, 229 mm, 254 mm

Ribbon Specifications Z4M

Ribbon must be wound with the coated side out.

Ribbon width (Zebra recommends using ribbon at least as wide as the media to protect the printhead from wear.)

Standard lengths

Ribbon core inside diameter

Minimum

Maximum

2:1 media to ribbon roll ratio

3:1 media to ribbon roll ratio

2” 51 mm

4.3” 109 mm

984’ 300 m

1476’ 450 m

1” 25.4 mm

80 Zebra Z4M Printer User’s Guide

Media Specifications

Media Specifications Z4M

Label length

Label width (maximum)

Total thickness (includes liner, if any)

Core size

Maximum roll diameter

Inter-label gap

Ticket/tag notch size (width x length)

Minimum

Maximum

Options

Tear-off

Peel-off

Rewind

Cutter

Minimum

Maximum

Minimum

Preferred

Maximum

0.5” 13 mm

1” 25.4 mm

0.5” 13 mm

1” 25.4 mm

39” 991 mm

4.5” 114 mm

0.0023” 0.058 mm

0.010” 0.25 mm

3” 76 mm

8” 203 mm

0.079” 2 mm

0.118” 3 mm

0.157” 4 mm

0.236” x 0.12” 6 mmx3mm

Z4M

Cutter

Value peel-off

PCMCIA card

1MBand2MBFLASH

300 dpi printhead

Zebra Z4M Printer User’s Guide 81

Zebra Programming Language (ZPL II)

Downloadable graphics (with

data compression)

Bit image data transfer and

printing, mixed text/graphics

Format inversion

Mirror image printing

Four-position field rotation

(0°, 90°, 180°, 270°)

Slew command

Serialized fields

Bar Codes

Code 11

Code 39 (supports ratios

of 2:1 to 3:1)

Code 49 (2-dimensional bar code)

Code 93

Programmable quantity with print

pause

Communicates in printable

ASCII characters

Controlled via mainframe, mini,

PC, portable data terminal

In-Spec OCR-A and OCR-B

UPC/EAN (nominal 100%

magnification [6 dots/mm printheads only])

LOGMARS

Plessey

EAN-8, EAN-13, EAN EXTENSIONS

UPC-A, UPC-E, UPC EXTENSIONS

Code 128 (supports serialization in all subsets and UCC case codes)

MSI

PDF-417 (2-dimensional bar code)

Codabar (supports ratios of 2:1 to 3:1)

Codablock

Interleaved 2 of 5 (supports ratios of 2:1 to 3:1, modulus 10 check digit)

Industrial 2 of 5

Standard 2 of 5

Micro-PDF417

POSTNET

MaxiCode

Datamatrix

QR Code

Check digit calculation where applicable

82 Zebra Z4M Printer User’s Guide

AC Power Cord

Since many areas of the world have specific power requirements, an AC power cord may not be included with your printer. The power cord must meet your local electrical requirements.

WARNING!!! For personnel and equipment safety, always use a three-prong plug with an earth ground connection to the AC power source.

Power Line Cord Specifications

The overall length must be less than 9.8” (3.0 m).

It must be rated for at least 5A, 250 VAC.

The chassis ground (earth) MUST be connected to assure safety and reduce electromagnetic interference. The ground connection is handled by the third wire (earth) in the power cord (see Figure 33).

The AC power plug and IEC 320 connector must bear the certification mark of at least one of the known international safety organizations shown in Figure 34.

AC power

plug for

your country

3 conductor

<HAR> cable

IEC 320

connector

Neutral

Earth

Live

Contac

view

Figure 33

Figure 34

Zebra Z4M Printer User’s Guide 83

84 Zebra Z4M Printer User’s Guide

Appendix

Printer Interface Technical Information

Serial Data Communications

The following table illustrates the pin connections on the DB-25 connector at the rear of the printer.

Pin No. Description

Chassis ground

TXD (transmit data) output from the printer

RXD (receive data) input to the printer

RTS (request to send) output from the printer

Not used

DSR (data set ready) input to the printer

RS-232 signal ground

Not used

+5V @ 1A source

17 and 18

21-25

Not used

RS-485 signal ground

Not used

RS-485 input A(–)

RS-485 output A(–)

Not used

RS-485 input B(+)

Not used

RS-485 output B(+)

DTR (data terminal ready) output from the printer

Not used

Zebra Z4M Printer User’s Guide 85

RS-232 Interface

This printer is configured as Data Terminal Equipment (DTE). The serial data cable used to connect the printer to the host computer will be one of two styles:

9-pin to 25-pin cable – (null modem cable) must have a 9-pin “D” type (DB-9S) connector on the end that is plugged into the serial port at the computer and a 25-pin “D” type (DB-25P) connector on the other end that is plugged into the connector at the rear of the printer. Figure 35 shows the required cable connections.

Figure 35

25-pin to 25-pin cable – (null modem cable) must have a 25-pin “D” type (DB-25S)

connector on the end that is plugged into the serial port at the computer and a 25-pin “D” type (DB-25P) connector on the other end that is plugged into the connector at the rear of the printer. Figure 36 shows the required cable connections.

Figure 36

86 Zebra Z4M Printer User’s Guide

Hardware Control Signal Descriptions

For all RS-232 input and output signals, this printer follows both the Electronics Industries Association (EIA) RS-232 and the Consultative Committee for International Telegraph and Telephone (CCITT) V.24 standard signal level specifications.

