R User’s Manual T4204 Label Printer
Software License Agreement CAREFULLY READ THE FOLLOWING TERMS AND CONDITIONS BEFORE USING THIS PRINTER. USING THIS PRINTER INDICATES YOUR ACCEPTANCE OF THESE TERMS AND CONDITIONS. IF YOU DO NOT AGREE TO THESE TERMS AND CONDITIONS, PROMPTLY RETURN THE PRINTER AND ALL ACCOMPANYING HARDWARE AND WRITTEN MATERIALS TO THE PLACE YOU OBTAINED THEM, AND YOUR MONEY WILL BE REFUNDED. Definitions. "Software" shall mean the digitally encoded, machine-readable data and program.
Limited Software Product Warranty Printronix, Inc. warrants that for ninety (90) days after delivery, the Software will perform in accordance with specifications published by Printronix, Inc. Printronix, Inc. does not warrant that the Software is free from all bugs, errors and omissions. Remedy Your exclusive remedy and the sole liability of Printronix, Inc. in connection with the Software is replacement of defective software with a copy of the same version and revision level.
Termination of License Agreement This License shall continue until terminated. This license may be terminated by agreement between you and Printronix, Inc. or by Printronix, Inc. If you fail to comply with the terms of this License and such failure is not corrected within thirty (30) days after notice. When this License is terminated, you shall return to the place you obtained them, the printer and all copies of the Software and documentation. U.S.
Canadian Department of Communications Compliance Statement: This Class A digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003. Avis de conformite aux normes du ministere des Communcations du Canada: Cet appareil numerique de la classe A est conform á norme NMB003 du Canada. European Community (EC) Conformity Statement: This product is in conformity with the protection requirements of EC Council Directive 89/336/EEC on the approximation of the laws of the Member States relating to electromagnetic compatibility.
Trademark Acknowledgements Printronix, IGP, IGP/Auto Label Mapping, LinePrinter Plus, PGL, ThermaLine, and PrintNet are registered trademarks of Printronix, Inc. HP is a registered trademark of Hewlett-Packard Company. PCL is a registered trademark of Hewlett-Packard Company. Code V is a trademark of QMS, Inc. QMS is a registered trademark of Quality Micro Systems, Inc. IBM is a registered trademark of International Business Machines Corp.
IMPORTANT WARRANTY INFORMATION PRINTER WARRANTY Printronix® warrants to purchaser that under normal use and service, this printer (excluding the thermal printhead) purchased hereunder shall be free from defects in material and workmanship for a period of ninety (90) days from the date of shipment from Printronix. Consumable items such as media and ribbons are not covered under this warranty.
Table of Contents 1 Introduction........................................................ 13 Printronix ThermaLine Help Desk........................................................ 13 Warnings And Special Information ...................................................... 13 The T4204 Label Printer ...................................................................... 14 Thermal Printer Technology ................................................................ 15 Media Selection ...........................
Table of Contents Changing Printer Settings ............................................................. 56 Saving A Configuration ................................................................. 57 Modifying A Saved Configuration .................................................. 59 Printing A Configuration ................................................................ 60 Menu Options ...................................................................................... 65 CONFIG. CONTROL Menu........
Table of Contents 4 Interfaces.......................................................... 177 Overview............................................................................................ 177 Centronics Parallel Interface.............................................................. 178 Centronics Parallel Interface Signals .......................................... 179 IEEE 1284 Parallel Interface.............................................................. 180 Compatibility Mode...................
Table of Contents
1 Introduction Printronix ThermaLine Help Desk The Printronix ThermaLine® Help Desk offers technical support with: • • • • • Installation Configuration and Setup Operation and Supplies Loading Specifying the proper media and ribbon Post sales service support questions Call the Printronix ThermaLine Help Desk at (714) 368-2488 or visit the Printronix Web Page at www.printronix.com.
Chapter 1 The T4204 Label Printer Conventions Throughout this manual, keys and possible key settings or positions are printed in UPPERCASE type. In most cases, messages displayed in the liquid crystal display (LCD) are shown in the following format: PRINTER CONTROL Print Speed The T4204 Label Printer The T4204 is a high quality, direct thermal and thermal transfer printer specifically designed for printing labels and tags, from any MS-DOS®, Windows®, or ASCII based compatible computer.
Thermal Printer Technology Quiet and fast, with excellent print quality, the T4204 multifunction label printer uses an inline thermal printhead. The operation of a thermal printer is different from that of a line-matrix or laser printer. The thermal printer uses a printhead with heating elements and special paper or ribbon.
Chapter 1 Media Selection Media Selection Since there are two print modes of operation, there are two kinds of thermal media: Direct thermal media and Thermal transfer media. Direct thermal media is paper coated with special chemicals that act as an accelerator, acceptor dye and binder. During direct thermal mode, the heat from the thermal printhead contacts the paper and causes a chemical reaction to take place. NOTE: Do not attempt to use direct thermal media with ribbon.
Hardware Options Ask your Printronix representative about the following options, which can enhance the versatility of your printer. • Fonts A selection of fonts is available to extend the capabilities of the standard resident fonts. • Media Cutter The cutter is used to automatically cut printed media when the media exits the printer. • Label/Tag Catcher Tray Used with the Media Cutter option to catch the cut media and collect it away from the Media Cutter Assembly.
Chapter 1 Unpacking The Printer Bar Code Verification The most important consideration when printing a bar code is to ensure the bar code will be scanned properly. Incorporating a bar code quality procedure in the printing process is the best way to ensure that bar codes are being printed correctly.
4. Remove the sample roll of Printronix ribbon and media from the support assembly and set them to one side.
Chapter 1 Unpacking The Printer Check List Your T4204 kit contains the items listed below. • • • • • • • • • • The T4204 printer. AC Powercord (not illustrated) Programmer’s Manual Order Card (not illustrated). Printer User’s Manual (not illustrated). Printhead Cleaning Pen (not illustrated) Terminating Resistor Packs (not illustrated) Ribbon Take-Up Core (cardboard) mounted in printer. Label Rewind Bracket mounted in printer Sample Roll of Printronix Prime Wax Ribbon 4.
Printer Installation The following sections will guide you through the installation of the T4204. WARNING The printer should never be operated in a location where the operator and printer can get wet. Personal injury could result. WARNUNG Der Drucker sollte grundsätzlich nicht an einem Ort aufgestellt und betrieben werden, an denen der Benutzer oder der Drucker naß werden könnten, da dies zu Schäden führen könnte.
Chapter 1 Printer Installation $ 1 $ 2 3 Legend: 1) 2) 3) WARNING AC Power Cord Power Switch Off (0) Position Power Switch On (l) Position Verify the required voltage on the printer’s model number label on the rear of the printer. WARNUNG Überprüfen Sie die erforderliche Spannung an dem Modellschild auf der Druckerrückseite. AVISO Compruebe el voltaje requerido que figura en la etiqueta del número de modelo de la impresora que figura en su parte posterior.
5. Attach The Interface Cable a. Parallel Interface Attach a suitable parallel printer cable from the computer to the Centronics interface connector at the back of the printer. Snap the bail locks to the Centronics connector to secure the interface cable to the printer.
Chapter 1 Printer Installation b. Serial Interface Attach a suitable serial printer cable from the computer to the DB-25 RS-232 Serial interface connector at the back of the printer. For additional information on serial cable wiring, refer to Chapter 4, page 185. NOTE: The printer supports simultaneous connection of the Parallel and Serial interfaces using the Auto Switching feature. See Auto Switching described on page 78.
2 Operation Controls & Indicators All of the T4204 printer controls and indicators, except for the power switch, are located on the front panel of the printer, on either the Primary Control Panel (upper keys), or the Secondary Control Panel (lower keys).
Chapter 2 The POWER Switch The Secondary Control Panel is behind the front door assembly below the Primary Control Panel. It consists of UP, DOWN, PREV, and NEXT arrow keys to navigate through the printer configuration menus, and CLEAR, PRT CONFIG, JOB SELECT, and ENTER keys for performing specific functions in the offline mode or within the printer configuration menu. The POWER Switch The POWER SWITCH is located on the back panel of the printer, in the bottom left corner.
Operating Modes Online - In online mode, the printer can receive and print data sent from the host. Pressing the PAUSE key toggles the printer between the online and offline mode. The ONLINE status indicator is lit in online mode. Offline - In offline mode, you may perform operator functions, such as loading media, or navigating through the printer configuration menu to make changes or verify option settings. Pressing the PAUSE key toggles the printer from offline to online mode.
Chapter 2 Loading Media UP (5) - Navigates the printer menu one level up (offline mode only). DOWN (6) - Navigates the printer menu one level down (offline mode only). PREV (3) - Navigates between options on the current level of the printer menu (offline mode only). NEXT (4) - Navigates between options on the current level of the printer menu (offline mode only). UP+DOWN (5+6) - Simultaneously pressing these keys unlocks or locks the printer menu (offline mode only).
Loading Roll Media 1. Open the top (and right side) cover. 2. Open the front door. 3. Slide the media roll guide down to the end of the media support assembly. 4. Open the printhead assembly by pushing the release lever towards the back of the printer. The Printhead assembly will swing upwards.
Chapter 2 Loading Roll Media 5. Slide the media width adjustment tab to the outside stop of the media sensor assembly and rotate the tab up.
6. Slide a roll of media over the media roll guide and onto the support assembly. Media feeds from the top of the roll and towards the front of the printer. Push the roll to the back of the support and slide the roll guide against the outer edge of the media. 7. Thread the label stock through the label sensor assembly and then between the platen (drive roller) and the printhead. You can also refer to the Loading A New Roll or Ribbon illustration label on the inside rear panel of the printer.
Chapter 2 Loading Roll Media 9. Close the printhead by pressing down on both sides of the front of the printhead assembly. 10. Adjust the media pressure control knob to match the width of the label stock in use. Pressure Control Knob Settings Media Width 2 inches or Less 2 inches Greater Than 2 inches 4 inches 2 1 Legend: 1) 2) CAUTION 32 Printhead Assembly Media Pressure Control Knob Ensure the printhead is down and latched before attempting to print.
11. Press the FEED key once to verify that the media advances. Verify that Print Mode in the Printer Configuration Menu is set for the media type installed (Direct or Transfer). If Thermal Transfer media is installed, see “Loading Ribbon” on page 38. The Print Mode submenu is located in the PRINTER CONTROL Main Configuration menu. See “Printer Control Menu” on page 91 for more information. Close the printer’s front door and top (and side) cover if the rewind or thermal transfer options are not needed. 12.
Chapter 2 Loading Fanfold Media Loading Fanfold Media 1. Open the top (and right side) cover on the printer and the front door. 2. Remove the roll media from the media support assembly, if installed. 3. Place the fanfold media behind the printer and insert the first few labels through the rear panel opening. 4. Open the printhead assembly by pushing the release lever towards the back of the printer. The Printhead assembly will swing upward.
5. Slide the media width adjustment tab to the outside stop of the media sensor assembly and rotate the tab up. 1 Legend: 1) Media Width Adjustment Tab 6. Thread the media through the media sensor assembly and then between the platen (drive roller) and the printhead.
