Datamax W-8306 Operator's Manual

Operator’s Manual

Corporate Headquarters

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Orlando, Fl 32808

Phone: 407-578-8007

Fax: 407-578-8377

Asia-Pacific

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#01-01 CILC Building

Singapore 508724

Phone: +65 542-2611

Fax: +65 542-3611

Datamax International

Herbert House

12 Elizabeth Way, Pinnacles

Harlow, Essex CM19 5FE UK

Phone: +44 1279 772200

Fax: +44 1279 424448

Copyright Information:

CG Triumvirate is a trademark of Agfa Corporation.

CG Times, based upon Times New Roman, is under license from The Monotype

Corporation.

Firmware (Software) Agreement

The enclosed Firmware (Software) resident in the Printer is owned by Licensor or its suppliers and is licensed for used only on a single printer in the user’s

Trade or Business. The User agrees not to, and not to authorize or permit

any other person or party to, duplicate or copy the Firmware or the

information contained in the non-volatile or programmable memory. The firmware (Software) is protected by applicable copyright laws and Licensor retains all rights not expressly granted. In no event will Licensor or its suppliers be liable for any damages or loss, including direct, incidental, economic, special, or consequential damages, arising out of the use or inability to use the Firmware

(Software).

Information in this document is subject to change without notice and does not represent a commitment on the part of Datamax Barcode Products Corporation.

No part of this manual may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, for any purpose other than the purchaser's personal use, without the expressed written permission of Datamax Corporation.

© Copyright 2001 by Datamax Corporation

All rights reserved. Printed in the United States of America.

Part Number: 88-2245-01

Revision: E

Agency Compliance and Approvals:

UL1950 Information Technology Equipment

C22.2 No. 950-M93

C US

Listed

EN60950

For 230 Volt Operation (Europe): Use a cord set, marked “HAR,” consisting of a min H05VV-F cord which has a minimum 0.75 square mm diameter conductors, provided with an IEC 320 receptacle and a male plug for the country of installation rated 6A, 250V

Für 230 Volt (Europa): Benützen Sie ein Kabel, das mit “HAR” markiert ist, bestehend mindestens aus einem H05VV-F Kabel, das mindestens 0,75 Quadratmillimeter Drahtdurchmesser hat; sowie eine

IEC320 Steckdose und einen für das Land geeigneten Stecker, 6A,

250 Volt.

As an Energy Star Partner, the manufacturer has determined that this product meets the Energy Star guidelines for energy efficiency.

The manufacturer declares under sole responsibility that this product conforms to the following standards or other normative documents:

EMC: EN 55022 (1993) Class B

EN 50024 (1998)

EN 45501 (1992)

Safety:This product complies with the requirements of

EN 60950 /A11: /1997

Gost-R

FCC

This device complies with FCC CFR 47 Part 15 Class A.

þ Note:This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference when the equipment is operated in a commercial environment. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy, and if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions in this manual, it may cause harmful interference to radio communications. Operation of this equipment in a residential area is likely to cause harmful interference in which case the user will be required to correct the interference at his own expense.

Important Safety Instructions:

The exclamation point within an equilateral triangle is intended to alert the user to the presence of important operating and maintenance instructions in the literature accompanying this unit.

This unit has been carefully designed to provide years of safe, reliable performance. However, as with all electrical equipment, there are some basic precautions that you follow to avoid personal injury or damage to the printer:

Ø Before using the printer, carefully read all the installation and operating instructions.

Ø Observe all warning instruction labels on the printer.

Ø Install the printer on a flat, firm surface.

Ø Do not place the printer on or near a heat source.

Ø To protect your printer from overheating, make sure no openings on the printer are blocked.

Ø Never insert anything into the ventilation slots and openings of the printer.

Ø

Do not use the printer near water or spill liquid into it.

Ø Ensure that the AC power source matches the ratings listed for the printer.

(If unsure, check with your dealer or local utility provider.)

Ø Do not place the AC power cord where it can be stepped on. If the AC power cord becomes damaged or frayed, replace it immediately.

Ø If the printer ever needs repair, consult only qualified, trained service personnel. No user-serviceable parts are inside; do not remove the cover.

Contents

Printer Overview

1.0 About the Printer ....................................................................... 1

1.0.1 Standard Features .................................................... 2

1.0.2 Optional Features..................................................... 2

1.1 Option Installation..................................................................... 4

Getting Started

2.0 Unpacking the Printer ............................................................... 5

2.1 Media and Ribbon Selection.................................................... 7

2.1.1 Print Quality Controls ................................................ 7

Setting Up the Printer

3.0 Installation.................................................................................. 9

3.0.1 Communications...................................................... 10

3.1 Loading Media......................................................................... 12

3.1.1 Roll Media ................................................................ 13

3.1.2 Fan-Fold Media ....................................................... 14

3.2 Media Sensor Adjustment ...................................................... 15

3.3 Loading Ribbon....................................................................... 16

3.4 Quick Media Calibration ......................................................... 17

3.5 Outputting Labels .................................................................... 18

3.5.1 Rewinding onto the Media Rewind Hub ................ 18

3.5.2 Rewinding onto a Core ........................................... 19

3.5.3 On-Demand Dispensing ......................................... 20

Using the Front Panel

4.0 Operation................................................................................. 23

4.0.1 Ready Mode............................................................. 23

4.0.2 Menu Mode .............................................................. 24

4.0.3 Quick Test Mode ..................................................... 25

4.0.4 Indicator Lights ........................................................ 26

4.0.5 LCD .......................................................................... 26

4.0.6 Resetting the Printer ............................................... 27 i

4.0.6.1 Soft Reset ................................................ 27

4.0.6.2 Level One Reset...................................... 27

4.0.6.3 Level Two Reset...................................... 27

4.1 The Menu System................................................................... 28

4.1.1 Entrance and Exit Prompts..................................... 29

4.1.2 Media Settings ......................................................... 30

4.1.3 Print Control............................................................. 31

4.1.4 Printer Options......................................................... 33

4.1.5 System Settings....................................................... 35

4.1.6 Communications...................................................... 41

4.1.7 Diagnostics .............................................................. 47

4.2 Display Messages................................................................... 48

4.2.1 User Prompts and Condition Messages................ 48

4.3 Quick Test Mode ..................................................................... 50

4.3.1 Print Quality Label................................................... 50

4.3.2 Configuration Label................................................. 51

4.3.3 Quick Ribbon Test Label ........................................ 52

4.3.4 Dot Test Pattern Label............................................ 53

4.3.5 Validation Label....................................................... 54

4.3.6 User Defined Label.................................................. 54

Adjusting and Maintaining the Printer

5.0 Media Sensor Calibration....................................................... 55

5.0.1 Standard Calibration ............................................... 55

5.0.2 Advanced Entry Calibration.................................... 59

5.1 Printhead Adjustments ........................................................... 65

5.1.1 Leveling Cam Adjustment....................................... 65

5.1.2 Pressure Adjustment............................................... 66

5.2 Maintenance Schedule ........................................................... 67

5.2.1 Cleaning the Printhead ........................................... 68

5.2.2 Cleaning the Platen Roller...................................... 69

5.2.3 Cleaning Interior and Exterior Surfaces ................ 70

5.3 Application Program Updates ................................................ 70

5.3.1 Updating from the Ready Mode ............................. 71

5.3.2 Updating from the Download Mode ....................... 72

5.3.3 Possible Problems during an Update .................... 73

5.4 Boot Loader Program Updates.............................................. 74 ii

Troubleshooting

6.0 Problem Resolution................................................................. 75

6.1 Fault and Warning Messages................................................ 79

6.2 Hex Dump Mode ..................................................................... 85

Printer Specifications

7.0 General Specifications ........................................................... 87

7.1 Media and Ribbon Requirements .......................................... 89

Appendix A

ASCII Control Code Chart ............................................................... 91

Appendix B

Available Fonts and Bar Codes ...................................................... 93

Appendix C

Module Assignments......................................................................101

Print Resolutions and Maximum Label Widths ............................101

Available Speeds and Default Settings ........................................102

Appendix D

GPIO Port........................................................................................103

Appendix E

Menu System Multi-Language Support........................................105

Appendix F

Saving a Configuration File ...........................................................111

iii

Warranty Information

........................................................113

Glossary

....................................................................................117

Index

............................................................................................121

iv

Printer Overview

1.0 About the Printer

Congratulations on your purchase of a W-Class printer. The W-Class family of printers, hereafter referred to as ‘the printer’, blend state of the art design with user-friendly features to refine the standard in wide-web industrial thermal printers.

This manual provides all the information necessary for everyday printer operation. To begin printing labels, refer to the instructions provided with the label-creation software you have chosen. If you wish to write custom label programs, a copy of the I & W Class Programmer’s Manual is included on the enclosed Datamax Accessories CD; otherwise, a copy may be downloaded from our web site at http//www.datamaxcorp.com.

To grow with all of your printing needs, the design of the printer is easily upgraded; see Section 1.1. The following subsections detail the standard features, available options and a hardware overview.

W-Class 1

1.0.1 Standard Features

This printer offers the following standard features:

Printing

Ø Direct and Thermal Transfer printing methods

Ø Batch and Pause Mode Printing

Ø 1.5 inch or 3 inch Media Hub (specified at time of order)

Ø Easy Media Loading

Ø

Media Tear Bar

Ø Fan-fold media compatible

Memory

Ø 256 KB Flash Memory available for user graphic downloads

Ø 2 MB FLASH Downloadable Program Memory

Ø 16 MB SDRAM Memory

Interfaces

Ø IEEE 1284 compliant parallel interface

Ø RS-232 serial interface

Operational

Ø 2 X 20 Backlit Liquid Crystal Display and functional keypad

Ø CG Triumvirate



Scalable font w/AGFA Scalable font engine

Ø EFIGS (multi-language display and configuration label support)

Ø 203 DPI Printhead (W-6208)

Ø 300 DPI Printhead (W-6308 and W-8306)

1.0.2

Optional Features

The printer offers the following optional features:

Cover Dampener

A device to control the closing rate of the cover.

Light-Duty Cutter ( unavailable for the W-8306)

Easily installed on the front of the printer, this rotary mechanism will cut a maximum material thickness of .006” (.152mm) into minimum lengths of 1.25

inches (31.8 mm).

2

W-Class

Standard Cutter

Easily installed on the front of the printer, this guillotine mechanism will cut a maximum material thickness .010” (.254mm) into minimum lengths of 1.25

inches (31.8 mm).

Cutter Tray

Used to collect the media cut by the Standard or Light-Duty Cutter (specify application at time of order).

External Keyboard Support

An interface for the connection of the DMX Passport™ keyboard, allowing remote (no host) printing applications.

External Media Rewinder

Separate device with and 8” roll capacity to rewind labels and backing material.

Font Expansion Card (cannot be used with the I/O Expansion card)

A slide-in circuit card assembly with 8MB Flash memory expansion for

International Language Printing Capability (ILPC) and/or additional fonts and graphics. ILPC consists of one of the following:

Ø

CG-Times



(Western European) Scalable font

Ø Kanji Gothic B Scalable font

Ø Simplified Chinese GB Scalable font

Ø Korean Hangul Scalable font

ILPC – CG Times

 Firmware

The printer’s firmware can be upgraded to include the Datamax ILPC CG

Times



font. This supports the Datamax Enhanced Language Code Pages.

Internal Rewind (factory installed)

A mechanism to rewind printed labels and backing material inside the printer.

I/O Expansion Card (specify features at time of order)

Standard features of this slide-in circuit card assembly include:

Ø General purpose (GPIO) interface for external printer and device control.

Ø Time and date calendar (Real Time Clock) function for label time stamping.

Additional option:

Ø

8 MB Flash memory expansion for graphics and/or additional fonts including International Language Printing Capability (ILPC).

W-Class 3

LAN Interface

A slide-in circuit card assembly that provides network connectivity, allowing multiple users on various platforms to share the same printer.

Peel and Present Mechanism (requires the Internal Rewind option)

A device used to automatically separate printed labels from the backing material. When accompanied by the present sensor option, on-demand label dispensing becomes possible.

Present Sensor

A sensor used to control the printer output. When enabled, printing occurs after the removal of a previously print label.

RS-422 Serial Interface

A single-drop interface to support greater distances from the host at communication rates of up to 38,400 baud.

Twinax/Coax Interface (including cable)

These are internal devices, providing connection to AS/400 and System/3X

Twinax host system or 3270-type host system.

1.1 Option Installation

This table lists the recommended qualification level for the person installing the options. Contact your dealer or Datamax Technical Support for details.

Suggested Experience Level

Option

Cover Dampener

Qualified Installer

DMX Certified Technician

Cutter Tray

Cutters: Standard and Light-Duty

DMX Passport External Keyboard

Font Expansion Card

Operator


Operator


Internal Rewind DMX Certified Technician

International Language Programming Capability DMX Certified Technician

I/O Expansion Card

LAN Interface

Peel Mechanism

Present Sensor

RS-422 Serial Interface

Twinax/Coax Interface



Operator




4

W-Class

Getting Started

2.0 Unpacking the Printer

Inspect the shipping container(s) for damage; if evident, immediately notify the shipping company to report the nature and extent of the damage.

The printer has been carefully packaged to avoid damage during transit. In order to operate the printer, you will need to remove the tape and foam placed there for shipment. Complete the following steps prior to connecting power or attempting to load media.

Œ With the arrows on the box pointing ‘Up’, open the box.

• Remove packing foam.

Ž Using the straps, carefully lift the printer from the box.

• Remove the straps and the plastic bag from the printer.

þ

Note: It is a good idea to save the carton and packaging materials.

W-Class 5

Inspecting the Printer

After removing the printer from the packaging material, check the contents of the package. In addition to this manual, the following items should be included:

Ø Printer

Ø Power cord

Ø

Accessories CD

Ø Any special or additionally purchased items.

Additional Requirements

The following items are necessary for generating printed labels. Contact your customer support representative for advice on which media and software is best suited for your needs.

Ø A serial or parallel interface cable; see Section 3.0.1

Ø Applicable media; see Section 2.1 for suggestions and Section 7.1 for requirements.

Ø Applicable labeling software

6

W-Class

2.1 Media and Ribbon Selection

The following is a limited overview of media characteristics. For complete information and advice regarding your specific application needs, always consult a qualified media specialist or a Datamax Media Representative.

Media Selection – Direct Thermal

Consider three important factors when selecting direct thermal stock:

•

The abrasive qualities of the material that covers the thermal reactive layer of the paper.

•

The ability of that layer to control the chemical reaction that occurs when the image is “burned”.

•

The amount of heat required to create an image on the paper.

Media Selection – Thermal Transfer

Consider three important factors when selecting thermal transfer media combinations:

•

The label top coating and ribbon combinations affect image quality.

•

Ribbon backcoating is highly recommended. It provides protection for the printhead; and depending upon the formula, it may also provide an antistatic coating.

•

For additional printhead protection, use ribbon with a slightly greater width than the overall width of the label and backing material.

2.1.1

Print Quality Controls

The printer provides flexibility with a comprehensive set of print controls. Of these, the amount of heat applied by the printhead and the rate of media movement will have the most effect on the barcodes, text, and graphics being printed. Low cost direct thermal stocks, for example, have raised reaction temperatures and therefore require higher heat values and slower print speeds to make a clear image on the media. In general, there are four methods of controlling print quality:

•

The first is the ‘Media Type’ menu setting, which should be set to match the media being used. For example, when printing with ribbon use the thermal transfer setting.

W-Class 7

•

The second method would be to change the ‘Print Control / Heat’ menu setting (selectable as ‘Heat Setting’ in most software programs). Increasing this value causes more energy to be transferred to the media, resulting in a darker image. If the image is too dark, reduce this value or increase the print speed.

•

The next method would be to change the ‘Print Control / Print Speed’ menu setting (also selectable as ‘Print Speed’ in most software programs).

Changing the print speed changes the amount of time the media is under the printhead. Slowing the speed allows more time and control for energy to be transferred. Increasing the speed will increase throughput, but may require a higher heat setting.

•

The final method, providing only subtle contrast changes, would be to change the ‘Custom Adjustments / Darkness’ menu setting.

You will find that printing barcodes and detailed images on less expensive direct thermal and thermal transfer media at higher speeds can be tricky. At one heat setting, the images will fade and at the next higher heat setting, the images will bleed. This is because the reaction temperature of the media is so high that at higher rates of speed, it cannot react fast enough. To print fine images at higher speed, media with lower reaction or release temperatures are required. On the slower end of the print rate settings, crisper images are possible because the media is not being stretched beyond its limits.

