digital color label printer Operation & Setup Guide Manufacturing and Perfecting Thermal Transfer Printers Since 1971
Digital Color Label Printer Operation & Setup Guide Part Number 22834-505 Version 1.5 12/04 Firmware V 1.2 Specifications are subject to change without notice ___________________________________________ QuickLabel Systems an Astro-Med, Inc. Product Group 600 East Greenwich Avenue West Warwick, RI 02893 Toll-Free: 1.877.757.7978 (USA & Canada only) Tel: 1.401.828.4000 Fax:1.401.822.2430 printers@quicklabelsystems.com www.quicklabelsystems.com ___________________________________________ Technical Support 1.
Copyright © 2003 - 2004 Astro-Med, Inc. This manual is copyrighted with all rights reserved. No part of this manual may be reproduced, transmitted, transcribed, stored in a retrieval system, or translated into any language in any form by any means without written permission of QuickLabel Systems. Trademarks Microsoft Word™ and Windows™ are trademarks of Microsoft Corporation PostScript™ and Adobe Illustrator™ are trademarks of Adobe Systems, Inc.
if the product has been modified without the express written permission of QuickLabel Systems. QuickLabel Systems makes no warranty, either express or implied, with respect to this product’s fitness for a particular purpose. Obtaining Service To obtain warranty service, call QuickLabel Systems Technical Support at 401.828.4000 or Toll-Free in the USA and Canada at 877.757.7978. QuickLabel Systems, An Astro-Med Inc. Product Group, is not responsible for products lost or damaged in transit.
DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY Manufacturer’s Name: Astro-Med, Inc. Manufacturer’s Address: Astro-Med, Inc. 600 East Greenwich Avenue West Warwick, RI 02893 USA declares that the product Product Name: 8100 Xe Printer conforms to the following product specifications: Safety: EN 60950-1 EMC: EN 55022, Class A EN 55024 Relevant Directives are 89/336/EEC and 73/23/EEC Steven Holbrook / Quality Assurance Manager 10/23/2003 European Contact: Your local Astro-Med, Inc. Sales and Service Office.
Table of Contents Chapter 1: Quick Start ...........................................................................1-1 QuickLabel Systems media ...................................................................................... 1-2 Quick Start Guide ...................................................................................................... 1-3 Chapter 2: Physical Setup .....................................................................2-1 Unpacking the Printer..............................
Ready State & Adjust Menu .....................................................................................4-8 Print Intensity ........................................................................................................4-8 Print Speed ...........................................................................................................4-10 Print Line Adjustment ........................................................................................4-11 Cross Web Adjustment..............
Mirror Mode ........................................................................................................ 4-53 Cutter .................................................................................................................... 4-54 Cut Flag ................................................................................................................ 4-55 Pull Back - Enable/Disable ................................................................................. 4-57 Applicator .........
Firmware Upgrades.................................................................................................7-17 Upgrading additional printers with the CompactFlash card........................7-20 Appendix A: Physical Data................................................................... A-1 Appendix B: Specifications.................................................................. B-1 Appendix C: Replacement Parts..........................................................
Chapter 1: Quick Start Congratulations ! You have purchased QuickLabel System’s best digital color label printer - ever. The QLS-8100 Xe represents years of careful research and development to perfect digital color label printing technology. The QLS-8100 Xe represents . . . QuickLabel Systems’ Best Image Quality - Ever The all-new print station design maintains a high degree of color registration - down to ± 1 dot throughout an entire print run.
QuickLabel Systems media Your QLS-8100 Xe will provide correct print quality only when used with Genuine QuickLabel Systems Labels, Tags and Thermal Transfer Ribbon. QuickLabel Systems Thermal Transfer Ribbon is designed to function as an integral part of the QLS-8100 Xe printing system and is formulated to provide the most vibrant and durable image while helping to maintain long printhead life. QuickLabel Systems offers a unique media purchase program called a Media Requirements Contract (MRC).
Quick Start Guide If you are an experienced user of a QuickLabel Systems Digital Color Printer or you have attended QuickLabel Systems College training, use this Quick Start Guide as a reference to begin producing beautiful color labels immediately. In general, these operations should be performed in the sequence listed below, skipping over any items that may have been previously completed.
1-4 Quick start
Chapter 2: Physical Setup This chapter will help you to familiarize yourself with the orientation and components of the QLS-8100 Xe. This chapter also covers the various connections that need to be made to the printer before it can be operated.
Unpacking the Printer 1 Remove the printer from the packing carton. 2 Ensure that the printer has suffered no visible signs of damage during shipment.
Printer Orientation The illustration below is provided to orient you to the QLS-8100 Xe printer. The keypad and display is the printer’s user interface.
Features of the QLS-8100 Xe Facing the left side of the QLS-8100 Xe with its cover lifted, you can view the media unwind, print stations, and related mechanical parts.
Side view QLS-8100 Xe 2-5
Rear Panel View Facing the rear panel of the printer, you will observe the air intake regulator, power connection, and other interface connections as shown in the illustration below.
Installing the Media Unwind Mandrel Your QLS-8100 Xe was shipped with the media unwind mandrel uninstalled to protect it from damage during transit. The mandrel is easily installed by following the procedure outlined below. Tools Needed: 1/8” Allen Wrench 1 Slide the media unwind mandrel onto the shaft until the back plate flange is seated firmly against the collar located on the inside of the shaft. The outside of the shaft should be flush with the surface of the mandrel.
Installing the Water Cooling System The cooling system circulates cool water through the printhead mounting blocks to aid in maintaining optimum printhead temperature. The water cooling system is shipped uninstalled to protect it during transit. Use the following instructions to install the water cooling system. Tools Needed: Phillips Screwdriver It may be helpful to refer to the following assembly diagram when installing the water cooling system.
2 Insert the water cooling drives into the mounting bracket. The wires and water tubing must face toward the printer. 3 Connect the water tubes for each cooling drive to the printer. Then connect the power cord for each cooling drive to the printer. The top cooling drive water tubes connect to the top water connectors on the printer. Likewise, the water tubes from the bottom drive connect to the lower water connectors. Push firmly on the connectors to snap them into place.
5 Remove the reservoir cap from each cooling drive, and then fill them with the supplied distilled water. Ensure that the water level is between the HIGH and LOW indicators. Then replace the reservoir caps. HIG H LO W Warning: Only use non-conductive, distilled water. Other liquid can cause oxidation or corrosive damage to the cooling mechanism. Note: Once the remaining setup processes in this chapter are complete, and the printer power is turned on, check the water level.
Power Connection 1 Locate the AC Power Input at the bottom of the rear panel. 2 Plug the power cord into the printer. Be sure to use only the AC Power Cord supplied with the printer. Ensure that the power switch is in the OFF position before proceeding to the next step. 3 Connect the opposite end of the AC Power Cord into an earth grounded AC receptacle. Do not power the printer on until you have finished making the remaining connections described in this chapter.
Computer Connections The parallel interface is normally the primary method of sending data from the host computer to the printer. A high-speed parallel cable (IEEE-1284) is supplied with the printer. The RS-232 Serial Port is a secondary method of sending data to the printer, if a parallel port is not available on the host. Data transmission via the serial port is much slower and therefore, the parallel port is recommended.
RS-232 Serial Port 1 Using a standard (straight through connection) RS-232 serial cable, connect the appropriate mating end of the cable into the printer. 2 Tighten the cable securing screws into the serial port to secure the cable to the printer. 3 Connect the opposite end of the serial cable to the host computer. Be sure to note which port (COM1, COM2, etc.) you have connected the printer to as this will later be needed for software setup.