Chapter 2 Loading Fanfold Media 7. Rotate the media width adjustment tab down and slide it over until it is flush with the fanfold media. Check the location of the media sensor, and refer to “Sensor Assembly Horizontal Adjustment” on page 47. 1 Legend: 1) Media Width Adjustment Tab 8. Close the printhead by pressing down on both sides of the front of the printhead assembly. 9. Adjust the label pressure control knob to match the width of the label stock in use.
2 1 Legend: 1) 2) CAUTION Printhead Assembly Label Pressure Control Knob Ensure the printhead is down and latched before attempting to print. Failure to do so may cause a premature failure of the printhead. 10. Press the FEED key once to verify that the labels advance. Verify that Print Mode in the Printer Configuration Menu is set for the media type installed (Direct or Transfer). If Thermal Transfer media is installed, see “Loading Ribbon” on page 38.
Chapter 2 Loading Ribbon Loading Ribbon Skip this section when using Direct Thermal Media. 1. Slide the appropriate thermal transfer ribbon roll onto the ribbon supply spindle and open the Printhead assembly by pushing the release lever towards the back of the printer.
2. Thread the transfer ribbon between the label sensor assembly and the printhead bracket. Continue threading the ribbon between the platen (and label stock, if loaded) and the printhead. For easy ribbon threading, slide half of the ribbon between the side of the label sensor assembly and the printhead bracket. Guide it from the side of the printer through the ribbon path.
Chapter 2 Loading Ribbon 3. Wrap the transfer ribbon from the front of the printhead assembly to the backside of the ribbon take-up spindle. Attach the ribbon to the take-up core (fiberboard tube) with tape. When installing a new roll of Printronix ribbon, fold the ribbon just behind the adhesive strip and attach the strip to the ribbon take-up core. Manually rotate the spindle counterclockwise to feed the unusable portion of the ribbon leader around the take-up spindle.
Label Rewinding The printer can be set up to automatically rewind labels into a roll by using the label rewinder. 1. Remove the front door insert cover from the front door by sliding the insert cover up to unlock it, then pushing it out of the front of the door assembly. 1 2 Legend: 1) 2) Front Door Insert Cover Label Taken Sensor Gate 2. Remove the label rewinder bracket from inside the printer. Turn the thumb screw holding the bracket to the printer chassis counter-clockwise to loosen.
Chapter 2 Label Rewinding 3. Hook the two stepped tabs of the label rewind bracket onto the two notches on the top edge of the platen roller assembly’s tear-bar plate. Swing the bracket down. Align the bracket’s tabs with the platen’s bracket reference holes and insert them. 4. Secure the bracket with the thumb screw. 5. Remove the label rewind clip from the label rewinder spindle.
8. If a label is on the end of the label liner, remove it. a. Thread the liner around the label rewinder spindle counter-clockwise, as shown. b. Slide the label rewind clip over the label liner end and onto the label rewinder spindle. c. Fold the label liner over the clip to the back of the printer. This helps lock in the liner. d. Press the FEED key until the label liner is taut. 1 2 Legend: 1) 2) Label Rewinder Spindle Label Rewind Clip 9.
Chapter 2 Label Peel Off Label Peel Off The printer can be set to automatically peel off labels from the backing liner and dispense them one at a time while rewinding the liner. This configuration requires use of the printer’s label rewinder. 1. Remove the front door insert cover from the front door of the printer. Slide the insert cover up to unlock it, then push it out of the front of the door assembly. 2. For Peel-Off mode, flip the label taken sensor gate down. 3.
5. Press the FEED key with the printhead closed, as needed, to supply more label stock or liner. 6. If a label is on the end of the label liner, remove it. 7. Thread the liner around the label rewinder spindle counter-clockwise, as shown. Slide the label rewind clip over the label liner end and onto the label rewinder spindle. 1 2 Legend: 1) 2) Label Rewinder Spindle Label Liner 8. Fold the label liner over the clip to the back of the printer. This helps lock in the liner.
Chapter 2 Label Peel Off 9. Press the FEED key until the label liner is taut. 10. For automatic label peel-off mode, set Media Handling to Peel-Off in the configuration menu. The Media Handling submenu is located in the PRINTER CONTROL Main Configuration menu. See Chapter 3 for more information on configuring the printer. Peel-Off Mode 1 Close the printer’s front door and top (and side) cover. Legend: 1) Peeled Label Area 11. Press the PAUSE key to place the printer Online. 12. Press the FEED key.
Label Variations And The Label Sensor Your T4204 is equipped with a transmissive sensor that detects the gap between labels while they are being printed. The trailing edge of the gap establishes the Top-of-Form position. This feature depends on the ability of the sensor to “see through” the label liner, index hole or notch in the media. In order to support this type of media, select the Transmissive option under the PRINTER CONTROL Media Sensor menu.
Chapter 2 Calibrating The Transmissive And Reflective Sensors Calibrating The Transmissive And Reflective Sensors Due to manufacturing differences in transmissive and reflective label stock, the sensors may have difficulty distinguishing between the label and the liner (gap) or the label and the black mark. When this occurs, the printer will display an error message on the LCD such as “GAP NOT DETECTED Check Media” or “LOAD PAPER”.
Run Calibrate Procedure NOTE: Verify that the media installed in the printer matches the PRINTER CONTROL menu Media Sensor option (Transmissive or Reflective). Verify that the transmissive sensor is horizontally positioned to permit sensing of the notch, gap, or black stripe. (See “Sensor Assembly Horizontal Adjustment” on page 47.) 1. Press and release the PAUSE key to place the printer offline. 2. Open the printer front door to allow access to the Secondary Control Panel. 3.
Chapter 2 Cleaning The Printhead NOTE: The amount of media advancement is also based on which Media Handling selection is enabled under the PRINTER CONTROL Main menu of the Configuration Menu. ‘Tear-Off’ and ‘Tear-Off Strip’ (after Tear-Strip Time) will advance the media until the Top-of-Form of the next form is positioned over the Tear bar. When ‘Continuous’ Media Handling is selected the media will advance only until the Top-ofForm of the next form is positioned under the printhead. 12.
3 Configuring The Printer Overview Changing printer settings, such as print speed or emulation, is referred to as configuration. The configuration process is done using the secondary control panel and includes the following: • • • • Configuring the printer for different host interface options Customizing label formats Checking printer status Running various maintenance tests NOTE: Control codes sent by the host system will override the control panel settings.
Chapter 3 Menu Navigation Table 1: Key Function Summary - Secondary Control Panel Key CLEAR Function If a fault condition exists, pressing this key clears the fault message and returns the printer to offline mode. NOTE: If the fault condition is not corrected before pressing CLEAR, the message reappears when attempting to place the printer online. PRT CONFIG Prints the current printer configuration menu settings (offline mode only).
Using The Secondary Control Panel Using The Secondary Control Panel Configuration parameters are set from the secondary control panel or are retrieved from the printer’s memory. The parameters define how the printer will respond to command and interface signals from the host computer. The configuration menu structure consists of the main configuration menus and the corresponding submenus, where applicable.
Chapter 3 Menu Navigation OFFLINE CONFIG. CONTROL page 65 Load Config. Save Config. Print Config. Delete Config. Power-Up Config. Protect Configs Name Configs.
Selecting A Menu Option Step 1. Press PAUSE 2. + 3. OR 4. Notes OFFLINE CONFIG. CONTROL ENTER SWITCH UNLOCKED Allows you to make configuration changes. OFFLINE PRINTER CONTROL PRINTER CONTROL Page Width 5. UNTIL 6. PRINTER CONTROL Print Mode Print Mode Transfer* 7. OR 8. LCD ENTER Print Mode Direct Cycle through the choices. Print Mode Direct* Figure 3. Moving within the Configuration Menu Selecting A Menu Option By default, the ENTER key is “locked” when the printer is turned on.
Chapter 3 Menu Navigation NOTE: The lock and unlock function can be configured to be other than the UP and DOWN keys. (See “Set Lock Key” on page 72.) IMPORTANT This change takes effect for all subsequent data and operations for the printer only after the printer is placed in the Online mode. The configuration change(s) stay in effect only while the printer is powered on. When the power is turned off, all current configuration data are lost unless you save the configuration.
Saving A Configuration 5. When the desired menu displays, press the6 key to access the available options or submenus. 6. Press the3or 4 key and hold to scroll through the values. 7. Press the ENTER key to select a value. An asterisk (*) displays next to the selected value. 8. If there are more values you want to change, use the 3456 (LEFT, RIGHT, UP, or DOWN) keys to access the value and the ENTER key to select it. At any time, you may press the 5 key to return to the options one level higher. 9.
Chapter 3 Menu Navigation Follow these steps to save a new configuration: 1. Press the PAUSE key to take the printer offline. The following message displays: OFFLINE CONFIG. CONTROL 2. Press the6 key until: CONFIG CONTROL Load Config. 3. Press the 3 or 4 key until the following displays: CONFIG CONTROL Save Config. 4. Press the 6 key until: Save Config. 1* 5. Press the 3 or 4 key to cycle through the options (1-8). Note that the factory default configuration is not listed. 6.
Modifying A Saved Configuration Modifying A Saved Configuration You can change a saved configuration by rewriting over it. For example, you can modify Config. 1, shown below. Suppose you want to keep all the settings but you want to select the parallel interface instead of the serial interface. Config. 1: Selects RS-232 Serial Interface Selects Page Width of 4 inches Selects Page Length of 24 inches Selects Image Horizontal Shift of 0.20 inches, etc. 1.
Chapter 3 Menu Navigation b. Press the 3or 4 key until the following displays: CONFIG. CONTROL Delete Config. c. Press the 6 key. d. Press the 3or 4 key to cycle through the options (1-8). When the desired number displays, press the ENTER key to select it. The following message is displayed. Deleting Configuration Then, the following displays when it is deleted: Delete Config. X* 5. Save the new configuration as described in the page 57. Make sure you select the same number (e.g., Config.
Printing A Configuration 5. Press the3 or 4 key to cycle through the following printout options: Current* Factory Power-Up All 1-8 customized configurations 6. When the desired option displays, press the ENTER key. The printer prints the specified configuration. Refer to Figure 4, for a sample configuration printout. NOTE: If the configuration you want to print has not been saved, the following message will display momentarily: CONFIG.
Chapter 3 Menu Navigation Figure 4.
Printing A Configuration Figure 4.
Chapter 3 Menu Navigation Figure 4.
CONFIG. CONTROL Menu Menu Options The rest of this chapter shows each menu along with its possible choices, and explains what each of the choices mean. CONFIG. CONTROL Menu The CONFIG. CONTROL menu allows you to control your printer’s configurations according to the specifications necessary for your print jobs. * = Factory Default CONFIG. CONTROL (from page 54) Load Config. Factory* 1-8 Name Configs 1* (1-8) Save Config. 1* (1-8) Print Config. Current* Factory Power-up All 1-8 Delete Config.
Chapter 3 Menu Options Print Config. This option is used to print a listing of various stored printer configurations. It is recommended you store printouts of your configurations in a safe place for quick referral. Delete Config. You can delete one or all of your eight customized configurations. The factory default configuration cannot be deleted. Power-Up Config. You can specify which of the nine configurations (Factory or 1-8) will be the power-up configuration. Protect Configs.