The following table is intended for reference only (for specific application information, consult your media specialist or a Datamax Media Representative).

Thermal Transfer

Media

Coated Paper, Uncoated Paper,

Ribbon

Type

Wax

Print

Speed*

2 - 8

Print

Energy

Low

Tag Stock, Some Films, Some

Synthetics

Coated Paper, Glossy Paper,

Tag Stock,

Some Synthetics, Films

Synthetics, Films

Wax/Resin

*Values given in inches per second (IPS)

Resin

2 - 8

4 - 6

Medium

High

Image

Durability

Low

High

High

8

W-Class

Setting Up the Printer

3.0 Installation

This chapter explains how to connect your printer, and load it with media and ribbon.

þ

Note: When connecting the AC Power Cord or data cables to the printer, ensure the Power On/Off Switch is in the ‘Off’ position.

Œ Place the printer on a firm, level surface.

• Turn ‘Off’ the Host Computer and ensure that the Power Switch on the

Printer is in the ‘Off’ position.

Ž Depending upon your interfacing requirements, connect the appropriate interface cable between Host Computer and Printer; see Section 3.0.1. (If connecting the printer to a network, refer to the additional documentation supplied with the network option.)

• Connect the AC power cord to the receptacle on the back of the Printer, and then plug the AC power cord into a properly grounded outlet. (The power supply in the printer automatically detects, then adjusts to the applied line voltage; see Section 7.0 for acceptable voltage ranges.)

W-Class 9

3.0.1 Communications

Using a data detection process, the interface selection occurs automatically in the printer. At power-up, the printer begins monitoring the interface ports for activity. When the host transmits data, the printer port detecting this data is set

‘active’ and remains active as long as data flow continues. Once the incoming

(received) data flow stops and the Host Timeout Value (see Section 4.1.6) is exceeded, the detection process will be repeated. In addition, should the data flow stop before a complete label format is received, the format will be ignored and must be sent to the printer again.

þ Note: To change an active port immediately, cycle the printer power ‘Off’ and ‘On’.

Parallel Port:

The parallel interface has two menu-selectable modes of operation: unidirectional or bi-directional. Uni-directional mode is forward channel communication and requires a Centronics



cable with a 36 pin male connector.

Bi-directional mode is IEEE 1284 Compliant, using forward and reverse channel communications. In this mode, data can be sent to the host provided it is also

IEEE 1284 Compliant and has supporting software. This mode requires an IEEE

1284 cable with a Centronics



36 pin male connector.

NIC Adapter (optional):

The NIC Adapter has several menu-selectable modes; see Section 4.1.6 for details. Refer to the information provided with the option for connection requirements. The following items are accessible from the back of the printer:

•

The LED Indicators provide operational information: A green LINK LED indicates a good network connection. A green 100

LED indicates a 100BASE-T network connection. The ACT LED (activity) flashes green or red when the server is ready for use.

•

The Test Button will cause a NIC

Configuration label to print.

•

The Ethernet Reset button will reset the

NIC Adapter.

þ Note: Following initialization, the printer will indicate ‘Ready’; however, the

NIC Adapter will not be ready to receive data until its ‘boot-up’ process is completed. Depending upon the NIC Adapter configuration, this process may take up to two minutes to complete.

10 W-Class

Serial Port:

The serial interface supports RS-232C and, if equipped, RS-422 communications. The following list of serial port settings is menu-selectable and must match the host computer’s serial port settings; see Section 4.1.6.

•

Baud Rate (serial communication speed)

•

Word Length

•

Word Parity

•

Number of Stop Bits

•

Handshaking Protocol

In addition to the port settings, the serial interface cable wiring must have specific connections (pin-outs) for proper data exchange between the host

and printer. The different serial cable pin-outs, suggested applications, and part numbers are shown below (contact your reseller for ordering information).

Serial Interface Cable Listing (all models, except as noted)

Null Modem (MXM) “PC” (DB9P) to Printer

Part Number 556000

For connection to other DCE equipment.

Flow control is only Xon/Xoff.

“PC” (DB25P) to Printer


For connection to a PC compatible with

DB9P communication ports. Flow control can be either Xon/Xoff or CTS/DTR.

RS-422 Connection

*


For connection to a PC compatible with

DB25 communication ports. Flow control can be either Xon/Xoff or CTS/DTR.

Part Number N/A

Diagram is provided only as a reference.

W-Class 11

3.1 Loading Media

The following section explains the media loading steps. Before beginning, complete these steps:

Œ Raise the Access Cover.

•

Rotate the Printhead Latch forward to raise the Printhead

Assembly.

Ž Slide the Media Guide out away from the frame.

• Proceed according to the type of media you are using: go to

Section 3.1.1 for Roll Media or go to Section 3.1.2 for Fan-

Fold Media.

12 W-Class

3.1.1 Roll Media

This loading method is for roll type media applications. To load:

Œ Slide Roll Media onto the Media

Supply Hub until it rests against the

Backstop.

• Route the media as shown below: under the Bouncer Assembly, through the Media Sensor, then out the front of the printer.

Ž Slide the Media Guide over until it rests lightly against the edge of the media.

• Position the Media Sensor; see

Section 3.2.

• If your application uses thermal transfer media, load ribbon (see Section

3.3); otherwise continue.

‘ Lower the Printhead Assembly and rotate the Printhead Latch completely back into the locked position. Close the Access Cover.

’ Turn ‘On’ the printer. After ‘Ready is displayed, press and hold the FEED key until at least one label gap or mark is advanced; see Section 3.4.

+

If using less than full width media, adjust the Leveling Cam; see Section

5.1.1.

W-Class 13

3.1.2 Fan-Fold Media

This loading method is for tag and fan-fold type media applications. To load:

Œ

Bring media in from the Bottom or

Rear Fan-Fold Slot and through the printer, as shown below. (If using reflective stock, ensure that the mark is facedown.)

•

Slide the Media Guide over until it rests lightly against the edge of the media.

Ž With the Roller Lever in its ‘down’ position, slide the Fan-Fold Media

Guide onto the Media Supply Hub and route the media through the slot in the guide. Ensure the media rests against the Backstop, then raise the Roller Lever to its ‘up’ position and tighten the

Thumbscrew on the bottom of the Fan-Fold Media Guide.

• Position the Media Sensor; see Section 3.2.

•

If your application uses thermal transfer media, load ribbon (see Section

3.3); otherwise continue.

‘ Lower the printhead assembly and rotate the Printhead Latch back into the locked position. Close the Access Cover.

’ Turn ‘On’ the printer. After ‘Ready is displayed, press and hold the FEED key until at least one label gap or mark is advanced; see Section 3.4.

+

If using less than full width media, adjust the Leveling Cam; see Section

5.1.1.

14 W-Class

3.2 Media Sensor Adjustment

The Media Sensor needs to be positioned so that the printer can detect the presence of media and the top-of-form (except for continuous stock, where the

TOF is set through programming; see Label Length, Section 4.1.2). To adjust:

Œ With media loaded, as described in Section 3.1.1 or 3.1.2, turn the Media

Sensor Adjust Knob clockwise (outward) or counterclockwise (inward) until the Sensor Eye Mark is positioned over the media according to the table below.

• If loading media, return to the media loading instructions.

Media Type

Media Sensor Selection and Adjustment

Sensor Eye Mark Position Sensor Required

*

Die-cut

Notched

Reflective

Near the middle of the label

Centered over the notch

Centered over the black mark

Continuous Near the middle of the media

*

See Section 4.1.2 for Sensor Type selection.

Gap

Gap

Reflective

Continuous

þ Note: Changes to the start of print position can be made using the Print

Control / Row Adjust or Row Offset (see Section 4.1.3).

W-Class 15

3.3 Loading Ribbon

Thermal transfer media requires the use of ribbon. To load:

þ Note: Using a ribbon that is slightly wider than your media (and liner, if any) will help protect against printhead wear.

Œ With the access cover raised, remove the J-Hook from the Ribbon Take-Up

Hub.

• Position the Ribbon as shown below and then slide it completely onto the

Ribbon Supply Hub.

Ž Raise the Printhead Assembly, pull approximately eighteen inches (450mm) of ribbon from the roll and route it under the Lower Ribbon Roller then out over the Platen Roller, as shown.

• Lower the Printhead Assembly, route the ribbon over the Upper Ribbon

Rollers and down around the Ribbon Take-up Hub.

• Replace the J-Hook on the Ribbon Takeup Hub. While holding the hub, rotate the

J-Hook counterclockwise to latch it.

Rotate the hub counterclockwise to remove any slack from the ribbon.

‘ If loading media, return to the media loading instructions. Otherwise, lower the Printhead Assembly and rotate the

Printhead Latch completely back into the locked position. Close the Access Cover.

16 W-Class

3.4 Quick Media Calibration

+

When ‘Uncalibrated’ is displayed, follow the Media Sensor Calibration procedure in Section 5.0.

At the factory, the printer is calibrated to sense a wide range of media types.

Quick Media Calibration fine-tunes the media sensor for your gap, notch or reflective media application (this is not required for continuous media). Perform this calibration during initial set-up or after changing your media type. To calibrate:

Œ Ensure that media is loaded (see Section 3.1), that the Media Sensor is adjusted (see Section 3.2), and that the printer is idle.

• Press and hold the FEED key. The printer will begin advancing media;

allow at least one label gap or mark to advance under the sensor during this process.

Upon successful completion, the ‘Calibration Completed’ message will flash; the printer will feed to the next label TOF and ‘Ready’ will be displayed. (A

‘Warning Low Backing’ message may appear if using notched media or media on a transparent liner; however, the calibration was successful).

þ Note: Media containing large gaps may require a change in the ‘Paper Out

Distance’ setting; see Section 4.1.2.

Calibration Hints:

In certain cases, the printer may have trouble differentiating between the label and liner. If the printer stops feeding in the middle of a label or if ‘Cannot

Calibrate’ is displayed, try calibrating over a longer distance:

•

Press and hold the FEED key to allow two gaps or marks to advance under the sensor.

If the printer continues to stop in the middle of a label, or if ‘Cannot Calibrate’ is displayed again:

•

Press and hold the FEED key to allow three or more gaps or marks to advance under the sensor.

If this method also fails, see Media Sensor Calibration, Section 5.0.

W-Class 17

3.5 Outputting Labels

In addition to directly outputting labels from the printer, there are several optional output configurations available.

3.5.1 Rewinding onto the Media Rewind Hub

With the Internal Rewind option, the printed labels and backing material can be wound directly onto the Media Rewind Hub. To rewind labels and backing:

Œ Load media as described in

Section 3.1.

• Remove the Tear Bar and install the Arc Plate.

Ž Remove the Media Retainer from the Media Rewind Hub.

• Press the FEED key and advance about 20 inches (51 cm) of media then guide it onto the Media Rewind Hub, as shown. Place the leading edge of the media into the Slot in the hub and rotate several times to secure.

• Slide the Media Retainer onto the hub so that it rests lightly against the edge of the media and tighten the Thumbscrew. Close the Access Cover.

18 W-Class

3.5.2

Rewinding onto a Core

With the Internal Rewind option, the printed labels and backing material can be wound directly onto Media Cores. To rewind labels and backing onto cores:

Œ Load media as described in Section 3.1.

• Remove the Tear Bar and install the Arc Plate; see pictorial, Section

3.5.1.

Ž If attached, remove the

Media Retainer from the

Media Rewind Hub.

• Position the Core Adapters to support, but not extend beyond the Media

Core. Tighten in the adapters in place with the Thumbscrews.

• Slide an empty Media Core over the Core Adapters.

‘ Guide the media onto the Media Rewind Hub as shown. Place the leading edge of the media into the Media Core and secure using tape.

’ Slide the Media Retainer onto the hub; position it just to the edge of the media and tighten the Thumbscrew. Close the Access Cover.

W-Class 19

3.5.3

On-Demand Dispensing

When equipped with the Peel and Present option, labels are dispensed then separated automatically from the liner for immediate application.

Œ Load media as described in Section 3.1.

• Remove the Tear Bar (see pictorial, Section 3.5.1) and attach the Peel

Mechanism to the printer using the Thumbscrews.

Ž Grasp the Release Tabs on the Peel Mechanism and pull to separate the Peel

Roller Bracket from the Fixed Bracket.

• Thread the media over the top of the Fixed Bracket, behind and under the

Peel Roller Bracket, then down to the Media Rewind Hub.

20 W-Class

• Place the leading edge of the media into the Slot in the hub. Rotate the hub several times to secure the media.

‘ Slide the Media Retainer onto the hub; position it just to the edge of the media and tighten the Thumbscrew.

’ Push the Peel Roller Bracket back to its closed position. Remove any slack in the media by rotating the Media Rewind Hub. Close the Access Cover.

+

For on-demand printing, ensure that the Present Sensor has been enabled; see Section 4.1.4.

W-Class 21

22 W-Class

Using the Front Panel

4.0 Operation

The front panel is comprised of three indicator lights, a Liquid Crystal Display and five mode-dependant keys. The selectable modes (Ready, Menu and Quick

Test) and the related functions of the keys are detailed below.

4.0.1

Ready Mode:

Normal Operation (Ready Light ‘On’)

Œ

The PAUSE key temporarily suspends printing.

Pressing it again will return the printer to normal operation.

•

The FEED key advances one label, and clears any corrected faults.

Pressing and holding cause the printer to perform a Quick Media Calibration; see Section 3.4.

Ž

The CANCEL key ‘pauses’ the printer and then prompts you for confirmation. If yes, the current job is cancelled. The printer remains paused.

Pressing and holding four seconds will reset the printer and clear temporary host settings (soft reset).

W-Class

•

The MENU key toggles between the Ready and

Menu Modes. In the Ready Mode, pressing and holding four seconds will change the display contrast.

•

The TEST key enters (or exits) the Quick Test

Menu.

23

4.0.2 Menu Mode:

Configuration (Ready Light ‘Flashing’)

Œ

The DOWN ARROW key scrolls to the previous menu item on the same menu level. It also decrements numerical values in most menu selections.

•

The UP ARROW key scrolls to the next menu item. It also increments numerical values in most menu selections.

Ž

The ENTER key selects the function, item or displayed value. It also moves between selections within multiple parameter fields.

•

The ESCAPE key moves to the previous menu level, and finally back to the Ready Mode.

24 W-Class

4.0.3

Quick Test Mode:

Print Test Labels

þ Note: The Quick Test Mode functions are disabled while processing data from communications interfaces until the Host Timeout value expires.

Œ

The DOWN ARROW key scrolls to the previous test function.

•

The UP ARROW key scrolls to the next test function.

Ž

The ENTER key will change the selected test label quantity of 2, 100, 1000, or 9999 (except the

‘Configuration Label’, quantity of one). Holding down the key scrolls quantities.

•

The ESCAPE key will exit the Quick Test Mode without printing.

•

The TEST key will print the selected test label at the selected quantity. During test label printing, this key also functions as a cancel key (the printer will prompt you for confirmation before cancellation occurs).

+

You can program a time delay between the printing of test labels using the ‘Print Test Rate’ feature; see Section 4.1.7.

W-Class 25

4.0.4

Indicator Lights

Œ

‘On’ indicates that the printer is powered ‘On’ and, after initialization, it indicates the Ready

Mode.

‘Slow Flashing’ indicates the Menu Mode.

‘Fast Flashing’ indicates data is being received and processed.

•

‘On’ indicates a ‘Paused’ condition.

Ž

‘Slow Flashing’ indicates a Warning.

‘Fast Flashing’ indicates a Fault.

4.0.5

LCD

Œ Liquid Crystal Display

The display provides several types of information:

•

Following a brief power-up sequence

(initialization), the ‘Ready’ message.

•

The time and date, if the printer has received it from one of the following: the host, the front panel setting, or the Time and Date option.

•

A label counter during a batch print job.

•

The Menu System when in the Menu Mode.

•

Any prompt, condition, downloading, warning, or fault message.

26 W-Class

4.0.6

Resetting the Printer

Depending upon the method used, there are three reset levels possible:

4.0.6.1

Soft Reset

To reset the printer and clear any temporary host settings:

With the printer ‘On’, press and hold the CANCEL key for approximately four seconds.

4.0.6.2

Level One Reset

To return the printer to the factory default settings or, if saved, to restore the

Factory Setting File:

Œ Turn ‘Off’ the printer.

• Press and hold the PAUSE and CANCEL keys while turning ‘On’ the printer; continue to depress the keys until the ‘SYSTEM RESET’ message flashes.

þ Note: This reset has the same effect as the System Settings / Set

Factory Defaults selection in the menu system. (See Section 4.1

for a listing of the factory default settings and Section 4.1.5 for information about the Factory Setting File.)