Ethernet Port and TCP/IP Communication The QLS-8100 Xe is a 10Base-T device that provides a 10Mbps ethernet connection. Using hubs and routers, the printer can be connected directly into a network using standard Category 5 (CAT5) cable or similar with a RJ-45 connector. TCP/IP (Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol) communication provides a direct link to the QLS-8100 Xe printer via the ethernet port.
Print Servers The QLS-8100 Xe can be connected to a Local Area Network (LAN) using an appropriate external print server. The print server must be capable of passing ASCII data to the printer without corrupting or modifying the data stream. Any printer language emulations such as PostScript™ or PCL™ should be disabled. QuickLabel Systems can supply a compatible print server to be used in PCbased or midrange/mainframe-based host environments. Please contact QuickLabel Systems for additional information.
Utility Port Connection On the rear panel of the printer, the Utility Port permits connection to external devices such as the optional QuickLabel Systems Cutter and Cutter/Stacker or a label applicator system. The assignment of pin functions on the utility port depends on the mode of operation. For additional information regarding applicator mode operation, please contact QuickLabel Systems.
Compressed Air Connection Preparing the Air Regulator When you receive the QLS-8100 Xe Printer, the Air Regulator is ready for operation. The air pressure regulator has been set at the factory for the proper air pressure. You only need to connect your in-house air supply to the printer. QuickLabel Systems can supply you with a portable, quiet air compressor suitable for office use should you not have a source of compressed air. Connecting the Air Supply 1 Obtain a suitable source of in-house air.
Cover Switch A plunger-type switch monitors whether the cover is open or closed. This safety feature helps ensure that during normal operation, the printer will run only when the cover is closed. If the printer cover is open, the printer will not print and the following message will appear on the display. Door Is Open Note: Some printer adjustments require access to the print stations. Therefore, the cover switch can be temporarily disabled to allow access to the print stations while printing.
Chapter 3: Loading Media and Calibration Now that your QLS-8100 Xe is unpacked and all connections have been made to the printer, you are ready to load label or tag stock, thermal transfer ribbon, and calibrate the printer in preparation for printing.
Loading Thermal Transfer Ribbon The QLS-8100 Xe is capable of printing using Spot Color or Process Color thermal transfer ribbons. When using Spot Color ribbons, each of the four stations prints a fully saturated color. Any color can be installed on any print station and the location of each color is defined in Color QuickLabel 99 Pro software or the QuickLabel Systems Windows Printer Driver.
To load thermal transfer ribbon on each print station: 1 Fully seat a roll of coated-side-in ribbon on the print station’s Supply Mandrel. You will feel resistance as the spring clip on the mandrel secures the roll. Ensure that the ribbon unwinds to the right and under the roll. 2 Fully seat an empty cardboard takeup core on the associated Rewind Mandrel. 3 Flip the Print Station Lift Lever counterclockwise to open the printhead.
Loading Label or Tag Media The QLS-8100 Xe is capable of printing on a wide variety of media types and sizes and is designed to accept media up to a 12” OD (outside diameter) roll capacity on a 3” ID (inside diameter) core. The QLS-8100 Xe positions the printed image correctly by utilizing either a transmissive or reflective sensor to detect the beginning of a label or tag.
3 Flip the Drive Roller Lift Lever clockwise to open the drive roller. 4 Remove the Media Retainer from the media supply mandrel by first loosening the small nylon retaining screw then sliding the Media Retainer away from the printer and off the mandrel. 5 Orient the roll so that the labels are coming off the top and to the right. Using the media retainer to push the roll, slide the roll onto the mandrel until it is firmly seated against the back plate.
12 Continue to thread the media through each of the print stations over the platen rollers. 13 Finally, thread the media between the drive roller and pinch roller so that it exits from the front of the printer. 14 Ensure that the media rests against each of the four Media Guide Rollers located just behind the print stations on center plate. 15 Flip each Print Station Lift Lever clockwise to close the printheads. 16 Flip the Drive Roller Lift Lever counterclockwise to close the drive roller.
Adjusting the Media Sensor The QLS-8100 Xe is equipped with two intelligent media sensors. One sensor is used for gap, or notched media types, and the other is used for reflective media types. Under normal operation, the sensor has to be calibrated to the media type being used only once. When changing from gap to reflective media types or vice-versa, a re-calibration is required. The Gap/Notch Sensor is positioned above the media on a movable shaft which can be adjusted out up to 2.
Calibrating for Media Types Calibrating the printer for the type of media being used is essential and is the first procedure that must be performed prior to printing and whenever the media type is changed.
6 Press the + or - key until Gap is displayed. Calibrate Gap 7 Press the SELECT key. The display will show the following prompt: Place Liner @ Sensor Then Press Select 8 Press and hold the FORM FEED/ADVANCE key until the liner is inside the sensor bracket. On notched media, temporarily slide the media out so that it is completely clear of the sensor assembly. 9 Press the SELECT key.
If calibration was unsuccessful, the following message will be displayed: Gap Calibration Bad The user must re-initiate the calibration procedure. 14 After successful calibration, press the PRINT/PAUSE key to return the printer to a Ready state. Note: The QLS-8100 Xe is capable of sensing media with a maximum gap or notch size of 50 mm.
Calibrating Reflective Media 1 Lift each of the printheads for this calibration routine in order to conserve ribbon. Disengage the drive roller by turning the Drive Roll Lift Lever clockwise. 2 Position the reflective mark so that the red light from the reflective sensor passes through the mark. The light will typically pass through most media allowing you to view the mark from above. On more opaque media, you may have to view the mark from the bottom.
10 Reposition the media by pressing and holding the FORM FEED/ADVANCE key until the red light no longer shines through the mark but through the media. 11 Press the SELECT key. The display will show the following prompt: Place Mark @ Arrow Then Press Select 12 Press and hold the FORM FEED/ADVANCE key until the reflective mark is positioned behind the Media Sensor Assembly and in close proximity to the guide arrow indicated on the center plate.
Calibrating Continuous Media 1 Press the PRINT/PAUSE key until the printer is in a paused state. 2 Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Cal & Setup menu is displayed, then press the SELECT key. Pause: Cal & Setup Press SELECT 3 Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Calibrate menu is displayed. 4 Press the + or - key until Continuous is displayed. Calibrate Continuous 5 Press the SELECT key. The printer will feed a short length of media and will then be calibrated for continuous media.
3-14 Loading media and calibration
Chapter 4: Keypad Controls and Menus The QLS-8100 Xe features an intuitive control panel consisting of a backlit LCD display, status LED indicators, and a multi-function keypad. The control panel permits the user to change settings and make adjustments onthe-fly without the need for a host computer.
Keypad Layout and Functions The keypad buttons perform the following general functions.
Print/Pause When the printer is idle (i.e. not printing labels), the PRINT/PAUSE key will toggle the printer between a Ready state and a Pause state as indicated on the display. While the printer is printing labels, pressing the PRINT/PAUSE key will put the printer in a Pause state and label printing will halt until the PRINT/PAUSE key is pressed again.
Menu Overview The following list outlines all of the menus that are accessible via the user interface. Some menus, as noted, are only accessible when the printer has been paused using the PRINT/PAUSE key. Some menus, like the Cutter menus, are only available when a specific option is enabled or in use. The menus are organized in two levels. Top-level menus include Adjust, Cal & Setup, Operation, Ribbon, Communications, System, and Options.