Active IGP EMUL Menu Active IGP EMUL Menu * = Factory Default ACTIVE IGP EMUL (from page 54) IGP/PGL* IGP/VGL This ACTIVE IGP EMUL function allows the user to activate an installed IGP VGL or PGL emulation. There are two methods for selecting the desired emulation. The first is by selecting the emulation directly from the printer menu. The second is by sending a host command which will switch the emulation automatically (see the appropriate Programmer’s Reference Manual for details).
Chapter 3 Menu Options Emulation Menu The LinePrinter+ emulation is the standard emulation on the printer, along with a choice of IGP/PGL, or IGP/VGL. The CTHI emulation is available when the Coax/Twinax option is installed. The contents of the emulation menu structure will be created by the printer at run-time, and, when powered up, the printer will automatically load the default configuration values.
MAINT / MISC Menu MAINT / MISC Menu * = Factory Default 1 If you have the CT option, Enable is the default value, otherwise it is Disable. 2 If installed MAINT/MISC (from page 54) Alarm On* Cont. Beep Off File System Overwrite Files Enable* Disable View File List File 1 File 2 etc. Delete Files File 1 File 2 etc.
Chapter 3 Menu Options Alarm • On. An audible alarm sounds (3 beeps) when a fault occurs, such as a paper jam. • Continuous. A continuous audible alarm sounds when a fault occurs, which can be stopped by pressing CLEAR. • Off. No audible alarm will sound. Power-Up State • Online. The printer powers up in the online state. • Offline. The printer powers up in the offline state. Hex Dump Mode A hex code printout (or hex dump) translates all incoming data to hexadecimal equivalents.
MAINT / MISC Menu • Current Config. The currently selected configuration is loaded when the reset command is executed. • Factory Config. The factory installed configuration is loaded when the reset command is executed. Downloaded Fonts • Char Operations. Allows you to delete a character from flash, load a character from flash, save a character to flash, and delete a character from RAM. • Ld Char at PwrUp. Allows you to disable or enable loading a character at power up. • Set Operations.
Chapter 3 Menu Options Set Lock Key Normally, to lock or unlock the printer menu, the UP and DOWN keys are pressed at the same time. The Set Lock Key parameter lets you choose different keys to lock or unlock the printer menu. You may choose almost any group of keys as the new lock and unlock keys. You cannot use the ENTER key or any key combinations which are already used for another function. There is no limit to how many keys can be selected. To set the new lock key: 1.
MAINT / MISC Menu Auto Label Map This option specifies the maximum print width to be used by the application. The IGP/Auto Label Mapping® feature allows backward compatibility of programs written for Printronix Wide Web line-matrix printers using Printronix IGP graphics languages. It allows the printer to print two-up (or other multi-up) labels.
Chapter 3 Menu Options Thermal Printer Output Line-Matrix Printer Output Label 1 Label 1 Label 2 Label 2 Narrow Web Width Wide Web Width Example 2: Uneven Number Case Problem: A file has been constructed with three horizontally adjacent 2 inch labels. The user now desires to use this file with a printer that has a 4 inch physical width. Solution #1: The user sets Auto Label Width to 4 inches (the width of two labels), configures the Num Auto Labels to 2, and enables the Auto Label Mapping feature.
MAINT / MISC Menu Solution #2: The user sets Auto Label Width to 2 inches, configures the Num Auto Labels to 3, and enables the Auto Label Mapping feature. Printer Operation for Solution #2: The printer will print the first 2 inch label by itself, the second 2 inch label by itself, and finally, the last 2 inch label by itself. Label 1 Label 2 Label 3 Label 1 Label 2 Label 3 Example 3: Blank Label Case Problem: A file exists with two horizontally adjacent 4 inch labels.
Chapter 3 Menu Options Compatibility This parameter allows you to make the T4204 thermal printer compatible with other printers. When trying to preserve compatibility with respect to barcodes, you may not always be able to make them equal in size. This is due to the various Dot-PerInch differences between printer types. In the case where an exact match cannot be made, the barcode is reduced in size so that the form bounds will not be compromised and the barcode will be readable. • • • Default.
HOST INTERFACE Menu HOST INTERFACE Menu * = Factory Default 1 Available when an Ethernet Adapter is present. HOST INTERFACE (from page 54) Twinax Coax (Available with CT Option) (Available with CT Option) Parallel Hotport Auto Switching Serial Hotport Port Type Centronics* Dataproducts IEEE 1284 Ethernet Disable Trickle Time 1/4 sec.* 1/2 sec. 1 sec. 2 sec. 4 sec. 8 sec. 16 sec. Off Timeout 10 sec.* (1-60) Report Status Disable* Enable Port Type RS-232* RS-422 Disable Trickle Time 1/4 sec.
Chapter 3 Menu Options The Host Interface Menu enables you to select and configure one of many types of interfaces between the printer and your host computer. The currently selected interface is indicated with an asterisk on the control panel message display. Each interface has its own submenu with a set of interface parameters which can be configured. IMPORTANT When switching between Twinax, Coax, or Auto Switching, the printer will load the power-up configuration.
HOST INTERFACE Menu Timeout This is the value used by the printer to time out from the current port and check the other selected Port Types for data to print. When the printer has not received data from the host after certain period of time, it needs to Timeout in order to service the other ports. Report Status • Disable. When a fault occurs on the printer, only the active port reports the fault to the host. • Enable. The port will report any fault even when it is not the current active port.
Chapter 3 Menu Options Centronics (Parallel) * = Factory Default CENTRONICS (from page 54) Data Bit 8 PI Ignored Enable* Disable Enable* Disable Prime Signal TOF Action Enable* Disable Data Polarity Resp. Polarity Busy On Strobe Latch Data On Standard* Inverted Standard* Inverted Enable* Disable Leading* Trailing Buffer Size In K Reset* Do Nothing 8* 1-16 Data Bit 8 • • Enable. Allows access to the extended ASCII character set. Disable.
HOST INTERFACE Menu Response Polarity The Response Polarity parameter must be set to match the response polarity of your host computer. • • Standard. Does not invert the response signal. Inverted. Inverts the response signal sent to the host computer. Busy On Strobe • • Enable. Asserts a busy signal after each character is received. Disable. Asserts a busy signal only when the print buffers are full.
Chapter 3 Menu Options Serial * = Factory Default SERIAL (from page 54) Interface Type RS-232* RS-422 Data Protocol Baud Rate XON/XOFF* ETX/ACK ACK/NAK Series 1 Char Series 2 Char DTR 600 1200 2400 4800 9600* 38400 57600 115200 Data Terminal Ready True* On-Line and BNF Off-Line or BF On-Line False Request To Send On-Line and BNF* Off-Line or BF On-Line False True Word Length 8 bits* 7 bits Buffer Size In K 1* (1-16) Idle Response One Char Enquiry Printer Status Disable* Enable Disable* Enab
HOST INTERFACE Menu If the host keeps sending data after an XOFF is sent, the printer firmware will continue to send an XOFF for every 16 characters received. When cleared, the printer will resume receiving data (XON). The data does not have any End of Text codes; XON / XOFF is a non-block protocol. • ETX / ACK. End of Text / Acknowledge. The host controls the flow of communication to the printer by sending a block of data and ending the block with an End of Text (ETX) signal.
Chapter 3 Menu Options Table 3. Series1 2 Char Response Characters Printer State • Response Online and Buffer Empty 1 CR Online and Buffer Full 3 CR Offline and Buffer Empty 0 CR Offline and Buffer Full 2 CR DTR. The printer controls the data flow by sending this hardware signal to the host. If there is enough room in the printer buffer, the printer will send a high signal; if the buffer is full the printer will send a low signal. DTR tells the host if it is safe to send more data.
HOST INTERFACE Menu Data Terminal Ready This configuration is part of hardware flow control and determines when the Data Terminal Ready (DTR) signal is generated. This signal indicates if the printer is ready to receive data. • • True. Continuously asserts the DTR signal. • Off-Line or BF (buffer full). Asserts the DTR signal when the printer is offline or the internal serial buffer is full. • • On-Line. Asserts the DTR signal when the printer is online. On-Line and BNF (buffer not full).
Chapter 3 Menu Options Poll Response This option is for the Series1 protocol. After receiving a poll character, the printer will wait the poll response time in milliseconds before sending the response. It may be configured from 0 through 30. Idle Response This option is for the Series1 protocol. When enabled, the printer will send a response character every two seconds while the number of valid bytes in the buffer is less than 75 percent of the buffer size.
HOST INTERFACE Menu Printer Status Disabled - Printer status ignored. ENQ and ENQ/STX When enabled, the printer responds to an ENQ signal by sending a status byte to the host. The type of status byte is determined by a Front Panel menu selection. The selections allowed are ENQ and ENQ/STX. The ENQ is removed from the data stream. The menu selection for enabling the ENQ option may only be seen when using a feature file.
Chapter 3 Menu Options IEEE 1284 Parallel (Bidirectional) * = Factory Default HOST INTERFACE IEEE 1284 (from page 77) Prime Signal Enable* Disable TOF Action Reset* Do Nothing Buffer Size In K 1* (1-16) The IEEE 1284 interface is faster and more versatile than Centronics and supports bidirectional communication. Chapter 5 discusses the available modes (Compatibility, Nibble, and Byte) in more detail. Configuration of this interface is controlled from the host. Prime Signal • Enable.
HOST INTERFACE Menu Ethernet * = Factory Default HOST INTERFACE Ethernet (from page 77) Buffer Size In K 1* (1-16) The Ethernet interface allows you to locate the printer on a LAN rather than attach the host directly into the printer. The detailed configuration of this option is given in the PrintNet User’s Manual. Buffer Size In K This option configures the amount of memory allocated for the Ethernet buffer. You can specify between 1 and 16 Kbytes, in 1-Kbyte increments.
Chapter 3 Menu Options ETHERNET PARAMETERS Menu * = Factory Default ETHERNET PARAMS (from page 54) IP Address Gateway Address Subnet Mask MAC Address Novell Protocol xxx.xxx.xxx.xxx xxx.xxx.xxx.xxx xxx.xxx.xxx.xxx hhhhhhhhhhhh Enable* Disable Novell Frame Auto Sensing* Ethernet II Ethernet 802.2 Ethernet 802.3 802.2 Snap PPM Port Number 3001* (0-65535) NetBIOS Protocol Enable* Disable PPM Port Timeout 100 secs.
Printer Control Menu Printer Control Menu PRINTER CONTROL from page 54 Page Width Page Length Width In Inches Width in MM 00.1 inches 00.2 inches : 04.1 inches* 2.5 mm 2.6 mm : 104.1 mm* Print Mode Transfer* Direct Ver Image Shift -1.00 inches : 0.00 inches* : 6.00 inches Length in Inches 00.1 inches : 06.0 inches* : 99.0 inches Media Sensor None* Reflective Transmissive Calibrate Run Calibrate Refl Value 10* (0-20) Trans Value 10* (0-20) Sensed Distance 0.