4.0.6.3

Level Two Reset

To return the printer to the factory default settings, and clear all the calibration and adjustment parameters:

Œ Turn ‘Off’ the printer.

• Press and hold the PAUSE, FEED, and CANCEL keys while turning ‘On’ the printer; continue to depress the keys until the ‘SYSTEM RESET’ message flashes.

þ Note: After executing a Level 2 Reset, the media calibration must be performed; see Section 5.0. A listing of the factory default settings can be found in Section 4.1.

W-Class 27

4.1 The Menu System

Printer operation can be controlled through the user interface, allowing the operator access to these six menu system branches:

•

Media Settings

•

Print Control

•

Printer Options

•

System Settings

•

Communications

•

Diagnostics

While in the menu system, the current selection will be indicated with the ‘*’ symbol next to the displayed item on the LCD, and selections designated with the ‘§’ symbol will require a printer reset before becoming effective. Changes made can be saved so that, in the event that power is lost or removed, the new settings will be retained. A reset will be automatically invoked when exiting the menu system and answering ‘Yes’ to the ‘Save Changes’ prompt.

The same functional commands from the host computer may, in some cases, override the printer’s menu settings. In addition, as a security feature for the prevention of accidental or unauthorized changes, the menu system has a password protection feature.

þ Note: In the following subsections, the factory default settings are denoted with the ‘²’ symbol. Selections denoted with the ‘

♦

’ symbol can only be changed through the menu system - all other selections can be overridden by host software commands. Consult the I & W Class

Programmer’s Manual for specific information.

28 W-Class

4.1.1

Entrance and Exit Prompts

With ‘Ready’ displayed on the LCD, press the

Mode.

key to enter the Menu

þ Note: While in the Menu Mode, the printer will stop processing new DPL

(or bitmapped) data.

MENU MODE

ENTER PASSWORD

0 0 0 0

KEEP HOST CHANGES?

ENTER = YES

SAVE CHANGES?

ENTER = YES

Depending upon the configuration of the printer, the following Entrance and Exit

Prompts may be displayed when accessing or leaving the Menu System.

You are attempting to enter the Menu Mode.

Security has been enabled and now the correct user-definable password is required for access the Menu Mode functions.

You are now entering the Menu Mode.

Existing Host commands have affected the configuration of the printer. Pressing

ENTER will save these changes; otherwise, the printer will revert to previously saved settings.

You are now exiting the Menu Mode, but have made changes to the printer’s settings.

Pressing ENTER will reconfigure your printer according to these changes; otherwise, the printer will revert to previously saved settings.

þ

Note: If changes have been made that require a reset, the printer will automatically invoke that reset.

W-Class 29

4.1.2

Media Settings

MEDIA TYPE

Selects the printing method.

DIRECT THERMAL

For use with heat sensitive media.

² THERMAL TRANSFER

For use with media requiring a ribbon to create an image.

SENSOR TYPE

²

GAP

CONTINUOUS

REFLECTIVE

Selects the top-of-form (TOF) sensing method for the media.

The printer recognizes the TOF by sensing gaps in the media.

No TOF sensing. The LABEL LENGTH setting determines the length.

The printer recognizes the TOF by sensing reflective (black) marks on the media.

LABEL LENGTH

² 04.00in (0-99.99)

MAXIMUM LABEL LENGTH

²

16.00in (0-99.99)

When the Sensor Type is set to Continuous, this value is used to determine the TOF.

Sets the maximum length between TOF marks (gap or reflective). If this limit is exceeded, a top of form fault is declared.

PAPER OUT DISTANCE

² 00.25in (0-99.99)

Sets the length of travel before an Out of

Stock condition is declared .

LABEL WIDTH

Sets the maximum limit for the printable surface width. Objects extending beyond this limit will not print; see Appendix C for the default values.

SENSOR CALIBRATION

♦ Adjusts the printer to sense your media.

PERFORM CALIBRATION

ADVANCED ENTRY

SENSOR LEVELS

SENSOR GAIN

The user follows steps to allow the printer to calculate the empty, gap (or mark), and paper values to set the media sensor.

The user directly inputs the best values to adjust the media sensor.

Sets threshold values for the media sensor parameters. Manual entry for paper, gap (or mark), and empty thresholds.

Observe A/D reading and set SENSOR

GAIN. Adjusts the sensitivity of the sensor for custom label stock.

30 W-Class

4.1.3 Print Control

+

Refer to Section 2.1.1 for detailed information on print quality controls.

HEAT

² 10 (0-30)

PRINT SPEED

FEED SPEED

REVERSE SPEED

ROW OFFSET

² 00.00in (0-99.99)

COLUMN OFFSET

² 00.00 in (0-99.99)

PRESENT DISTANCE

² 0.00 in (0-4.00)

Controls the ‘burn-time’ of the printhead.

This is the equivalent of Heat Setting on most label software programs.

Controls the rate of label movement during the printing process; see Appendix C.

Controls the rate of label movement between printing areas; see Appendix C.

Controls the rate of label movement during backup positioning for start of print, cutting or present distance; see Appendix C.

Shifts the vertical start of print position. This is the user setting for row adjustment.

Shifts the horizontal, left-justified start of print position to the right without shifting the

Label Width termination point to the right.

This is the user setting for Column Adjust.

Sets the label stop position past the start of print. When the next label format is received, the printer will automatically backfeed to the start position. If a quantity of more than one label is printed without a present sensor enabled, or if the present distance is set to zero, the printer will operate without reversing.

W-Class 31

Print Control (continued)

CUSTOM ADJUSTMENTS

♦ These factory adjustments independently

change the listed parameters to finely tune the printer and compensate for slight mechanical differences sometimes evident when multiple printers share label formats. In addition, each of the following adjustments has no factory default setting and restoring factory defaults will NOT affect these settings.

DARKNESS

XX (1-64)

Controls the printhead strobe time to finetune the HEAT setting.

ROW ADJUST

XXX DOTS (0-128)

Shifts the vertical start of print position upward in dots to fine-tune the ROW

OFFSET setting; see Appendix C.

COLUMN ADJUST

XXX DOTS (0-128)

Shifts both the horizontal start of print position and the LABEL WIDTH termination point to the right in dots to fine-tune the

COLUMN OFFSET setting; see Appendix C.

PRESENT ADJUST

XXX DOTS (0-128)

Adjusts the label stopping position in dots to fine-tune the PRESENT DISTANCE setting; see Appendix C.

32 W-Class

4.1.4 Printer Options

MODULES

PRINT DIRECTORY

PRINT FILE

FORMAT MODULE

DELETE FILE

PACK MODULE

PRESENT SENSOR

ENABLED

² DISABLED

NOT INSTALLED

Memory available for user storage of graphics, fonts and label formats. (The physical presence of the respective memory module must be detected to show the function selections for that module in the menu system.) See Appendix C for a listing of all possible modules.

Prints a label directory of selected, or of all available modules, the available space on these modules, the files present, and the type of module and files.

The user may select from a list of available files for sample printing.

The user may select from a list of available modules for formatting – all data will be erased.

The user may select from a list of available files for deleting (protected modules will not appear). Bytes will NOT be retrieved until the module that contained the deleted file is packed.

Packing the module removes files marked as deleted and defragments existing file structures to recover space.

Used for on-demand label dispensing, where a printed label blocking the sensor will inhibit further printing until removed. (The physical presence of the Present Sensor must be detected to show the ENABLE/DISABLE selections.)

Enables the sensor for on-demand printing.

Disables the sensor.

No sensor is detected.

W-Class 33

Printer Options (continued)

CUTTER

ENABLED

² DISABLED

NOT INSTALLED

GPIO PORT

GPIO

ENABLED

² DISABLED

END OF PRINT

² LOW PULSE

HIGH PULSE

ACTIVE LOW

ACTIVE HIGH

Used to cut media into separate labels. (The physical presence of a cutter must be detected to show the ENABLE/DISABLE selections.)

Enables label cutting.

Disables the cutter.

No cutter is detected.

Model dependant option used to interface the printer to an external controlling device (see

Appendix D).

Input control signal is required to print a label.

Enables external signal control.

Disables the GPIO.

Programmable signal output.

34 W-Class

4.1.5

System Settings

CONFIGURATION FILE

RESTORE AS CURRENT

SAVE SETTING AS

DELETE FILE

Options for storage and recall of printer configuration files. See Appendix F for details.

Provides a list of available configuration files. Selecting a file from the list causes a printer reset; afterward, the printer is configured according to the activated file.

Saves the entire effective configuration of the printer to a file. Unique names with up to nineteen characters are possible.

Provides a list of available configuration files. Files selected are immediately

removed, freeing the module.

þ

Note: A currently activated file cannot be deleted.

FACTORY SETTING FILE

Provides a list of available configuration files. The selected file will be restored whenever a Level 1 reset is performed; see

Section 4.0.6.2.

INTERNAL MODULE

² 1024 KB

Sets the number of 1K blocks allocated for the internal RAM ‘D’ module. Available memory dependent upon model; see

Appendix C.

DEFAULT MODULE

² D

Sets the default module used to store files when no other module is specified; see

Appendix C.

SCALEABLE FONT CACHE

² 312 KB

Sets the number of 1K blocks allocated for the scaleable font engine. Available memory dependent upon model; see Appendix C.

SINGLE BYTE SYMBOLS

Selects the code page used to print single byte fonts unless otherwise specified in

DPL.

² PC_850 MULTILINGUAL

61 selectable sets are standard; see the I &

W Class Programmer’s Manual for details.

W-Class 35

System Settings (continued)

DOUBLE BYTE SYMBOLS

When equipped with the ILPC option, this selects the code page used to print double byte fonts unless otherwise specified in

DPL; see the I & W Class Programmer’s

Manual for details.

JIS

Japanese Industry Standard

SHIFT JIS

Shift Japanese Industry Standard

EUC

Extended UNIX Code

² UNICODE

Unicode (including Korean)

GB

BIG 5

Government Bureau Industry Standard;

Chinese (PRC)

Taiwan encoded

TIME AND DATE

Allows the user to set Time and Date.

MEDIA COUNTERS

ABSOLUTE COUNTER

RESETTABLE COUNTER

RESET COUNTER

Internal record of inches printed and time of use.

Shows the number of inches printed since being set at the factory. Not resettable by the user.

The number of inches printed since the last reset. User may reset.

Resets the resettable counters to zero.

PRINT CONFIGURATION

Prints the effective configuration of the system. In addition, if settings were changed that require a reset to become effective, this

will be indicated with the ‘§’ symbol.

A ‘

•

’ symbol next to the printed item indicates that it was changed via the host but not saved in non-volatile memory.

36 W-Class


CONFIGURATION LEVEL

To upgrade the application program

(resident software) version of the printer, the hardware and software compatibility levels must match for the update to be accepted. This information is displayed here; it is also printed on a configuration label.

PRINTER KEY

Each printer has a unique KEY number in the following form: vvvv-wwxx-yyyyyy-zzz

Where: vvvv – represents the model number of the application loaded wwxx – represents the hardware/software feature level, where: ww – represents the hardware feature level of the main board.

xx – represents the software feature level.

The printer will accept software feature levels up to the ‘xx’ value. (This feature level requires Datamax authorization to upgrade.) yyyyyy – is a manufacturing date code zzz – is a unique time stamp

UPGRADE PRINTER

CODE

This function is used to upgrade the software feature level of the printer.

Datamax authorization is required.

W-Class 37


SET FACTORY DEFAULTS Parameters in this menu listing with the ‘²’

symbol are the designated defaults.

SET FACTORY DEFAULTS

Overwrite the current settings with the factory default settings or, if selected, will restore the Factory Setting File.

þ

Note: The reset will be automatic. If no

Factory Setting File is used, all menu settings will be restored except CUSTOM

ADJUSTMENTS, and the media and ribbon sensor calibrations.

FORMAT ATTRIBUTES

TRANSPARENT

² XOR

OPAQUE

IMAGING MODE

SINGLE LABEL

♦

² MULTIPLE LABEL

Affects the manner in which overlapping text and graphics are treated as the label is printed. Consult the I & W Class

Programmer’s Manual for details.

Intersecting text strings, images, and bar codes will not be printed. (An odd number of overlapping objects will print.)

Intersecting text strings, images, and bar codes print on top of one another.

Interacting text strings, images, and bar codes are obliterated by those formatted last. Each character cell is treated as opaque.

Instructs the printer whether to pre-image the label format.

þ

Note: This selection can affect the accuracy of time-stamped labels and label throughput.

The printer images multiple labels as memory permits, achieving the fastest throughput; however, if time-stamping, the time will reflect the moment the label is imaged rather than when actually printed.

The printer images the next label only after the previous label has been successfully printed. Single processing provides timestamps that are more accurate, but it slows label throughput time.

38 W-Class


PAUSE MODE

ENABLED

² DISABLED

SECURITY

♦

SELECT SECURITY

ENABLED

² DISABLED

MODIFY PASSWORD

UNITS OF MEASURE

METRIC

² IMPERIAL

SOP EMULATION

110 (PRODPLUS)

220 (ALLEGRO)

250 (PRODIGY)

² DISABLED

When enabled, Pause Mode suspends printing between each label until the

PAUSE key is pressed.

Printer requires operator to press the

PAUSE key after each label.

Printer completes label batch without pausing between labels.

Provides the user with the ability to password protect all printer settings made through the operator panel.

Enable or disable the menu system’s security feature.

Password protected.

No protection.

Modify the password required to access the menu system when security is enabled.

Selects the measurement system in which the system’s settings are represented in the menu system and on configuration labels.

Metric standard: Lengths in millimeters and

Counters in centimeters.

Inch standard: Lengths and Counters given in inches.

Enables the <STX>O and <STX>f print positioning commands to allow backward compatibility with label formats designed for other printers. (When changing these values, the printer will automatically feed two labels to setup the new print position.)

Emulates the Prodigy Plus

®

printer.

Emulates the Allegro

®

printer.

Emulates the Prodigy

™

printer.

No emulation, natural start of print position.

W-Class 39


BACK AFTER PRINT

ENABLED

² DISABLED

MENU LANGUAGE

² ENGLISH

FRENCH

ITALIAN

GERMAN

SPANISH

USER DEFINED

♦

When the present distance is set with the cutter, present sensor or GPIO option enabled, this setting determines the timing of the label back up.

Commands the printer to immediately back up the label after the cut operation, the

GPIO start of print signal is received, or the present sensor is clear. It provides the advantage of faster throughput.

The printer will not initiate repositioning until the next label is ready to print. May help prevent the curling of the label edge.

Selects the language in which the menu system messages and configuration label are shown. Only languages that are resident will be available.

English

French

Italian

German

Spanish

User defined, downloaded language(s).

40 W-Class

4.1.6 Communications

SERIAL PORT A

BAUD RATE

♦

Controls the communications settings for

Serial Port A.

Determines the serial communication rate.

38400

28800

19200

² 9600

4800

2400

1200

PROTOCOL

²

BOTH

SOFTWARE

HARDWARE

NONE

PARITY

38400 bits per second







Sets the data flow control (handshaking) method.

Uses both handshaking methods.

XON/XOFF

CTS/DTR

No flow control is used.

Sets Word parity

²

NONE

ODD

EVEN

DATA BITS

No parity

Odd parity

Even parity

Sets Word length

7

² 8

STOP BITS

Seven bit Word length

Eight bit Word length

Sets the number of stop bits

² 1

2

SERIAL PORT B

♦

PARALLEL PORT A

PORT DIRECTION

♦

² UNI-DIRECTIONAL

One stop bit

Two stop bits

Same as Serial Port A, for an optional connection. If not present, this displays

‘NOT INSTALLED’ when accessed.

Controls the communications settings for

Parallel Port A.

Determines if messages are sent from the printer to the host via the parallel port.

One-way printer communication.

BI-DIRECTIONAL

Enables IEEE 1284 back-channel operation.

W-Class 41

Communications (continued)

PARALLEL PORT B

♦

Same as Parallel Port A, for an optional

Ethernet connection. If not present, this displays ‘NOT INSTALLED’ when accessed.

þ Note: If the ‘LOCKED’ message appears when attempting to access the NIC

ADAPTER menu, the printer may have active print requests or multiple users may be trying to access these parameters (for example, during simultaneous telenet sessions).

NIC ADAPTER

♦

Network Interface Card Adapter (optional).

If not present, this displays ‘NOT

INSTALLED’ when accessed.

NIC Adapter firmware version

V3.6/5(010212) DM or later is required to support the described functionality or ‘NOT

INSTALLED’ is displayed.