Label Reprint Reprints up to 999 copies of the last label printed, if using the Windows print driver. (Available only from Ready state) Cal & Setup Menu Calibrate Options are available in a Pause state only. Calibrates the printer to media type. Possible values are Gap, Reflective, or Continuous. Test Print Prints test patterns. Possible values are: Test Pattern 2”, 4”, 6”, 7”, 8” Block Pattern (All) Proc. Block (CMYK) Proc. Block (KCMY) Horiz.
4-6 Ribbon Menu Ribbon Type Options are available in a Pause state only. Selects printhead intensity tailored to a specific media type. Possible values are Standard and Resin/Synthetic. Drop/Lift Adjust Adjust the drop and lift point for printheads 1 – 4. Possible values are 0 to +40 mm. Ribbon Sensor Used by QuickLabel Systems’ technicians when performing factory diagnostics. Possible values are Enabled and Disabled, but in general use, the sensor should always be enabled.
System Menu Display Cntr Options are available in a Pause state only. Adjusts the display of the label counter. Possible values are Off, Batch, or Total. Memory Card Selects whether to write-protect the memory card. Possible values are Write Protect ON or Write Protect OFF. Format Memory Card Formats the memory card. Front Panel Lock/Unlock Locks/Unlocks the front panel with a password. Time Sets up the time on the built-in, real-time clock. Date Sets up the date on the built-in, real-time clock.
Ready State & Adjust Menu Options in this category are accessed in two ways. You can access these options by pressing the NEXT or PREVIOUS keys while the printer is in a Ready state, or you can pause the printer and access them via the Adjust menu. The following sections detail each of the features within this menu category. Print Intensity The printhead intensity determines the temperature of the printhead heating elements.
To set printhead intensity via the front panel: 1 If the printer is in a Ready state, proceed to the next step. If the printer is in a Pause state, press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Adjust menu is displayed. Then press the SELECT key. Pause: Adjust Press SELECT 2 Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Intensity menu for the print station you want to adjust is displayed. Intensity Head 1 = 16 Note: Head 1 is the station closest to the media exit.
Print Speed This function allows you to choose the printing speed. The printer is capable of printing at speeds of 2 – 5 in/s (inches per second) in 1 in/s increments. To set the print speed via the front panel: 1 If the printer is in a Ready state, proceed to the next step. If the printer is in a Pause state, press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Adjust menu is displayed. Then press the SELECT key. Pause: Adjust Press SELECT 2 Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Speed menu is displayed.
Print Line Adjustment Print line adjustments allow you to align the printing of each of the four print stations to obtain accurate color registration in the media travel direction. These adjustments are made for print stations 1, 2, and 3 using print station 4 as a stationary reference. As such, there is no print line adjustment available for print station 4.
4 Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Print Line Adj menu for the printhead you want to adjust is displayed. Print Line Adj Head 1 = +0 5 Press the + or – key to shift the selected print position in the desired direction. Increasingly positive values will move the print position up on the label. Increasingly negative values will move the print position down on the label. 6 When you are satisfied with the position, press the SELECT key to confirm your choice.
Cross Web Adjustment Cross Web Adjustments allow you to align the printing of each of the four print stations to obtain accurate color registration across the width of the label. These adjustments can be made for print stations 1, 2, 3 and 4. One print station is typically used as a reference and left unchanged while the other three stations are adjusted relative to the reference station.
4 Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Cross Web Adj menu for the printhead you want to adjust is displayed. Cross Web Adj Head 1 = <-2 5 Press the + or – key to shift the selected print position in the desired direction. The value range is <16 to 16>. The direction of the arrow indicates the position of the print relative to the center of the printhead. The total range is 32 dots with 16 dots to the left and right of the printhead center.
Vertical Offset By default, when printing on media with registration marks (gaps, reflective marks, etc.), the printer will place the label image area between the registration marks. You can vertically adjust the print registration in fine increments to move the printed image relative to the sensor mark. Adjusting the vertical offset affects each of the four print stations at the same time. To adjust the print stations individually, refer to the section on print line adjustments.
Negative values move the image down on the label (out away from the printer). Positive values move the image up the label (in toward the printer). 4 Press the SELECT key to confirm your choice. Note: Setting the offset via software will always override this setting. You can set the offset via Color QuickLabel 99 Pro or the QuickLabel Systems Windows Printer driver. Horizontal Offset You can horizontally adjust the print registration in fine increments to move the printed image.
3 Press the + or – key until the desired horizontal offset setting is displayed. Offset settings range from <– 600 to -> 600 pixels (or dots). On the QLS-8100 Xe, there are 12 pixels per millimeter. The final image position will be constrained by the label width. 4 Press the SELECT key to confirm your choice. Partially printed labels under the printheads will finish printing using the previous offset to ensure color alignment. During this time, you cannot adjust the cross web or horizontal offset values.
Display Counter The printer can dynamically display either the ongoing total number of labels that have been printed since the printer was last powered up or the number of labels that have been printed within any specific batch or print job. The printer’s label counting feature can also be turned off. Note: The counter will disappear while menus are being navigated during printing. The counter will be displayed and updated when the QLS-8100 Xe resumes printing labels.
Cut Offset When printing on media with registration marks (gaps, reflective marks, etc.), the printer will place the label image area between the registration marks. If necessary, you can adjust the location of the cut line relative to the printed image. The cut offset can be used to move the cut line forward or backward with respect to the top of the label. To adjust the cut position: 1 If the printer is in a Ready state, proceed to the next step.
Label Reprint When using the QuickLabel Systems Printer Driver for Windows to print to the QLS-8100 Xe, data is transmitted from the PC software application to the printer as a bitmapped image. You can use the Reprint option to quickly print any quantity of the last label printed. To reprint labels: 1 If the printer is in a Ready state, proceed to the next step. If the printer is in a Pause state, press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Operation menu is displayed. Then press the SELECT key.
Cal & Setup Menu Calibration & setup options are accessed via the Cal & Setup menu. The following sections detail each of the features within this menu category. Calibrate Calibrating the printer for the type of media being used is essential and is the first procedure that must be performed prior to printing and whenever the media type is changed.
Test Print The QLS-8100 Xe is equipped with a number of built-in test patterns used for checking color alignment, print quality, and printhead integrity. To perform a test print: 1 If the printer is in a Ready state, press the PRINT/PAUSE key to pause the printer. 2 Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Cal & Setup menu is displayed. Then press the SELECT key. Pause: Cal & Setup Press SELECT 3 Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Test Print menu is displayed. Test Print Test Pattern = 2 in.
The printer will immediately begin to print labels showing the selected test pattern. Printing will continue until the printer is paused or the CANCEL key is pressed. Vertical Baseline This function is used to synchronize printing when using multiple QLS-8100 Xe printers. If you are sending the same image file to two or more printers and notice that the image prints in different vertical locations, you can use this function to move the vertical baseline of a printer.
Horizontal Baseline This function is used to synchronize printing when using multiple QLS-8100 Xe printers. If you are sending the same image file to two or more printers and notice that the image prints in different horizontal locations, you can use this function to move the horizontal baseline of a printer. To adjust the horizontal baseline: 1 If the printer is in a Ready state, press the PRINT/PAUSE key to pause the printer. 2 Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Cal & Setup menu is displayed.
Printer Settings This function prints all of the current settings of the printer using the printhead of your choice. To print current printer settings: 1 If the printer is in a Ready state, press the PRINT/PAUSE key to pause the printer. 2 Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Cal & Setup menu is displayed. Then press the SELECT key. Pause: Cal & Setup Press SELECT 3 Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Printer Settings menu is displayed.