Chapter 3 Menu Options Page Width This option specifies the physical width of the image to be printed. The value can be specified in inches or millimeters. The allowable range in inches is 00.1 to the maximum print width of the printer 4.1 inches, in 00.1 inch increments. The allowable range in millimeters is 2.5 to 104.1 in 1-millimeter increments. The factory default value is 4.1 inches, or 104.1 millimeters. Page Length This option specifies the user-selected Page Length in inches or millimeters.
Printer Control Menu The allowable Page Length range is 00.1 to 99.0 inches in 00.1 inch increments (2.5 - 2514.6mm) The factory default is 06.0 inches (152.4 mm). Page Length range is limited to a maximum value of 47.0 inches (1193.8 mm) when Page Width is set to 4.1 inches. Decreasing (narrowing) the Page Width to 1.7 inches will extend the range limits of the Page Length and permit a longer Page Length selection (99.0 inches maximum).
Chapter 3 Menu Options Media Handling This option specifies how the printer will handle the media (paper or tag stock). • Continuous. Printer prints on the media and sends it out the front or rewinds the printed media onto the internal rewinder. The label taken sensor gate should be in the up (disabled) position to support continuous. • Tear-Off Strip. Prints until the print buffer is empty, then positions the last label over the tear-off bar for removal.
Printer Control Menu Calibrate This feature is used to optimize the sensitivity of the Transmissive or Reflective sensors (whichever is selected in the Media Sensor sub-menu) in being able to detect the TOF (Top-of-Form) position of the current media installed. The sensitivity can be adjusted manually by changing the Refl Value or Trans Value menu settings or can be determined automatically by using the Run Calibrate procedure.
Chapter 3 Menu Options Tear-Strip Time When using Tear-Off Strip media handling, the Tear-Strip Time option specifies the number of seconds after the buffer is empty that the printer will wait before it advances media to the tear off position. Clip Page This option determines how the printer handles images that are too large for one physical page length. • Disabled.
Font Memory Menu Font Memory Menu This option allows the user to set the amount of memory reserved for scalable font caching. The maximum amount of memory which can be selected is determined by the total amount of memory installed in the printer. Font Memory from page 54 Max Char Memory Max Cache Memory Max Cache Size 50 KBytes 100 KBytes 150 KBytes 200 KBytes 250 KBytes 300 KBytes* . . . 900 KBytes 50 KBytes 100 KBytes 150 KBytes 200 KBytes* 250 KBytes 300 KBytes . . .
Chapter 3 Menu Options Activating Font Memory Options After selecting any of the “Font Memory” options, perform the following steps to activate the new value: 1. Save your configuration changes. See the Config. Control menu option “Save Configuration” on page 57. 2. Change the power-up configuration to match the configuration you just saved. See the Config. Control menu option “Power-Up Config.” on page 66. 3. Turn the printer power off and then on again.
Font Memory Menu Max Cache Size The Maximum Cache Size option specifies the maximum number of characters that can be stored in the font cache. The allowable range is 50 through 900 characters, in 50-character increments. The default value for this parameter is 900 characters. Max Cached Char The Maximum Cached Characters option specifies the size of the largest character that can be stored in the font cache.
Chapter 3 Menu Options DIAGNOSTICS Menu * = Factory Default If Ethernet adapter is present. 1 DIAGNOSTICS (from page 54) Printer Tests Checkerboard* Grey Grid Current Config Left Test Right Test E-net Test Page1 System Memory X Megabytes Print Statistics On: X.X hrs. Print: X.X hrs. Print Inches Printer Tests These tests are used to check the print quality and operation of the printer. NOTE: Your authorized service representative will typically run the tests.
DIAGNOSTICS Menu System Memory Displays the amount of DRAM installed. Print Statistics You can view various printer statistics and refer to them for preventive maintenance purposes. Printer statistics accumulate continuously; they do not reset when you turn off the printer. All of the printer statistics are set to zero at the factory after burn-in testing. • On. The cumulative time in hours the printer has been powered on. The range is 0 to 30,000 hours. • Print.
Chapter 3 IGP/PGL Emulation IGP/PGL Emulation The PGL emulation is the software based Intelligent Graphics Printing (IGP) for the thermal family of Printronix printers. It is based upon, and is compatible with, the Printronix IGP-100/200/400 board using the Printronix Graphics Language (PGL). The IGP graphics processing features are detailed below. IGP/PGL Features On-Line Form and Label Generation makes it easy to create forms or labels with a “preprinted” look for each application.
Configuring The Emulation With The Control Panel Multinational Character Sets provide 32 international character sets, each 96 characters in length. This feature also allows you to create your own character sets using characters defined and stored in memory. Extended Character Sets provide 33 extended character sets, also containing 96 characters in length. These are also stored in memory.
Chapter 3 IGP/PGL Emulation IGP/PGL Submenu * = Factory Default EMULATION IGP/PGL (from page 68) Define CR Code Define LF Code CR = CR* CR = CR + LF LF = LF* LF = CR + LF Select Font Slash 0 Autowrap Disable* Enable Enable* Disable Disable* Enable Ext Execute Copy Disable* Enable IGP 100 Compatbl.
IGP/PGL Submenu Define CR Code (Carriage Return) This parameter forces the printer to insert an automatic Line Feed code into the data stream whenever a Carriage Return code occurs. This is to be used only if the host computer does not send Line Feeds to the printer. • CR = CR. Does not perform a line feed. The next print position will be print position 1 of the current line. • CR = CR + LF. Performs an automatic line feed. The next print position will be print position 1 of the next line.
Chapter 3 IGP/PGL Emulation CR Edit This parameter determines if a carriage return will be followed by a line feed. • Disable. The printer ignores all carriage returns that are not followed by line feeds. • Enable. The printer processes all carriage returns, even for those that are not followed by line feeds. Select Font Select Font specifies which language is currently selected for use with the PGL. Refer to page 111 for available selections.
IGP/PGL Submenu Skip Command Prefix This parameter determines if the printer will print any data before a PGL command is received. • Enable. The printer ignores all data before an IGP command. • Disable. The printer will print all data before an IGP command. Power On IGP/PGL You can set the IGP feature so that it is enabled or disabled when the printer is powered on. • Enable. The PGL is enabled when the printer is powered on. (The PGL feature is initialized in the Normal mode.) • Disable.
Chapter 3 IGP/PGL Emulation Barcode Options * = Factory Default Barcode Options (from page 104) UPC Descenders Always* Never Only with PDF Optimized Ratio Disable* Enable I-2/5 Selection Leading Zero* Trailing Space X2 DPD Modulo 7 CD AI 00 Spaces Disable* Enable Select SO Char 14* (0-255) The following sub-options help define specific options regarding barcode printing.
IGP/PGL Submenu • X2 DPD. When selected, I-2/5 bar code with a magnification X2 will use the specially configured ratios 3:3:6:5 rather than 3:6:9:12 for compatibility issues. • Modulo 7 CD. The I-2/5 bar code uses a modulo 7 check digit instead of the default modulo 10 check digit. AI 00 Spaces This option is designated for EAN/UCC-128 barcodes whose application identifier (AI) is 00. • Disable. The printable data field is printed with the AI enclosed in parentheses.
Chapter 3 IGP/PGL Emulation Do FF at TOF Determines whether the printer, with media already set at the TOF (Top-ofform) position, will advance media to the next TOF position upon receipt of a FF command. • Enable. The printer will advance media from the present TOF position to the next TOF position upon receipt of a FF command, causing a blank form. • Disable. The printer will not advance media from the present TOF position to the next TOF position upon receipt of a FF command.
IGP/PGL Submenu IGP/PGL Character Set Menu * = Factory Default Select Font (see page 104) Standard Sets* 0) ASCII* 1) German 2) Swedish 3) Danish 4) Norwegian 5) Finnish 6) English 7) Dutch 8) French 9) Spanish 10) Italian 11) Turkish 12-23) Reserved 24-31) User Defined 32) Code Page 437 33) Code Page 850 Hebrew Sets Hebrew Old* Hebrew New Hebrew DEC Latin-1 Hebrew Arabic Sets ASMO 449* ASMO 449+ ASMO 708 ASMO 708+ MS DOS CP710 MS DOS CP720 Sakr CP 714 Aptec CP715 CP 786 IBM CP 864 IBM CP 1046 Arabic L
Chapter 3 IGP/VGL Emulation IGP/VGL Emulation Code V Graphics language (VGL) is an Intelligent Graphics Printing (IGP) software emulation designed for your thermal printer. The IGP Code V emulation of the QMS Code V Version II programming language produces on-line forms, bar codes, and alphanumeric text-generation. The graphics processing features are detailed below.
Configuring The VGL With The Control Panel Logos are easily created using alphanumeric commands and a variety of print and shading features, providing a “customized” appearance for forms, reports, and labels. The registered trademark, copyright, TUV ®, GS-Mark, UL®, and CSA® symbols are provided as standard designs on the VGL, and you can also define custom symbols.
Chapter 3 IGP/VGL Emulation IGP/VGL Submenu * = Factory Default EMULATION (IGP/VGL) (from page 68) SFCC & Pwrup Page Format SFCC 94* (17-255) Power Up ^X Disable*/Enable Power Up ^F Disable*/Enable Power Up ^PY Disable*/Enable Resolution (see page 116) LPI 6*-10 Btm Margin Ctl LP+ Menu VGL Text Length Text Length 66* Autoeject Disable* Enable Copy Count 1*-99 Host Form Length Disable* Enable Font Options Cmd Resolution Low Resolution* High Resolution ^Dnn Dot Slew Low Resolution* High Resolution Va
IGP/VGL Submenu • Enable. Selects the ignore mode as the power-up default, and selects the graphics mode ^PY as the power-up default. All characters are ignored until a ^A command is received. Power Up ^F • • Disable. The default. Enable. Selects free format mode as the power-up default, and selects the graphics mode ^PY as the power-up default. Free format causes the VGL to ignore carriage returns, line feeds and all characters below hex 20 sent from the host. Power Up ^PY • • Disable. The default.
Chapter 3 IGP/VGL Emulation Graphics Options * = Factory Default Graphics Options (from page 114) Slash 0 Disable* Enable UPC Descenders Enable* Disable Ignore Dots Append Rotated Disable* Enable Disable* Enable Rot.
IGP/VGL Submenu True Vert 1/10 • Disable. When disabled (the default) and in High Resolution, a vertical line’s length in one inch and 1/10 inch increments is interpreted as 70/72 inch and 7/72 inch respectively. • Enable. When enabled, a vertical line’s length is interpreted exactly, which is 72/72 inch in one inch increments. Absorb after ^PY • Absorb Motion. Prevents paper motion following a system terminator in a graphics ^PY command. • Absorb All.
Chapter 3 IGP/VGL Emulation Width Limit When enabled, the system will limit the length and width for expanded characters to a limit shown in Table 5, which shows the maximum width allowed for a specific height in the range of 00 through 40 (0.0 through 4.0 inches). Absorb After ^PN • Disable. All line terminators that immediately follow the ^PN command are sent to the printer and processed. • Enable. All line terminators that immediately follow the ^PN command are ignored. Table 5.
IGP/VGL Submenu Error Handling Following are several options which define how errors are reported. Error Msgs • Enable. Command syntax is checked and error messages printed when command parameters are incorrect. • Disable. Error checking and error messages are suppressed. Error Markers • Enable.