After making changes to these parameters, save the changes, exit the menu system, and cycle the printer’s power ‘Off’ and ‘On’ for the changes to take effect.

IP ADDRESS

SUBNET MASK

DEFAULT GATEWAY

þ

Note: With the NIC Adapter installed, a boot process (taking up to two minutes, depending upon the configuration) must be completed before the printer recognizes the option as ‘installed’. During this time, the NIC Adapter will not be accessible or configurable; "NOT

INSTALLED" will be indicated when in the menu system or on a Configuration Label.

After the process, you will be able to configure the options provided using the menu system.

The static IP address of the NIC Adapter.

This is in standard dotted-decimal format.

The static subnet assigned to the NIC

Adapter.

The network gateway address the NIC

Adapter should use.

42 W-Class


PROTOCOL

IP

LAT

²

ENABLED

DISABLED

MOP

² ENABLED

DISABLED

APPLETALK

² ENABLED

DISABLED

The network protocols recognized by the

NIC Adapter.

This protocol is always supported.

Local Area Transport is a DEC VMS network protocol that requires a LAT license number.

Protocol is enabled by default.

Ignore LAT protocol. Select this option if

LAT is not needed.

Enables the DEC MOP protocol.

Ignore the MOP protocol. Select this option if MOP is not needed.

NETWARE

² ENABLED

DISABLED

LAN MANAGER

² ENABLED

DISABLED

The AppleTalk protocol is enabled by default.

Ignore the AppleTalk protocol. Select this option if AppleTalk is not needed.

Allow the printer to be driven from an NDS

Novell Print Queue.

Netware is enabled by default.

Ignore the Netware protocol. Select this option if Netware is not needed.

Enable DLC/LAN Manager protocol.

Ignore LAN Manager protocol.

W-Class 43


DISCOVERY

DHCP

²

ENABLED

DISABLED

BOOTP

² ENABLED

DISABLED

RARP

² ENABLED

DISABLED

This is the address discovery method used by the NIC Adapter if a static address is not utilized. If no server for any of the discovery methods is found, the static value specified above is used.

þ

Note: For faster NIC Adapter boot times, disable any discovery methods not used.

Dynamic Host Control Protocol.

Automatically assign IP address from a

DHCP Server.

DHCP is enabled by default.

WARNING! An IP Address assigned by a

DHCP has precedence over any static IP

Address stored in the NIC Adapter.

Disable DHCP.

þ

Note: Select this option to insure any static IP stored is used by the NIC Adapter.

A UNIX based automatic IP address assignment controlled by a BOOTP server.

BOOTP is enabled by default.

Disable BOOTP.

Reverse Address Resolution Protocol.

RARP is enabled by default.

Disable RARP. This should be selected if

RARP is not needed.

44 W-Class


HOST SETTINGS

HOST TIMEOUT ²10

SEC (1-60)

CONTROL CODES

♦

² STANDARD CODES

ALTERNATE CODES

ALTERNATE CODES 2

ALTERNATE CODES 3

FEEDBACK CHARACTERS

ENABLED

Settings which affect all communications with a host.

The number of seconds a communications port must be idle before the printer may process data from a different port. This value is also used to “timeout” an image / label format download.

Allows the operator to change the prefix of the software commands interpreted by the printer.

Hex 01 = SOH command; Hex 02 = STX command; count-by = ^; Hex 1B = ESC;

Hex 0x0D = Carriage Return

Hex 5E = SOH command; Hex 7E = STX command; count-by = @; Hex 1B = ESC;


Hex 5E = SOH command; Hex 7E = STX command; count-by = @; Hex 1B = ESC;

Hex 0x7C = Carriage Return

Hex 5E = SOH command; Hex 23 = STX command; count-by = @; Hex 1B = ESC;


Returns a Hex 1E, [RS], after each label successfully prints, and a Hex 1F, [US], after each batch of labels is printed.

Feedback characters are sent to the host.

² DISABLED

No feedback characters are sent.

ESC SEQUENCES

² ENABLED

DISABLED

Allows data containing invalid ESC control code sequences to be processed.

Normal printer operating mode.

ESC sequences are ignored and the data is processed. Bitmapped font downloads are disabled in this mode.

W-Class 45


HEAT COMMAND

² ENABLED

DISABLED

SPEED COMMANDS

²

ENABLED

DISABLED

Allows the user to disable the DPL Heat

Command, providing compatibility with other DATAMAX printers.


DPL Heat Commands are ignored. The heat value is controlled via the menu setting; see

Print Control, Section 4.1.3.

Allows the user to disable the DPL speed commands (Print, Feed, and Reverse).


DPL speed commands are ignored. The print, feed and reverse speeds are controlled via the menu setting; see Print Control,

Section 4.1.3.

46 W-Class

4.1.7

Diagnostics

HEX DUMP MODE

ENABLE

²

DISABLE

OPTIONS TESTING

TEST PRESENT SENSOR

TEST CUTTER

PERFORM TEST

1 TIME

MONITOR GPIO INPUT

TEST GPIO OUTPUTS

Most commonly used for troubleshooting.

Prints data and instructions received from the host rather than interpreting them as label formats; see Section 6.2.

Prints raw ASCII data received from the host rather than executing the commands.

Executes and prints label formats (normal operating mode).

Tests currently installed options

Performs a functional test of the Present

Sensor circuitry.

Performs a functional test of the optional cutter mechanism and circuitry.

The cutter will cycle 1, 10 or 100 times

(selectable). The results of each attempt will be displayed.

PRINT TEST RATE (MIN)

²

0 (0-120)

SENSOR READINGS

The number of minutes to delay between the printing of batches of labels in Quick

Test Mode.

Analog Sensor readings are displayed.

THR TRAN RIBM 24V à

255 255 255 255

ß PS HD RANK

255 255 255

RIBBON SENSOR LIMITS

RIBBON ADC LOW HIGH

070 164

Live sensor values are displayed. View can be toggled with forward and reverse keys. Maximum values are shown in this example: thermistor sensor, transmissive

(gap) media sensor (TRAN is replaced with REFL when the SENSOR TYPE is set to ‘reflective’), ribbon sensor, 24 volt power supply sensor.

Present sensor, head down sensor, printhead ranking resistor.

Displays ribbon sensor ADC low and high values used for motion detection.

Approximate default values are shown here (actual values will vary).

W-Class 47

4.2 Display Messages

The printer displays several different types of information (if not in the menu system or Quick Test Mode):

Ø User Prompts and Condition Messages (also see Section 4.1.1 for a listing of the Enter / Exit Prompts)

Ø Application and Boot Loader Updating Messages (see Section 5.3 and 5.4)

Ø Fault and Warning Messages (see Section 6.1)

4.2.1

User Prompts and Condition Messages

User Prompts alert the operator to a required action. Condition Messages are used to indicate an operational state.

User Prompts and Condition Messages

Displayed Message Description Condition(s)

The printer is trying to clear a fault condition.

Occurs when the FEED key is pressed after the correction of a fault.

A media calibration is being performed.

The FEED key was pressed and held.

The CANCEL or

TEST key was pressed during a batch job.

The current print batch will be cancelled if ENTER is pressed; the remaining labels will not be printed.

The printer is paused or offline.

The printer is in a paused condition.

Ready Mode.

Normal operating mode.

The printer is ready to receive and process label formats.

48 W-Class

User Prompts and Condition Messages (continued)

Displayed Message Description Condition(s)

A label is awaiting removal.

The Present Sensor option is enabled and a label blocks the sensor. Remove the label to continue printing.

Normal power-up and soft reset condition.

Follows the ‘SYSTEM

RESET IN PROGRESS’ message after a reset or power-up.

Normal power-up and soft reset condition.

Occurs when the user resets the printer via the host or

Front Panel.

The media calibration is not set.

Perform calibration; see

Section 5.0.

The print job is being processed.

Batch status indication, updated with each label printed.

W-Class 49

4.3 Quick Test Mode

This section explains the functions of the resident Quick Tests, accessible by pressing the key on the Front Panel.

þ Notes: (1) With the exception of the Configuration Label, all Quick Test labels require 4-inch (102mm) wide media to print the entire format. If using narrower media, change the Label Width setting (Section

4.1.2) to match your media’s width to avoid printing on the platen.

(2) During any Quick Test, press the key or the key to stop printing.

(3) Using the ‘Print Test Rate’ feature (Section 4.1.7), a time delay can be set for printing labels in Quick Test Mode.

4.3.1

Print Quality Label

The Print Quality Label provides an indication of overall print quality at a preselected heat and speed setting. This format consists of compliant bar codes in fence and ladder orientations, assorted font sizes, and graphic fill patterns. These can be used to ensure conformance, as well as aesthetics. To print a Print

Quality Label:

Œ Press the key.

• Use the key to scroll to ‘Print Quality Label’.

Ž Use the key to select a quantity; see Section 4.0.3.

• Press the key to start printing.

50 W-Class

4.3.2 Configuration Label

The Configuration Label provides valuable printer database information, as detailed in Section 4.1.

þ Note: The Configuration Label content can vary with the application version and printer model. To print all information, the media cannot be less than 2 inches wide (51mm) and the Label Width setting must match the media width (see Section 4.1.2).

Œ Press the key.

• Use the key and scroll to ‘Print Configuration’.

Ž Press the key to start printing.

W-Class 51

4.3.3

Quick Ribbon Test Label

The Quick Ribbon Test Label features a compliant picket-fence bar code that can be used to verify thermal transfer and print quality functions. To print a

Quick Ribbon Test Label:

Œ Press the key.

• Use the key to scroll to ‘Ribbon Test Label’.



52 W-Class

4.3.4

Dot Test Pattern Label

The Dot Test Pattern Label features patterns that exercise all of the thermal elements (dots) of the printhead. The resulting label (see examples below) can be an indication of the printhead’s condition. To print a Dot Test Pattern Label:

Œ Press the key.

• Use the key to scroll to ‘Dot Test Pattern’.



Good Test Pattern Label:

An even print pattern indicates that the printhead is operating correctly.

Faulty Test Pattern Label:

Streaking in the print pattern typically indicates a dirty printhead. In this case, see Section 5.2.1 for cleaning instructions.

W-Class 53

4.3.5

Validation Label

The Validation Label is another useful tool for evaluating overall print quality.

To generate a Validation Label:

Œ Press the key.

• Use the key to scroll to ‘Validation Label’.

Ž

Use the key to select a quantity; see Section 4.0.3.


4.3.6

User Defined Label

The User Defined Label reprints the last format printed (unless the printer was powered-off between the last printing and the request for this label). The format can be any of the Quick Tests, a label from the host, or a label recalled from a memory module.

54 W-Class

Adjusting and

Maintaining the Printer

5.0 Media Sensor Calibration

In addition to the Sensor Type selection, Media Sensor calibration ensures that each label is detected correctly and reliably. Perform calibration when the

‘Uncalibrated’ message is displayed. Two different methods are available to calibrate the printer: Standard and Advanced Entry.

5.0.1

Standard Calibration

Standard Calibration is appropriate for most media types. During the process, the printhead assembly can be raised for visual access to the media and media sensor. In addition, displayed sensor readings can be used to indicate the best position over the media, which is helpful when using small, position-critical

TOF notches or marks. Three readings are required:

•

Empty:

No media in the sensor.

•

Gap (or Mark): Only the backing, notch, or reflective mark in the sensor.

•

Paper:

The label (with the liner attached) in the sensor.

To perform a Standard Calibration:

Step Operator Action

1

2

(Media should be loaded and the appropriate

Sensor Type selected.)

Turn ‘On’ the printer.

Press the assembly.

key.

Raise the printhead

Displayed Message Comment

Wait until the printer initializes

(about six seconds).

You are entering

Menu Mode.

W-Class 55

Standard Calibration (continued)

Step

3

4

Operator Action

Press the key to enter the Media Settings menu.

Press the key and scroll to ‘Sensor

Calibration’.

5 Press the key.

Displayed Message

6

Press the key.

Remove the media from the Media Sensor then press any key.

Comment

See Section 4.1.2

for menu layout.

Press the

key to abort this procedure.

You are beginning the standard calibration procedure.

This sets the parameter for the

‘empty’ value.

Where ‘yyy’ is a numerical value representing the current sensor reading.

56 W-Class


Step

7

Operator Action

Proceed according to your media type:

Die-cut stock: strip the media from the backing and then reinsert it into the sensor; adjust the

Sensor Eye Mark over the center of the backing.

Notched stock: adjust the Sensor Eye Mark over the center of the notch.

Reflective stock: Adjust the Sensor Eye Mark over the center of the facedown black mark.

Continuous stock: go to


Or, for reflective media:

Comment

This sets the parameter for the

‘gap’ or ‘mark’ value.

Where ‘yyy’ is a numerical value representing the current sensor reading: useful in locating the best sensor position.

þ Note: Never position the sensor over a perforation when recording a sensor reading.

Step 8.

Press any key to continue.

þ Note: Do not move the position of the Media Sensor after it has been adjusted.

8 Position the label (and This sets the backing, if any) under the Sensor Eye Mark.

þ Note: If using preprinted media, ensure the label area parameter for the

‘paper’ value.

Where ‘yyy’ is a numerical value representing the under the sensor is free of preprinted text, current sensor graphics or borders.

Press any key to reading.

continue.

W-Class 57


Step

9

Operator Action

Observe the display.



Or, for continuous media:

Comment

The calibration was successful.

See note below if another message was displayed.

10 Exit upon successful calibration: Back out of the menu tree by repeatedly pressing the key.

If using gap or reflective media, press and hold the FEED key. The

The printer is now ready to begin printing.

If this calibration was not successful, go to Section 5.0.2.

printer will begin advancing media; allow at least one label gap (or mark) to advance under the sensor.

þ

Note: A ‘Warning Low Backing’ message indicates that the calibration was successful with notched media or media on a transparent liner; see

Section 6.1 for details on this and other possible messages.

58 W-Class

5.0.2

Advanced Entry Calibration

Advanced Entry Calibration is the alternate method for special-case media types. The procedure has two parts:

1) You must list the sensor readings for the label and TOF values using different algorithms.

2) From your list the best algorithm is chosen, new readings taken and those values entered.

+

Advanced Entry Calibration will override all previous calibration settings; this method should be used only when Standard Calibration has failed.

To perform an Advanced Entry Calibration:

Step

1

Operator Action

(Media should be loaded and the appropriate


Sensor Type selected.)

Turn ‘On’ the printer.

2

3

Press the key.

Raise the printhead assembly.

Press the key to enter the Media Settings

4 menu.

Press the key and scroll to ‘Sensor

Calibration’.

5 Press the key.

Comment

Wait until the printer initializes

(about six seconds).

You are entering

Menu Mode.

See Section 4.1.2

for menu layout.

Press the


You are entering the calibration submenu.

W-Class 59

Advanced Entry Calibration (continued)

Step

6

7

8

9

Operator Action

Press the key to scroll to ‘Advanced

Entry’.

Press the key.

Press the

Press the key.

Place the label under the

Sensor Eye Mark and lower the printhead assembly.

key.


-OR-

10 Press the key to select the setting

(denoted by an ‘*’) and then record the sensor reading (the ‘yyy’ value) in a table similar to the one shown after Step 12, as a Label Value.

Next, press the key to increment the

Gain Number.

Repeat this step for each of the Gain Numbers

(00-32).

-OR-

Comment

You are entering

Advanced Entry

Calibration.

Press the


You are beginning the Advanced

Entry Calibration.

If using preprinted media, ensure the label area under the sensor is free of preprinted text, graphics or borders.

Where ‘yyy’ is a numerical value representing the current sensor reading: useful in locating the best sensor position.


60 W-Class


Step

11

Operator Action

Proceed according to your media type:

Die-cut stock: strip the media from the backing and then reinsert it into the sensor; adjust the

Sensor Eye Mark over the center of the backing.

Notched stock: adjust the Sensor Eye Mark over the center of the notch.

Reflective stock: Adjust the Sensor Eye Mark over the center of the facedown black mark.

Press the key to select the setting and then record the sensor reading in a table similar to the one shown after

Step 12, as a TOF

Value.

Next, press the key to increment the

Gain Number.

Repeat for each of the

Gain Numbers (00-32).


Or, for reflective media: representing the current sensor reading: useful in locating the best sensor position.


Comment

Where ‘yyy’ is a numerical value

þ Note: Do not move the position of the Media Sensor after it has been adjusted.

W-Class 61


Step

12

Operator Action

From the data collected in

Steps 10 and 11, where both the sensor readings are above 20, subtract each

Label Value from the corresponding TOF Value.

These are the Difference

Values.

From the resulting list, find the largest Difference

Value (see example below).

