GT Series OPERATOR ’S MANUAL
SATO International Pte Ltd 438A Alexandra Road #05-01/02 Alexandra Technopark Singapore 119967 Tel: (65) 6271 2122 Fax: (65) 6271 2151 Email: customerservice@sato-int.com Be sure to ask your dealer about our maintenance contracts to ensure peace of mind during your usage of SATO products Version: SI-GT4xxe-01rB-12-04-OM © Copyright 1994 – 2004 SATO International Warning: This equipment complies with the requirements in Part 15 of FCC rules for a Class A computing device.
TABLE OF CONTENTS 1 OVERVIEW 1.1 General Specifications ................................................................................. 1-2 2 INSTALLATION Safety Precautions..................................................................................................... 2-2 2.1 2.1.1 2.1.2 Unpacking...................................................................................................... 2-4 Included Accessories ..........................................................................
ii 3.7 3.7.1 3.7.2 3.7.3 3.7.4 Cartridge Mode ..............................................................................................3-13 Entering Cartridge Mode ................................................................................3-13 Cartridge Formatting Option ...........................................................................3-13 Start Cartridge Formatting ..............................................................................3-13 Cartridge Formatting Progress ........
4 CLEANING AND MAINTENANCE 4.1 Introduction ................................................................................................... 4-1 4.2 Cleaning The Print Head, Platen and Rollers ............................................. 4-1 4.3 How To Clean The Printer (Cleaning SET).................................................. 4-2 4.4 How To Clean The Printer (Cleaning SHEET)............................................. 4-3 4.5 4.5.1 4.5.2 Adjusting Print Quality ........................
TROUBLESHOOTING 6.1 Initial Checklist ..............................................................................................6-1 6.2 Using the Centronics (Parallel) Interface ....................................................6-1 6.3 Using the RS232C (SERIAL) Interface.........................................................6-3 6.4 Understanding the STATUS INDICATORS ..................................................6-4 6.5 Understanding the LCD Error Messages ..............................
Section 1: Introduction OVERVIEW 1 Thank you for your investment in this SATO printer product. This Operator’s Manual contains basic information about the installation, setup, configuration, operation and maintenance of the printer.
Section 1: Introduction 1.1 GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS The SATO GT4xx “e” series of dual use (Thermal Transfer and Direct Thermal) printers are complete, high-performance labeling systems designed for printing tags and labels.
Section 1: Introduction Features of SATO GT4xxe Series Printers Feature GT408e GT412e GT424e Print resolution 203dpi for economical labeling solution (user upgradable to higher resolution print assembly) 305dpi for laser quality printing and graphic images 608dpi for laser quality printing and graphic images Print method Thermal Transfer and Direct Thermal Thermal Transfer and Direct Thermal Thermal Transfer and Direct Thermal Label sizes supported (using default internal memory) 4 inches (W)
Section 1: Introduction 1.1 GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS (CONT’D) Specification/ Model Name GT408 GT412 Print method GT424 Thermal transfer or thermal Head density 8 dots/ mm (203 dpi) 12 dots/ mm (305 dpi) 24 dots/ mm (609 dpi) Print valid range (width) 104 mm x pitch 2500 mm 104 mm x pitch 1500 mm 104 mm x pitch 400 mm Not printable for 3 mm from the backside.
Section 1: Introduction 1.1 GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS (CONT’D) Specification/ Model Name External interface GT408 GT412 GT424 Interface board ¤ Parallel (IEEE1284) ¤ RS-232C • READY/BUSY • XON/XOFF • Status 2/3 • Driver specific protocol • Status 5 ¤ USB (Ver. 2.0) ¤ LAN (10BASE-T/ 100BASE-TX automatic changeover) ¤ Wireless LAN (IEEE802.
Section 1: Introduction 1.1 GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS (CONT’D) Specification/ Model Name Barcode GT408 GT412 GT424 Onedimensional code • • • • • • • • • UPC-A/E, EAN8/13, JAN8/13 NW-7 INTERLEAVED 2 of 5 (ITF) INDUSTRIAL 2 of 5 MATRIX 2 of 5 CODE39, CODE93, CODE128 UCC/EAN128 Customer barcode RSS-14 Twodimensional code • • • • • • QR code model 2, Micro QR (Ver 8.1) PDF417 (Ver. 2.4, including micro PDF) Veri code (Ver. 1.0) MAXI code (Ver. 3.0) Data matrix ECC200 (Ver. 2.
Section 2: Installation INSTALLATION 2 This section assists you in unpacking and installing the printer from the shipping container. You will also be guided through a familiarization tour of the main parts and controls.
SECTION 2: INSTALLATION SAFETY PRECAUTIONS SAFETY PRECAUTIONS Please read the following information carefully before installing and using the printer THE CAUTION SYMBOL Whenever the triangular Caution logo appears in this manual, pay special attention to the warning(s) cited below it. Failure to abide by the warnings may result in injury or damage to property.
Section 2: Installation GENERAL PRECAUTIONS • The supplied head cleaning liquid is flammable. Never heat it or throw it into a fire. Keep it out of children’s reach to avoid accidental consumption. Should this occur, consult a doctor immediately. • When opening/closing the cover, beware of getting your fingers caught. Also, hold the opening/closing cover well so that it will slip and fall. • After printing, the print head remains hot.
SECTION 2: INSTALLATION 2.1 UNPACKING When unpacking the printer, take note of the following: 1 The box should stay right-side up. Lift the printer out of the box carefully. 4 If the printer was been stored in the cold, allow it to reach room temperature before turning it on. 2 Remove the plastic covering from the printer. 5 Set the printer on a solid, flat surface. Inspect the shipping container and printer for any sign of damage that may have occurred during shipping.