The sample report shown below indicates the type of information that will be printed. QLS-8100 Xe Settings: SPEED = 2 INCHES/SEC INTENSITY (1, 2, 3, 4): 15, 15, 15, 15 OFFSET: V = 0 (0), H = 0 (0), C = 0 PRINT LINE ADJ (1, 2, 3): -23, -9, -8 CROSS WEB ADJ (1, 2, 3, 4): 0, 0, < 7, <8 DROP/LIFT (1,2,3,4): 22, 22, 22, 22 CONTINUOUS MEDIA 100 mm (1200 pixels) CALIBRATION: YES (gap = 38 pixels) COMPACT FLASH: YES v01.
Operation Menu Operation options are accessed via the Operation menu. The following sections detail each of the features within this menu category. Pull Back When the QLS-8100 Xe stops printing, a section of blank media will extend from the printhead near the rear of the printer (print station #4) to the front of the printer. When you start printing again, this section of blank media will be advanced out of the QLS-8100 Xe as printing begins.
4 Press the SELECT key. A message will be displayed to confirm Pull Back operation. Pull Back SELECT to confirm 5 Press the SELECT key. The printer will begin rewinding media until the last unprinted label is positioned just behind the media sensor. If a Pull Back operation has been requested and a print batch has not been sent to the printer or the media has been moved in any way (i.e. Form Feed, Calibrate, Test Print, etc.) the following error message will be displayed.
Label Reprint When using the QuickLabel Systems Printer Driver for Windows to print to the QLS-8100 Xe, data is transmitted from the PC software application to the printer as a bitmapped image. You can use the Reprint option to quickly print any quantity of the last label printed. To reprint labels: 1 If the printer is in a Ready state, proceed to the next step. If the printer is in a Pause state, press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Operation menu is displayed. Then press the SELECT key.
Synchronize Labels This function applies only to users integrating the printer with an applicator system. The synchronize labels function synchronizes the printing of labels with the applicator. This process is an initialization of the printer and media.
3 Press the SELECT key. The printer will feed one or two labels and then be ready for applicator mode operation. If no labels feed, the printer did not require synchronization. • If the following message appears, the front panel pause is enabled and the synchronize function will not operate. The printer must be in the “Applicator Paused” state to perform the synchronize function. Cannot Synchronize Printer Is Paused • If the following message appears, the printer is calibrated for continuous media.
Ribbon Menu Ribbon options are accessed via the Ribbon menu. The following sections detail each of the features within this menu category. Ribbon Type Selecting a ribbon type allows you to select a printhead heat and history profile that has been tailored to a specific media and ribbon combination. This feature enables the QLS-8100 Xe to print on an even wider range of specialty materials. To change the ribbon type: 1 If the printer is in a Ready state, press the PRINT/PAUSE key to pause the printer.
Drop/Lift Adjust The QLS-8100 Xe is equipped with QuickLabel Systems’ patented RibbonRation™ technology. This feature automatically determines when to enable or disable each of the four print stations, thus consuming thermal transfer ribbon only when a particular color is needed. In some cases, multiple drop/lift points will be used on individual labels. The number of drops and lifts depends on the size of the label.
To use the Drop/Lift Adjust function: 1 If the printer is in a Ready state, press the PRINT/PAUSE key to pause the printer. 2 Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Ribbon menu is displayed. Then press the SELECT key. Pause: Ribbon Press SELECT 3 Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Drop/Lift Adjust menu for the desired printhead is displayed. Drop/Lift Adjust Head 3 = 6 4 Press the + or – key until the desired drop setting is displayed. Drop settings range from 0 to 40 mm.
Ribbon Sensor This function is for use by QuickLabel Systems’ technicians when performing diagnostics at the factory. In general use, the TTR Sensor should always be enabled. To adjust the ribbon sensor: 1 If the printer is in a Ready state, press the PRINT/PAUSE key to pause the printer. 2 Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Ribbon menu is displayed. Then press the SELECT key. Pause: Ribbon Press SELECT 3 Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Ribbon Sensor menu is displayed.
Communications Menu Communications options are accessed via the Communications menu. The following sections detail each of the features within this menu category. Data Port The host computer transfers label formats, images, and fonts to the printer via a designated data port. The host computer transfers information about the printer’s status via a status port. Either the parallel port, serial port, or ethernet connection can be used as the data port.
4 Press the + or – key until the desired data port is displayed. Available options are Parallel, Serial, or Ethernet. 5 Press the SELECT key to confirm your choice. Parallel Mode If you are using the parallel port to connect the printer to a host computer, you can select a parallel port mode. The parallel port mode determines the method of communication used between the host and the printer. The default setting is Auto mode.
RS232 Baud Rate If you are using the RS232 serial port connection, you can configure the printer to use one of four specific baud rates. To select a baud rate: 1 If the printer is in a Ready state, press the PRINT/PAUSE key to pause the printer. 2 Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Communications menu is displayed. Then press the SELECT key. Pause: Communications Press SELECT 3 Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the RS232 Baud Rate menu is displayed.
RS232 Handshaking If you are using the RS232 serial port connection, you can configure the printer handshaking method. To select a handshaking method: 1 If the printer is in a Ready state, press the PRINT/PAUSE key to pause the printer. 2 Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Communications menu is displayed. Then press the SELECT key. Pause: Communications Press SELECT 3 Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the RS232 Handshaking menu is displayed.
TCP/IP: IP Address A TCP/IP address uniquely identifies each device connected to your network. If you are using ethernet to connect your printer to a network, you will need to assign a TCP/IP address to your QLS-8100 Xe printer. The default TCP/IP address is 192.168.255.1. Note: For more detailed information on the topic of networking, refer to the documentation applicable to your network environment and/or contact your network administrator.
TCP/IP Subnet Mask You will use the TCP/IP Subnet Mask option in the Communications menu to set a subnet mask for the QLS-8100 Xe printer. The default subnet mask is 255.255.255.1. Note: For more detailed information on the topic of networking, refer to the documentation applicable to your network environment and/or contact your network administrator. To set the TCP/IP subnet mask: 1 If the printer is in a Ready state, press the PRINT/PAUSE key to pause the printer.
TCP/IP Gateway You will use the TCP/IP Gateway option in the Communications menu to set a subnet mask for the QLS-8100 Xe printer. The default gateway is 0.0.0.0. Note: For more detailed information on the topic of networking, refer to the documentation applicable to your network environment and/or contact your network administrator. To set the TCP/IP gateway: 1 If the printer is in a Ready state, press the PRINT/PAUSE key to pause the printer.
System Menu System options are accessed via the System menu. The following sections detail each of the features within this menu category. Display Counter The printer can dynamically display either the ongoing total number of labels that have been printed since the printer was last powered up or the number of labels that have been printed within any specific batch or print job. The printer’s label counting feature can also be turned off.
Memory Card - Write Protection Memory cards allow you to save fonts, bitmap images, and other configuration information in a portable format. Memory cards use nonvolatile memory, so the contents of the card remain intact even after the printer is powered off. You can write protect memory cards to prevent contents from being accidentally erased while using the printer. However, write protection will not protect the memory card data if the card is used with a PC reader.
Front Panel Lock/Unlock The Front Panel Lock/Unlock feature allows you to lock the menu, preventing unauthorized users from modifying printer settings. The front panel is locked and unlocked with a user-defined four-digit password. When the front panel is locked, users can scroll through the menus, but cannot make any changes. The only available features are PRINT/PAUSE, FORM FEED/ADVANCE, Printer Settings, and Front Panel Unlock.
4 Press the + or – key to increase or decrease the first number in the password, then press the SELECT key. Press the + or – key to increase or decrease the second number in the password, then press the SELECT key. Press the + or – key to increase or decrease the third number in the password, then press the SELECT key. Press the + or – key to increase or decrease the fourth number in the password, then press the SELECT key. 5 Press the SELECT key to lock the front panel using the specified password.