Its associated Gain Number will provide the best algorithm for your media.



Comment

Both sensor

readings must be above 20.

For example, if your compiled data had the values shown in this table, Gain Number 8 would be chosen because it has the highest Difference

Value (146) where both the Label Value and the TOF Value are above 20.

Gain

Number

00

01

02

10

11

12

…

31

32

07

08

09

03

04

05

06

Label

Value

255

251

241

156

146

136

…

116

112

231

219

212

200

189

178

167

TOF

Value

254

240

213

…

14

14

17

16

15

182

150

119

88

58

32

19

Difference

Value

1

11

28

N/A

N/A

N/A

…

N/A

N/A

49

69

93

112

131

146

N/A

62 W-Class


Step

13

Operator Action

Using the key, select the Gain Number determined in Step 12.

Press the key to select the setting.



Comment

Selection is denoted with an

‘*’.

14

15

Œ Place the media in the

Media Sensor. Record the sensor reading and label it ‘P’ (paper).

• Place the backing, mark, or notch in the Media

Sensor. Record the sensor reading and label it ‘G’ or ‘M’ (Gap or

Mark).

Ž Remove all media.

Record the sensor reading and label it ‘E’

(Empty).

Press the key.

Then press the key.


Where ‘yyy’ is a numerical value representing the current sensor reading.

The sensor readings must be manually entered into the printer now.

W-Class 63


Step

16

Operator Action

Press the key.

Using the or the key, set the

‘Paper’ level to the value determined in the previous step. Press the key to set the entry (indicated by the ‘*’) and advance the menu.

Repeat for the ‘Gap’ (or

‘Mark’) and ‘Empty’ levels.


â

â


â

â

Comment

The selection will flash and the display heading will change to indicate the item for entry.

17 After all entries have been made, press the key to back out of the menu

From ‘Ready’, press the FEED key to advance and then press the key to save the settings and to the next label

TOF.

return to the Ready Mode.

þ Note: If the Advanced Entry Calibration fails, try the following procedure.

Re-enter Media Settings / Calibration / Advanced Entry / Sensor Gain and lower the selected Gain Setting number by one (to make the sensor less sensitive). Select the new Gain Setting, save the changes, exit the menu, and then test your media. Repeat the procedure until a usable media setting is obtained.

64 W-Class

5.1 Printhead Adjustments

To ensure consistent print quality over a wide range of media types and dimensions, the printer is equipped with two adjustments: Leveling Cam and

Pressure.

5.1.1

Leveling Cam Adjustment

The printer features a Leveling Cam to maintain even print whenever using less than full width media. Use the Cam Setting Numbers for reference (they do not correspond to specific widths), where position one is the highest setting, while position nine is the lowest. To adjust the Leveling Cam:

Œ With media loaded in the printer, download your label format (or use a

Quick Test format) and begin batch printing.

• While observing the printed labels, rotate the Leveling Cam counterclockwise to an over-adjusted position (see Example 1).

Ž

Next, rotate the Leveling Cam clockwise, one click at a time, until the printed labels contain a complete, even image (see Example 2).

+

Whenever using labels of a different width, readjust the Leveling Cam.

W-Class 65

Example 1 – Over adjustment:

Too much adjustment produces an image that fades across the label. To correct this, decrease the setting of the Printhead

Leveling Cam.

Example 2 – Correct adjustment:

When properly adjusted, a complete image with even print contrast across the label is produced (see note below).

þ Note: Under-adjustment of the Leveling Cam: Problems can include ribbon wrinkling, label tracking, and platen roller and printhead wear.

5.1.2

Pressure Adjustment

To accommodate a variety of media types, the printhead pressure is adjustable. The printer arrives factory-set for most media types, so this adjustment should be made only after attempting to improve print quality through heat and print speed changes (see Section 2.1.1).

If making this adjustment, only use the minimum pressure necessary for image improvement. To increase pressure, turn the

Adjustment Screws clockwise; to decrease pressure, turn the screws counterclockwise. In addition, the

Adjustment Screws should be turned equally to maintain even pressure distribution.

þ Note: Excessive pressure can reduce the service life of the printhead and platen roller.

Contact Datamax Technical Support with any questions regarding this procedure.

66 W-Class

5.2 Maintenance Schedule

The following list and table detail the recommended items, techniques and schedules to help you safely and effectively clean the printer.

•

Isopropyl alcohol

•

Cotton swabs

•

A clean, lint-free cloth

•

Soft-bristle brush

•

Soapy water / mild detergent

•

Compressed air

CAUTION

For your safety and to avoid damaging the printer, turn ‘Off’ and unplug the printer before cleaning; and take proper precautions when using isopropyl alcohol, a flammable liquid.

Area

Recommended Cleaning Schedule

Method

Printhead Using a cotton swab dampened with isopropyl alcohol, clean the printhead from end to end, removing all build-up. See Section 5.2.1.

WARNING!

Before cleaning, allow time for the printhead to cool.

Interval

Clean after each roll or box of labels, or after each roll of ribbon.

Platen

Roller

Media

Path / Tear

Plate

Using a cotton swab dampened with isopropyl alcohol, rotate the platen and remove all buildup. See Section 5.2.2.

Clean after each roll or box of labels, or after each roll of ribbon.

Compressed air / soft-bristle brush and isopropyl alcohol. Remove all build-up along the path that the ribbon and paper follow through the printer.

As needed, based on a weekly visual inspection.

Compressed air. If needed, a swab dampened with isopropyl alcohol. Remove all build-up.

Monthly or as needed.

Media

Sensor

Interior Soft-brush or compressed air. Remove all buildup. See Section 5.2.3.

As needed.

Exterior Mild detergent. Remove all build-up. See

Section 5.2.3.

As needed.

Cutter Refer to the documentation supplied with the option.

As directed.

W-Class 67

5.2.1

Cleaning the Printhead

If print quality begins to decline, the typical cause is a dirty printhead. Possible symptoms include non-compliant barcodes, dropouts, streaking and smudging.

If this debris is not removed, it may greatly reduce the life of the printhead. To clean the printhead:

Œ Turn ‘Off’ and unplug the printer. Open the access cover. Unlock the

Printhead Latch and raise the Printhead Assembly. (Move media and ribbon away as necessary.)

• Using a cotton swab moistened, not soaked, with isopropyl alcohol gently wipe away any build-up on the Printhead surface, paying close attention to the Burn Line. Allow the printhead to dry.

Ž Re-install ribbon and media, if removed. Lower the Printhead Assembly and lock the Printhead Latch.

• Close the cover. Plug in and turn ‘On’ the printer. Feed several labels to normalize tracking.

CAUTION

NEVER use a sharp object to clean the Printhead.

68 W-Class

5.2.2

Cleaning the Platen Roller

A platen roller contaminated with grit, label adhesive, or ink can cause a decline in print quality and, in extreme cases, cause labels to stick and wrap around the roller. To clean the platen roller:

Œ Turn ‘Off’ and unplug the printer. Open the access cover. Remove the Tear-Bar,

Arc Plate or peel mechanism, if attached.

• Unlock the Printhead Latch, raise the Printhead Assembly and remove media.

Ž Using a clean, lint-free cloth dampened with isopropyl alcohol wipe the Platen Roller clean. Manually rotate the roller to clean the entire surface. Allow the roller to dry.

• Replace the Tear-Bar, Arc Plate or peel mechanism, and replace the media.

• Lower the Printhead Assembly and lock the Printhead Latch. Close the access cover. Plug in and turn ‘On’ the printer. Feed several labels to normalize tracking.

CAUTION

NEVER use a sharp object to clean the Platen Roller.

W-Class 69

5.2.3

Cleaning Interior and Exterior Surfaces

Interior Surfaces: During operation, dust particles from the media build-up inside the printer. Then, as the media is pulled through the printer, the particles can become attached and cause voids on the printed labels. To prevent this, turn

‘Off’ and unplug the printer. Remove all media. Using a soft bristle brush or compressed air, clean out the interior of the printer.

Exterior Surfaces: The outer surfaces of the printer should be cleaned using a general-purpose cleanser. Never use abrasive cleansers or solvents. To clean, turn ‘Off’ and unplug the printer. Using a soft cloth or sponge dampened with the cleanser, wipe the exterior surfaces until clean.

5.3 Application Program Updates

The printer stores its application program in Flash memory on the Main PCB. A feature is included that allows updates to this program version through any printer interface port. Updates can be found at ftp://ftp.datamaxcorp.com

.

There are two modes in which the firmware of the printer can be updated: (1) the Ready Mode, or (2) the Download Mode. Before beginning an update, identify the current version of the printer’s application program by printing a

Configuration Label (see Section 4.3.2). Compare that version string to those filenames available from our FTP site and then download the desired file onto your computer’s hard drive.

Proceed with the printer update accordingly:

Ÿ If the current application version is 2.091 or greater, refer to Section 5.3.1

or Section 5.3.2.

Ÿ If the current application version is 2.08 or earlier, refer to Section 5.3.2.

WARNING

Should an error occur during the download (see Section 5.3.3), the update is aborted. If this process did not reach ‘Erasing Flash’ or ‘Updating Software’, the previous program is left intact; otherwise, a successful download must be completed before the printer is operable.

þ Note: Users desiring a foreign language menu: After updating from 2.xx to

3.xx firmware for the first time, you must also download the EFIGS menu language file. Go to the EFIGS ftp directory and copy

832296.01C (or most current version) to lpt1: /b (the DOS Copy command requires the /b parameter because this file contains binary code).

70 W-Class

5.3.1

Updating from the Ready Mode

Update Procedure for Application Version 2.091 or greater

Step Displayed Message Operator Action

1

Comment(s)

Using the DOS copy command

(where ‘filename’ is the program to be loaded and ‘lpt1’ is the selected interface port), enter the following:

As an example, this would be entered as: copy 4212tb

~

1.zs lpt1

(Where ‘lpt1’ is the host computer’s port; however, this selection can differ to include a serial or other port, as the printer is equipped.) copy filename lpt1:

The Ready Indicator will flash as data is received.

2

No action required.

The new application program is being stored and verified.

3

4

No action required.

The printer has reset automatically and is now displaying the new firmware version.

No action required.

The new application is now running.

þ Note: If ‘Uncalibrated’ is displayed, the printer must be calibrated (see Section

5.0).

W-Class 71

5.3.2 Updating from the Download Mode

Required Update Procedure for Application Version 2.08 or earlier*

Step Displayed Message Operator Action

1

Comment(s)

Press and hold the

PAUSE and TEST keys while turning

‘On’ the printer to enter the Download

Mode.

The Boot Loader version is displayed.

þ Note: This information will vary with the printer model and Boot Loader version.

2

Using the DOS copy command, copy the filename to the printer (for an example see

‘Comment’ Step 1 in Section 5.3.1).

The printer is ready to accept the new application version.

þ Note: The parallel port

(LPT1) must be used to write to the printer.

3

No action required. The printer is receiving the new image (program).

4

No action required. The program has been received and verified; now memory is being cleared of the previous application.

5

No action required. The new program is being written into Flash memory. Upon completion, the printer will automatically reset and start the new application.

þ Note: If ‘Uncalibrated’ is displayed, the printer must be calibrated (see

Section 5.0).

*This can also be used as an alternate download method for all other version levels.

72 W-Class

5.3.3

Possible Problems during an Update

The following is list of possible error messages when downloading:

þ

Note: If experiencing trouble when attempting to download the file to the printer, try the following alternate methods:

1) Use the Download Mode (see Section 5.3.2).

2) Windows



users – try restarting the computer in MS-DOS mode.

3) Use the Datamax Driver by Seagull Scientific™ – Device Setting /

Send File to Printer function.

Application Update Error Messages

Displayed Message Descriptions / Causes / Solutions

The printer detected an error during the decompression and transfer of file data from cache storage into the Flash memory. Confirm the version and retry in Download Mode; however, if the problem continues call for service.

The printer could not successfully erase Flash memory. The possible cause is defective Flash memory. Try the download again; however, if the problem continues call for service.

The printer could not successfully write the program into Flash memory. A possible cause is defective Flash memory. Try the download again; however, if the problem continues call for service.

Application Firmware downloaded was not compatible with the printer’s Main PCB. The firmware used was for a different class model and not supported by this boot loader version. See

Configuration Level, Section 4.1.5.

The printer detected an error in the download. The possible causes include:

•

An invalid or corrupted file was downloading.

Try saving the file to the host and then download again.

•

A communications error. Recheck cabling and port setting.

Software level not authorized for this printer (See

Section 4.1.5, Configuration Level / Printer Key.)

W-Class 73

5.4 Boot Loader Program Updates

The printer stores the Boot Loader Program in Flash memory on the Main PCB.

A feature allows updates to this program via the printer’s interface port. Updates can be found at

ftp://ftp.datamaxcorp.com

.

WARNING

If power is lost while ‘Upgrading Software’ is displayed, the printer will become non-functional and must be returned to the factory for programming or the main logic board must be replaced.

þ Note: Only printers with an Application Version of 2.09 or greater can update the Boot Loader Program.

Before beginning the Boot Loader update, identify the printer’s current version.

Print a Configuration Label (see Section 4.3.2) and compare that version string to those available from our FTP site. Download the desired version onto your computer’s hard drive. To update the Boot Loader Program:

Boot Loader Update Procedure

Step Displayed Message Operator Action Comment(s)

1

Using the DOS copy command

(where ‘filename’ is the program to be loaded and

‘lpt1’ is the selected interface port), enter the following: copy filename lpt1:

As an example, this would be entered as: copy boottb

~

1.bs lpt1

(Where ‘lpt1’ is the host computer’s output port; however, your selection can differ to include a serial or other port, as the printer is equipped.)

The Ready Indicator will flash as data is received.

2

No action required. The new program is being stored and verified.

3

4

No action required. The printer has reset automatically.

No action required.

The new application is now running.

þ Note: If ‘Uncalibrated’ is displayed, the printer must be calibrated (see Section

5.0).

74 W-Class

Troubleshooting

6.0 Problem Resolution

Should a problem arise, the information in this section will help you resolve it.

The following table lists problems that will not necessarily generate an error message. (For information on displayed messages, see Section 6.1.)

+

If you have questions, or if problems persist, contact a qualified technician or Datamax Technical Support.

If experiencing this problem…

Cannot communicate through

Try this solution…

Observe the Ready Indicator as the format is the parallel port: sent to the printer. If it does not flash, check the parallel cable type. Also check the protocol and port settings of the printer and host.

Cannot load media through the optional cutter:

WARNING! Use extreme care: Turn ‘Off’ and unplug the printer before proceeding.

Ensure that the cutter and cutter cable are properly installed. Plug in and turn ‘On’ the printer. If the problem continues, call for service.

The LCD is blank, but the

Ready Indicator is ‘On’:

Erratic feeding:

Erratic printing (instead of the label format, strange characters are printed):

The display contrast may set too low. Press and hold the MENU key for 10 seconds or until the display reappears.

The printer may require a Quick Media

Calibration; see Section 3.4.

•

The printer may be in Hex Dump Mode; see Section 6.2.

•

If using the serial port for communicating, check both the host and printer port settings; the printer may be set to eight data bits while the host is set to 7 (or vice versa).

W-Class 75


Intellifont



will not print:


Intellifont



format is Little/Big Endian specific. The printer uses Big Endian. Refer to your font supplier for information.

Light print on the right side

(facing the printer) of the label:

•

•

The Leveling Cam may be incorrectly adjusted; see Section 5.1.1.

The Platen Roller may be dirty or worn; see Section 5.2.2.

Missing information in the printed label:

•

Check the label format for character placement outside the dimensions of the label; all row/column values must allow enough space for the height/length of the characters and bar codes to be printed within the format size.

•

The available memory may have been exceeded by the memory requirement of the label format. Try reducing the memory allocated to either the internal module or scaleable font caches; see System Settings

/ Memory Settings, Section 4.1.5.

•

If using serial communications, ensure that the interface cable meets the requirements found in Section 3.0.1.

Missing print on left or right side of the label:

Information may be formatted outside the label dimensions. Check your software program label size or check the values in the menu for Print Control / Column Offset and

Print Control / Custom Adjustments /

Column Offset; see Section 4.1.3.

76 W-Class


No power (all indicator lights are ‘Off”):


•

Verify that the AC power cord connection has been made at both the outlet and the printer; also, ensure the power switch is

‘On’.

•

Verify that the AC outlet is functioning, or try moving the printer to another AC circuit.

•

The AC cord may be damaged; replace it.

•

The line fuse may be blown; call for service.