Chapter 3 IGP/VGL Emulation Ignore Chars • Disable. Character filtering is not enabled. • Char 1. Character 1 will be filtered. Select the option “Ignore Ch#1” to specify character 1. • Char 2. Character 2 will be filtered. Select the option “Ignore Ch#2” to specify character 2. • Char 1&2. Characters 1 & 2 will be filtered. Select the options “Ignore ch#1” and “Ignore Ch#2” to specify values for these characters. Ignore Ch#1 Specifies character 1 for the character filtering option.
IGP/VGL Submenu Resolution Cmd Resolution • Low Res. The default. Sets a low command resolution mode. • High Res. Sets a high command resolution mode. ^Dnn Dot Slew • Low Res. The default. Sets the dot slew command dot values to be interpreted as 60 dpi P-Series dots. • High Res. Sets the dot slew command dot values to be interpreted as print engine dots. Var Ratio Barcd • Low Res. The default. Sets dot values to be interpreted as 60 dpi PSeries dots. • High Res.
Chapter 3 IGP/VGL Emulation Host PI • Disable. The host does not send PI signals. • Enable. The host sends PI signals. The Data Bit 8 configuration option must be disabled to transmit the PI line to the printer. Max PI 16 122 • Enable. A paper slew of 0-15 will move 1-16 lines. • Disable. A paper slew of 1-15 will move 1-15 lines. A paper slew of 0 will always move 1 line.
IGP/VGL Submenu IGP/VGL Character Set Menu * = Factory Default Font Options (from page 114) Font Sets* Uniform Fonts Disable* Enable Standard Sets* Arabic Sets 0) ASCII* 1) German 2) Swedish 3) Danish 4) Norwegian 5) Finnish 6) English 7) Dutch 8) French 9) Spanish 10) Italian 11) Turkish Code Page 437 Code Page 850 ASMO 449* ASMO 449+ ASMO 708 ASMO 708+ MS DOS CP710 MS DOS CP720 Sakr CP 714 Aptec CP715 CP 786 Arabic CP 864 Arabic CP 1046 Arabic Lam 1 Arabic Lam 2 Hebrew Sets Hebrew Old* Hebrew New
Chapter 3 LinePrinter Plus Emulation LinePrinter Plus Emulation * = Factory Default EMULATION (from page 68) LinePrinter+ Printer Protocol (see next page) 124 Orientation Portrait* Landscape Inv. Portrait Inv. Landscape Plot Attributes Page Format Horizontal DPI 120* DPI (60-400) Vertical DPI (72*-400) (see page 130) CPI/LPI Select Select CPI 10.0 CPI* 12.0 CPI 13.3 CPI 15.0 CPI 17.1 CPI 20.0 CPI Select LPI 6.0 LPI* 8.0 LPI 10.3 LPI Print Char.
LinePrinter Plus Submenus LinePrinter Plus Submenus * = Factory Default Printer Protocol (from page 124) P-Series P-Series XQ Serial Matrix Proprinter XL Epson FX (see page 132) (see page 136) (see page 139) (see page 142) (see page 145) Font Attributes (from page 124) Typeface Letter Gothic* Courier OCR-A OCR-B Prop.
Chapter 3 LinePrinter Plus Emulation Printer Protocol Select the LinePrinter+ protocol you wish to use. Refer to the LinePrinter Plus Programmer’s Reference Manual for more information. Orientation • Portrait. Portrait refers to vertical page orientation, where the height of a page is greater than its width. The top edge of the image is parallel to the leading edge of the media. The following illustration is an example, with the operator viewing the front of the printer.
LinePrinter Plus Submenus • Landscape. Landscape refers to horizontal orientation, where the width of a page is greater than its height. The top edge of the image is the left edge of the media. The following illustration is an example, with the operator viewing the front of the printer. 4 inches The top edge of the image is parallel to the left edge of the media. FEED 6 inches Leading Edge • Inv. Landscape.
Chapter 3 LinePrinter Plus Emulation Proportional Spacing Each printed character is contained inside a character cell. The width of the character cell includes the character and the space around the character. • Disable. Each character cell is printed with the same width. Each column in the printed text will line up. • Enable. The width of each character cell varies with the width of the character. For example, [i] takes less space to print than [m].
LinePrinter Plus Submenus Text Position Specifies where the text will be positioned in the line space. When set to Top of Line, text will be positioned at the top of the line space. When set to Bottom of Line, the text will be positioned as if it were at the bottom of a 6 lpi line space.
Chapter 3 LinePrinter Plus Emulation Page Format * = Factory Default menus do not appear if the Coax or Twinax host interface is selected. See page 77. 1These Page Format (from page 124) Form Width Form Length Absolute Length1 6* inches (00.0-24.0) Funct. of LPI 36* lines (0-144) Absolute Width 1 4.1* inches (0.0-13.6) Funct.
LinePrinter Plus Submenus Margins - Physical Page • Left Margin. Set in inches. Inch zero is defined as the far left edge of the page, and column numbering increments from left to right. • Right Margin. Set in inches. Inch zero is defined as the far right edge of the page, and column numbering increments from right to left. • Top Margin. Defined in inches, starting from inch zero at the top of the page and incrementing from the top down. • Bottom Margin.
Chapter 3 LinePrinter Plus Emulation LinePrinter Plus P-Series Emulation * = Factory Default Printer Protocol (from page 125) P-Series Control Code 06 6.0 LPI 8.0 LPI* 10.3 LPI Select SFCC 1* (0-7F hex) Control Code 08 Elongated* Backspace EVFU Select Enable* Disable Define CR Code Auto LF Overstrike CR = CR* CR = CR + LF Disable* Enable Enable* Disable Alt.
LinePrinter Plus P-Series Emulation Auto LF This option defines the printer action when print data is received past the forms width setting. • • Disable. Discards any data past the forms width. Enable. Performs an automatic carriage return and line feed when data is received past the forms width. Overstrike Overstrike determines the action required when a line is printed over a previous line because a carriage return was received without a line feed. • • Enable.
Chapter 3 LinePrinter Plus Emulation Alt. Set 80-9F Determines whether the printer processes ASCII codes hex 80 through hex 9F as control codes or as printable characters. Character Set Specifies a character set as shown in the page 135. To use one of these sets, choose the desired group heading (such as European Sets) and press ENTER. Then choose the desired set within that group (such as Roman 8) and press ENTER. Both the group and the desired set will be starred to indicate your selection.
LinePrinter Plus P-Series Emulation P-Series Character Set Menu * = Factory Default Character Set (from page 132) Standard Sets* IBM PC* Arabic Sets Cyrillic Sets ASMO 449* ASMO 449+ ASMO 708 ASMO 708+ MSDOS CP710 MSDOS CP720 Sakr CP 714 Aptec CP715 CP 786 Arabic CP 864 Arabic CP 1046 Arabic Lam 1 Arabic Lam 2 Cyrillic 866* Cyrillic CP 437 Cyrillic 113 Cyrillic 8859-5 ISO 915 Code Page 855 Cyrillic 7-bit Ukrainian Bulgarian Multinational Primary Subset ASCII (USA)* ASCII (USA)* EBCDIC French German
Chapter 3 LinePrinter Plus Emulation LinePrinter Plus P-Series XQ Emulation * = Factory Default Printer Protocol (from page 125) P-Series XQ Control Code 06 6.0 LPI 8.0 LPI* 10.3 LPI Gothic Typeface char 02 STX* char 03 ETX char 09 HT Define CR Code CR = CR* CR = CR + LF EVFU Select Enable* Disable Auto LF Disable* Enable Upr. Case Select Disable* Enable Define LF Code Compressed Print LF = CR + LF* LF = LF char 01 SOH* char 03 ETX char 09 HT Elong/Alt.
LinePrinter Plus P-Series XQ Emulation Define LF Code • LF = CR + LF. Forces an automatic carriage return with each line feed command received. The next print position is position 1 of the next line. • LF = LF. Does not perform an automatic carriage return when a line feed command is received. The next print position will be the current print position of the next line. Compressed Print Controls which host command sets compressed printing. • CHAR 01 SOH • • CHAR 03 ETX CHAR 09 HT Elong/Alt.
Chapter 3 LinePrinter Plus Emulation Slew Relative “Slewing” is rapid vertical paper movement. This parameter determines the number of lines slewed (either 1-15 lines or 1-16 lines) when an EVFU Slew Relative command is received.
LinePrinter Plus Serial Matrix Emulation LinePrinter Plus Serial Matrix Emulation * = Factory Default Printer Protocol (from page 125) Serial Matrix Control Code 06 Define CR Code Auto LF 6.0 LPI 8.0 LPI* 10.3 LPI CR = CR* CR = CR + LF Alt.
Chapter 3 LinePrinter Plus Emulation Overstrike Overstrike determines the action required when a line is printed over a previous line because a carriage return was received without a line feed. • • Enable. Prints the second line on top of the first line. Disable. Replaces the characters from the first line with the second line. Define LF Code • LF = LF. Does not perform an automatic carriage return when a line feed command is received.
LinePrinter Plus Serial Matrix Emulation Serial Matrix Character Set Menu * = Factory Default Character Set (from page 139) Standard Sets* IBM PC* Primary Subset ASCII (USA)* French German English Danish Swedish Italian Spanish Japanese French Canadian Latin American Norwegian Danish II Spanish II Latin Am II Extended Subset Code Page 437* Code Page 850 Arabic Sets Cyrillic Sets ASMO 449* ASMO 449+ ASMO 708 ASMO 708+ MSDOS CP710 MSDOS CP720 Sakr CP 714 Aptec CP715 CP 786 Arabic CP 864 Arabic CP 1046
Chapter 3 LinePrinter Plus Emulation LinePrinter Plus Proprinter XL Emulation * = Factory Default Printer Protocol (from page 125) Proprinter XL Define CR Code Auto LF CR = CR* CR = CR + LF Enable* Disable Define LF Code LF = LF* LF = CR + LF FF Valid at TOF Enable* Disable Character Set (see page 144) 20 CPI Condensed Enable* Disable Define CR Code This option controls the action of the printer when it receives a Carriage Return code (hex 0D) from the host computer.
LinePrinter Plus Proprinter XL Emulation FF Valid At TOF • Enable. Performs a form feed when the host sends a Form Feed command and the printer is at the top of form. • Disable. Will not perform a form feed when the host sends a Form Feed command and the printer is at the top of form. Character Set Specifies a character set as shown in the page 144. To use one of these sets, choose the desired group heading (such as European Sets) and press ENTER.
Chapter 3 LinePrinter Plus Emulation Proprinter XL Character Set Menu * = Factory Default Character Set (from page 142) Standard Sets* Code Page 437* Arabic Sets Cyrillic Sets ASMO 449* ASMO 449+ ASMO 708 ASMO 708+ MSDOS CP710 MSDOS CP720 Sakr CP 714 Aptec CP715 CP 786 Arabic CP 864 Arabic CP 1046 Arabic Lam 1 Arabic Lam 2 Cyrillic 866* Cyrillic CP 437 Cyrillic 113 Cyrillic 8859-5 ISO 915 Code Page 855 Cyrillic 7-bit Ukrainian Bulgarian Code Page 850 OCR-A European Sets Greek Sets Latin 2 8859
LinePrinter Plus Epson FX Emulation LinePrinter Plus Epson FX Emulation * = Factory Default Printer Protocol (from page 125) Epson FX Define CR Code CR = CR* CR = CR + LF Auto LF Enable* Disable Define LF Code LF = LF* LF = CR + LF Printer Select Disable* Enable Character Set 20 CPI Condensed (see page 147) Enable* Disable Alt.