4 Press the + or – key to increase or decrease the first number in the password, then press the SELECT key. Press the + or – key to increase or decrease the second number in the password, then press the SELECT key. Press the + or – key to increase or decrease the third number in the password, then press the SELECT key. Press the + or – key to increase or decrease the fourth number in the password, then press the SELECT key. 5 Press the SELECT key to unlock the front panel using the appropriate password.
Memory Card - Formatting Memory cards must be formatted before they can be used. If you have a memory card inserted in the memory card slot, which is located on the rear panel, use the following instructions to format the card. The memory card write protection setting must be off to allow memory card formatting. Note: Use caution when formatting memory cards. Formatting a memory card permanently erases all data on the card.
Time The QLS-8100 Xe provides a built-in, real-time clock that is used for displaying the time and date. It is also used to provide a time/date stamp for fonts and images. You will use the Time menu option to set the time for the clock. To set the time: 1 If the printer is in a Ready state, press the PRINT/PAUSE key to pause the printer. 2 Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the System menu is displayed. Then press the SELECT key.
Date The QLS-8100 Xe provides a built-in, real-time clock that is used for displaying the time and date. It is also used to provide a time/date stamp for fonts and images. You will use the Date menu option to set the date. To set the date: 1 If the printer is in a Ready state, press the PRINT/PAUSE key to pause the printer. 2 Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the System menu is displayed. Then press the SELECT key.
Factory Reset The factory reset feature of the QLS-8100 Xe returns all parameters available through the printer’s front panel to their factory default values. Use the procedure in this section to perform a factory reset to return the printer to the default values listed below.
To perform a factory reset: 1 If the printer is in a Ready state, press the PRINT/PAUSE key to pause the printer. 2 Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the System menu is displayed. Then press the SELECT key. Pause: System Press SELECT 3 Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Factory Reset menu is displayed. Factory Reset Press SELECT 4 Press the SELECT key to reset parameters to the factory default values.
Options Menu Other options are accessed via the Options menu. The following sections detail each of the features within this menu category. Mirror Mode The QLS-8100 Xe has the ability to print labels in a mirror image format. This format is useful when printing on transparent media to be applied to a transparent surface such as glass. This mode mirrors the printed image horizontally. To enable or disable mirror mode: 1 If the printer is in a Ready state, press the PRINT/PAUSE key to pause the printer.
Cutter If using an optional cutter or cutter/stacker accessory, you can enable it using the Cutter menu option. To enable or disable the cutter: 1 If the printer is in a Ready state, press the PRINT/PAUSE key to pause the printer. 2 Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Options menu is displayed. Then press the SELECT key. Pause: Options Press SELECT 3 Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Cutter menu is displayed.
Cut Flag When using an optional cutter or cutter/stacker accessory, it is possible to enable or disable the insertion of extra blank tags to demarcate or flag the end of a batch. When enabled, the printer will automatically insert one long and one short blank tag between batches. The longer tag is approximately 10 mm longer than the printed tag length. This extra length will allow you to quickly identify separate batches. With the flag enabled, the minimum tag length is 38 mm.
4 Press the + or – key until the desired setting is displayed. Available options are On or Off. 5 Press the SELECT key to confirm your choice. Note: Do not select Append Flag or Set as Flag in Color QuickLabel 99 Pro if the flag is enabled via the front panel. Note: The flag is counted as a batch of two tags (the long and the short tag). If the batch counter is enabled, the flag will appear as a batch of two labels printing; if the total counter is enabled, the flag is counted as two additional tags.
Pull Back - Enable/Disable You can enable/disable the pull back function using the Pull Back option under the Options menu. This option requires a compressed air connection and special hardware. Contact QuickLabel Systems for more information about the pull back function. Note: The printer must be equipped with the media Pull Back option. Otherwise, the printer will return an error message if Pull Back is activated but the option is not present.
Applicator You will use the Applicator option to enable or disable applicator mode. This option applies only to users integrating the printer with an applicator system. To enable or disable the applicator: 1 If the printer is in a Ready state, press the PRINT/PAUSE key to pause the printer. 2 Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Options menu is displayed. Then press the SELECT key. Pause: Options Press SELECT 3 Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Applicator menu is displayed.
Chapter 5: Operation To prepare the QLS-8100 Xe for printing, make sure that: • • • • • • • Water cooling system has been connected Power connection has been made Communication connections have been made between host and printer Compressed air is supplied to the printer if RibbonRation™ will be used Media and Thermal Transfer Ribbon has been loaded into the printer You have installed a software application from which you will print You have installed the QLS Windows Printer Driver (as needed) Once you hav
Printing with the QLS-8100 Xe Powering the Printer On When you turn on your printer, it will execute an initialization procedure and self-test. During this process, the display will indicate the model number, firmware version, and memory check status of the printer. The first display will show the version number of boot software. QuickLabel Systems Boot Version V:1.1 The printer will initialize, perform a self-test, and load the system firmware. QuickLabel Systems Loading Program . . .
Operating Without Compressed Air The QLS-8100 Xe RibbonRation ribbon conservation system has been designed so that the printer can operate normally without compressed air, but without the advantage of ribbon savings.
Printer Indicators When power is on, the printer has four indicator lights that provide a visual cue to the printer’s current state. Indicator Function POWER When the green POWER indicator light is illuminated, the printer is ready to operate. Assuming the printer is properly set up and a label has been downloaded or a test pattern has been selected pressing the PRINT/PAUSE key will cause printing to begin.
Error Messages The following pages show a number of possible error messages that may be encountered during operation. Instructions are provided on how to clear the condition that caused the error message to be displayed. ERROR: Media out or sensor is off media • • • • The label or tag media has been consumed. Reload a new roll of media. The printer has not been properly calibrated. Recalibrate for the proper media. The sensor has been repositioned off of the gap or notch.
After reloading media or ribbon, the printer will reprint any label formats that were partially under the print stations when the error occurred. Note: Media Out or Film Out errors can occur if either the media or film is not feeding, winding or unwinding properly. A physical adjustment to the media path or film tension usually corrects this condition. In order to resume printing, you must raise and lower at least one printhead to clear the internal error.
Data Port Error Check Comm Setup • Indicates that data port-specific commands were received via the status port, causing a communications error. Ensure that the data port is set up correctly. Head x up SELECT to disable • Displayed when a printhead x is lifted after the printer has been powered on. Pressing select will disable this head until the printer power has been cycled.
Deletes all labels SELECT to confirm • Displayed when the CANCEL key is pressed while a batch is being printed. Pressing the SELECT key will cancel all pending labels in the batch. NVRAM Test Failed Please reset printer • Displayed during the printer power-up sequence if the non-volatile RAM test fails. Powering off the printer, and then powering it back on may resolve the issue. If this does not resolve the issue, contact QuickLabel Systems Technical Support.
Excessive Heat Detected on Head x • Displayed if the printhead exceeds a safe operating temperature. The printer will automatically pause to prevent damage to the printhead. Allow the printhead to cool for a period of time. Then press the PRINT/PAUSE key to resume printing. Ribbon Detection System Failure • Displayed if the ribbon detection system is not operating correctly. The printer will not print when this system is not operating. Contact QuickLabel Systems Technical Support.
Color Alignment Color alignment refers to the alignment of each color with respect to the other colors: Print Line adjustment refers to the vertical adjustment of a color’s print position on the media. Cross-Web adjustment refers to the horizontal adjustment of a color’s print position on the media. To examine the color alignment, you can print the process Proc. Block test pattern. The process black box on this test pattern should appear black, without any other color along an edge.
You will also examine the block patterns to observe both the horizontal and vertical alignment. If any color appears horizontally misaligned, the cross web values require adjustment; if any color appears vertically misaligned, the print line adjustment values require adjustment. When the black box prints without any color shadows and the block pattern appears correctly aligned, the color alignment is optimal.
Common Adjustments and Tasks Test Patterns The QLS-8100 Xe is equipped with a number of built-in test patterns used for checking color alignment, print quality, and printhead integrity. Refer to the Cal & Setup Menu section of Chapter 4 for more information on test prints. Print Line Adjustment Print line adjustments allow you to align the printing of each of the four print stations to obtain accurate color registration in the media travel direction.
Evaluating Print Quality 1 Press the PRINT / PAUSE key to put the printer into the pause mode. 2 Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Cal & Setup menu is displayed. Pause: Cal & Setup Press SELECT 3 Press SELECT. Then press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Test Print menu is displayed. Test Print Test Pattern: = 2 in 4 Press the + or - key to scroll through the test patterns and select Test Pattern: x in. at a width that is appropriate for the width of your media.
7 If print quality is not satisfactory, allow the test pattern to continue to print and press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key to access any of the parameters that can be adjusted while operating in the test print mode. The print adjustment parameters that can be changed are: • • • • • • Intensity for each printhead Speed Print line adjustment Cross web adjustment Vertical offset Horizontal offset 8 As each parameter is displayed, press the + or - key to adjust the selected setting.
Enabling and Disabling RibbonRation™ The QLS-8100 Xe RibbonRation™ feature can be enabled or disabled via the user control panel of the printer as well as Color QuickLabel 99® software or the QuickLabel Systems Windows Printer Driver. The software will always override any setting that has been made on the front panel of the printer. To enable/disable RibbonRation™ from the printer control panel: 1 Power off the printer if it is on. 2 Disconnect the source of compressed air if it is connected.
Printing Labels To print labels, you need to send a label from QuickLabel Systems’ Color QuickLabel 99® Pro software program, or from a 3rd party application via the QuickLabel Systems Windows Printer Driver. Refer to the Appendix D and E of this manual for basic instructions in setting up the software. Before sending a label to the QLS-8100 Xe: 1 Make sure that the QLS-8100 Xe is in a Ready state. Press the PRINT/PAUSE pushbutton if necessary until Ready is displayed.
Chapter 6: Advanced Adjustments Your QLS-8100 Xe has been carefully set at the factory to print optimally using your specific type of media and ribbon. This chapter describes how to perform advanced adjustments that may be needed when specialized media is used in the printer. This chapter explains how to: • Adjust the printhead alignment relative to the platen roll to optimize ribbon transfer for different material types or thicknesses.
Printhead Tangency Alignment The proper alignment of the printhead over the platen roller produces optimum transfer of ribbon to the media. Although this mechanical adjustment is a factory setting, there are situations where a slight repositioning of the platen support strut will optimize print quality on different media types and thicknesses.
Printhead Angularity Adjustment The color registration is monitored on the right side of the label as it exits the printer. The Test Print (Proc. Block CMYK) on the display provides a test pattern for adjusting the Print Line and Cross Web values. There is a mechanical adjustment for aligning the color registration on the left side of the label which positions all printheads precisely parallel to each other. The following procedure is referred to as the color angularity adjustment.
Ribbon Wrinkling Adjustments The QLS-8100 Xe features an automatic ribbon tensioning mechanism to ensure consistent tension from a full to empty ribbon supply roll. The ribbon width should be matched to the label or tag width. Make sure that the ribbon is not more than ¼ inch wider than the label because it may cause the ribbon to wrinkle. The ribbon should also not be narrower than the label or tag because it may cause unnecessary wear to the printhead.
Ribbon wrinkling may also be alleviated by adjusting the eccentric at the end of the ribbon guide shaft located at the lower, rear section of the print station. Loosen the screw securing the shaft and using a wrench, turn the eccentric until wrinkles have been eliminated then retighten the screw to secure the shaft.
Printhead & Drive Station Lift Your QLS-8100 Xe printhead and drive station are mounted to a centerpivoting shaft. This permits even pressure to be applied across the width of the media. When using narrow media, the Printhead and Drive Station Lift Screws allows you to relieve unnecessary pressure against the platen roller and drive roller. This will prolong the life of the printhead and platen while providing a more even application of downward pressure onto the media where it is needed.
Vertical Baseline This function is used to synchronize printing when using multiple QLS-8100 Xe printers. If you are sending the same image file to two or more printers and notice that the image prints in different vertical locations, you can use this function to move the vertical baseline of a printer. To adjust the vertical baseline: 1 If the printer is in a Ready state, press the PRINT/PAUSE key to pause the printer. 2 Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Cal & Setup menu is displayed.
Horizontal Baseline This function is used to synchronize printing when using multiple QLS-8100 Xe printers. If you are sending the same image file to two or more printers and notice that the image prints in different horizontal locations, you can use this function to move the horizontal baseline of a printer. To adjust the horizontal baseline: 1 If the printer is in a Ready state, press the PRINT/PAUSE key to pause the printer. 2 Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Cal & Setup menu is displayed.
Chapter 7: Maintenance and Repair Your QLS-8100 Xe is designed for long-life and trouble-free operation. In order to keep your printer operating at optimal performance, some periodic maintenance is required. This chapter provides the following information: • • • • • • • • List of recommended tools for performing maintenance and repairs. Procedure for adding water to the cooling system. Procedure for uninstalling the water cooling system. Procedure for cleaning the print stations.
Recommended Tool List The following is a list of recommended tools for maintenance and repair of the QLS-8100 Xe. 3/16” X 4” long Slotted Screwdriver 3/32” X 4” long Slotted Screwdriver #2 1/4” X 15/16” Phillips Screwdriver #2 1/4” X 8” Phillips Screwdriver #1 3/16” X 3” Phillips Screwdriver Nut Driver Set containing 1/4”, 3/16”, 5/16”, 3/8”, and 11/32” Ball End Allen Wrench Set containing .
Routine Cleaning The parts of each print station, especially those that come in direct contact with the ribbon, will accumulate residue. To maintain clear and crisp printing, these parts should be cleaned frequently. The printheads in particular require regular cleaning. QuickLabel Systems recommend that these surfaces be cleaned when changing a roll of media or ribbon. The illustration below indicates the locations for regular cleaning.
To clean printheads: 1 While the printer is on, lift the printhead that will be cleaned. The following message will display. Head x up SELECT to disable Press the SELECT button. The indicated print station will be disabled and the following message will display. Head x Disabled 2 Turn the printer off and unplug the AC power cord. Caution: Always power off and unplug the printer before cleaning the printheads. 3 Clean the printhead with a soft cloth or lint-free wipe soaked with Isopropyl Alcohol.
Refilling the Cooling System The cooling system circulates cool water through the printhead mounting blocks to aid in maintaining optimum printhead temperature. During printer operation, the water level must stay between the HIGH and LOW indicators. If the water level is below the LOW indicator, the cooling system will become ineffective. It is recommended that you check the water level periodically and add water if necessary Caution: Only use non-conductive, distilled water.
Uninstalling the Cooling System If the printer will be shipped to another location, it is necessary to uninstall the water cooling system. After the system is uninstalled, the water remaining in the printer must be purged. Two water purging tubes with plug connectors are supplied with the printer. One tube is 12 inches in length, and the other is 36 inches in length. These tubes are used to purge remaining water from the inside of the printer.