Nothing is printing (labels advance normally, but no image is printed):

Examine the used ribbon for an image:

If there is an image on the used ribbon:

Ÿ Verify that the ribbon was properly loaded per Section 3.3.

Ÿ If properly loaded, the wrong coating configuration was used. (To verify the inked side, press the adhesive backing of a label against the ribbon surface. Ink will only lift from the coated side of the ribbon.) Clean the printhead (see Section

5.2.1); then replace the ribbon with the correct type for the printer, Section 7.1.

If there is no image on the used ribbon:

•

Run any Quick Test Label; see Section 4.3.

If an image printed, then check the protocol and port settings for both the printer and host. These must match.

•

The heat setting may be too low. Make an adjustment in the software program or through the Front Panel. (The same functional commands from the host computer may override the menu settings; see Section 4.1.6.)

•

The media/ribbon combination may be incorrect. Contact a Media Representative.

•

Call for service.

W-Class 77


Nothing happens when trying to print using a software program:

Poor print quality:

Skips labels when printing:


•

Ensure that the printer is at READY.

•

Observe the Front Panel, if the READY light does not flash as you send the format check the protocol and port settings between the printer and host.

•

Ensure the interface cable meets the requirements found in Section 3.0.1.

•

The printhead may need cleaning; see

Section 5.2.1. (If streaks remain after the printhead is cleaned, the printhead may require replacement; call for service.)

•

Adjust the Heat and Print Speed settings through the Front Panel or by host commands; see Section 4.1.3. (The same functional commands from the host computer may override the menu settings; see Section 4.1.6.)

•

The media/ribbon combination may not be compatible; see Section 2.1.

•

The Printhead Leveling Cam may be incorrectly adjusted; see Section 5.1.1.

•

The Platen Roller may be dirty or worn; see Section 5.2.2.

•

Quick Media Calibration may be needed; see Section 3.4.

•

The Media Sensor may be out of position; readjust the position; see Section 3.2.

•

The format may be within 1/8 inch of the label’s edge. Try reducing or moving the format slightly.

Unable to print rotated text: The characters may be formatted outside the label dimensions. Ensure the row/column values provide enough room for the height of the characters or bar code to be printed. See the I & W Class Programmer’s Manual for details.

78 W-Class

6.1 Fault and Warning Messages

All printer functions are internally monitored. If a problem (Fault) or a potential problem (Warning) is detected, the Error Indicator (see Section 4.0.4) will be illuminated. A corresponding message will be displayed (if not within a branch of the menu system or in Quick Test Mode). These messages, along with possible solutions, are described below.

Fault Messages:

Fault Messages receive the highest display priority. If more than one fault is detected the display will cycle between messages.

þ Note: To return to normal operation after the printer enters a fault condition, the fault must be corrected and then the FEED key must be pressed to clear the condition.


Printer Fault Messages

Description Possible Solution(s)

The printer has detected a drop in the 24-volt power supply.

Try cycling the printer power

‘Off’ and ‘On’. If the fault does not clear, call for service.

The printer has detected an analog to digital circuit converter failure.



The printer has detected a cutter mechanism fault.

WARNING! Use extreme care: Turn ‘Off’ and unplug the printer before proceeding.

Examine the cutter for obstructions and ensure that the cutter cable is properly installed.

Plug in and turn ‘On’ the printer. If the fault does not clear, call for service.

W-Class 79

Printer Fault Messages (continued)

Displayed Message Description Possible Solution(s)

The printer has detected a Direct

Memory Access failure.

Consistently low sensor readings were detected.

Consistently high sensor readings were detected.

The printer cannot detect media.




Ensure that media was inserted in the media sensor during the appropriate calibration step; also ensure that the sensor is free of debris. Retry the calibration.

If the problem persists, try the

‘Advanced Entry

Calibration’; see Section

5.0.2.


Ensure that media was removed from the media sensor during the appropriate calibration steps; also ensure that no labels are stuck in the media sensor. Retry the calibration. If the problem persists, call for service.

Try the following:

1) Load media.

2) Ensure that the labels are passing through the Media

Sensor.

3) Readjust the Media Sensor over the TOF mark; see

Section 3.2.

4) If using media with large gaps, adjust the Paper Out

Distance; see Section 4.1.2.

5) Calibrate the printer; see

Section 5.0.

80 W-Class



Two possible causes:

Depending upon the cause:

(1) The printer was powered-off or reset during a ribbon, out of stock or TOF fault; or (2) the printer was unable to complete the Media

Calibration.

(1) Press the FEED key in an attempt to identify and then clear the related fault condition; or (2) if necessary, calibrate the printer; see

Section 5.1.

The printer has detected a problem within the print logic.



The system has detected a RAM failure.

Consistently low sensor readings were detected.




Ensure that the reflective mark was inserted facedown in the media sensor during the appropriate calibration step; also, ensure that the reflective mark is made of carbon based ink, and that the sensor is free of debris. Retry calibration. If the problem persists, try an ‘Advanced

Entry Calibration’; see

Section 5.0.2.

W-Class 81



Description

Consistently high sensor readings were detected.

Possible Solution(s)


Ensure that media was removed from the media sensor during the appropriate calibration steps; also ensure that no labels are stuck in the media sensor. Retry the calibration. If the problem persists, call for service.

Try the following: The ribbon sensor values have changed, or the printer detects no or only sporadic ribbon supply hub movement.

1) Ensure that ribbon is correctly loaded and that the printhead assembly is latched.

2) Check the ribbon supply and ribbon take up hubs for obstructions that may be stopping movement.

3) Ensure that the ribbon core fits snugly on the ribbon supply hub.

4) Ensure that the media and paper combination is not slipping (usually caused by an incorrect match).

The printer has shutdown to allow the printhead temperature to cool.

Turn ‘Off’ the printer until cool to prevent permanent damage due to an excessive printhead temperature.

82 W-Class



The printer could not find the TOF mark within the maximum label length setting or it found a TOF in an unexpected place.

þ Note: When the printer is set for reflective media, this indication is given for an out of stock condition.

If media is moving:

1) Press the FEED key. It may be necessary to re-calibrate the printer; see Section 5.0.

2) The Media Sensor may be out of position. Readjust it; see Section 3.2.

3) The media may not be properly loaded. Reload media, also ensure that the

Media Guide is positioned properly; see Section 3.1.

4) The Leveling Cam may be improperly adjusted; see

Section 5.1.1.

5) The label may be longer than the default value for maximum length. Check the Media Settings /

Maximum Label Length; see Section 4.1.2.

6) The Media Sensor may be obstructed. Check and carefully remove any obstruction (labels, paper dust, adhesive, etc).

If media is not moving:

The printhead assembly may not be latched; close and lock.

W-Class 83

Warning Messages:

Warning Messages are displayed for a period of five seconds. If multiple warnings are detected, the display will reflect the highest priority message.


Printer Warning Messages

Description

The printer has detected defective printhead elements.

The printer measured only a small difference between the ‘empty’ and ‘gap’ sensor readings.

Power has been removed and shutdown is in progress.

Action(s)

Replace the printhead if the print quality becomes unacceptable.

Transparent backing or notched media typically gives this indication. In this case, there may be a slight delay in the ‘Out of Stock’ indication, after the media supply is emptied; no action is required.

The printer power switch was turned ‘Off’, the line fuse has blown, or AC line voltage has been lost.

The host has pending configuration changes that will not take effect until a

‘host reset command’ is issued.

To save changes send a host reset command (in DPL); or to discard changes perform a soft reset, see Section

4.0.6.1.

The printer has detected a low operating voltage.

Possible low or fluctuating line voltage level. Try moving the printer to another outlet. If the condition persists, call for service.

The printer was unable to save settings in permanent memory.

Possible faulty Main PCB.

If the condition persists, call for service.

A high printhead temperature has been detected.

No action required.

84 W-Class

6.2 Hex Dump Mode

The Hex Dump Mode is a useful tool for diagnosing problems, including communication and DPL



syntax errors, allowing a comparison of input strings

(sent by host) to output data (received by printer). To decode this information, the I & W Class Programmer’s Manual is an essential reference. This output can be used for debugging the label format. In addition, by repeatedly sending a format, this mode can uncover handshaking problems (if they exist).

Handshaking problems are identified by sections of missing data in the character string.

To begin, go to the Diagnostics menu and enable Hex Dump Mode; see Section

4.1.7. Exit the menu and save the changes. Now, ‘HEX DUMP MODE’ will be indicated by the display and all data sent to the printer will now be output in hexadecimal code, along with the printable ASCII equivalents.

The figure below is a sample Hex Dump Label. After sending a label format to the printer, the hex code output will be immediate. As a final note, many software programs use bit mapping to construct the label, making diagnosis difficult. Contact Datamax Technical Support with any questions.

þ Note: To return to Ready Mode, re-enter the Diagnostics Menu and disable the Hex Dump Mode, exit the menu, then save the changes.

W-Class 85

86 W-Class

Printer Specifications

7.0 General Specifications

Bar Codes

(See the I &W Class Programmer’s Manual for programming details; and see

Appendix B for visual samples.)

Code 39, Interleaved 2 of 5, Code 128 (subsets A, B and C), Codabar,

LOGMARS, UPC-A, UPC-E, UPC 2 & 5 digit addendums, EAN-8, EAN-13,

EAN 2 & 5 digit addendums, UPC Random Weight, Code 93, Plessey,

Universal Shipping Container Symbology, Code 128 MOD 43, Postnet,

USS/EAN-128 Random Weight, Telepen, USD-8 (Code 11), UPS MaxiCode

(modes 2 & 3), PDF417, Data Matrix, QR Code, Aztec, and MicroPDF417.

Fonts

9 Bit-Mapped Fonts, rotatable 0, 90, 180, 270 degrees

CG Triumvirate



Scalable Font

CG Triumvirate



Condensed Bold Scalable Font

Communications

Interfaces:

Serial Data Rates:

Handshaking:

Parity:

Stop Bits:

Data Bits:

EIA RS-232/DB-25 Serial, and

IEEE 1284 Compliant Parallel

1200, 2400, 4800, 9600, 19.2K, and 38.4K baud

Xon/Xoff; CTS/DTR

Even, Odd, or None

1 or 2

7 or 8

W-Class 87

Electrical

Input Voltage:

Grounding:

90 – 132 or 180 – 264 VAC @ 47–63 Hz, autoranging.

Unit must be connected to a properly grounded receptacle.

Power Consumption –

Typical Operating /

Standby:

127 Watts / 21 Watts W-6208

140 Watts / 21 Watts W-6308

162 Watts / 21 Watts W-8306

Environmental Requirements

Operating Temperature:

Storage Temperature:

Humidity:

32

°

F – 104

°

F (0

°

C to 40

°

C)

0° F

−

140° F (-17° C to 60° C)

10%

−

95%, non-condensing

Dust: Non-conducting, non-corrosive

Electromagnetic Radiation: Moderate RF fields can be tolerated

Mechanical

Height:

Width:

Depth:

Weight:

14.8” (38 cm)

13.8” (35 cm) W-6208, W-6308

16.1” (41 cm) W-8306

18.5” (47 cm)

55 lbs. (24.8 kg) W-6208, W-6308

65lbs. (29.3 kg) W-8306

Printing Specifications

Printing Type: Direct Thermal or Thermal Transfer

Print Speed:

Printhead Resolution:

2 – 6 IPS (50 – 152.4 mm/second) W-8306

2 – 8 IPS (50 – 203.2 mm/second) W-6208, W-6308

203 DPI (8 dots/mm) W-6208

300 DPI (11.8 dots/mm) W-6308, W-8306

Nominal Dot Size: .0043” X .0052” (.109 mm X .132 mm) W-6208

.00027” X .0043” (.069 mm X .108 mm) W-6308,

W-8306

Printhead Protection Type: Thermistor Sensor. Shutdown occurs at overtemperature. When cooled, printing resumes automatically.

88 W-Class

Printing Specifications (continued)

SDRAM Memory:

Flash Memory:

Maximum Print Width:

Minimum Print Width:

Print Length Range: with an optional cutter:

Print Justification:

16 MB

2 MB

6.40” (162.6 mm) W-6308

6.62” (168.1 mm) W-6208

8.53” (216.7 mm) W-8306

2.0” (50.8 mm) W-6208, W-6308

3.0” (76.2 mm) W-8306

.5” – 99.99” (12.7 mm – 2539.7 mm)

1.5” – 99.99” (38.1 mm – 2539.7 mm)

Left

7.1 Media and Ribbon Requirements

Media Types:

Ribbon Core Size:

Roll-fed, die-cut, continuous, and fan-fold. Flat on the printable side with no more than .0007”

(.018 mm) protrusions on the opposite side.

Maximum Media Roll OD

*

: 8” (203.2 mm) outer diameter

Media Core Size

**

: 1.5” or 3.0” (38 mm or 76.2 mm)

1.010”

±

.006” (25.65 mm

±

.15 mm) – core not to protrude beyond ribbon edge.

Ribbon Width Range

***

: 2.0”– 6.7” (50.8mm – 170.1mm) W-6208, W-6308

3.0” – 9.0” (76.2 mm – 228.6 mm) W-8306

Maximum Ribbon Length: 1509’ (460 Meters) maximum

*

Labels wound out only

**

Media Supply Hub dependent

***

Ribbon wound ‘coating side in’ only and width should always slightly exceed the label width (including backing material, if any).

Approved Media

To achieve optimum print quality and maximum printhead life, DATAMAX

 brand media and ribbons are recommended. These supplies are specially formulated for use in this printer. The use of non-Datamax supplies may affect the print quality, performance, and life of the printer or its components (see the

Warranty Statement). Consult Section 2.1 for an overview of the different media and ribbon types. For a current list of approved media and ribbons, contact a

Media Representative at (407) 523-5650.

W-Class 89

Media and Ribbon Requirements (continued)

G

F

I

H

E

J

D

A

B

C

Media Dimensions

Designator

A

Description

media width:

W-6208 and W-6308

W-8306

Maximum

6.700

9.000

[1]

Minimum

2.000

3.000

[1]

B

C

D

E

F

G backing material width:

W-6208 and W-6308

W-8306

gap (or notch) between labels

[4] label length

[4] media thickness

[2] width for sensor opening left justified distance from the edge of

6.700

9.000

-

-

.0100

.500

3.250

2.000

3.000

.100

0.500

.0025

.200

.200

H the media to the media aperture reflective mark width

[3]

:

W-6208 and W-6308

6.700

1.000

W-8306

9.000

1.000

J

I distance between reflective marks

[4] reflective mark length

[4]

-

-

.500

.100

[1]

Units of measure given in inches.

[2]

If the optional Light-Duty Cutter is attached, it must be aligned to only cut material,

[3] where the thickness can be no greater than .006” (.152 mm).

The reflective (black) mark must be carbon based, placed on the backside of the stock;

[4] the reflectance shall be less than 10% at wavelengths of 950 and 640 nm.

The maximum allowable length of the combined label and gap (or mark) measurement cannot exceed 99.99 inches.

90 W-Class

Appendix A

ASCII Control Code Chart

Ctrl T

Ctrl U

Ctrl V

Ctrl W

Ctrl X

Ctrl Y

Ctrl Z

Ctrl [

Ctrl \

Ctrl ]

Ctrl ^

Ctrl _

Char

Ctrl @ NUL

Ctrl A SOH

Ctrl B

Ctrl C

Ctrl D

STX

EXT

EOT

Ctrl E

Ctrl F

Ctrl G

Ctrl H

Ctrl I

Ctrl J

Ctrl K

Ctrl L

Ctrl M

Ctrl N

Ctrl O

Ctrl P

Ctrl Q

Ctrl R

Ctrl S

VT

FF

CR

SO

SI

DLE

ENQ

ACK

BEL

BS

HT

LF

DC1

DC2

DC3

DC4

NAK

SYN

ETB

CAN

EM

SUB

Esc

FS

GS

RS

US

Char

-

.

+

,

0

/

1

2

3

%

&

‘

(

)

*

!

“

#

$

<

=

;

:

>

?

6

7

4

5

8

9

26

27

28

29

30

31

20

21

22

23

24

25

11

12

13

14

15

16

17

18

19

7

8

5

6

9

10

2

3

4

Dec Hex

0 00

1 01

02

03

04

0B

0C

0D

0E

0F

10

05

06

07

08

09

0A

11

12

13

1A

1B

1C

1D

1E

1F

14

15

16

17

18

19

2B

2C

2D

2E

2F

30

25

26

27

28

29

2A

31

32

33

Hex

20

21

22

23

24

3A

3B

3C

3D

3E

3F

34

35

36

37

38

39

43

44

45

46

47

48

49

50

51

37

38

39

40

41

42

Dec

32

33

34

35

36

58

59

60

61

62

63

52

53

54

55

56

57

^

_

]

\

Z

[

T

U

V

W

X

Y

75

76

77

78

79

80

81

82

83

69

70

71

72

73

74

K

L

M

N

O

P

Q

R

S

I

J

E

F

G

H

Char Dec Hex Char

@ 64 40 `

A 65 41 a

B

C

D

66

67

68

42

43

44 b c d

4B

4C

4D

4E

4F

50

45

46

47

48

49

4A

51

52

53 m n k l o p q r s g h e f j i

90

91

92

93

94

95

84

85

86

87

88

89

5A

5B

5C

5D

5E

5F

54

55

56

57

58

59 v w t u x y

|

} z

{

~

107

108

109

110

111

112

101

102

103

104

105

106

113

114

115

Dec

96

97

98

99

100

122

123

124

125

126

127

116

117

118

119

120

121

6B

6C

6D

6E

6F

70

65

66

67

68

69

6A

71

72

73

Hex

60

61

62

63

64

7A

7B

7C

7D

7E

7F

74

75

76

77

78

79

W-Class 91

ASCII Control Code Chart (continued)

Å

É

Æ

ì

î

Ä

Æ

ô

è

è

ï

ç

ê

ÿ

Ö

Ü

û

ù

ö

ò

Ø

£

Ø x

ƒ

Char

Ç

ü

é

à

å

â

ä

8C

8D

8E

8F

90

91

92

93

87

88

89

8A

8B

94

95

96

97

98

99

9A

9B

9C

9D

9E

9F

Hex

80

81

82

83

84

85

86

140

141

142

143

144

145

146

147

135

136

137

138

139

148

149

150

151

152

153

154

155

156

157

158

159

Dec

128

129

130

131

132

133

134

Char

á

í

ó a

°

¿

®

ú

ñ

Ñ

1/2

1/4

¡

–

»

¢

¥

2

3

´

Á

Â

À

©

1

AC

AD

AE

AF

B0

B1

B2

B3

A7

A8

A9

AA

AB

B4

B5

B6

B7

B8

B9

BA

BB

BC

BD

BE

BF

Hex

A0

A1

A2

A3

A4

A5

A6

172

173

174

175

176

177

178

179

167

168

169

170

171

180

181

182

183

184

185

186

187

188

189

190

191

Dec

160

161

162

163

164

165

166

Ò

D

Ê

Ë

È

Í

Î

Ï

Char

ã

Ã

Ì

204

205

206

207

208

209

210

211

199

200

201

202

203

212

213

214

215

216

217

218

219

220

221

222

223

Dec

192

193

194

195

196

197

198

CC

CD

CE

CF

D0

D1

D2

D3

C7

C8

C9

CA

CB

D4

D5

D6

D7

D8

D9

DA

DB

DC

DD

DE

DF

Hex

C0

C1

C2

C3

C4

C5

C6

EC

ED

EE

EF

F0

F1

F2

F3

E7

E8

E9

EA

EB

F8

F9

FA

F4

F5

F6

F7

FB

FC

FD

FE

FF

Hex

E0

E1

E2

E3

E4

E5

E6

92 W-Class

Appendix B

Available Fonts and Bar Codes

All character fonts and bar codes available with the printer are described in this section. Each font and bar code has a name associated with it for use in programming. Human-readable fonts have numeric names, while bar code fonts have alpha names. Consult the I & W Class Programmer's Manual for detailed information.

Fonts

Fonts 0 through 8 use the slash zero (Ø) convention for distinguishing between the number zero and the letter O. The slash can be removed with the ‘Z’ labelformatting command. These fonts are non-proportional (monospaced): each character takes the same amount of space for printing.

The Triumvirate font number 9 is a proportional font: each character will take up a different amount of space when printed.

6

7

8

9

4

5

Font

0

1

2

3

Valid ASCII Characters

32-127

32-168, 171, 172, 225

32-168, 171, 172, 225

32, 35-38, 40-58, 65-90, 128, 142-144, 146, 153, 154,

156, 157, 165, 168, 225

32, 35-38, 40-58, 65-90, 128, 142-144, 146, 153, 154,

156, 157, 165, 168, 225

32, 35-38, 40-58, 65-90, 128, 142-144, 146, 153, 154,

156, 157, 165, 168, 225

32, 35-38, 40-58, 65-90, 128, 142-144, 146, 153, 154,

156, 157, 165, 168, 225

32-126

32, 48-57, 60, 62, 67, 69, 78, 83, 84, 88, 90

32-126, 128-169, 171-173, 181-184, 189, 190, 198, 199, 208-216, 222, 224 -

237, 241, 243, 246-250

W-Class 93

The table below lists the font sizes; the numbers indicate the number of dots.

Font

0

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

Height

7

13

18

27

36

52

64

32

28

Width

5

7

10

14

18

18

32

15

15

Spacing

1

2

2

2

3

3

4

5

5

Font 0: 96-character alphanumeric, upper and lower case.

Font 1: 145-character upper and lower case alphanumeric with descenders and ascenders.

Font 2: 138-character alphanumeric, upper and lower case.

Font 3: 62-character alphanumeric, uppercase.

94 W-Class




W-Class 95

Font 7: OCR-A, size I.

Font 8: OCR-B, size III.

Font 9: Internal Triumvirate font. The number in the bar code height field sets the point sizes. Larger point sizes can be obtained by increasing the height and width multipliers.

96 W-Class

Bar Code Summary Data

Bar Code fonts have alpha names (left column in the table below). Uppercase alpha names will print barcodes with human-readable interpretations. Lowercase alpha names will print barcodes only. The table is followed by visual samples.

Bar

Code

ID

A

B

C

D

E

F

J

I

G

H

K

Code 3 of 9

UPC-A

UPC-E

Interleaved 2 of 5 (I 2 of 5)

Code 128

EAN-13

EAN-8

HBIC

Type

Codabar

Interleaved 2 of 5 with a modulo 10 checksum

Plessey

Length Checksum

Varies

11

6

Varies

Varies

12

7

Varies

Varies

Varies

No

Valid ASCII Characters, decimal value representation

32, 36, 37, 42, 43, 45-57, 65-

90

Yes 48-57 Numeric only.

Option V used in the 6th &

7th position

48-57 Numeric only Yes

No 48-57 Numeric only

M-103 32-127

Yes 48-57 Numeric only. Option

V used in the 7th & 8th position

48-57 Numeric only Yes

M-43 32, 36-39, 42, 43, 45-57, 65-

90

No 36, 43, 45-58, 65-68

M-10 48-57 Numeric only

Up to

14

13

M-10 48-57 Numeric only. Option

+ is Last Character for

Second M-11 Checksum

M-10 48-57 Numeric only L

M

N

O p

Q

R

Interleaved 2 of 5 with a modulo 10 checksum & shipping bearer bars

2 digit UPC addendum

5 digit UPC addendum

Code 93

S

Postnet

UCC/EAN Code 128

UCC/EAN Code 128

K-Mart NON EDI barcode

UCC/EAN Code 128

Random Weight

Telepen T

U v z

UPS MaxiCode

FIM

PDF-417

WG USD-8 (Code 11)

W1c DataMatrix

W1d QR Code – Auto format

W1D QR Code – Manual format

W1f Aztec

W1z MicroPDF417

2

5

Varies

Varies

19

18

34 +

Varies

84

1

Varies

Varies

Varies

Varies

Varies

Varies

Varies

Yes

Yes

No

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

No

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

48-57 Numeric only

48-57 Numeric only

35-38, 42-58, 65-90, 97-122

48-57 Numeric only

48-57 Numeric only

48-57 Numeric only

48-57 Numeric only

Alphanumeric

Alphanumeric

A, B, C, D

All

45, 48-57

All 8-bit values

Alphanumeric

Single byte or Kanji double byte

All

All

W-Class 97

Bar Code A: Code 3 of 9

Bar Code B: UPC-A

Bar Code C: UPC-E

Bar Code D: Interleaved 2 of 5

Bar Code E: Code 128

Bar Code F: EAN-13

Bar Code G: EAN-8

Bar Code H: Health Industry Bar

Code (HBIC)

98

Bar Code I: Codabar

Bar Code J: Interleaved 2 of 5 w/modulo 10 checksum

W-Class

Bar Code K: Plessey

Bar Code L: Interleaved 2 of 5 w/modulo 10 checksum and shipping bearer bars

Bar Code M: 2 Digit UPC addendum Bar Code N: 5 Digit UPC addendum

Bar Code p: Postnet

Bar Code O: Code 93

Bar Code Q: UCC/EAN Code 128

Bar Code R: UCC/EAN Code 128

KMART NON EDI

W-Class 99

Bar Code S: UCC/EAN Code 128

Random Weight

Bar Code T: Telepen

Bar Code v: FIM

Bar Code u: UPS MaxiCode

Bar Code z: PDF-417

Bar Code WG: USD-8

Bar Code W1c: DataMatrix

Bar Code W1d: QR Code

100

Bar Code W1f: Aztec

Bar Code W1z: MicroPDF417

W-Class

Appendix C

For details concerning information in this section consult the I & W Class

Programmer's Manual.

Module Assignments

Memory Module

Designator Module Size Volatile* Location / Use

A

B

Future Option N/A

Future Option N/A

N/A

N/A

D

F

G

1024 KB

(default size)

4 MB

256 KB

Yes Main PCB SDRAM – user addressable for graphics, fonts, and label formats

No Optional Flash Card – user addressable for graphics, fonts, and label formats

No Main PCB Flash – user addressable for graphics, fonts, and label formats.

No Main PCB Flash – reserved for EFIGS Y 64 KB

Z 4 MB No Optional Flash Card – reserved for

ILPC

*When power is removed from the printer, stored data will be lost.

Print Resolutions and Maximum Label Widths

Model

W-6208

W-6308

W-8306

Printhead Resolutions and Widths

Printhead

Resolution

203 dots/inch

(8 dots/mm)

300 dots/inch

(11.8 dots/mm)

300 dots/inch

(11.8 dots/mm)

Maximum Print Width

Inches Millimeters

6.61

167.89

6.40

8.52

162.56

216.28

Factory Default

Setting

6.62

6.40

8.53

W-Class 101

Available Speeds and Default Settings

Model

W-6208: Print

Feed

Reverse

W-6308: Print

Feed

Reverse

W-8306: Print

Feed

Reverse

Printer Speeds and Defaults

Speed Range

IPS

2-8

2-10

2-6

2-8

MMPS

51 – 203

51 – 254

51 – 152

51 – 203

2-10

2-6

2-6

2-8

2-6

51 – 254

51 – 152

51 – 152

51 – 203

51 – 152

6.0

4.0

6.0

6.0

4.0

Default Setting

IPS

6.0

6.0

4.0

6.0

MMPS

152

152

102

152

152

102

152

152

102

102 W-Class

Appendix D

GPIO Port Description

With the optional GPIO PCB, the printer can easily be programmed to interface with most applicator devices. The GPIO functions are enabled and configured using the menu system of the printer (see Section 4.1.4). These parameters are stored in non-volatile memory and saved for subsequent power-ups.

When the GPIO is enabled, the printer will not print a label unless the Start of

Print signal is active. When a label is ready to print and the printer is waiting for the Start of Print signal the printer will display “WAITING FOR SIGNAL”.

GPIO Port Connections

The external connection (see next page) is a 9-pin Mini-DIN Female connector

(for example, KYCON KMDG-9S-BS). Each pin function is detailed in the table below:

GPIO Pin Functions

Pin

#

1

2

3

4

Signal

Name

Vcc

Ribbon

Fault

Paper

Fault

Printer

Fault

Signal

State

+5 VDC

Low

Low

Low

Signal

Direction*

Description

Output Printer +5 VDC

Output Goes low when the printer detects a ribbon fault.

Output Goes low when the printer detects a label movement fault.

Output Goes low when any printer fault is detected.

5 Spare Reserved Output

6 End of Print Programmable Output

7 Spare

8 Start of

Print Signal

Reserved

Low

Input

N/A

Programmable

N/A

Input When ready to print a label, the

Applicator should set this signal low for at least 50ms or until the

End of Print signal goes not active.

9 Signal Ground N/A

Ground

*Signal direction is given relative to the printer.

N/A

W-Class 103

GPIO Pin Configuration

(as viewed from the rear of the printer)

External Start of Print Control

Connections for an external Start of Print control can be made (1) directly to Pin 8 using a TTLlevel input or (2) with an interface circuit similar to the one shown right. For additional interfacing requirements, see the table below.

V in

max

V

IH

V

IL

I

OH

GPIO Port Specifications*

5.5 VDC maximum input into any pin

3.8 VDC minimum (high level input voltage)

1.65 VDC maximum (low level input voltage)

-8 mA typical, - 25 mA maximum (high level output current)

I

OL

V

OH

I

8 mA typical 25 mA maximum (low level output current)

OH

= -8 mA, minimum 3.8 VDC

V

OL

I

OL

= 8 mA, maximum .44 VDC

*See the SN74AHC244 data sheet for more information.

104 W-Class

Appendix E

Menu System Multi-Language Support

This printer provides the user with the ability to download new menu system languages and/or replace the Datamax provided translations. A Microsoft



Excel Spreadsheet defines the menu dictionary – the user adds a new language column or modifies an existing column in the spreadsheet, clicks on the

‘Generate DPL file(s)’ radio button and sends the generated DPL file(s) to the printer.

Here are the highlights and restrictions of the feature:

•

The printer can register up to 10 different display languages, including

EFIGS.

•

The EFIGS languages and any additional languages are stored on Module

Y: a 64KB Flash Module located on the Main PCB.

•

It is okay to download menu files generated for a lesser firmware revision to new firmware – any messages that are not defined are displayed in English.

•

For the procedures below, the printer will accept the menu downloads from any available port.

•

The language creation programs support Windows



95, Windows



98,

Windows



NT, and Windows



2000.

Required Software Comment

W-Class Application Version 3.0

or greater*

Microsoft



Excel 97

Img2dl.exe**

Must reside in the target printer. (See

Section 5.3 for details.)

Must be purchased by user.

Program used during the process to create DPL file.

Gemmsgxls.xls** Menu Dictionary

*

Datamax provides these software files and programs. They are available on the

Datamax FTP site – ftp:\\ftp.datamaxcorp.com

**

Datamax recommends that the Img2dl.exe and Gemmsgxls.xls files reside in the same directory.

W-Class 105

Creating a Menu Language:

Œ Invoke Excel and open the gemmsglst.xls file. Excel opens the file and the following screen appears.

• Click the “Enable Macro” box and the following appears:

106 W-Class

Ž Click On Column J and enter your new language, or modify an existing one.

Tips:

A) Message Size – When entering new messages, reference the ‘MAX’ column: this is the maximum number of characters allowed for this field. Warnings are displayed when the number of characters is exceeded or when trying to modify the MAX value. Beware that

“cutting” and “pasting” fields could defeat this warning system.

B) Two Line Messages – Some of the message are displayed as two lines.

These are indicated in the comment fields.

C) Comments – This field can be modified with no effect.

• When editing has been completed, highlight all of the columns you desire to create (more than one language may be selected) by pressing the letter above the column.

• Press the Generate DPL File(s) radio button. A file will be generated for each of the selected columns and Excel will provide confirmation.

(Example: small.ls)

W-Class 107

‘ Download the generated files to the printer – one method is the DOS copy command: copy small.ls lpt1: /b

’ Reset the printer by pressing and holding the CANCEL key for approximately four seconds.

“ Verify the operation by printing a Configuration Label (see Section 4.3.2).

The new font selection will be printed on the label under SYSTEM

INFORMATION / OPTIONAL LANGUAGES or select the new language in the SYSTEM SETTINGS / MENU LANGUAGE in the printer’s menu.

This is the only method to determine whether the download was successful.

If the menu system displays the new language selection, but all displayed messages remain in English an error has occurred. Re-check the process.

Contact Datamax Technical Support if problems continue (be prepared to provide the Gemmsglst.xls and the DPL download file that you have created). Other possible error messages are as follows:

Menu Language Error Message

Please select the entire column(s) or the desired language(s), by clicking on the column letter(s)

Message text may not exceed

MAX = xx designated characters for this MID

Description

After pressing the Generate DPL

File(s) radio button, the languages to convert were not correctly selected.

The entered message exceeds the number of characters specified in column C. You may not modify this number.

Advance File Handling Information

Ÿ The Standard Datamax Printer leaves the factory with EFIGS loaded into module Y. At this point, Module Y is LOCKED and will only accept additional Language Downloads.