Chapter 3 LinePrinter Plus Emulation Define LF Code The Define LF Code option controls the action of the printer when it receives a Line Feed code (hex 0A) from the host computer. If this feature is enabled, each time the printer receives a Line Feed, it inserts an additional Carriage Return code (hex 0D) into the data stream. This feature is required if the host computer does not send Carriage Returns to the printer. • • LF = LF. Does not add a Carriage Return with a Line Feed. LF = CR + LF.
LinePrinter Plus Epson FX Character Set Menu LinePrinter Plus Epson FX Character Set Menu * = Factory Default Character Set (from page 145) Standard Sets* Epson Set* ASCII (USA)* French German English Danish I Swedish Italian Spanish I Japanese Norwegian Danish II Latin Am II French Canadian Latin Am I Arabic Sets Cyrillic Sets ASMO 449* ASMO 449+ ASMO 708 ASMO 708+ MSDOS CP710 MSDOS CP720 Sakr CP 714 Aptec CP715 CP 786 Arabic CP 864 Arabic CP 1046 Arabic Lam 1 Arabic Lam 2 Cyrillic 866* Cyrillic CP
Chapter 3 Coax/Twinax Emulation Coax/Twinax Emulation * = Factory Default 1 Print ENTER to access menus EMULATION (from page 68) CTHI Standard* Simp Prot Conv1 Coax Params SPC Coax Params SPC Twx Params (see page 163) (see page 165) Twinax Params (see page 150) (see page 158) Standard C/T Interface With a standard coax interface, the printer emulates the following IBM coax printer models: • • 3287 Models 1 and 2 4234 Model 1 With a standard twinax interface, the printer emulates the follow
Simple Protocol Converter The SPC gives the printer the operational ability to connect to any PC, or network system supporting parallel or serial interfaces, and to three different IBM host systems: • • • System 3x AS/400 3270 Mainframes The SPC will support the following third party models for Twinax: MODE 219, MODE IBM, and MODE P5000. The printer emulations supported by the SPC are Twinax 5225 and Coax 3287.
Chapter 3 Coax/Twinax Emulation Coax Emulation Menu * = Factory Default CTHI (from page 148) Standard* Coax Params Char Set Select Translation Tbl Active Char Set (see next page) Buffer Reprint 150 PA2 Secondary Set* Primary Set Device ID 4234* 3287 Change Case PA1 Set Text Orient Early Print Cmpl Disable* Enable Image Buf Size Dual Case* Mono Case Control By Host* Left to Right Right to Left 4K 2K Host Override Format Control Max. Print Width Disable* Enable Disable* Enable 13.
Coax Emulation Menu Char Set Select * = Factory Default Char Set Select (from page 150) Primary Sets Secondary Sets 0037 English US* 0037 Eng Nether 0285 English UK 0273 Austr/Germ 0274 Belg. Old 0275 Brazilian 0260 Canad Fren 0277 Danish 0287 Danish Alt 0278 Finnish 0288 Finnish Alt 0297 French 0500 Internat. 5 0280 Italian 0281 Japan. Eng 0282 Portuguese 0284 Span Speak 0289 Span. Alt 0500 Swiss Bil 0500 Belg. New 0803 Hebrew Old 0424 Hebrew 0892 OCR A 0893 OCR B 0420 Arabic 0880 Cyril.
Chapter 3 Coax/Twinax Emulation PA2 PA2 is only valid when the printer is in the offline state and the coax SCS data stream is active. This function displays the “PA2 ENABLED” message when the ENTER key is pressed and sends a special operator request to the host when the printer is put back in online mode. NOTE: Selecting the PA2 menu item again (“PA2 DISABLED” appears on the operator panel) or selecting the PA1 menu item will reset the pending PA2 function.
Coax Emulation Menu Cancel IGP/DCU • Enable. Cancels all buffers when a job is put on hold from the host or when the CANCEL key is pressed. • Disable. Does not cancel any internal buffer in the printer when a job is put on hold from the host, or when the CANCEL key is pressed. PTX Transparent Control Lead-in Chars You can enable additional printer features which are not accessible through standard coax emulations. To access these features, send text commands in the data stream.
Chapter 3 Coax/Twinax Emulation Image Buf Size Allows you to select 4K or 2K as the image buffer size. This option is only valid when printer emulates 3287. For the 4234 emulation, the buffer size is fixed at 4K. A POR status is sent to the host when the printer is put online. Intervention Req • Send to Host. The printer sends a signal to the host computer when a printer fault or hold mode time-out occurs. • Do Not Send. No signal will be sent to the host computer.
Coax Emulation Menu Position Aft FF (4234 only) Allows you to select the location of the print position after a form feed command is sent. • Off. Sets the printer to print at position 2 of the first print line on the next form. • On. Sets the printer to print at print position 1 of the first print line on the next form. Last Char = FF Determines the print line position when a form feed command is the last code encountered in the print buffer. • • On.
Chapter 3 Coax/Twinax Emulation FF After Job Determines the print position after an operator-initiated local copy (print screen function). • Off. Performs an automatic new line command after completing a print buffer (unless a new line, form feed or carriage return command was the last one executed). The printer is set to print at print position 1 of the next line. • On. Performs an automatic form feed command unless a form feed was the last one executed.
Coax Emulation Menu Format Control Enables the printer to reflect the same spacing as CTPC model printers after absolute and relative move commands are executed. • Disable. Reflects distance, generated by the IGP/VGL feature, IGP/PGL feature, and Hex Transparent control code sequence, in the new position (after horizontal and vertical tabs are executed). • Enable.
Chapter 3 Coax/Twinax Emulation Twinax Emulation Menu * = Factory Default CTHI (from page 148) Standard* Twinax Params Char Set Select Translation Tbl (see next page) 5225 World Trade Secondary Set* Primary Set Cancel IGP/DCU Standard Char* Enable* Extended Char Disable LAC Approx. On* Off 158 Active Char Set Set Text Orientn PTX Transparent Device ID 4234-2* 5225 Graphic Chek Err Lead-in Chars Enable* Set 1 <%>* Disable Set 2 ¬¬$ Set 3 _%_ Alt.
Twinax Emulation Menu Char Set Select * = Factory Default Char Set Select (from page 158) Primary Sets Secondary Sets 0037 English US* 0037 Eng Nether 0500 Swiss Bil 0500 Belg. New 0273 Austr/Germ 0274 Belg. Old 0275 Brazilian 0260 Canad Fren 0277 Danish 0278 Finnish 0297 French 0280 Italian 0281 Japan. Eng 0282 Portuguese 0284 Span Speak 0285 English UK 0892 OCR A 0893 OCR B 0424 Hebrew 0803 Hebrew Old 0420 Arabic 0880 Cyril.
Chapter 3 Coax/Twinax Emulation Device Address Allows you to set the device address from 0 through 6. The host directs data and commands on the twinax line to a specific device based on its unique device address. After the address has been changed, a POR status is sent to the host. 5225 World Trade The 5225 emulation has a standard multinational character set that serves as a base and 14 extended world trade character set assortments. Cancel IGP/DCU • Enable.
Twinax Emulation Menu Graphic Chek Err Allows overriding of the host setting for the SGEA (Set Graphic Error Action) command. For more information about the SGEA command, refer to the Coax/Twinax Programmer’s Reference Manual. • Enable. The host setting for the SGEA used by the printer. If the SGEA command is requested to stop on graphic errors, the printer will stop when a graphic error is detected. • Disable. Ignores the SGEA command from the host.
Chapter 3 Coax/Twinax Emulation Host Override Determines whether the printer accepts certain commands sent by the host, or continues to use the current operator panel settings. • Disable. Allows these host commands to override operator panel settings: line length, forms length, lines per inch (LPI), characters per inch (CPI), print quality, and text orientation. Note the information appearing on the message display may not match the data stream setting.
SPC Coax Params SPC Coax Params * = Factory Default CTHI (from page 148) Simp Prot Conv SPC Coax Params SPC Type Logical Buf Size PTX NI* Avatar Comp 960 1920* 2560 3440 3564 Translation Tbl PA1 Image Buf Size 4K* 2K PA2 Buffer Print Intervention Req Send To Host* Do Not Send Buffer Reprint Disable* Enable SPC Null Supp NL @ MPP+1 Disable* Enable On* Off SPC Type • Avatar Compatible.
Chapter 3 Coax/Twinax Emulation Buffer Print • • Disable. The printer will print normally. Enable. The printer prints the EBCDIC data and control codes received from the host as hex values. Translation Tbl Prints out a table of the coax interface’s current character set. This operation is valid only when the coax interface is selected (see page 77). PA1 PA1 is only valid when the printer is in the OFFLINE state and the coax Systems Network Architecture Character Set (SCS) data stream is active.
SPC Twx Params SPC Twx Params * = Factory Default CTHI (from page 148) Simp Prot Conv SPC Twx Params Device Address SPC Type Translation Tbl 1* (0-6) Buffer Print Disable* Enable Mode PTX NI* SPC Char Set 0500 Internat 5* 0037 English US 0273 Austr/Germ 0274 Belg. Old 0275 Brazilian 0260 Canad Fren 0277 Danish 0278 Finnish 0297 French 0280 Italian 0281 Japan.
Chapter 3 Coax/Twinax Emulation SPC Type Allows you to select a specific type of Simple Protocol Converter (SPC) Twinax emulation. Mode PTX NI is for Coax/Twinax interfaces, MODE 219 for Model 219 protocol converter, MODE P5000 for Printronix protocol convertor, and MODE IBM for the IBM protocol converter. Printer Type Determines the SPC Twinax emulation “Mode”.
Downloading Software To Flash Memory Loading Flash Memory Printer emulation and operating system software are loaded into flash memory at the factory, but you will install software in some situations: • You buy the PGL/VGL, or Expansion-C/T option after the printer is installed • • • You need to upgrade printer software You have replaced the printer Controller PCBA You have replaced the flash memory SIMM Emulation and operating system software are stored as a compressed file on 3.
Chapter 3 Loading Flash Memory 7. Connect a parallel data cable to the LPT1 port or a serial data cable to the COM1 port of an IBM-compatible computer that is using the PC-DOS™ or MS-DOS operating system. NOTE: You can connect the cable to the LPT2 port if the LPT1 port is already in use. The load commands are different if you use this port, as described in the note after step 26. 8. Connect the data cable to the appropriate I/O port of the printer. 9. Plug the AC power cord into the printer. 10.
Downloading Software To Flash Memory 20. Press the key. If there are only two diskettes for the emulation, you will be returned to the DOS prompt when the decompression is complete. If there are three diskettes, you will be asked to insert disk #3 and press a key. 21. When all diskettes have been decompressed, type the following at the DOS prompt: DIR You will see a directory listing containing the file FILENAME.EXE, where the filename is the six digit number (e.g., 123456.
Chapter 3 Loading Flash Memory NOTE: If you are loading the file using the LPT2 port on the computer, enter the following DOS command: FILENAME.EXE -pb 2 The 9600 baud rate is the only selection older versions of DOS can use. The baud rate information entered in the following DOS commands must match the selection you made in step 25. If you are loading the file through the printer serial port, enter the following DOS commands: MODE COM1:9600,N,8,1,P FILENAME.EXE -pbc1 27.
Downloading Optional Font Files To Flash Memory 5. Once the computer is booted up, insert the optional font diskette into diskette drive A (or B) of the computer. 6. Make the diskette drive the active drive by typing the following at the DOS prompt: A: (if the diskette in drive B, type B:) 7. List the contents of the diskette at the DOS prompt by typing the following: A:\> DIR 8. You will view a list of filenames with a .DWN extension on them. Example: 94021.DWN 94022.DWN 94023.
Chapter 3 Loading Flash Memory 13. When you see “WAITING FOR PROGRAM DOWNLOAD” on the LCD, at the DOS prompt on the computer type: A:\> COPY /B FILENAME.DWN LPT1 NOTE: If you are loading the file using the LPT2 port on the computer, type the following DOS command: A:\> COPY /B FILENAME.DWN LPT2 If you are loading the file using the serial port on the computer, type the following DOS commands: A:\> MODE COM1:9600,N,8,1,P COPY /B FILENAME.
Downloading Optional Font Files To Flash Memory Table 6. Flash Memory Message Guide Message Explanation Required Action CLEARING PROGRAM The program successfully loaded into printer FROM FLASH RAM and the checksum matched. The old program is now being deleted from flash memory. None TESTING HARDWARE PLEASE WAIT Printer status message while downloading. None DIAGNOSTICS PASSED The printer passed its memory and hardware initialization tests.
Chapter 3 Loading Flash Memory Table 6. Flash Memory Message Guide Message Explanation Required Action ERROR: NVRAM FAILURE The non-volatile memory has failed. Replace Controller PCBA. ERROR: PROGRAM NEEDS MORE DRAM The printer requires more DRAM memory in order to run the downloaded program. Reseat or replace the DRAM SIMM at U33. If the message occurs again, replace the Controller PCBA.
Downloading Optional Font Files To Flash Memory Table 6. Flash Memory Message Guide Message Explanation Required Action ERROR: WRONG CHECKSUM The printer received the complete program but the checksum did not match. The data were corrupted during download. Download the program again: Power off the printer and start over at 9. If the message occurs again, replace U38 Flash SIMM or Controller PCBA. LOADING PROGRAM FROM PORT XX% The new program is loading into printer RAM.
Chapter 176 3 Loading Flash Memory
4 Interfaces Overview This chapter describes the host interfaces provided with the printer. The printer interface is the point where the data line from the host computer plugs into the printer. The interface processes all communications signals and data to and from the host computer. Plus, with the Auto Switching feature, you can configure the printer to accept several interfaces at the same time. This chapter describes the interfaces provided with the printer.
Chapter 4 Centronics Parallel Interface Centronics Parallel Interface The length of the data cable from the host computer to the printer must not exceed 15 feet (5 meters). Table 7.
Centronics Parallel Interface Signals Centronics Parallel Interface Signals Table 8. Centronics Parallel Interface Signals Signals Purpose Data Lines 1 through 8 Provide eight standard or inverted levels from the host that specify character data, plot data, or a control code. Data Line 8 allows access to the extended ASCII character set. You may enable or disable this line via the Data Bit 8 parameter on the Centronics Parallel submenu (see page 80).
Chapter 4 IEEE 1284 Parallel Interface IEEE 1284 Parallel Interface The IEEE 1284 supports three operating modes, which are determined by negotiation between the printer and the host. Compatibility Mode This mode provides compatibility with Centronics-like host I/O (see Table 7). Data is transferred from the host to the printer in 8-bit bytes over the data lines. Compatibility Mode can be combined with Nibble and Byte Modes to provide bidirectional communication. Nibble Mode Eight bits equals one byte.
Signals Signals Table 9 lists each of the signals associated with the corresponding pins on the IEEE 1284 interface. Descriptions of the signals follow. Table 9.
Chapter 4 IEEE 1284 Parallel Interface Table 9.
Terminating Resistor Configurations nReverse Request. Driven by the host. Resets the interface and forces a return to Compatibility Mode idle phase. nData Available / nPeripheral Request. Driven by the printer. Indicates the printer has encountered an error. (Data bits 1 and 5 in Nibble Mode.) 1284 Active / nAStrobe. Driven by the host. A peripheral device is selected. Host Logic High—Driven by the host. When set to high, the host indicates all of its signals are in a valid state.
Chapter 4 IEEE 1284 Parallel Interface Table 10 lists the three terminating resistor configurations you can install: Table 10. Terminating Resistor Configuration Configuration Pull-Down (RP1) Pull-Up (RP2) Factory Default 1K ohm 470 ohm Alternate 1 330 ohm 220ohm Alternate 2 none 1K ohm Removal And Installation The procedure for removing and installing terminating resistors is provided in your Maintenance Manual.
RS-232 RS-232 And RS-422 Serial Interfaces NOTE: The RS-232 and RS-422 serial interface circuit characteristics are compatible with the Electronic Industry Association Specifications EIA®-232-E and EIA-422-B. The RS-232 and RS-422 serial interfaces enable the printer to operate with bit serial devices that are compatible with an RS-232 controller. The input serial data transfer rate (in baud) is selectable from the printer’s control panel.
Chapter 4 RS-232 And RS-422 Serial Interfaces Data Carrier Detect (DCD). Status signal to the printer. The ON condition is required for the printer to receive data. Data Terminal Ready (DTR). Control signal from the printer. Subject to configuration. RS-422 Table 12.
5 Diagnostics And Troubleshooting Printer Self-Test A sequence of automatic tests is performed during printer power-up. If any faults are detected at that time, an error message will display (see page 194). Printer operation should also be verified before setting the printer for online operation. This is done by running the printer internal self-test diagnostic program, which will produce a selection of printed test labels. See Chapter 3, “Configuring The Printer,” for instructions.
Chapter 5 Troubleshooting Common Situations Troubleshooting Common Situations Occasionally, situations occur that require some troubleshooting skill. Possible problem situations and potential solutions are listed in this section. While not every conceivable situation is addressed here, you may find some of these tips helpful. Contact a qualified service technician for problems that persist or are not covered in this section.
Data Exchange The signals will go either low or high, depending on the configuration setting, when the printer is in the busy state, which indicates that the printer input buffer is full and can no longer receive data. • Software Handshaking XON and XOFF are software signals that control serial data flow between the printer and the host system. When the printer input buffer is full, the printer transmits an XOFF (CTRL S) character that signals the host to stop sending data.
Chapter 5 Troubleshooting Common Situations Controlling Print Quality Two factors have the greatest effect on print quality: • • The amount of heat applied by the printhead (print intensity) The speed at which media is moving under the printhead (print speed) For example, low-cost direct thermal media often have very high reaction temperatures, which means that it takes a great deal of heat to make a clear image. Resin ribbons and film media may also require higher print intensity for a quality image.
Other Printer Problems Other Printer Problems • Smears or voids in printed image Possible causes include: • • Dirty printhead. Clean the printhead, as described in the previous section. • Printhead temperature is too high. Use software control to adjust the heat setting or change the Print Intensity value through the PRINTER CONTROL menu. This function is accessed through the secondary control panel. (See Chapter 3, “Configuring The Printer,” for complete instructions.
Chapter 5 Troubleshooting Common Situations • Prints strange characters instead of the correct label format Possible causes include: • • Printer serial baud rate setting does not match the host baud rate. Reset the printer via software, or turn the printer off and then on. • Printer serial host interface set for 8 data bits but the transmitting device is set for 7 data bits (or vice-versa).
Other Printer Problems • Printer fails to turn on. Possible causes include: • • • • Faulty AC wall outlet. • With the LCD Message Display indicator illuminated, the printer appears to be working, but nothing is printed. Faulty AC cord. Blown fuse. Call your authorized Printronix service representative. Bad printer power switch. Call your authorized Printronix service representative. Possible causes/solutions include: • • Verify that the labels are the correct type (direct thermal).
Chapter 5 Troubleshooting Common Situations • • Possible label jam. • Check that the transfer ribbon and label stock are routed correctly. • Possible software problem. Printer cuts (melts) through the transfer ribbon. The ribbon is advancing at the same rate as the label stock. Possible causes/solutions include: • • Verify that the software has set the printing heat setting to the proper level. • Verify that the PRINTER CONTROL menu Print Intensity value is set to the correct value.
Fault Messages Operator-Correctable Fault Messages For the operator-correctable faults, follow the suggested corrective action under the solution section of the table. After correcting the displayed fault, press the CLEAR key to clear the error message and status indicator and resume printing. If the fault message reappears, contact your authorized service representative. NOTE: The Maintenance Manual provides more detailed information and procedures for resolving fault conditions.
Chapter 5 Troubleshooting Common Situations Table 13. LCD Message Troubleshooting Displayed Message Can User Correct? Explanation Solution BUFFER OVERFLOW Yes Host sent data after the printer buffer was full. (serial interface) Check your serial host interface parameter settings; if necessary, change them so they match the settings of the attached host. BUFFER OVERRUN Yes Receive overrun.
Fault Messages Table 13. LCD Message Troubleshooting (continued) Displayed Message Can User Correct? Explanation Solution FILE SYSTEM FULL Add Flash Yes Insufficient Flash memory available to store file. Contact your authorized service representative. FRAMING ERROR Yes Serial framing error. (serial interface) Check your serial host interface parameter settings. If necessary, change them so they match the settings of the attached host.
Chapter 5 Troubleshooting Common Situations Table 13. LCD Message Troubleshooting (continued) Displayed Message LOAD PAPER Can User Correct? Yes Explanation The printer does not sense media. 1. Media was not installed or has run out. 2. A break in media has occurred. 3. Media was not routed or installed correctly. 4. Media is installed correctly, but the Transmissive or Reflective sensor is not detecting it. 5. Trans Value may be set too high or Refl Value may be set to low.
Fault Messages Table 13. LCD Message Troubleshooting (continued) Displayed Message xxx P/H Control Mode POWER SUPPLY VOLT* Can User Correct? Yes No Explanation Solution Sensed Printhead temperature is 55° to 59°C causes a 50% reduction in print speed. This mode dramatically extends the time before a PRINT HEAD HOT fault would occur and permits long print jobs to complete without interruption.
Chapter 5 Troubleshooting Common Situations Table 13. LCD Message Troubleshooting (continued) Displayed Message RIBBON FAULT Check Ribbon Can User Correct? Yes Explanation Ribbon not detected by ribbon sensor. 1. Ribbon is not installed or has run out. 2. A break in the ribbon has occurred. Solution 1. Install new ribbon. 2. Re-attach the ribbon to the Ribbon Take-Up Spindle. 3. Check the ribbon installation procedures on page 38. 3. Ribbon is not routed or installed in the ribbon path correctly.