1 Remove the AC power cord from the outlet, and then disconnect the power cord from the rear of the printer. 2 Disconnect the power cord for each cooling drive from the printer. Then disconnect the water tubes for each cooling drive from the printer.
7 Place the end of the 36” flexible tube into the water draining receptacle. Then connect the 36” tube to one of the left-side water connectors on the rear of the printer. Water Tube Connectors Connect 36" Tube To Draining Receptacle Connect 12" Tube To Air Regulator Connect the 12” tube into the corresponding water connector directly to the right, as indicated in the previous diagram. Then connect the end of the 12” flexible tube to the air regulator. 8 Set the air regulator to 70 PSI.
Printhead Replacement After normal use or as a result of a failure, the printheads will eventually need to be replaced. Some symptoms of printhead failure include: • Significant reduction in printed image darkness that cannot be corrected by using an increased print intensity. • Vertical line(s) of missing print running through the entire length of the label. • A wide vertical area of missing print indicating physical wear to the printhead or an electrical failure.
3 Remove the black guide roller under the static brush for easier access to the printhead mounting screw. There are three inline screws on the outer plate at the end of the guide roller. Remove the two lower screws and pull on the tab to slide the center shaft out, releasing the guide roller to drop down. 4 Remove the platen roller if you are changing the printhead on print station #1. 5 Use a Phillips screwdriver to loosen the captive printhead mounting screw over the top of the printhead.
9 Tighten the captive mounting screw 1/4 turn to secure the printhead to the bracket. Caution: Do not over-tighten the captive mounting screw. Damage or warpage to the printhead could occur. The screw should only be ¼ turn beyond hand tight. Ensure the harness is routed straight through the hole in the main plate. 10 Reinstall the platen roller on print station #1 if it was removed. 11 Reposition the black guide roller and secure it with the two screws.
Platen Replacement Platen rollers are like tires on a car, in that they wear with use. After continued normal use, it may be necessary to replace the printhead platen rollers. After prolonged use, one or more rollers may develop flat areas which will affect print quality. The following procedures explain how to remove and replace the platen rollers. 1 While the printer is on, lift the printhead above the platen roller that will be replaced. The following message will display.
6 Slide the plate and shaft assembly away from the frame plate. The collar and roller will drop down as this assembly is pulled away from the frame plate. 7 Reinsert the small plate and shaft assembly into the hole in the side plate. Add the collar over the shaft behind the side plate. 8 Line up the new roller under the printer with the shaft. Be sure the roller end with the 1/8” bearing surface is against the main plate on the inside of the printer.
Drive and Pinch Roller Replacement After prolonged use, the drive roller or pinch roller may develop flat areas, which will impede consistent media travel. When this occurs, the roller will require replacement. The following procedures explain how to remove and replace the drive roller and pinch roller. Tools Needed: #1 Phillips Screwdriver 3/32” Allen Wrench 1/8” Allen Wrench Drive roller replacement 1 Turn the printer off and unplug the AC power cord. Lift the printer’s side cover.
11 Loosen the set screw on the inner side of the drive roll and pull the roller to the outside against the frame plate. This will reduce the side play on the roller. Tighten both set screws on the inner drive roll side. Pinch Roller Replacement 1 Turn the printer off and unplug the AC power cord. Lift the printer’s side cover. 2 Remove the right side cover and control panel of the printer. 3 Remove any media that may be exiting over the drive roll.
Changing the Fuse or Line Voltage Your QLS-8100 Xe has been configured for your line voltage at the factory. Should you need to replace the fuse(s) or reconfigure the printer for a different line voltage, follow the procedure outlined below. Tools Needed: Small, flat-blade screwdriver 1 Turn the printer off and unplug the AC power cord. 2 Insert a small, flat-blade screwdriver into the slot at the top of the AC Power Input. 3 Gently twist the screwdriver to pry open the plastic door.
Firmware Upgrades Firmware is the internal operating system of the QLS-8100 Xe. Periodically, firmware upgrades are made available to add new features or change operational characteristics of the QLS-8100 Xe. A firmware upgrade should only be performed when available new functionality is needed or when a firmware upgrade is required for compatibility with QuickLabel Systems’ software.
2 Choose the Next button. The following screen will appear. 3 Set up communications to your printer by selecting the appropriate connection options. If Color QuickLabel 99 Pro is installed, these settings will reflect the last settings used in Color QuickLabel 99 Pro. If necessary, change the setup as required. Remember to also configure the printer, if necessary. 4 Choose the Next button. The following screen will appear.
5 When no error is indicated, press the Next button to proceed to the final screen. This last screen begins the actual upgrade process. Press the Finish button to begin the file transfer. All of the necessary files will be transmitted to the printer. 6 When the file transfer is complete, choose the Done or Cancel button on the display to exit the upgrade utility.
When the upgrade is complete, the printer will reset again. Please verify the version displayed during the power-up sequence. Your printer will be ready to use. Upgrading additional printers with the CompactFlash card The CompactFlash card from the upgraded printer can then be used to quickly upgrade other printers. This feature is helpful if you have multiple printers that need to be upgraded. On the next printer, turn the power on and hold in the SELECT key on the front panel.
Appendix A: Physical Data QLS-8100 Xe A-1
QLS-8100 Xe Dimensions All dimensions are in inches Printer shown without water cooling system installed A-2 Physical data
QLS-8100 Xe Dimensions All dimensions are in inches Printer shown without water cooling system installed QLS-8100 Xe A-3
QLS-8100 Xe Dimensions 3.24 7.50 1.9 2.
Appendix B: Specifications QLS-8100 Xe B-1
QLS-8100 Xe Specifications Printing Method Thermal Transfer, Spot and CMYK Process Color Print Stations 4 printheads Registration Accuracy +/- 1 dot typical (0.0030”, 80 microns) B-2 Ribbon Management User selectable, patented RibbonRation™ systems conserves thermal transfer ribbon automatically using air-operated cylinders. Resolution 300 dpi Print Speed 2” (50 mm) - 5” (127 mm) per second Maximum Print Area Width: 8.3” (210.
Dimensions 24” H x 24” D x 38” L (609.6 mm L x 609.6 mm D x 965.2 mm L) Weight 185 lbs. (83.9 kg) - no media, no ribbons Power Requirements 20/240 VAC, 50/60 Hz, 8.0/6.3A Compressed Air 1 cfm @ 70 psi required to operate RibbonRation™ Use Male NPT Plug with 3/8” body size. (not supplied with printer) Thermal Transfer Ribbon 4 rolls, each 300 m long; Spot or CMYK rolls Label / Tag Size Width: 8.5” Max. (216 mm), 5” Min. (127 mm); Length: 60” Max. (1,524 mm), .5 Min. (12.
B-4 Specifications
Appendix C: Replacement Parts QLS-8100 Xe C-1
Replacement Parts Part Number Description 14076-101 14039-901 14039-701 14041-202 14058-000 14057-201 14057-301 23701-211 23701-063 11540-008 24034-002 13832-000 14050-050 14050-500 RN1716 14109-020 14046-200 10609-016 13318-000 00058DA Printhead Drive Roll Platen Roller Pinch Roller Bearing Block Assembly (drive roll) Lever Printhead Lift (4) Lever Drive Roll Lift Belt Timing 3mm 211T Belt Timing 3mm 63T Fuse 8.0 A (110VAC) Fuse 6.