Ÿ After downloading a language update, Module Y is left UNLOCKED until the printer is reset or power is cycled. In this state, Module Y will accept font, image and label format downloads. The module will also honor the

Clear Module request. Therefore, following an update it is recommended that a reset be performed to lock the module; otherwise, a software package may ‘Clear All Modules’ thus destroying the new menu language(s).

Ÿ Module Y can be UNLOCKED by sending this DPL string: <STX>KpY0.

108 W-Class

Ÿ To restore the factory generated EFIGS image, download the file

*832296.01A to the printer. This file is located on the Datamax FTP site.

The letter at the end of the file name (e.g., A) specifies the revision. The latest revision will be available on the FTP site.

Ÿ Downloading the same language twice will automatically delete the first occurrence, but will not free the memory space. Use the Pack Module feature (see Section 4.1.4) or reload the FIGS file to free the space.

Ÿ Deletion of the selected language will set the printer to English.

Ÿ The total number of languages that the printer can now accept is limited to

10, but this number is dependent upon the size of each language translation.

The translation size will vary with the number of messages that are translated for that particular language. Current complete language files are about 7,000 bytes each but with product growth, the total number of languages is expected to drop to seven.

W-Class 109

110 W-Class

Appendix F

Saving a Configuration File

With application version 5.01 and above, the printer can save and restore complete printer settings, including media calibration parameters, as internal

Configuration Files. Here are the highlights and restrictions of this feature:

•

Configuration files eliminate the need to repeat the manual steps of a special printer setup, making future changeovers faster and easier.

•

Configuration files can be setup, saved, and restored either from the host or via the front panel as ‘C-type’ files on Module Y under unique filenames that can be up to nineteen characters in length.

•

Configuration files enable the host, via special DPL commands, to control parameters previously accessible only from the front panel (consult the I &

W Programmers Manual for details).

•

Regular host settings can not be saved using the front panel menu.

þ Note: Configuration files will typically correspond to a particular printer and media application. If a file will be shared among printers, do not include unique parameters (such as calibrations and adjustments) because those settings will vary from one unit to another.

When using the front panel to save a configuration file (see Section 4.1.5), the keypad functions within the ‘Save Setting As’ submenu are as follows:

Œ

The DOWN ARROW key scrolls down through the alphanumeric, underscore, and delete character.

•

The UP ARROW key scrolls up through the alphanumeric and underscore characters, and the delete function.

Ž

The ENTER key accepts the displayed character and advances the cursor.

•

Saves the displayed file.

W-Class 111

To save a manually entered setup (for example, an application that required an

Advanced Entry Calibration before beginning) as a configuration file using the front panel:

Step

1

Displayed Message Operator Action

Press the key.

Comment(s)

You are entering

‘Menu Mode’.

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

Use the key to scroll to ‘System

Settings’.

Press the key to select ‘System

Settings’.

Press the key to select

‘Configuration File’.

Press the key to scroll to ‘Save

Setting As’.

Press the key.

The key can also be used.

You are entering the

‘System Settings’ menu.

You are entering the

‘Configuration File’ submenu.


Press the key to exit this selection.

Enter a file name using the key to scroll through the characters.


þ Note: To change an accepted character, select the delete function (solid flashing block) and press the ENTER key.

Use the key to accept the character.

Continue entering the file name in this manner (“SPECIAL

STOCK” has been used as an example).

þ Note: To abort the “save setting” function, delete all entered characters in the file name and press the ESCAPE key.

Press the key repeatedly to save the file name and return to

‘Ready’.

Save complete. (To restore a saved file using the front panel see Section 4.1.5.)

112 W-Class

Warranty Information

Datamax Barcode Products

Limited Warranty Statement

W-Class

 Printers

Printer

Datamax warrants* to Purchaser that under normal use and service, the W-

Class



Printers, (with the exception of the thermal printhead, platen rollers, and belts) purchased hereunder shall be free from defects in material and workmanship for a period of five years (1826 days) or four million (4,000,000) linear inches, whichever comes first, from the date of shipment by Datamax.

Expendable and/or consumable items or parts such as lamps, fuses, labels and ribbons are not covered under this warranty. This warranty does not cover equipment or parts that have been misused, altered, neglected, handled carelessly, or used for purposes other than those for which they were manufactured. This warranty also does not cover loss, damages resulting from accident, or damages resulting from unauthorized service.

*When returned to the factory for service.

W-Class 113

Thermal Printhead, Platen Roller, and Belts

This warranty* is limited to a period of one year, (365 days), or one million

(1,000,000) linear inches of use, whichever comes first, for the W-Class

 thermal printhead, platen roller, and belts. This one year (365 days) warranty is valid only if a Datamax - approved thermal label media is used, as defined in the then current Datamax list of approved thermal/thermal transfer media, a copy of which is available from Datamax. Failure to use Datamax-approved media is justification for invalidation of this warranty. This warranty does not cover printheads or platen rollers that have been misused, altered, neglected, handled carelessly, or damaged due to improper cleaning or unauthorized repairs.

*When returned to the factory for service

Warranty Service Procedures

If a defect should occur during the warranty period, the defective unit shall be returned, freight and insurance prepaid, in the original shipping containers, to one of the following locations:

Datamax Corporate Headquarters

4501 Parkway Commerce Boulevard

Orlando, Florida 32808

USA

Datamax International

Herbert House, Elizabeth Way, Pinnacles

Harlow, Essex CM19 5FE

United Kingdom

A Return Material Authorization (RMA) number must be issued before the product can be returned. To open an RMA, please call the Datamax Technical

Support Department at (407) 523-5540. Include your RMA number on the outside of the box and on the shipping document. Include a contact name, action desired, a detailed description of the problem(s), and media examples when possible with the defective unit. Datamax shall not be responsible for any loss or damages incurred in shipping. Any warranty work to be performed by Datamax shall be subject to Datamax’s confirmation that such product meets Datamax warranty. In the event of a defect covered by its warranty, Datamax will return the repaired or replaced product to the Purchaser at Datamax’s cost.

With respect to a defect in hardware covered by the warranty, the warranty shall continue in effect until the end of the original warranty period, or for ninety (90) days after the repair or replacement, whichever is later.

114 W-Class

General Warranty Provisions

Datamax makes no warranty as to the design, capability, capacity or suitability of any of its hardware, supplies, or software.

Software is licensed on an “as is” basis without warranty. Except and to the extent expressly provided in this warranty and in lieu of all other warranties, there are no warranties, expressed or implied, including, but not limited to, any warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose.

Purchaser shall be solely responsible for the selection, use, efficiency and suitability of Datamax’s products.

Limitation of Liability

In no event shall Datamax be liable to the purchaser for any indirect, special or consequential damages or lost profits arising out of or relating to Datamax’s products, or the performance or a breach thereof, even if Datamax has been advised of the possibility thereof. Datamax’s liability, if any, to the purchaser or to the customer of the purchaser hereunder shall in no event exceed the total amounts paid to Datamax hereunder by the purchaser for a defective product.

In no event shall Datamax be liable to the purchaser for any damages resulting from or related to any failure or delay of Datamax in the delivery or installation of the computer hardware, supplies or software or in the performance of any services.

Some states do not permit the exclusion of incidental or consequential damages, and in those states the foregoing limitations may not apply. The warranties here give you specific legal rights, and you may have other legal rights which vary from state to state.

W-Class 115

116 W-Class

Glossary

W-Class

alphanumeric Consisting of alphabetic, numeric, punctuation and other symbols.

backing material The silicon-coated paper carrier material to which labels with adhesive backing are affixed. Also referred to as

“liner”.

bar code A representation of alphanumeric information in a pattern of machine-readable marks. The basic categories are divided into one-dimensional (UPC, Code 39, Postnet, etc.) and twodimensional barcodes (Data Matrix, MaxiCode, PDF417, etc.).

boot loader The resident program that loads the application from

Flash memory, decompresses it into the SRAM, and starts operations.

burn line The row of thermal elements in the printhead that create the images on the media.

calibration The process through which sensor readings are entered into the printer for correct sensor function (for example, detection of a given media type) and TOF positioning.

character set The entire complement of alphanumeric symbols contained in a given font.

checksum An alphanumeric error detection method used in many bar code symbologies for informational security.

continuous media An uninterrupted roll or box of label or tag stock media that contains no gap, notch, or mark to separate individual labels or tags.

core diameter The inside diameter measurement of the cardboard core at the center of a ribbon or media roll.

cutter A mechanical device with a rotary or guillotine type blade used to cut labels or tags following printing.

117

118

defaults The functional setting values returned following a factory reset of the printer.

diagnostics Programs used to locate and diagnose hardware problems.

die-cut media Media that has been cut into a pattern using a press, where the excess paper is removed leaving individual labels, with gaps between them, attached to a backing material.

direct thermal The printing method that uses a heat sensitive media and only the heat of the thermal printhead to create an image on the label.

direct thermal media Media coated with special chemicals that react and darken with the application of heat.

DPI (dots per inch) A measurement of print resolution, rated in the number of thermal elements contained in one inch of the printhead. Also referred to as “resolution”.

DPL (Datamax Programming Language) programming commands used specifically for control of and label production in Datamax printers. A complete listing of commands can be found in the I

& W Class Programmer’s Manual.

EFIGS English, French, Italian, German, Spanish, and other multilanguage support as programmed for the printer’s menu system and configuration label.

fan-fold Media that is folded and stacked.

feed speed The speed at which the media moves under the printhead in non-printed areas and between labels.

Flash memory Non-volatile memory (does not require printer power to maintain data) that can be erased and reprogrammed, used to hold the printer’s operating program.

font A set of alphanumeric characters that share a particular typeface.

gap A space between die-cut or notched labels used to sense the top-ofform.

IPS (inches per second) Imperial measurement of printer speeds.

W-Class

W-Class

label A paper or synthetic printing material, typically with a pressure sensitive adhesive backing.

label length The distance from the top of the label to the bottom of the label as it exits the printer.

label repeat The distance from the top of one label to the top of the next label.

label tracking Excessive lateral (side to side) movement of the media as it travels under the printhead.

label width The left to right measurement of the label as it exits the printer.

media Generalized term for all types of printing stocks, including: roll fed, continuous, die-cut, reflective, and fanfold.

media hub Device in the printer used to support roll media.

media sensor An electronic device equipped with photosensors to detect media and the top-of-form on die-cut, notched or reflective media.

MMPS (millimeters per second) Metric measurement of printer speeds.

notched stock Media, typically tag stock, with holes or notches in the material that is used to signal the top-of-form. The printer must be set to ‘gap’ to use this media type.

preprinted media Label stock that contains borders, text, or graphics, floodcoating, etc.

perforation Small cuts extending through the backing and/or label material to facilitate their separation. Also referred to as “perf”.

print speed The speed at which the media moves under the printhead during the printing process.

reflective media Media imprinted with carbon-based black marks on the underside of the material, which is used to signal the top-ofform when the ‘reflective’ sensor is enabled.

registration Repeatable top to bottom alignment of printed labels.

119

120

reverse speed The backward rate of media motion into the printer during tear-off, peel and present and cutting operations for positioning the label at the start of print position.

ribbon An extruded polyester tape with several layers of material, one of which is ink-like, used to produce an image on the label. Also referred to as “foil”.

ribbon wrinkle An undesirable overlapping of the ribbon during the printing process that leads to voids on the printed label, typically caused by an improper printhead leveling cam adjustment.

roll media A form of media that is wound upon a cardboard core.

start of print The position on the label where the printing actually begins.

tag stock A heavy paper or synthetic printing material, typically featuring a notch or black mark for TOF and no adhesive backing.

thermal transfer The printing method that creates an image by transferring ink from a ribbon onto the media using the heat from the thermal printhead.

TOF (top-of-form) The start of a new label as indicated by a label gap, notch, mark or programming.

void An undesirable blank space in a printed image.

W-Class

Index

A

alphanumeric, 117 application program, 37, 70

ASCII, 47, 85, 91, 92

B

bar code, 76, 78, 87, 93, 97 - 100, 117 boot loader, 72 - 74, 117 burn line, 68, 117

C

cable listing, 10, 11 calibration advanced entry, 30, 59 - 64 defined, 117 problems, 49, 64, 75, 78, 80 - 82 quick media, 17, 34, 48 standard, 27, 30, 38, 55 - 58 checksum, 97, 117 cleaning, 53, 67 - 70, 78 communications menu settings, 41- 46 methods, 10, 11 problems, 73, 76, 85, 87 condition messages, 48, 49 configuration file, 35, 111, 112 configuration label, 25, 37, 39, 40, 42,

50, 51,

cores, 19, 82, 89, 117 custom adjustments, 8, 32, 38, 76 cutter, 2, 3, 34, 47, 67, 75, 75, 79, 89,

90, 117

D

diagnostics, 47, 118 direct thermal printing, 7, 8, 30, 88, 118 display, 23, 26, 48, 75 dot test pattern label, 53 double byte symbols, 36, 97 download mode, 70, 72, 73

W-Class

DPI, 88, 101, 118

DPL, 29, 46, 85, 118

E

EFIGS, 2, 70, 101, 105 - 109, 118 emulation, 39

F

factory default settings, 27, 28 - 47, 83,

101, 102, 118

fault messages, 79 - 83 feed speed, 31, 46, 102, 118

Flash memory, 2, 3, 89, 101, 118 font, 2, 3, 4, 33, 35 - 37, 45, 76, 87, 93

- 96, 101, 117, 118

G

GPIO port, 3, 34, 40, 47, 103, 104

H

hex dump mode, 47, 75, 85

I

indicators, 10, 23, 26, 75, 77, 79

IPS, 88, 102, 118

L

label, 1, 6, 7, 15, 17, 18, 20, 30 - 34,

38, 39, 45, 47 - 66, 75 - 78, 80, 82,

83, 89, 90, 101, 117 - 120

language. See EFIGS

LCD. See Display leveling cam, 13, 14, 65, 66, 76, 78, 83,

120

liner. See Media Backing Material

121

M

media backing material, 7, 16 - 20, 58, 89,

90, 117, 118

black mark, 13 - 15, 17, 30, 55 - 64,

80, 81, 83, 90, 117, 119, 120

continuous, 15, 17, 30, 57, 58, 89,

117, 119

die-cut, 15, 57, 61, 89, 118, 119 direct thermal, 7, 8, 30, 118 fan-fold, 14, 89, 118 gap, 13 - 15, 17, 30, 47, 55, 59, 80,

84, 90, 117 - 120

notched, 15, 17, 57, 58, 61, 84, 118,

119

preprinted, 57, 60, 119 roll, 13, 89, 117, 119, 120 tag, 8, 14, 117, 119, 120 thermal transfer, 7, 8, 16, 30, 52, 88,

120

media sensor, 13 - 15, 17, 30, 47, 55,

57, 61, 67, 78, 80 - 83, 119

media settings, 30, 64, 83 menu mode, 23, 24, 26, 29 menu system, 28 - 47

MMPS, 102, 119 module, 33, 35, 54, 76, 101

N

NIC Adapter, 4, 9, 10, 42 - 44

P

parallel port, 10, 41, 42, 72, 75 peel and present, 4, 20, 120 perforation, 57, 60, 61, 119 present sensor, 4, 21, 31, 33, 40, 47, 48 print control, 7, 8, 15, 31, 32, 46, 76,

104

print quality, 7, 8, 50, 54, 65, 68, 69,

78, 84, 89

print resolutions. See DPI print speed, 7, 8, 31, 46, 66, 78, 88,

102, 119

printer key, 37, 73 printer options, 33, 34 printhead, 7, 8, 16, 31, 32, 47, 53, 65 -

68, 77, 78, 82, 84, 88, 89, 101

122

Q

quick test mode, 23, 25, 47, 48, 50 - 54,

77, 79

R

ready mode, 23, 24, 26, 48, 70, 71, 85 reflective mark. See Media Black Mark registration, 119 resetting, 23, 27 - 29, 35, 36, 38, 49,

81, 84

reverse speed, 31, 46, 102, 120 rewinding media, 18, 19 ribbon, 7, 8, 16, 30, 38, 66, 77, 78, 81,

82, 89, 120

ribbon test label, 52 rotation 78, 87

S

serial port, 11, 41, 75 single byte symbols, 35, 97 specifications, 87 - 90 start of print, 15, 31, 32, 39, 103, 120 system settings, 27, 35 - 40, 76

T

top of form, 15, 17, 30, 55, 80, 81, 83,

117, 120

troubleshooting, 75 - 85

U

user defined label, 54 user prompts, 48, 49 validation label, 54 voids, 70, 120

V

W

warning messages, 79, 84

W-Class

No results