Section 2: Installation 2.1.1 INCLUDED ACCESSORIES After unpacking the printer, verify that the following materials are in the accessories or packaging: Global Warranty document Information leaflet* Cleaning Set Sample paper* Head cleaning sheet (wrapping sheet) Power cable* Operator’s Manual Accessory CD-ROM Two-pole adaptor* Items marked with an asterisk may be different from what you see here, or may be excluded.
SECTION 2: INSTALLATION 2.1.2 PARTS IDENTIFICATION IDENTIFYING THE MAIN PRINTER PARTS Front View Lift this cover upwards to access ribbon and label Operation Panel Consists of an liquid crystal display screen, five status indicators and the LINE and FEED buttons. Pull down this panel to access controls Power switch Pushing the I side turns the printer ON. Pushing the O side turns the printer OFF.
Section 2: Installation 2.1.2 PARTS IDENTIFICATION (CONT’D) IDENTIFYING THE MAIN PRINTER PARTS Rear View Release screw Cable cover Rear access cover Cable cover release catch When using fanfold media, remove the release screw of the rear cover and lift up the front cover. The hinged rear cover will drop downwards to a vertical position. How to remove the cable cover Position your body to face the rear of the printer.
SECTION 2: INSTALLATION IDENTIFYING THE MAIN PRINTER PARTS Side View (Media assembly) A Stopper for Connector for optional memory card label damper (push downwards to release the label damper) Ribbon take-up shaft Ribbon feeder Head lock lever B Paper sensor Print head* A Head pressure knob B Head release lever C Label Guide handle Platen roller* (under the print head) C Maintenance screw D D Label Guide Stopper screw damper Label Guide Fanfold cover * Clean and maintain this part regu
Section 2: Installation 2.1.2 PARTS IDENTIFICATION (CONT’D) IDENTIFYING THE MAIN PRINTER PARTS View of Front Panel LCD screen Icons, prompts and system messages are displayed here. FEED button Feeds the label forward. When it is pressed once, the equivalent of a sheet of paper or label is ejected. *There are times when the paper is not aligned properly when power is turned on or when the paper was set. In this case, always press the FEED button to align the paper properly.
SECTION 2: INSTALLATION 2.2 LOADING THE CARBON RIBBON 1. Lift up the main cover. Make sure that the cover rests firmly on the top of the printer so that it will not fall forward and injure your hands. 2. Release the purple head release lever by pushing it downwards. The print head assembly will be lifted up to allow label loading. 3. Insert the carbon ribbon in the ribbon feeder. Push it inwards all the way, with the ribbon winding in a clockwise direction around the print head, as shown.
Section 2: Installation 2.2 LOADING THE CARBON RIBBON (CONT’D) 2.2.1 Removing the Carbon Ribbon Pull the purple knob on the ribbon take-up shaft outwards. Hold the carbon ribbon reel and pull it outwards. Some carbon powder may adhere to your hand during this process—if so, wash your hands to remove the powder. Knob Note: Do not install a new carbon ribbon and then wind it over any used ribbon in the ribbon take-up shaft.
SECTION 2: INSTALLATION 2.2.2 OPTION: Using A Paper Tube to Wind Used Ribbon Under certain circumstances, instead of using the GT printer’s ribbon take-up shaft to collect used ribbon, users may prefer to use paper tubes to form a core for winding the used ribbon. This is a possible option that requires replacing the ribbon winding shaft with a different shaft (optional accessory). Once the optional shaft is installed, you can follow the steps below to use paper tubes for winding used ribbon. 1.
Section 2: Installation 2.3 LOADING LABELS AND TAGS This printer can print on roll paper and fanfold paper. The method of setting paper is different with roll paper and fanfold paper. This printer can be set to detect the I-mark on the paper to feed each label correctly. Note: For optimal print performance and durability, please use SATO-certified label and ribbon supplies on this printer.
SECTION 2: INSTALLATION 2.3 LOADING LABELS AND TAGS (CONT’D) 2.3.1 Loading Roll Paper Front Cover 1. Lift up the main cover. Make sure that the cover rests firmly on the top of the printer so that it will not fall forward and injure your hands. 2. Release the purple head release lever by pushing it downwards. The print head assembly will be lifted up to allow label loading. Print head Head release lever (purple) 3.
Section 2: Installation 2.3 LOADING LABELS AND TAGS (CONT’D) 5. Pull out the purple label damper to release the label guide assembly. The label guide will drop downwards. Pull the purple label damper. 6. Insert the paper into the label guide from a sideways angle, so that the paper passes under the label guide and Label sensor paper sensor. 7. Adjust the label guide knob so that it lightly touches the edge of the label. Fasten the knob tightly. 8.
SECTION 2: INSTALLATION 2.3 LOADING LABELS AND TAGS (CONT’D) Adjusting for the paper width This printer is adjusted so that quality printing can be obtained without any adjustments. However, in certain situations, better results can be obtained if you adjust the “head pressure balance” to compensate for different widths of label paper used. The head pressure balance knob adjusts the amount of pressure being applied along different sections along the length of the print head.
Section 2: Installation 2.3 LOADING LABELS AND TAGS (CONT’D) 2.3.2 Loading Fanfold Paper Front Cover 1. Lift up the main cover. Make sure that the cover rests firmly on the top of the printer so that it will not fall forward and injure your hands. 2. Remove the release screw that holds the rear cover in place. Keep the screw in a safe place for easy retrieval later. Rear cover release screw Rear cover 3. Tilt the rear cover until it rests on the table surface.