When DTR/DSR handshaking is selected, the Data Terminal Ready (DTR) control signal output from the printer controls when the host computer may send data. DTR ACTIVE (positive voltage) permits the host to send data. When the printer places DTR in the INACTIVE (negative voltage) state, the host must not send data.

NOTE: When XON/XOFF handshaking is selected, data flow is controlled by the ASCII Control Codes DC1 (XON) and DC3 (XOFF). The DTR Control lead will have no effect.

Request to send (RTS) is a control signal from the printer that is connected to the clear to send (CTS) input at the host computer. RTS is always ACTIVE (positive voltage) when the printer is on.

CAUTION: This printer complies with FCC “Rules and Regulations”, Part 15 for Class B Equipment, using fully shielded six-foot data cables. Use of longer cables or unshielded cables may increase radiated emissions above the Class B limits.

Zebra Z4M Printer User’s Guide 87

RS-485 Interface

Figure 37 illustrates the pin connections on the DB-25 connector at the rear of the printer that are used for the RS-485 communication protocol.

NOTE: XON/XOFF handshaking must be used for RS-485 communications.

Figure 37

88 Zebra Z4M Printer User’s Guide

Parallel Data Communications

The following table illustrates the pin connections on the bi-directional parallel connector at the rear of the printer.

Pin No. Description

nStrobe/HostClk

2-9

16 and 17

19-30

33 and 34

Data Bits 1-8

nAck/PtrClk

Busy/PtrBusy

PError/AckDataReq

Select/Xflag

nAutoFd/HostBusy

Not Used

Ground

+5V@1A

Ground

ninit

nFault/nDataAvail

Not Used

+5V through a 3.3 KW Resistor

nSelectin/1284 active

Parallel Interface

The 8-bit parallel data interface supports IEEE 1284 bi-directional parallel communications in “nibble mode.” The parallel interface provides a means of communication that is typically faster than the previously mentioned serial interface methods. In this method, the bits of data that make up a character are sent all at one time over several wires in the cable, one bit per wire.

Parallel Cabling Requirements

An IEEE-1284 compatible bi-directional parallel data cable is required when this communication method is used. The required cable must have a standard 36-pin parallel connector on one end that is plugged into the mating connector located at the rear of the printer. The other end of the cable connects to the printer connector at the host computer.

Zebra Z4M Printer User’s Guide 89

90 Zebra Z4M Printer User’s Guide

Index

Adjustments

Printhead pressure ..........62

Reflective sensor ...........11

Auto calibration .............13

Cabling requirements...........18

Calibrating the printer ...........5

Calibration, auto .............13

Calibration, manual............45

CANCEL key self test ..........74

Cleaning

Cutter module.............60

Exterior ................56

Interior ................56

Platen roller ..............56

Power peel-off module ........58

Printhead ...............56

Sensors ................57

Value peel-off module ........59

Cleaning schedule ............55

Communications diagnostics test.....77

Communications problems ........71

Configuration

Changing password-protected

parameters .............38

Configuration and calibration

sequence ..............40

Entering the setup mode .......37

Leaving the setup mode .......39

Configuring the printer

Basic .................15

Complete ...............40

Continuous media .............7

Damage, reporting .............2

Data specifications ............17

Factory defaults..............77

FEED key self test ............76

Front panel display ............19

Front panel keys .............20

Front panel lights .............21

Fuse replacement .............66

Inspection .................1

Interfaces .................17

LCD error conditions and warnings . . . 67 Loading the media

Fanfold ................32

Roll ..................22

Loading the ribbon ............34

Lubrication ................61

Zebra Z4M Printer User’s Guide 91

Maintenance manual ............1

Media loading

Cutter .................24

Fanfold ................32

Power peel-off ............28

Power rewind .............30

Roll ..................22

Tear-off ................22

Value peel-off.............26

Media requirements ............2

Media sensors

Reflective ...............10

Transmissive .............12

Non-continuous black mark media ....7

Non-continuous web media ........6

Operator controls

Front panel display ..........19

Front panel keys ...........20

Front panel lights ...........21

POWER switch ............14

Options ..................81

Overview, printer (graphic) ........4

Parallel port technical information ....89

PAUSE key self test ...........75

Power cord ................83

Power rewind media alignment .....64

POWER switch ..............14

Power-on self test (POST) ........73

Print mode, choosing ...........8

Print quality problems ..........69

Printer calibration .............5

Printer diagnostics ............73

Printer driver configuration........16

Printer overview (graphic) .........4

Printer power................3

Reflective sensor .............10

Removing the ribbon ...........36

Reporting damage .............2

Requirements

Media and ribbon ...........2

Ribbon loading ..............34

Ribbon removal..............36

Ribbon requirements............2

Roll media loading ............22

Self tests

CANCEL key.............74

FEED key...............76

PAUSE key ..............75

Power-on ...............73

Serial port technical information .....85

Software configuration ..........16

Specifications...............79

Storage ...................2

System considerations ..........17

Test label, printing ............16

Transmissive sensor ...........12

Troubleshooting .............67

Types of media...............6

92 Zebra Z4M Printer User’s Guide

Zebra Technologies Z4M User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual