Zebra Z4M User's Manual
Contents
1. Ribbon take up spindle Ribbon uide plate Printhead a assembly Ribbon supply spindle Printhead open lever Figure 8 MRH 4 974 PAGE 7 OF 57 1 800 295 5510 0808 IH 974 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 POWER PAUSE ERROR DATA lt gt PROCESSING JOB SELECT ye LC SETUP EXIT CANCEL Figure 9 MRH 4 974 PAGE 8 OF 57 1 800 295 5510 0808 IH 974 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 E Press the SETUP EXIT key at the PRINTER READY display to enter the configuration mode oe NOTE You will need to press the INCREMENT key more than aay once to advance to some of the displays E Press the INCREMENT or DECREMENT key to scroll to the setting you wish to change E Press the SELECT key to toggle the functionality of the INCREMENT and DECREMENT keys m 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 chan2. module i If cutting tag stock or label Solvent and After every two or three rolls of media backing material air blow 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 A 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 po MRH 4 974 PAGE 41 OF 57 1 800 295 5510 0808 IH 974 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 a NOTE The printer can remain on while you are cleaning the L BF 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
3. key until the unit of measurement is active then press the INCREMENT key to toggle to a different unit of PRINT WIDTH 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 MH 4 974 PAGE 30 OF 57 1 800 295 5510 0808 IH 974 Display Shows Action Explanation INITIALIZE CARD 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 The display will ask INITIALIZE CARD Press the INCREMENT key YES The front panel LCD will ask ARE YOU SURE 4 Press the INCREMENT key YES to begin initialization or Press the DECREMENT key NO to cancel the request and return to the INITIALIZE CARD prompt 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 CH
4. PAGE 34 OF 57 1 800 295 5510 0808 IH 974 Selecting ZPL Mode Display Shows Action Explanation Selecting ZPL Mode EM Press the INCREMENT or DECREMENT key to display other choices Default ZPL II Selections ZPL Il ZPL ZPL MODE 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 Il This eliminates the need to rewrite any ZPL formats you already have Refer to the ZPL II Programming Guide Volume Il for more information on the differences between ZPL and ZPL Il Power Up and Head Close Parameters ny Media Power Up E 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 MEDIA POWER UP on e Calibration Recalibrates the media and ribbon sensors e Feed Feeds the label to the first web e Length Determines the length of the label e No Motion Media does not move Head Close E 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 e Calibration Recalibrates the media and ribbon sensors e Feed Feeds the label to the first web
5. e Length Determines the length of the label e No Motion Media does not move HEAD CLOSE MRH 4 974 PAGE 35 OF 57 1 800 295 5510 0808 IH 974 Label Positioning Parameters Display Shows Action Explanation BACKFEED Backfeed Sequence E Press the INCREMENT or DECREMENT key to display other choices Default Default 90 Selections Default after before 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 off 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 NOTE The difference between the value entered and 100 establishes how 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 LABEL TOP 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
6. Error condition RIBBON OUT Problem Solution In thermal transfer mode the ribbon is not loaded or loaded incorrectly Load the ribbon correctly See Ribbon Loading on page 34 In thermal transfer mode the ribbon sensor is not sensing correctly loaded ribbon In direct thermal mode when ribbon is not used 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 Error condition PAPER OUT Problem Solution The media is not loaded or loaded incorrectly Reload the media Refer to Roll Media Loading on page 22 The media sensor is not positioned properly Check the position of the reflective sensor See Positioning the Media Sensor on page 10 The printer is set for non continuous media but continuous media is loaded 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 The incorrect media sensor is being used Via the front panel locate the SENSOR SELECT menu item page 41 and manually select the correct sensing method MRH 4 974 PAGE 51 OF 57 1 800 295 5510
7. 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 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 LIST BAR CODES 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 LIST 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 LIST 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 SETUP List All Pre
8. Problem Solution Cutter blade is in the media path 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 OUT OF MEMORY Problem Solution There is not enough memory to perform the function shown on the second line of the error message 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 Print Quality Problems General print quality issues Problem Solution You are using an incorrect media and ribbon combination for your application Consult your authorized Zebra reseller distributor for information and advice The printer is set at the incorrect print speed For optimal print quality set the print speed to the lowest possible setting via ZPL Il the driver or the software The printer is set at the incorrect darkness level For optimal print quality set the darkness to the lowest possible setting via the front panel the driver or the software The printhead is dirty Clean the printhead according to the instructions on page 56 There is light printing or no printing on the left or right side of the label or the printe
9. PAGE 47 OF 57 1 800 295 5510 0808 IH 974 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 1 2 51 mm 1 3 76 mm 2 3 3 5 and up 89 mm and up a NOTE Some media types require higher pressure to print well For L BF i 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 MRH 4 974 PAGE 48 OF 57 1 800 295 5510 0808 IH 974 Pressure adjustment dials Figure 27 Power Rewind Media Alignment Power rewind option required a NOTE Under normal operating conditions media alignment should l L J not be necessary if the media backing was initially in
10. maximum gt Figure 11 MH 4 974 PAGE 11 OF 57 1 800 295 5510 0808 IH 974 When communicating via the parallel port Printer Computer refer to Figure 12 the previously as A mentioned parameters are not considered Refer to page 46 to configure the LL communication parameters for the printer The values selected must be the same as V pc H those used by the host equipment connected i a H to the printer lt a For serial and parallel pinout and technical information refer to the Appendix on page 85 Cabling Requirements Data cables must be fully shielded and fitted 10 3 m maximum gt with metal or metalized connector shells Shielded cables and connectors are required Figure 12 to prevent radiation and reception of electrical noise To minimize electrical noise pickup in the cable E Keep data cables as short as possible m Do not bundle the data cables tightly with the power cords m Do not tie the data cables to power wire conduits J NOTE Zebra printers comply with FCC Rules and Regulations 7 Part 15 for Class B Equipment using fully shielded data cables i Use of unshielded cables may increase radiated emission above the Class B limits aia NOTE RS 422 and RS 485 applications should use twisted shielded E S pairs as recommended in the Appendix of the TA EA 485
11. the one shown in Figure 10 i Al If you encounter any problems while you are II MODES ENABLED g MODES DISABLED configuring the printer or printing a test label aaee a HARDWARE ID refer to Troubleshooting which starts on page 67 Otherwise refer to Establishing FORMAT CONVERT Communication on page 17 to set up the SEBRA NET 11 communication parameters FIRMWARE IN THIS PRINTER IS COPYRIGHTED CONFIGURATION R RAM B MEMORY CARD ONBOARD FLASH Figure 10 MRH 4 974 PAGE 10 OF 57 1 800 295 5510 0808 IH 974 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 Printer Computer 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 Null modem adapter if using a standard modem cable 4 50 15 m
12. 0808 IH 974 Error condition HEAD OPEN Problem Solution The printhead is not fully closed Close the printhead Correctly align the ribbon with the guide mark on the ribbon guide plate before closing the printhead assembly See Ribbon Loading on page 34 The ribbon is loaded incorrectly it is covering the head open sensor Error condition RIBBON IN Problem Solution Via the front panel locate the PRINT METHOD menu item page 42 and select thermal transfer mode Print method is incorrectly set 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 The ribbon is loaded Ensure that the printer driver and or software settings are correctly set if applicable Warning HEAD OVER TEMP Problem Solution Allow the printer to cool Printing automatically resumes The printhead is over temperature when the printhead elements cool to an acceptable operating temperature Warning HEAD UNDER TEMP Problem Solution Continue printing while the printhead reaches the correct operating temperature The printhead is under temperature The environment may be too cold for proper printing Relocate the printer to a warmer area MH 4 974 PAGE 52 OF 57 1 800 295 5510 0808 IH 974 Error
13. 43 OF 57 1 800 295 5510 0808 IH 974 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 Usea 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 PAGE 44 OF 57 Printhead assembly Tear off peel off bar Peel rollers Reflective surface Front housing assembly Handles 4 Figure 24 MRH 4 974 1 800 295 5510 0808 IH 974 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 w
14. Specification MH H 974 PAGE 12 OF 57 1 800 295 5510 0808 IH 974 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 POWER PAUSE ERROR DATA gt PROCESSING JOB SELECT 7 SETUP EXIT W Figure 13 CANCEL MRH 4 974 PAGE 13 OF 57 1 800 295 5510 0808 IH 974 Front Panel Keys Key Function Forces the printer to feed one blank label each time the key is pressed FEED e Printer not printing one blank label immediately feeds e Printing one blank label feeds after the current batch of labels is complete Starts and stops the printing process e Printer not printing no printing occurs Press PAUSE again to resume PAUSE printing e Printing printing stops once the current batch is complete When in the pause mode this key will cancel print jobs e Printer not printing the next stored label format will not print CANCEL e Printing the label format currently printing is canceled Press and hold for several seconds to cancel all print jobs in the printer s memory SETUP EXIT Enters and exits the configuration mode Toggles the function of the INCREMENT and DECREMENT keys between the scroll and change modes SELE
15. 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 Print method is incorrectly set Via the front panel locate the PRINT METHOD menu item page 42 and select thermal transfer mode Ensure that the printer driver and or software settings are correctly set if applicable The ribbon is loaded 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 The printhead is under temperature Continue printing while the printhead reaches the correct operating temperature The environment may be too cold for proper printing Relocate the printer to a warmer area MRH 4 974 PAGE 53 OF 57 1 800 295 5510 0808 IH 974 Warning CUTTER JAM
16. is 1234 The password can be changed using the KP Define Password ZPL II instruction Ys NOTE Once the password has been entered correctly it will not L 7 have to be entered again unless you leave and re enter the i programming mode using the SETUP EXIT key 4 NOTE You can disable the password protection feature so that it no qa J longer prompts you for a password by setting the password to OOOO via the KP ZPL ZPL II command To re enable the password protection feature send the ZPL ZPL II command KPx 66D where x can be any number one to four digits in length except MH 4 974 PAGE 28 OF 57 1 800 295 5510 0808 IH 974 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 m PERMANENT Permanently saves the changes Values are stored in the printer even when power is turned off m TEMPORARY Saves the changes until changed again or until power is turned off m CANCEL Cancels all changes since pressing the SETUP EXIT key except the darkness and tear off settings if they were changed m LOAD DEFAULTS Loads factory defaults m LOAD LAST SAVE Loads values from the last permanent save Configuration and Calibration Sequence Display S
17. 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 MH 4 974 PAGE 42 OF 57 1 800 295 5510 0808 IH 974 a NOTE If print quality has not improved after performing this L f 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 Piet Transmissive sensor Reflective sensor Platen roller 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 MH 4 974 PAGE
18. 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 LEFT POSITION PAGE 36 OF 57 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 sign 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 MRH 4 974 1 800 295 5510 0808 IH 974 Display Shows Action Explanation WEB S MEDIA S These parameters are automatically set during the calibration procedure They RIBBON S should only be changed by a qualified service technician Refer to the TAKE LABEL S maintenance manual for more information on these parameters MEDIA LED Press the SELECT key repeatedly to skip these parameters RIBBON LED 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 param
19. CT e Press once to use the INCREMENT and DECREMENT keys to change the value of the selection e Press again to use the INCREMENT and DECREMENT keys to scroll through the menu items INCREMENT Scrolls to the next selection scroll mode e Increases the value INCREMENT answers yes change mode e Prints a label when applicable DECREMENT Scrolls to the previous selection scroll mode e Decreases the value DECREMENT ae change mode i P A you wish to change PAGE 14 OF 57 MRH 4 974 1 800 295 5510 0808 IH 974 Front Panel Lights Light Status Indication Off The printer is off or no power is applied POWER 7 R On The printer is on Off Normal printer operation On The printer has stopped all printing operations PAUSE In peel off mode the PAUSE light flashes when the label is Flashing available for removal and when initializing FLASH or PCMCIA memory Off Normal printer operation no errors S flashi RIBBON IN warning HEAD UNDER TEMP warning or ERROR ow tashning HEAD OVER TEMP error Fast flashing HEAD OPEN error On PAPER OUT RIBBON OUT or CUTTER JAM errors off Normal printer operation no data being received or processed The CANCEL key is pressed and a format is successfully One flash canceled DATA SI ow flashing The printer is unable to accept more dat
20. ECKING 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 INIT FLASH MEM Initialize Flash Memory 5 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 The display will ask INITIALIZE FLASH Press the INCREMENT key YES The front panel LCD will ask ARE YOU SURE 4 Press the INCREMENT key YES to begin initialization or Press the DECREMENT key NO to cancel the request and return to the INITIALIZE FLASH prompt 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
21. ECT key to toggle the functionality of the INCREMENT and DECREMENT keys m 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 m 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 MH 4 974 PAGE 27 OF 57 1 800 295 5510 0808 IH 974 Changing Password Protected Parameters a Certain parameters are password protected by factory default a NOTE You have the option of making ALL parameters password i 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 EHS 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
22. MRH 4 974 PAGE 56 OF 57 1 800 295 5510 0808 IH 974 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 Change the settings on the computer host to standard parallel communications The serial communication settings are incorrect 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 Verify the prefix and delimeter characters See page 49 Incorrect data is being sent to the printer Check the communication settings on the computer Ensure that they match the printer settings MAN CHICAGO ATLANTA DALLAS LOS ANGELES MINNEAPOLIS NYC PHILA 1 800 295 5510 PAGE 57 OF 57 uline com 0808 IH 974
23. NCREMENT key to increase the value of the digit Default 000 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 a 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 COMMUNICATIONS control codes like CR carriage return A sample printout is shown in Figure 32 on page 77 NOTES on diagnostic printouts e An FE indicates a framing error e An OE indicates an overrun error e A PE indicates a parity error e 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 NETWORK ID MH 4 974 PAGE 33 OF 57 1 800 295 5510 0808 IH 974 Selecting Prefix and Delimiter Characters Prefix and delimiter characters are 2 digit he
24. Zebra Z4M Printer User s Guide MRH 4 974 PAGE 1 OF 57 1 800 295 5510 0808 IH 974 Printer Overview Depending on the options you have selected your printer may look slightly different Media supply guide Transmissive sensor Printhead rinthea assembly Front O housing assembly L 5 o Media supply hanger Ribbon Media sensor Take up d A spindle Printhead X Media Rewind open lever alignment media spindle guide Thumbscrew Figure 2 MH 4 974 PAGE 2 OF 57 1 800 295 5510 0808 IH 974 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 m To calibrate the printer m To verify that the printer is properly set up by printing a test label i NOTE This procedure must be performed when the printer is first aa 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 m Determine the type of media labels being used m Choose the print method m Position the media sensor if necessary Configure the printer and software or driver based on the label being used m Print a test label Choosing the Print Mode m Tear off mode allows you to tear off each label or a strip of label
25. a from the host Fast flashing The printer is receiving data On A partial format has been received and there has been no subsequent data activity MH H 974 PAGE 15 OF 57 1 800 295 5510 0808 IH 974 Roll Media Loading Tear Off Mode Refer to Figure 14 1 Press the printhead open lever The printhead assembly springs up Flip down the media supply guide Gy gps ow be Slide out the media guide as far from the printer frame as possible Place the roll of media on the media supply hanger touches but does not restrict the edge of the roll Flip up the media supply guide Slide in the media supply guide so that it just 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 Media supply guide Transmissive sensor Printhead rinthea assembl O A o a o U RIDD Media ibbon suppl sensor Media guide Fanner Printhead open lever Figure 14 MH 4 974 PAGE 16 OF 57 1 800 295 5510 0808 IH 974 Cutter Mode Cutter option required Refer to Figure 15 Press the printhead open lever The printhead assembly springs up Flip down the media supply guide S
26. are speaking the same language All communication parameters are password protected Display Shows reg pT Setting Parallel Communications Press the INCREMENT or DECREMENT key to display other choices Default Parallel Selections Parallel twinax coax Select the communications port that matches the one being used by the host computer im Setting Serial Communications J 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 EJ 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 fal 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 PARALLEL COMM SERIAL COMM DATA BITS MH 4 974 PAGE 32 OF 57 1 800 295 5510 0808 IH 974 Display S
27. d image is not sharp The pressure adjustment dials need to be adjusted Follow the printhead pressure adjustment instructions on page 62 MH 4 974 PAGE 54 OF 57 1 800 295 5510 0808 IH 974 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 Load the ribbon correctly See Ribbon Loading on page 34 The darkness setting is incorrect Set the darkness to the lowest possible setting for good print quality See Darkness on page 40 Incorrect printhead pressure or balance Set the pressure to the minimum required for good print quality See Printhead Pressure Adjustment on page 62 The media is not feeding correctly It is walking from side to side Make sure that the media guide and media
28. edia 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 ar NOTE If you are using continuous media position the reflective ioe 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 io However if you encounter difficulties with calibration use the transmissive sensor See Transmissive Sensor on page 12 MH 4 974 PAGE 5 OF 57 1 800 295 5510 0808 IH 974 Adjusting the Reflective Sensor 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 PAGE 6 OF 57 Printhead assembly Reflective sensor positioning lever Printhead open lever Figure 7 MH 4 974 1 800 295 5510 0808 IH 974 Transmissive Sensor 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
29. ent 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 Spindle end cap extended p retracted Oy Sa azza SEE Normal position Low tension position Figure 20 Loading the Ribbon i CAUTION Always use ribbon that is wider than the media The smooth Hi backing of the ribbon protects the printhead from wear For direct thermal doai 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 MH 4 974 PAGE 25 OF 57 1 800 295 5510 0808 IH 974 Ribbon take up spindle Ribbon Pe guide plate J ie D i Printhead assembly To Ribbon supply spindle Printhead open lever Ribbon take up spindle Ribbon uide plate Printhead 3 P assembly Ribbon supply sp
30. eter 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 150 300 150 600 200 600 300 600 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 LCD ADJUST FORMAT CONVERT PASSWORD LEVEL MH 4 974 PAGE 37 OF 57 1 800 295 5510 0808 IH 974 Display Shows A Action Explanation IP Resolution E Press the INCREMENT or DECREMENT key to display other choices Default Dynamic IP RESOLUTION 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 Ty IP Protocols J 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 prev
31. ever Media Rewind alignment media spindle guide Thumbscrew 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 o0 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 PAGE 20 OF 57 MRH 4 974 1 800 295 5510 0808 IH 974 Power Rewind Mode Power rewind option required Refer to Figure 18 Press the printhead open lever The printhead assembly springs up Flip down the media supply guide Slide out the media guide as far from the printer frame as possible Place the roll of media on the media supply hanger Ovo er eh S 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 rew
32. ge m Press the SELECT key again to use the INCREMENT and DECREMENT keys to scroll to the desired menu item Parameter Selections Explanation PRINTER READY You are ready to configure the printer DARKNESS 0 to 30 default setting is 10 PRINT MODE Tear off peel off cutter rewind default is tear off MEDIA TYPE Non continuous continuous default setting is non continuous SENSOR TYPE Web mark default setting is web PRINT METHOD Thermal transfer direct thermal default setting is thermal transfer m After you have configured the print method press the SETUP EXIT key to save the changes and exit the configuration mode MH 4 974 PAGE 9 OF 57 1 800 295 5510 0808 IH 974 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 Zebra Technologies ZTC Z4xX 208dpi 19 DARKNESS TEAR_OFF PRINT MODE 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 22 Protocon se NETWORK ID COMMUNICATIONS A configuration label which shows the printer s pee FORMAT PREF IX currently stored parameters will print similar to an
33. hows A Action Explanation Setting Parity J Press the INCREMENT or DECREMENT key to display other choices Default Even PARITY 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 a Press the INCREMENT or DECREMENT key to display other choices Default XON XOFF HOST HANDSHAKE 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 EJ 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 PROTOCOL 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 l 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 Display Shows A Action Explanation Setting Network ID E Press the DECREMENT key to move to the next digit position press the I
34. hows 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 0 to 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 If printing is too light or if there are voids in printed areas you should increase DARKNESS 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 TEAR OFF Default 0 Range 120 to 120 This parameter establishes the position of the media over the tear off peel off bar after
35. ind 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 MRH 4 974 PAGE 21 OF 57 1 800 295 5510 0808 IH 974 Transmissive sensor Media supply guide Media Removal Printhead ri a assembl Front k O housing assembly L O o U E 5 Media i ancer supply hanger Ribbon O sensor Media O Take up O gigs spindle Printhead Media Rewind open lever alignment media spindle guide Thumbscrew Figure 18 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 PAGE 22 OF 57 MRH 4 974 1 800 295 5510 0808 IH 974 Fanfold Media Loading Fanfold media feeds through either the bottom or rear access slot Refer to Figure 19 Press the printhead open lever The printhead assembly springs up Flip down the media supply guide Slide out the
36. indle Printhead open lever Ribbon sensor Figure 21 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 MH H 974 PAGE 26 OF 57 1 800 295 5510 0808 IH 974 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 a NOTE Printers that are operating on an IP network can be quickly l i Fi configured via ZebraNet WebView optional ZebraNet PrintServer II i required For information refer to ZebraNet Networking PrintServer II Installation and User s Guide pi NOTE Unless otherwise noted all parameters are listed in the order L _f they are displayed starting with DARKNESS Entering the Setup Mode To enter the programming mode press the SETUP EXIT key m Press the INCREMENT or DECREMENT key to scroll to the setting you wish to change m Press the SEL
37. ious 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 N IP Address J Press the DECREMENT key to move to the next digit position press the INCREMENT key to increase the value of the digit IP ADDRESS This parameter allows you to select the IP address f 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 A Subnet Mask J Press the INCREMENT or DECREMENT key to display other choices Default Permanent user must set SUBNET MASK 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 IP PROTOCOLS A Default Gateway EJ Press the DECREMENT key to move to the next digit DEFAULT position press the INCREMENT key to increase the value of the digit GATEWAY 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 MRH 4 974 PAGE 38 OF 57 1 800 295 5510 0808 IH 974
38. ith 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 MRH 4 974 PAGE 45 OF 57 1 800 295 5510 0808 IH 974 Cleaning the Cutter Module Cutter option required WARNING For personnel safety ALWAYS turn off and eos 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 MRH 4 974 PAGE 46 OF 57 1 800 295 5510 0808 IH 974 Upper cutter blade Lower cutter blade Cutter motor a Figure 26 Lubrication CAUTION No lubricating agents of any kind should be used on this Hk printer Some commercially available lubricants will damage the finish ak and the mechanical parts if used MH 4 974
39. k 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 SENSOR SELECT 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 Selecting Print Method Press the INCREMENT key for the next value press the DECREMENT key for the previous value Default Thermal transfer Selections Thermal transfer direct thermal PRINT METHOD 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
40. lide out the media guide as far from the printer frame as possible Place the roll of media on the media supply hanger ye See he a 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 Media supply guide Printhead a rintnea bl y O UW Ribbon A sensor Cutter module o v CH 7 er O wo 7 Dancer Media Media guide supply Transmissive hanger Printhead open lever sensor Figure 15 MH 4 974 PAGE 17 OF 57 1 800 295 5510 0808 IH 974 Value Peel Off Mode Value peel option required Refer to Figure 16 Press the printhead open lever The printhead assembly springs up Flip down the media supply guide Slide out the media guide as far from the printer frame as possible Place the roll of media on the media supply hanger Ovo er eh S 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
41. may take up to one minute to complete 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 Sensor Profile Press the INCREMENT key to print a media sensor profile See Figure 22 The media sensor profile may be used to troubleshoot 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 PAGE 31 OF 57 MANUAL CALIBRATION 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 MH 4 974 1 800 295 5510 0808 IH 974 100 RIBBON Met MEDIA MEDIA MEDIA MEDIA MEDIA Figure 22 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
42. media guide as far from the printer frame as possible Pass the fanfold media over the media supply hanger ea a 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 MRH 4 974 PAGE 23 OF 57 1 800 295 5510 0808 IH 974 Media supply guide Printhead e assembly Transmissive sensor o e o U SO O Dancer Media t Ribbon Media guide supply sensor hanger Printhead open lever Media supply guide Printhead e assembly Transmissive SO sensor e a fe U oa O Dancer Media Ribbon Media guide supply sensor hanger Printhead open lever PAGE 24 OF 57 Figure 19 MH 4 974 1 800 295 5510 0808 IH 974 Ribbon Loading a NOTE The ribbon supply spindle in your printer is a dual tension l F 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 movem
43. printing The label and backing can be torn off or cut between labels MH 4 974 PAGE 29 OF 57 1 800 295 5510 0808 IH 974 Display Shows Action Explanation Selecting Print Mode Press the INCREMENT or DECREMENT key to display other choices Default Tear off PRINT MODE 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 MEDIA TYPE 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 Il 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 SENSOR TYPE This parameter tells the printer whether you are using media with a web gap space between labels notch or hole to indicate the separation between labels or if you are using media with a blac