A Specifications Printing Type: Direct thermal or thermal transfer Resolution: 203 dots per inch (8.0 dots/mm) Print Speed: 2 to 6 ips (inches per second) Bar Code Modulus: 10 mil to 127 mil “X” dimension in picket or ladder orientation. Maximum Print Width: 4.09 inches (103.9 mm) Maximum Print Length: 47 inches using maximum 4.09 inch print width. Reducing the print width extends the maximum print length up to 99 inches. Minimum Print Length: .
Appendix A Media: 202 Type: Roll-fed, die-cut continuous or fan-fold labels, tags or tickets; most direct thermal or thermal transfer materials. Supply Roll: 8 in. (203 mm) maximum diameter on 3” (76 mm) diameter cores. 7 in. (178 mm) maximum diameter on 1" (25 mm) diameter cores. Internal Rewinder: Accepts a 5 inch diameter roll of labels or label backing.
Label/Tag Media Specifications Front of Printer Front of Printer Direction of Media Motion T4204 Description Max (in.) Min (in.) A Label width 4.50 1.12 B Backing width 4.50 1.12 C Gap between labels or length of sensor opening 0.512 0.118 D Label Length 47.0 0.5001 Media thickness 0.0102 .0025 G Width of sensor opening None 0.236 H Edge of media to edge of sensor opening distance 1.654 0.250 I Reflective sensor mark width 4.00 1.
Appendix A Lists Of Approved Media For a current list of approved standard media for use in Printronix thermal and thermal transfer label printers, please call Printronix at (800) 733-1900 or FAX (714) 368-2354. Further information can be obtained by calling the Printronix Thermaline Help Desk at (714) 368-2488 or from the Printronix Web Page at http://www.printronix.com.
Memory: Flash Memory (standard) 2MB soldered on Controller PCBA and 2MB 80pin SIMM at location U38 on Controller PCBA DRAM (standard) 4MB 72-pin SIMM at location U33 on Controller PCBA Environmental: Operating: 40° F to 104° F (4° C to 40° C) Storage Temperature: -40° F to 150° F (-40° C to 60° C) Humidity: 20% to 85%, non-condensing Ventilation: Free air movement Dust: Non-conducting, non-corrosive Physical: Dimensions: 12.2” H x 9.5” W x 17.
Appendix A 206
B Printer Options A comprehensive series of options is offered with the printer to enhance its capabilities and to provide a large degree of application flexibility. A description of the option complement is given below. For field-installable options, installation instructions are provided with each option.
Appendix B Hardware Options Interface Options Coax/Twinax Host Interface The coax/twinax host interface option functions as a protocol converter to allow the direct connection of the printer to an IBM host computer that uses either a coax or a twinax data interface. This option should be installed only by an authorized service representative. PrintNet 10Base2 (BNC) (Externally Mounted) Permits placing the printer on a LAN rather than attaching it directly to a host system.
Genuine Printronix Thermal Transfer Ribbons Supplies And Accessories The best printing solution is achieved when the printer, ribbon, and media are matched to the application requirements. The use of Genuine Printronix Thermal Media and Ribbons will ensure optimum image quality, consistent bar code performance, and extended life of the printhead. Please refer to the Printronix Media Selection Guide for details concerning the application suitability for all Media and Ribbon products.
Appendix B Supplies And Accessories Genuine Printronix Media Printronix provides a wide variety of sizes, colors, and shapes of labels and tags readily available to meet all of your labelling needs. The Printronix Expanded Die Library details hundreds of label sizes and configurations which are quickly obtainable through the Printronix custom order system without the typical added costs and delays associated with the creation and tooling of a special die to match your requirements.
Genuine Printronix Media Besides the standard roll label configuration, Genuine Printronix ThermaLine labels are also available in fanfold configurations. Type Media (Stock) Ribbon Features Typical Applications Direct Thermal Paper Label Tag Synthetic Label Not Used Low cost. Ease of use. Low environmental durability. Limited label life. Will fade and/or discolor when exposed to heat, sunlight, or chemicals. Shipping. Inventory Tracking.
Appendix B Supplies And Accessories Accessories Field installable accessories available for the T4204 printer are listed below. Always refer to the Printronix part number when placing an order.
C Setting The Page Length Observe the following considerations when you set the Page Length value (the length of the leading edge to the trailing edge of the label) in the Printer Control menu, or set the Host Forms Length via host software: • When using continuous media (no gaps, notches, holes, or black marks), the physical page length will be based on the Page Length value in the Printer Control menu or the Host Form Length value sent via host software.
Appendix C The following recommendations indicate how best to set up the printer and use the media sensor. 214 • If the application sends the logical page length to the printer, then there is probably nothing to change in the setup other than to enable the proper media sensor. The printer and the application will use the Host Form Length for the logical page length. As long as the physical page length is really the same as the logical page length (which it should be), the printer will operate normally.
D Char Dec ASCII Control Codes Hex NUL 0 00 SOH 1 01 STX 2 EXT Char Dec Hex Char Dec Hex Char Dec Hex 32 20 @ 64 40 ‘ 96 60 ! 33 21 A 65 41 a 97 61 02 + 34 22 B 66 42 b 98 62 3 03 # 35 23 C 67 43 c 99 63 EOT 4 04 $ 36 24 D 68 44 d 100 64 ENQ 5 05 % 37 25 E 69 45 e 101 65 ACK 6 06 & 38 26 F 70 46 f 102 66 BEL 7 07 + 39 27 G 71 47 g 103 67 BS 8 08 ( 40 28 H 72 48 h 104 68 HT 9 09 ) 41 2
Appendix D Char Dec Hex Char Dec Hex Char Dec Hex Char Dec Hex GS 29 1D = 61 3D ] 93 5D } 125 7D RS 30 1E > 62 3E ^ 94 5E ~ 126 7E US 31 1F ? 63 3F _ 95 5F 127 7F Ç 128 80 á 160 A0 192 C0 + 224 E0 ü 129 81 í 161 A1 193 C1 _ 225 E1 é 130 82 ó 162 A2 194 C2 + 226 E2 â 131 83 ú 163 A3 195 C3 + 227 E3 ä 132 84 ñ 164 A4 196 C4 _ 228 E4 à 133 85 Ñ 165 A5 197 C5 + 229 E5 å 134 86 ª 166 A6 _ 198
NOTE: For the hardware handshake XON/XOFF commands: XON = Ctrl Q (DC1) XOFF = Ctrl S (DC3) 217
Appendix D 218
E Glossary Baud (rate) Baud Rate is the number of information bits that can be transmitted between the printer and the computer in one second. For example, one baud equals one bit per second in a series of binary signals. Both the printer and the computer must be configured to the same baud rate. BIT Binary digIT. A digit in the binary number system, represented by a 0 or a 1. A bit is the smallest unit of storage in a digital computer.
E 220 Glossary Direct Thermal Media Media coated with special chemicals that act as an accelerator, acceptor dye and binder. In Direct Thermal mode the heat from the selected rectangular elements in the thermal printhead makes direct contact with the media (no ribbon is used) and causes a chemical reaction that creates the image on the media. Direct Thermal Printing A printing method in which no ribbon is used to transfer data from the printhead to the media to create an image.
Glossary After printing, labels can be easily removed from the liner and the liner discarded or recycled. Label Taken Sensor A sensor located at the front of the printer to detect the presence of a label positioned under it. The sensor is used only during Peel-Off and Tear-Off Media Handling to sense a label and then detect its removal prior to printing the next label. Media Material onto which data is printed by the printer.
E Glossary Port A data channel used for receiving data from or transmitting data to one or more external devices. Protocol The rules and conventions that govern communication between a printer and a host computer. A protocol includes codes for printing text and graphics and codes instructing the printer to perform special operations. RAM Random-Access Memory. Also called "main memory" or "working memory". It is the active memory of the printer, into which programs are loaded.
Index Numerics Byte mode, 180 C 1284 Parallel interface, 180 20 CPI Condensed, 143, 146 5225 World Trade, 160 Cable length Centronics parallel interface, 178 A IEEE 1284 parallel, 182 RS-232 interface, 185 Acknowledge signal RS-422 interface, 185 Centronics parallel interface, 179 serial, 185 Activating Font Memory Options, 98 Calibrate, 95 Active Char Set, 151, 159 Calibrating Active IGP EMUL Menu, 67 Transmissive and Reflective Sensors, 48 Active IGP Emul menu, 67 Calibration Procedure,
D Change Case, 153 Changing Printer Settings, 56 Char Set Select, 151, 159 Character Set, 134, 140, 143, 146 Characters strange, 192 Clear To Send (CTS) signal RS-232 serial interface, 185 CLEARING PROGRAM FROM FLASH, 173, 175 Clip Page, 96 Coax Emulation Menu, 150 Coax/Twinax Emulation, 148 Communication Data Carrier Detect (DCD) signal RS-232 serial interface, 186 Data exchange, 188 Data lines 1 through 8 signal Centronics parallel interface, 179 Data Protocol, 82 Data Set Ready (DSR) signal RS-232 seri
Error messages FILE SYSTEM FULL Optimize & Reboot fault See Fault messages Error Recovery, 96 Ethernet Buffer Size in K, 89 ETHERNET PARAMETERS Menu, 90 Ethernet Parameters menu, 90 Ethernet Submenu, 89 EVFU Select, 133, 137 Examples Auto Label Map, 73 Exchange data, 188 Extended Execute Copy, 107 message, 196 F Flash Memory Loading, 167 Flash messages CLEARING PROGRAM FROM FLASH, 173, 175 DIAGNOSTICS PASSED, 173 ERROR DC PROGRAM NOT VALID, 173 DRAM AT ADDRESS XXXXXXXX, 173 FLASH NOT DETECTED, 173 NO D
H Interfacing, 189 Intervention Req, 154, 163 Handshaking, 188 K hardware, 188 software, 189 Key Function, 52 L Hor Image Shift, 94 Host Form Length, 109 HOST INTERFACE, 77 LABEL PRESENT Remove Label fault message, Host Interface menu, 77 197 Host Override, 156, 162 Labels I Idle Response, 86 IEEE 1284 printing test, 187 LAC Option, 161 LinePrinter Plus Emulation, 124 Buffer Size in K, 88 Epson FX Character Set Menu, 147 interface, 180 Epson FX Emulation, 145 operating modes, 180 ProPrin
N Font Memory, 97 Host Interface, 77 IGP/PGL Character Sets, 111 Name Configs.
R Print light, 192 quality, controlling, 190 Received Data (RD) signal Print Config.
Self-test printer, 187 Serial Standard C/T Interface, 148 Stop Bits, 84 Submenu Baud Rate, 84 Centronics(Parallel), 80 Buffer Size in K, 85 IGP/PGL, 104 Data Protocol, 82 IGP/VGL, 114 Data Terminal Ready, 85 Idle Response, 86 LinePrinter Plus, 125 System Memory, 101 T Interface Type, 82 One Char Enquiry, 86 Parity, 84 Tear-Strip Time, 96 Poll Character, 85 Terminating resistor configuration, 183 Poll Response, 86 Test labels Request to Send, 85 Stop Bits, 84 Word Length, 84 printing, 187 T
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