Datasheet

Media
Media Guide - Required Accessory
52
P1016701-001 Rev. B KR403 Hardware Integrator Guide 9/24/2010
Determining Thermal Media Types
The KR403 printer uses direct thermal media. Direct thermal media has a chemically
treated print surface that uses heat to expose or darken the area where heat is applied.
Thermal transfer media or ordinary un-treated paper requires ribbon or ink for printing
while direct thermal media does not. To determine what type of media is being used and
print surface of the media, perform a media scratch test:
1. Scratch the print surface of the media with a finger nail or pen cap. Press firmly and
quickly while dragging it across the media surface. Direct thermal media is chemically
treated to print (expose) when heat is applied. This test method uses friction heat to
expose the media.
2. Did a black mark appear on the media?
The KR403 printer only uses outside wound roll media or fan-fold media. The print surface
faces away from the center of the printer. Media with black marks
If a black mark... Then the media is...
Does not appear on the media Thermal transfer. A ribbon or ink is required and
is not support for use by the KR403.
Appears on the outside of the
media.
Direct thermal. No ribbon or ink are required.