44. r 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 MH 4 974 PAGE 19 OF 57 1 800 295 5510 0808 IH 974 Media supply guide Transmissive sensor Printhead assembly Front O housing assembly L a Label O UW a Dancer Media P eupely O anger Sensor Media O Dem A spindle Printhead open l
45. rary Saves the changes until changed again or until power is turned off e Cancel Cancels all changes since you entered the configuration mode except for darkness and tear off position if they were changed e Load defaults Loads factory defaults e Load last save Loads the values from the last permanent save PRINTER READY PAGE 40 OF 57 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 MRH 4 974 1 800 295 5510 0808 IH 974 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 fanfold media when printing in the direct Platen roller Solvent thermal mode Media sensors Air blow After every roll of ribbon or three rolls of Ribbon sensor Air blow media when printing in the thermal Media path Solvent transfer mode Ribbon path Solvent These intervals are intended as guidelines only You may have to clean more often Solvent depending upon your application and media Pinch roller Optional value peel off option required See Figure 25 Citrus based After every roll of media or more often adhesive depending upon your application and remover media If cutting continuous Cutter pressure sensitive media
46. s after it is printed m 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 m When in cutter mode the printer automatically cuts the label after it is printed m In rewind mode the media and or backing are rewound onto a core as the labels are printed MH 4 974 PAGE 3 OF 57 1 800 295 5510 0808 IH 974 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 DOO Media Ribban Media guide supply sensor hanger Printhead open lever Figure 6 MRH 4 974 PAGE 4 OF 57 1 800 295 5510 0808 IH 974 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 m directly under the notch hole or black mark or m anywhere along the width of the m
47. 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 Media supply guide Jf il Transmissive sensor Printhead assembly Lever SO A o o N f y Dancer Media Label Ribbon Media guide supply sensor hanger Printhead open lever Figure 16 MH H 974 PAGE 18 OF 57 1 800 295 5510 0808 IH 974 Power Peel Off Mode Power peel off option required Refer to Figure 17 Press the printhead open lever The printhead assembly springs up Flip down the media supply guide Slide out the media guide as far from the printer frame as possible Place the roll of media on the media supply hanger Ovo er eh S 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 unde
48. ss 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 LIST ALL MRH 4 974 PAGE 39 OF 57 1 800 295 5510 0808 IH 974 Display Shows Action Explanation LANGUAGE Selecting the Display Language Press the INCREMENT or DECREMENT key to display other choices Default English 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 have now completed the entire configuration and calibration sequence You may either press the SELECT key or the SETUP EXIT key DARKNESS You are now back at the first parameter in the configuration sequence 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 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 e Permanent Permanently saves the changes even when printer power is turned off e Tempo
49. stalled 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 or 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 MH 4 974 PAGE 49 OF 57 1 800 295 5510 0808 IH 974 Printhead assembly Figure 28 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 MH 4 974 PAGE 50 OF 57 1 800 295 5510 0808 IH 974 LCD Error Conditions and Warnings
50. supply guide touch the edge of the media PAGE 55 OF 57 MH 4 974 1 800 295 5510 0808 IH 974 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 Via the front panel locate the SENSOR SELECT menu Excessive vertical drift in top of form item page 41 and manually select the correct sensing registration 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 Auto Calibrate failed 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 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 The printer does not respond to label page 18 for the requirements requests 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
51. x 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 J Press the DECREMENT key to move to the next digit position press the INCREMENT key to increase the value of the digit CONTROL PREFIX 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 B Press the DECREMENT key to move to the next digit position press the INCREMENT key to increase the value of the digit FORMAT PREFIX 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 DELIMITER CHAR 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 MH H 974
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