SECTION 2: INSTALLATION 2.3 LOADING LABELS AND TAGS (CONT’D) 6. Pull out the purple label damper to release the label guide assembly. The label guide will drop downwards. Pull the purple label damper 7. Insert the paper so that it passes under the label guide Label and paper sensor. sensor 8. Adjust the label guide knob so that it lightly touches the Adjust edge of the label. Fasten the knob tightly. the label guide knob 9. Now remount the print head by pushing down on the Head lock lever.
Section 2: Installation 2.3 LOADING LABELS AND TAGS (CONT’D) 2.3.3 Loading Fanfold Paper under the printer 1. Lift up the main cover. Make sure that the cover rests firmly on the top of the printer so that it will not fall forward and injure your hands. Front Cover Note: It is assumed that the printer is supported on stands to allow fanfold paper to be loaded from beneath the printer. 2. Release the purple head release lever by pushing it downwards.
SECTION 2: INSTALLATION 6. Pull up the Label Damper by the purple knob in a counterclockwise direction until it locks into place vertically. If it is already in a vertical position proceed to the next step. Label Guide Knob Label Damper Label Guide Label Damper 7. Pass the paper under the label guide and paper sensor. Pull the label damper knob, and the label damper will drop down to press against the paper.
Section 2: Installation 2.3 LOADING LABELS AND TAGS (CONT’D) 2.3.4 Adjusting the paper Sensor Adjustment of the paper sensor is usually not necessary, but the procedure is described here. 1. Lift up the main cover. Make sure that the cover rests firmly on the top of the printer so that it will not fall forward and injure your hands. 2. The purple sensor unit is located just above the label damper assembly. Slide it outwards to adjust its position. Front Cover Paper sensor 3.
SECTION 2: INSTALLATION 2.4 REPLACING THE PRINT HEAD Before attempting to replace the print head, it is advisable to contact your local dealer or service center so that they can assist you in case of problems. 1. Make sure the printer has been turned off for at least 30 minutes so that the print head is not hot. Lift up the main cover. 2. Push the purple slide lever outwards, in the direction shown here. The print head will be released. Caution • Do not touch the print head’s heating elements.
Section 2: Installation 2.5 TURNING THE PRINTER ON/OFF 1. After removing the cable cover at the rear of the printer (See Page 2-7), you can proceed to install the interface and power cables as shown. 2. To limit movement of the cables, you can optionally channel the cables through the cable hook area at the base of the printer. 3. Insert the power cable first to the printer, then connect the other end to the power outlet.
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Section 3: Configuration and Operation CONFIGURATION AND OPERATION 3 Before using the printer, it is best to read this manual thoroughly first. Otherwise, you may disturb default settings around which the instructional procedures in this manual are based upon. 3.
Section 3: Configuration and Operation 3.2 THE OPERATION PANEL Overview of the Operation Panel Status Icon display area Up to five icons can appear here to indicate the current printer status. The same area can also display two lines of alphanumeric text instead. Two-line Message display area Other icons, or up to two lines of alphanumeric messages, can be displayed here. In total, up to four lines of text can be displayed on the whole screen.
Section 3: Configuration and Operation 3.
Section 3: Configuration and Operation 3.
Section 3: Configuration and Operation 3.4 ONLINE AND OFFLINE MODES 3.4.1 Online Mode Pressing the LINE button causes the printer to go ONLINE or OFFLINE alternately. When the printer is ONLINE, the following activities will be possible: • The printer is ready to receive print data from the computer or other connected devices • The printer is ready to start printing 3.4.2 Offline Mode When the printer is ONLINE, pressing the LINE button once will cause the printer to go OFFLINE.
Section 3: Configuration and Operation 3.5 USER MODE The following settings are available in User Mode: • • • • • • • • OFFSET VOLUME (volume of the built-in buzzer/speaker) PRINT SPEED (print speed setting) PRINT DARKNESS (print density setting) PRINT OFFSET (print position correction setting) ZERO SLASH (zero slash changeover setting) JIS CODE (JIS code changeover setting) KANJI FONT (Kanji font changeover setting) CHARACTER PITCH (proportional pitch setting) 3.5.1 Entering User Mode 1.
Section 3: Configuration and Operation 3.5.2 Setting Buzzer Volume, Print Pitch, Print Offset, Print Darkness The volume level of the built-in speaker buzzer can be adjusted at the first menu of the User Mode. Use the yellow screwdriver to adjust the VOLUME potentiometer below the LCD. The value on the screen changes as you turn the screwdriver clockwise or counter-clockwise. Adjusting the OFFSET potentiometer adjusts the tear-off stop position for use with a cutter, peeler.
Section 3: Configuration and Operation 3.5.3 Setting Print Darkness After setting Print Speed, the next screen allows you to set the Print Darkness—the darkness of the print on paper. This setting can be set from 1 (lightest) to 5 (darkest). The default setting is 3. Press the / buttons to change the setting. Press the ENTER button to confirm a setting and proceed to the next screen. 3.5.
Section 3: Configuration and Operation 3.5.5 Setting Zero Slash Changeover You can use this setting to determine whether zeroes are printed with a slash across them or not. The zero slash (excluding Kanji) can be set to either "0" or "Ø". Use the / buttons to select YES or NO. ‘YES’ means zeroes will be printed with a diagonal slash across them. ‘NO’ means otherwise. The default value is ‘NO’. Press ENTER to select the desired option and proceed to the next setting. 3.5.