Replacement Parts Part Number Description 12361-013 26599-900 26585-401 26585-300 14049-701 26599-100 26588-100 26599-400 26599-500 13830-000 26599-300 42679-001 42614-001 42455-001 25459-200 14193-032 24164-020 24164-000 10787-001 Slip Clutch, TTR (4) Encoder Cable Assy Pneumatic Cylinder Assy Valve Stack Sensor, Encoder Wheel Reflective Sensor Assy Harness, Printhead Harness, TTR Sensor Harness, Printhead Up Sensor Harness, DC Power Harness, Motor Controller, Assy PCB Power Supply Keypad, Assy PCB Disp
C-4 Replacement parts
Appendix D: Color QuickLabel 99® Pro setup QLS-8100 Xe D-1
Color QuickLabel 99 Pro setup The following guide explains how to configure Color QuickLabel 99 Pro software for use with the QLS-8100 Xe printer. If you are using and older version of software (i.e. Color QuickLabel), please contact QuickLabel Systems for an upgrade. To configure Color QuickLabel 99 Pro from Create and Print: Note: Skip to step 4 if you are configuring the Print application. Steps 1 - 3 are for configuring a new or existing label format in the Create application.
4 Open the File >> Print Setup menu. The following screen will appear: 5 Choose QLS-8100Xe Single Sided from the Select Printer pull-down list. 6 Select the capacity of the memory card being used or none from the RAM Card Size pull-down list. This option is used only when set up for unidirectional communication. Note: If none is selected, all images will be sent to an internal 4 Mb dedicated to images. All fonts will be sent to an internal 4 Mb memory dedicated to fonts.
8 Click on the Communications tab. The following screen will appear: 9 Select the desired Printer Communication: Bidirectional (recommended) - This option permits two-way communication with the printer. The printer will report status back to the host computer via the serial port connection. The parallel, serial, or ethernet port is used to transmit data to the printer. Unidirectional - This option permits one-way communication with the printer.
10 Select the appropriate Printer Mode. DUAL – Select this option for parallel and serial port connection. LPT – Select this option for parallel-only connection. COM – Select this option for serial-only connection. TCP/IP – Select this option for an ethernet connection. 11 Select the appropriate Parallel Port, Serial Port, and TCP/IP settings as necessary. Note: Color QuickLabel 99 Pro supports parallel ports LPT1 and LPT2 and serial ports COM1 and COM2.
D-6 Color QuickLabel 99 Pro setup
Appendix E: Windows Printer Driver Setup QLS-8100 Xe E-1
Windows Printer Driver Setup The following guide explains how to configure the Windows Printer Driver for use with the QLS-8100 Xe printer. To configure the Windows printer driver: 1 From the Start menu, select Settings >> Printers (Windows 98/Me/NT/2000) or Start >> Printers and Faxes (Windows XP). Right click on the QLS-8100 Xe Windows printer driver and select Properties. The driver properties window will be displayed. If you are using Windows XP or 2000, choose the Printing Preferences button.
3 Click on the Graphics tab. Select the desired halftoning method for your image. A representation of the output effect each halftoning method will have is shown to the right. Generally speaking, Coarse, Medium, and Fine work best for line art and vector-based graphics such as clip art. Error Diffusion and Photographic are better suited for photographic images or images with fine details.
4 Click on the Color tab. Select Process or Spot depending on the mode of operation being used. If Process is chosen, select CMY or CMYK for the desired image separation method. If Spot is chosen, you will be given the option to enable or disable each of the print stations by checking or unchecking the box next to each head. Click on the Change button to specify the color corresponding to your artwork that will be printed on each print station.
5 Click on the Intensity & Speed tab. Select the desired default print intensities for each of the print stations and select the print speed. If the Print-Time menu is enabled, these default settings can be changed just prior to printing each print job. 6 If you are using Windows XP or 2000, choose the OK button to return to the QLS-8100 Xe Properties window.
E-6 7 Click on the Ports tab. Select the appropriate communication port that the printer is connected to from the pull-down list of available ports. 8 Click on the Device Options tab. If a Cutter or Cutter/Stacker option will be used, place a check mark in the Enable Cutter box. If RibbonRation will be used, place a check mark in the Enable Ribbon Ration box.
The Print-Time menu is enabled by placing a check mark in the Enable Print-Time Menu box. Doing so will result in a popup window appearing after a label. has been processed by the Windows application but prior to being sent to the printer. The Print-Time menu allows the user to change Print Intensity, Print Speed, Quantity, and Offsets just prior to printing. You may choose to display a full Print-Time menu (the default) or one which allows entry of print quantity only.
2 In the Save As window that appears, enter a filename for the processed label. Place a check mark in the Place shortcut on Desktop box if you would like to generate a convenient shortcut to the processed label.
Appendix F: Format error codes QLS-8100 Xe F-1
QLS-8100 Xe Format Error Codes F-2 1 Field X location error The X coordinate of a Set Field Location command (FLx,y) is out of bounds. 2 Field Y location error The Y coordinate of a Set Field Location command (FLx,y) is out of bounds. 3 Alphanumeric field font error The font parameter of a Define Alphanumeric Field Font command (AFfont,r,w,h,m) is invalid. 4 Alphanumeric rotation error Valid rotations are 0, 90, 180, 270°.
13 Bar-code check digit error The selection for enabling the bar-code check digit is faulty. 15 Bar-code interpretation width error The range for width values is the same as for height values. 16 Bar-code interpretation height error Valid settings for font height are 10 to 2000 for TrueType® fonts. 17 Bar-code interpretation font selection error The font parameter of a Define Bar-code Symbol command (BFn,...,i,...) is invalid.
36 Box height error The height value of a graphics field is invalid. 37 Line thickness error The value for line thickness in a graphics field is invalid. 38 Print intensity error Valid print intensity settings are 1 to 32. 39 Print speed error Valid print speeds are 2 to 5 inches per second. 50 .PCX Bitmap error This error results from any of the following: • • F-4 Bad file format (not monochrome, not a .pcx file) File not present (may have stored to RAM and attempted to recall from card) 80 .
85 Field data string error An invalid data string is part of the label format. Valid ASCII characters are from 20h to FFh, and all data fields must be terminated with an End Field Data command (FE). This error results from any of the following: • • • Too much data (barcode, font, Data Matrix) Data Matrix symbol that extends off the label Bar-code field strings contain characters not supported by the chosen symbology.
F-6 Format error codes
Appendix G: Menu Structure QLS-8100 Xe G-1
G-2 Menu Structure
QLS-8100 Xe Menus Ready State Ready 0015 of 0050 Ready: Intensity Head 1 = 16 Ready: Intensity Head 2 = 16 Ready: Intensity Head 3 = 16 Ready: Intensity Head 4 = 16 Ready: Speed 3 in/s Ready: Vertical Offset = +16 Ready:Horizontal Offset = -20 Ready: Display Cntr Off Ready:Cut Offset +0 Ready: Label Reprint Copies = 1 Pause: Cal & Setup Press SELECT Pause: Operation Press SELECT Pause: Ribbon Press SELECT Pause: Communication Pause: System Press SELECT Ready: Prnt Line Adj Head 1 = +0 Ready
Index Applicator ............................................... 4-58 Calibration........................................ 3-8, 4-21 Cancel ........................................................ 4-3 Cleaning .................................................... 7-3 Color Alignment..................................... 5-10 Compressed Air Connection......................................... 2-17 Operating Without.............................. 5-3 Cover Switch...........................................
Baud Rate ........................................... 4-38 Handshaking ..................................... 4-39 Specifications ............................................ B-2 Synchronize Labels ................................ 4-30 TCP/IP Gateway ............................................. 4-42 IP Address ......................................... 4-40 Subnet Mask ...................................... 4-41 Test Print .................................................