Section 3: Configuration and Operation 3.5.7 Setting Proportional Pitch This setting determines whether the space surrounding each text character is of a fixed width, or whether that space is to be varied to be visually more pleasant. Use the buttons to select either PROPORTIONAL or FIXED. The default value is FIXED. Press ENTER to confirm your selection and return to the main User Mode screen. Press the FUNCTION or CANCEL key to exit the User Mode setting.
Section 3: Configuration and Operation 3.6 INTERFACE MODE In this mode, you can set various parameters governing the use of interface cards. Due to the wide range of interface cards available, only the default interface configuration settings are covered in this section. A flowchart overview of advanced settings for all the optional interface cards is included at the end of this chapter, and a detailed discussion of advanced settings can be found in the GT Series Service Manual available upon request. 3.
Section 3: Configuration and Operation 3.6.3 Assigning An Interface Card For Printing This setting lets you select which installed interface card is to be used for bi-directional communication/printing. The other card is then presumed to be a mini LAN card, which is intended for transmitting printer status information to a LAN. The card selected by default for bidirectional communication is the one that is not a mini LAN card. Card2 is assumed to be a mini LAN card.
Section 3: Configuration and Operation 3.7 CARTRIDGE MODE In this mode you can manage the optional memory cartridge that can be installed to provide increased storage capacity for text and graphics. 3.7.1 Entering Cartridge Mode 1. Press the LINE button to take the printer OFFLINE. 2. Pull down the cover of the Operation Panel and press ENTER. The ONLINE MODE screen appears. 3. Press the arrow buttons until you see “CARTRIDGE MODE”, then press ENTER to perform the first setting.
Section 3: Configuration and Operation 3.7.4 Cartridge Formatting Progress If you selected YES at the FORMAT START screen, this next screen lets you monitor the progress of the formatting. When formatting is complete, the next screen appears. Press the ENTER button to return to the main CARTRIDGE MODE screen.
Section 3: Configuration and Operation 3.8 SEMBL MODE SEMBL stands for SATO EMbedded BASIC Language. This feature allows software programs written in standard BASIC language to be loaded into the printer and executed without any further connection to a computer. For more details consult a qualified SATO sales person. In this mode you can control the operation of BASIC programs loaded into memory. 3.8.1 Entering SEMBL Mode 1. Press the LINE button to take the printer OFFLINE. 2.
Section 3: Configuration and Operation 3.8.3 The SEMBL Status Screen This screen indicates the number of labels that remain to be processed by the program. Press ENTER to return to the main SEMBL Mode screen.
Section 3: Configuration and Operation 3.9 ADVANCED MODE Advanced Mode lets you configure the more advanced features of the printer hardware. 3.9.1 Entering Advanced Mode 1. Press the LINE button to take the printer OFFLINE. 2. Pull down the cover of the Operation Panel and press ENTER. The ONLINE MODE screen appears. 3. Press the arrow buttons until you see “ADVANCED MODE”, then press ENTER to perform the first setting.
Section 3: Configuration and Operation 3.9.4 Choosing Continuous or Tear Off Operation With this setting, you can choose between continuous paper feed or Tear Off operation. If a cutter or peeler has been installed correctly, you will also see the DISPENSER and CUTTER settings. If the printer supports linerless labels, you will also see a LINERLESS option. Press the buttons to select any one of the options. The default setting is CONTINUOUS.
Section 3: Configuration and Operation 3.9.7 Setting the Print Mode The printer can be switched to operate in Thermal Transfer or Direct Thermal mode with this setting. Press the / buttons to select the TRANSFER or DIRECT option. The default value is TRANSFER. Press the ENTER button to confirm the setting and proceed to the next screen. 3.9.8 Configuring the Paper Sensor The printer can be switched to operate in Thermal Transfer or Direct Thermal mode with this setting.
Section 3: Configuration and Operation 3.9.10 Turning Head Check Function ON/OFF The printer can be set to perform a check of the print head when printing each label. Press the / buttons to select the ENABLE or DISABLE option. The default value is ENABLE. Press the ENTER button to confirm the setting and proceed to the next screen. 3.9.11 Choosing the Type of Head Check If Head Check has been enabled, you will see this screen.
Section 3: Configuration and Operation 3.9.12 Enabling/Disabling External Signal Output Set this option to enable or disable the printer’s external signal communication port. If the port is enabled, you can send and receive data using an appropriate device plugged into the EXT port. Press the / buttons to select the ENABLE or DISABLE option. The default value is DISABLE. Press the ENTER button to confirm the setting and proceed to the next screen. 3.9.
Section 3: Configuration and Operation 3.9.15 Using the Auto Online Feature The printer can be set to go into ONLINE mode automatically upon being turned on. Otherwise, the printer starts in the OFFLINE state. Press the YES. / buttons to select YES or NO. The default setting is Press the ENTER button to confirm the setting and proceed to the next screen. 3.9.16 Enabling Auto Feed The printer can be set to feed one label upon being turned on. Press the NO. / buttons to select YES or NO.
Section 3: Configuration and Operation 3.9.18 Specifying the Protocol Code Format The ESC sequence in SBPL commands can be defined as standard (using non-printable code 1BH) or non-standard (some other user code). Press the / buttons to select the STANDARD or NONSTANDARD option. The default setting is STANDARD. Press the ENTER button to confirm the setting and proceed to the next screen. 3.9.
Section 3: Configuration and Operation 3.10 HEX DUMP MODE 3.10.1 Entering HEX Dump Mode 1. Press the LINE button to take the printer OFFLINE. 2. Pull down the cover of the Operation Panel and press ENTER. The ONLINE MODE screen appears. 3. Press the arrow buttons until you see “HEX DUMP MODE”, then press ENTER to perform the first setting. At any time within this mode, pressing CANCEL takes you back one screen. Pressing the FUNCTION button returns you immediately to the main Hex Dump screen. 3.10.
Section 3: Configuration and Operation 3.11 TEST PRINT MODE 3.11.1 Entering Test Print Mode 1. Make sure the printer is turned OFF. 2. Press and hold down the FEED button while turning the printer ON. The display will show TEST PRINT MODE. 3. Press the buttons to choose from six options, as explained in the next sub-section. At any time within this mode, pressing CANCEL takes you back one screen. Pressing the FUNCTION button returns you immediately to the main Test Print screen. 3.11.
Section 3: Configuration and Operation 3.11.2 Setting Test Print Width for Configuration, Barcode and Head Check If you chose test prints of Configuration, Barcode and Head Check in the previous menu, this screen lets you choose the width of the test print from “04” to “10” cm, in increments of 1 cm, Press the buttons to choose the print size. Press the ENTER button to confirm the setting and proceed to the next screen. 3.11.
Section 3: Configuration and Operation 3.
Section 3: Configuration and Operation 3.
Section 3: Configuration and Operation 3.
Section 3: Configuration and Operation 3.
Section 3: Configuration and Operation 3.
Section 3: Configuration and Operation 3.
Section 3: Configuration and Operation 3.
Section 3: Configuration and Operation 3.
Section 3: Configuration and Operation 3.
Section 3: Configuration and Operation 3.
Section 3: Configuration and Operation 3.13 RESTORING FACTORY DEFAULT SETTINGS The printer is configured with default settings at the factory. During use, some of the default settings may be changed in a way that causes the printer to act in an undesirable manner. However, there is special Default Mode in which you can quickly restore all printer settings to the original factory settings as shown here: 3.13.1 Entering Default Mode 1. Make sure the printer has been turned OFF. 2.
Section 3: Configuration and Operation 3.13.2 If You Chose to Reset Printer Settings In the previous menu, if you chose PRINTER SETTINGS, the following screen appears. 4. Press the arrow buttons to choose between YES and NO. If you select NO, you will return to the main DEFAULT MODE screen. 5. Press ENTER to proceed to reset printer settings. 3.13.2 If You Chose Alt Protocol Code In the previous menu, if you chose the ALT. PROTOCOL option, the following screen appears. 4.
Section 3: Configuration and Operation 3.14 UNDERSTANDING CONTINUOUS PRINT AND TEAR OFF OPERATIONS The Continuous Print and Tear Off operations are available for use if the printer is not connected to a cutter or peeler. The difference between the two operations is in the way the label paper is ejected.
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Section 4: Cleaning and Maintenance CLEANING AND MAINTENANCE 4 4.1 INTRODUCTION This section provides information on user maintenance for the GT Series printers. The following information is covered here: • Cleaning the Print Head, Platen and Rollers • Adjusting print quality 4.2 CLEANING THE PRINT HEAD, PLATEN AND ROLLERS The print head not only generates printouts of barcodes, but also graphics and text.
Section 4: Cleaning and Maintenance 4.3 HOW TO CLEAN THE PRINTER (CLEANING SET) If you are using a carbon ribbon, be sure to remove it before cleaning. Follow the instructions supplied with the cleaning set. Use the items to clean the following parts. Print head Paper Sensor and Label Guide 1. Lift up the main cover. 2. Unlatch the print head unit using the head release lever. The print head is now accessible. 3. Wipe off the dirt on the printer head and paper sensor using a cleaning pen.
Section 4: Cleaning and Maintenance 4.4 HOW TO CLEAN THE PRINTER (CLEANING SHEET) The cleaning sheet is used for cleaning the print head and platen roller. 1. Lift up the main cover. 2. Unlatch the print head unit using the head release lever. The print head is now accessible. 3. Remove the label and the ribbon. 4. Put the head cleaning sheet between the print head and the platen roller. The coarse side of the cleaning sheet should face the surface of the print head elements. 5.
Section 4: Cleaning and Maintenance 4.5 ADJUSTING PRINT QUALITY Print quality can be optimized with regular cleaning and maintenance of the print head and components along the label path. Additionally, you can fine-tune print quality by adjusting print darkness and print speed settings. 4.5.1 Adjusting Print Darkness This adjustment allows the user to control (within a specified range) the amount of power applied to the individual print head heat elements.
Section 4: Cleaning and Maintenance 4.5 ADJUSTING PRINT QUALITY (CONT’D) 4.5.2 Adjusting Print Speed Besides varying the rate at which labels are printed, this adjustment can be used to regulate any changes in print quality. LCD Panel — Print Speed can be set using the front panel LCD panel or by sending the Print Speed software command from a computer. On the GT408 and GT412, there are 11 settings, from 02 ip/s (slowest) to 12 ip/s (faster). The default setting is 6.
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Section 5: Interface Specifications INTERFACE SPECIFICATIONS 5 5.1 INTERFACE TYPES At the time of purchase, the GT Series printers are supplied with a single interface of the user’s choice: typically a parallel interface is used for transmitting data to and from the host, and an optional external signal interface for connecting to other peripherals. Additionally, an optional Mini-LAN card can be installed in the GT series to provide printer status information to a LAN.
Section 5: Interface Specifications 5.2 INTERFACE CARD DIP SWITCH SETTINGS (RS-232C) The GT400 series super-speed serial interface card (optional) contains DIP switches for controlling communication conditions. The DIP switch functions are: Switch No.
Section 5: Interface Specifications 5.3 INTERFACE CARD DIP SWITCH SETTINGS (LAN) The GT400 series Local Area Network interface card (optional) contains DIP switches for initializing LAN configuration, LAN printing configuration, and LAN card self-diagnosis. The DIP switch functions are: Switch No.
Section 5: Interface Specifications 5.5 INTERFACE CARD DIP SWITCH SETTINGS (MINI LAN) The GT400 series Local Area Network interface card (optional) contains DIP switches for initializing LAN configuration, LAN printing configuration, and LAN card self-diagnosis. The DIP switch settings must be made before installing the card into the printer. The DIP switch functions are: Switch No.
Section 5: Interface Specifications 5.6 SERIAL INTERFACE SPECIFICATIONS (RS-232C) The serial interface of this printer conforms to the RS-232C standard. There are two types of receive modes: 1. Single Job Buffer 2. Multi Job Buffer These can be set using the dip switches.
Section 5: Interface Specifications 5.7 READY/BUSY Ready / Busy is the hardware flow control method for the serial interface on the printer.
Section 5: Interface Specifications 5.8 SINGLE JOB BUFFER Timing Chart — Normal Processing P ow er O N P ressing S tart / S top K ey P ressing S tart / Stop K ey P rinter side Initial td ER td S TX · · E TX (1) RD S TX · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · ET X (2) RS O ffline O nline P rinter status R eceive, analyze, edit (1) O nline Re ce iv e, a n aly ze , e dit (2) P rint (1) P rint (2) td: delay from when the printer recognizes the com pletion of an item until control of the E R .
Section 5: Interface Specifications 5.
Section 5: Interface Specifications 5.10 X-ON/X-OFF This transmission protocol informs the host if the printer can receive data or not, by sending the "XON" (Hex 11H) or "XOFF" (Hex 13H) code.
Section 5: Interface Specifications 5.
Section 5: Interface Specifications 5.
Section 5: Interface Specifications 5.13 DRIVER PROTOCOL This transmission protocol responds the status from the printer by using Enquire commands from the host to check the printer status. The status is immediately responded after the Enquire command has been received. When using this protocol, the receive buffer should be set to Multi-Job Buffer.
Section 5: Interface Specifications 5.
Section 5: Interface Specifications 5.
Section 5: Interface Specifications 5.13 DRIVER PROTOCOL (CONT’D) Timing Chart — Status Response Processing P ow er O N P rinter operation acquisition P rinter side RD SD S T X · · E T X (1) EN Q S tatus EN Q ACK EN Q S tatus S tatus S T X · · E T X (2) P rinter opera tion status AC O nline P rinter status Re ce iv e , an alyz e, edit (1) R e ce iv e, an alyz e, e dit (2) P rint (1) N ote: D o not execute status acquisition com m ands (S OH +M G ) w hile printing.
Section 5: Interface Specifications 5.13 DRIVER PROTOCOL (CONT’D) Status Response This transmission protocol responds to the host the printer's information, as a status by receiving printing commands or 2 types of requested commands. The details of each requested command or Status response is as follows.
Section 5: Interface Specifications 5.13 DRIVER PROTOCOL (CONT’D) (2) Cancel Request Command In receiving this command, printing is aborted and the contents of the receive buffer are completely cleared. The Status response is the status of the printer after this procedure has been completed. After sending the cancel request command, the next data should be sent after a lapse of more than 100ms.
Section 5: Interface Specifications 5.13 DRIVER PROTOCOL (CONT’D) 3) Other Status Responses (1) Operating Status request In receiving this command, the printer settings are responded to the host. a) Command SOH (01H) + MG b) Responded status definition STX + the following status (30 bytes) + ETX c) Status Byte Definition Item No. Contents Byte no.
Section 5: Interface Specifications 5.13 DRIVER PROTOCOL (CONT’D) c) Status Responses (cont’d) No. Item Contents Byte no. 10 Zero Slash 00H: Disable 01H: Enable 1 11 Reserved 1 12 Reserved 1 13 Reserved 1 14 Character Gap 00H: Fixed pitch 01H: Proportional pitch 1 15 Vertical label size Maximum vertical label size may change depending on the printer. 2 16 Horizontal label size Maximum horizontal label size may change depending on the printer.
Section 5: Interface Specifications 5.13 DRIVER PROTOCOL (CONT’D) (3) Form Overlay Status Request In receiving this command, the form overlay status is responded. a) Command SOH (01H)+FO b) Responded Status Definition STX + Form Overlay Registration contents + ETX c) Status Byte Definition No.
Section 5: Interface Specifications c) Status Byte Definition No.
Section 5: Interface Specifications 5.
Section 5: Interface Specifications 5.
Section 5: Interface Specifications 5.14 STATUS 3 This transmission protocol responds the status from the printer using requested commands from the host and targets printer status control in the host. Furthermore, the status is sent immediately after the request command has been received.
Section 5: Interface Specifications 5.
Section 5: Interface Specifications 5.
Section 5: Interface Specifications 5.
Section 5: Interface Specifications 5.15 MULTI JOB BUFFER (CONT’D) Status Response This transmission protocol responds to the host, the printer's condition or response as a status by receiving 2 types of printing or requested commands. The details of each request or echo command are explained below.
Section 5: Interface Specifications 5.15 MULTI JOB BUFFER (CONT’D) (2) Cancel Request Command In receiving this command, printing is aborted and the contents of the reception buffer are completely cleared. The status responded is the status of the printer after this procedure has been completed. After sending the cancel request command, the next data should be sent after a lapse of more than 100ms.
Section 5: Interface Specifications 5.
Section 5: Interface Specifications 5.
Section 5: Interface Specifications 5.16 REFERENCE FLOWCHART When creating a program on the host side under this protocol, refer to the following flowchart.
Section 5: Interface Specifications 5.17 PARALLEL INTERFACE SPECIFICATIONS (CENTRONICS) The parallel interface of this printer conforms to Centronics standards. Basic Specifications Interface board Connector Printer Cable Cable length Amphenol (DDK) 57 to 40360 (Equivalent) Amphenol (DDK) 57 to 30360 (Equivalent) Under 3 meters Signal level High level Low level : + 2.4 to + 5.0 V : - 0.0 to – 0.4 V Communication settings One item or Multi communication can be selected using DSW2-5.
Section 5: Interface Specifications 5.17 PARALLEL INTERFACE (CONT’D) Pin Assignments Pin no. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 Signal Type nSTROBE DATA 1 DATA 2 DATA 3 DATA 4 DATA 5 DATA 6 DATA 7 DATA 8 nACK BUSY PE SELECT FG 24Ω (+5V) Contents Input Input Input Input Input Input Input Input Input Output Output Output Output Frame Ground Pin no.
Section 5: Interface Specifications 5.
Section 5: Interface Specifications 5.
Section 5: Interface Specifications 5.
Section 5: Interface Specifications 5.
Section 5: Interface Specifications 5.
Section 5: Interface Specifications 5.20 IEEE 1284 INTERFACE The IEEE 1284 Interface on the printer complies with IEEE1284 standards. The ECP mode is recommended for LPT1 port settings. Make sure to change the LPT1 port settings through the BIOS settings. Basic Specifications Interface board Connector Signal level Communication settings Printer Amphenol (DDK) 57 to 40360 (Equivalent) Cable Amphenol (DDK) 57 to 30360 (Equivalent) Cable length Under 3 meters High level : + 2.4 to + 5.0 V Low level : - 0.
Section 5: Interface Specifications 5.20 IEEE 1284 INTERFACE (CONT’D) Pin Assignment Make sure to use a IEEE1284 compliant cable .
Section 5: Interface Specifications 5.20 IEEE 1284 INTERFACE (CONT’D) Pin Assignment With Centronics standards, each signal pin placement is as follows: However, the IEEE 1284-B type connector is compliant when connecting the IEEE1284 standard. Pin no.
Section 5: Interface Specifications 5.
Section 5: Interface Specifications 5.22 SINGLE JOB BUFFER (CONT’D) Timing Chart — Procedure during Paper End P ow er O N Pa pe r En d He ad op en H ea d c los ed P ress in g the Sta rt / Stop k Printe r s id e D AT A E SC A · · · · · · · · · · ES C Z (1) S T RO B E A CK B US Y S ELE C T PE F A UL T P rin ter s ta tus O n line O ffline R e c eiv e , a n al yze , e d it (1 ) Print (1 ) No te: Pa pe r E nd is c le ared by closing th e H ea d.
Section 5: Interface Specifications 5.23 MULTI JOB BUFFER Timing Chart — Normal Process P ow er O N P aper E nd H ead open H ea d closed P ressing the S tart / Stop k P rinter side DATA E S C A · · · · · · · · · · E S C Z (1) S T R O BE ACK BUSY S E LE C T PE FA U LT P rinter status O nline O ffline R e ceive, an alyze, edit (1) P rint (1) N ote: P ape r E nd is cleared by clo sing th e H ead .
Section 5: Interface Specifications 5.
Section 5: Interface Specifications 5.24 DRIVER PROTOCOL This transmission protocol responds to the host, the printer's condition or response as a status by receiving 2 types of printing or requested commands. The details of each request command or echo status are explained below.
Section 5: Interface Specifications c) Echo Status List Offline Online Error detection Content No errors Ribbon near end Buffer near full Ribbon near end and buffer near full Printing stopped (no errors) Reception Standby No errors Ribbon near end Buffer near full Ribbon near end and buffer near full Printing stopped (no errors) Printing No errors Ribbon near end Buffer near full Ribbon near end and buffer near full Printing stopped (no errors) Standby No errors (dispenser cut Ribbon near end standby)
Section 5: Interface Specifications b) Status Byte Definition Status Contents ACK (Hex 06H) Indicates that there is no printer error NAK (Hex 15H) Indicates that there is a printer error (4) Print Start Request In receiving this command, Print Stop is cleared and the printer commences printing. The status responded is the status of the printer after reception has been completed.
Section 5: Interface Specifications 5.24 DRIVER PROTOCOL (CONT’D) 2) Other Status responses (1) Operating Status request In receiving this command, the printer settings are responded to the host. a) Command SOH (01H) + MG b) Responded Status Definition STX + the following Status (30 bytes) + ETX c) Status Byte Definition No. Item Contents Byte no.
Section 5: Interface Specifications 5.24 DRIVER PROTOCOL (CONT’D) c) Status Byte Definition (Continued) No. Item Contents Byte no. 10 Zero Slash 00H: Inactive 01H: Active 1 11 Reserved 1 12 Reserved 1 13 Reserved 1 14 Character Gap 00H: Fixed pitch 01H: Proportional pitch 1 15 Vertical label size Maximum vertical label size may change depending on the printer. 2 16 Horizontal label size Maximum horizontal label size may change depending on the printer.
Section 5: Interface Specifications 5.24 DRIVER PROTOCOL (CONT’D) (3) Form Overlay registration data request In receiving this command, the form overlay registration information is responded. a) Command SOH (01H)+FO b) Responded Status Definition STX + Form Overlay Registration content + ETX c) Status Byte Definition No.
Section 6: Troubleshooting TROUBLESHOOTING If you are unable to produce printouts on the GT Series printers, use this section to make sure the basics have been checked, before deciding you are unable to proceed any further.
Section 6: Troubleshooting 6.2 USING THE CENTRONICS (PARALLEL) INTERFACE (CONT’D) 4. When you send the print job to the printer and it does not respond, and there is no error message on the PC: Observations A. Check your data stream for some of the basics. Is your job framed as follows? A—DATA—Z B. Verify that you’ve included all required parameters in the data stream. C. Verify the following: • You have not typed a “0” (zero) for an “O” (letter) or vice-versa.
Section 6: Troubleshooting 6.3 USING THE RS232C (SERIAL) INTERFACE Observations 1. Is the RS232C Serial cable connected securely to your serial port on the PC (DB- 25S Male) and to the RS232C connector on the printer? 2. Is the cable defective? At the very least, you should be using a “Null Modem Cable,” which crosses pins in a specific manner. This should enable your printer to print.
Section 6: Troubleshooting 6.4 UNDERSTANDING THE STATUS INDICATORS The LED indicators flash to indicate the current status of the printer. Another indicator is the builtin buzzer which sounds audible beeps to alert the user. Indicator Activity STATUS Flashes (green) RIBBON Flashes (red) LABEL BUZZER Flashes (red) Beeps Cause Remedy The receive buffer is getting low, due to abundant incoming data. You can continue using the printer. The ribbon reel is running low on ribbon.
Section 6: Troubleshooting 6.5 UNDERSTANDING THE LCD ERROR MESSAGES Error No. LCD Message Description Machine Error 01 Cause: Circuit board problem Remedy: Contact a sales outlet, dealer, or service center Alarm sound: One long beep External signal: Machine error Flash ROM Error Cause(s): 1. Flash ROM cannot be accessed 2.
Section 6: Troubleshooting Error No. LCD Message Description Head Open error Cause(s): 1. The head unit is not properly locked in place 2. The micro switch that detects the head lock status is malfunctioning 07 Remedy: Lock the head unit properly. If the same error message persists, contact a sales outlet, dealer, or contact the service center Alarm sound: Three short beeps External signal: Machine error Paper End error Cause(s): 08 1. The media supply has run out 2.
Section 6: Troubleshooting Error No. LCD Message Description Memory Writing error Cause(s): 1. The memory cartridge is not inserted 2. There is no space left for copying 3. The writing or reading operation has failed for some reason 4. The memory has not been properly formatted 12 Remedy: 1. Make sure a memory cartridge has been installed 2. Check that there is enough space for the memory operation 3. Replace the memory cartridge 4.
Section 6: Troubleshooting Error No.
Section 6: Troubleshooting Error No. LCD Message Description RFID Tag error Cause: Writing into RFID tag could not be performed normally Remedy: Write information in another RFID tag Alarm sound: Three short beeps External signal: Machine error RFID Tag error Cause: Writing into the RFID tag could not be performed normally Remedy: Replace the RFID tag.
Section 6: Troubleshooting 6.6 LCD WARNING MESSAGES Error No.
Section 6: Troubleshooting 6.7 TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE Symptom: The display remains blank when the power switch is pressed. No. What to check Remedy 1 Has the power cable been inserted into the power outlet securely? Insert the power cable securely into the outlet. 2 Is the power cable damaged? Inspect the power cable for signs of damage. If possible, try using another printer power cable.
Section 6: Troubleshooting 6.7 TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE (CONT’D) Symptom: Low quality print No. What to check Remedy 1 Are the paper and carbon ribbon set correctly? Check if the paper and carbon ribbon are securely fixed. Also, lower the head-open lever of the printer head unit, and check if the paper and carbon ribbon are in the normal position. 2 Are the paper and carbon ribbon set correctly? Check the paper and carbon ribbon. Set the print density again.
Section 6: Troubleshooting 6.7 TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE (CONT’D) Symptom: Print position is misaligned No. What to check Remedy 1 Are the paper and carbon ribbon set correctly? Fix the paper and carbon ribbon securely. Also, release the head-open lever of the printer head unit, then set the paper and carbon ribbon to the normal position again. Finally, latch the print head back in place. 2 Is the platen roller dirty? If the platen roller is dirty, wipe off the dirt with the supplied cleaning set.
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Section 7: Optional Accessories 7 OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES 7.1 INTRODUCTION This section contains details of the optional accessories available for the GT printer series: • • • • • • Interface boards Peelers Cutters Winders RFID unit Additional memory 7.2 AVAILABLE INTERFACE BOARDS Interface boards enable the printer to exchange data with computers, computer networks and related input/output devices.
Section 7: Optional Accessories 7.3 LABEL MANAGEMENT ACCESSORIES ¤ Peel unit with mounting winder (factory option) Mounts on the printer to automatically peel labels from their liner (mounting sheet) backing sheet. The winder in supplied to roll up the backing sheet neatly for easy disposal by the operator at a later time. ¤ Simplified peel unit (factory option) Mounts on the printer to automatically peel labels from their liner (mounting sheet) backing sheet.
Section 7: Optional Accessories 7.3 PCMCIA MEMORY CARTRIDGE The GT series features a memory cartridge slot for the addition of optional memory cartridges that are purchased from SATO. The memory cartridge slot is located behind a protective cover found within the printer’s media storage area. Memory cartridges of up to 24 MB can be installed for the storage of user data and graphics. 7.3.1 Installing the memory card 1. Lift up the front cover. 2.
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