Solving Other Printer Problems - Printronix SL5000 User Manual

Solving Other Printer Problems

Symptom
Communications Failures.
CONTROL PANEL
LCD message display is
illuminated and the printer
appears to be working, but
nothing is printing.
Table 16. Printer Problems and Solutions
1. Check the interface cable.
2. Check the configuration to ensure the correct interface is
enabled.
3. Verify the printer is receiving data by viewing the Job In
Process indicator on the control panel.
1. Verify that the active emulation set on the control panel
matches the emulation data sent to the printer.
2. Verify that the SFCC selection on the control panel
matches the SFCC utilized within the emulation data that
is sent to the printer.
3. Verify that the labels are the correct type (direct or thermal
transfer).
4. If using direct thermal media, check that the media is
loaded with the direct thermal side facing up.
5. Check that the transfer ribbon is correctly routed. Route
transfer ribbon with ink side down as it passes under the
printhead.
6. Check that the printhead assembly is properly closed by
making sure the printhead latch is fully engaged.
7. Verify that the ribbon and media are compatible;
incompatibility can cause extremely light printing. Match
the ribbon to the type of media being used.
8. Check the used sections of ribbon for a printed image.
Often times when ribbon and media are incompatible, the
image can be seen on the ribbon but it will not transfer to
the media.
9. Check that the Print Intensity is correct. Set the Print
Intensity in the MEDIA SETUP menu or via the host
software.
10. Check that the Label Width parameter value does not
exceed the width of the media installed. Set the Label
Width in the MEDIA SETUP menu.
11. Run the Checkerboard test print pattern from the
DIAGNOSTICS menu. Note: Any imbalance of the print on
the page. The printhead pressure may need adjustment.
12. Remove the printhead completely and re-install it ensuring
the cables are correctly seated.
Solving Other Printer Problems
Solution/Explanation
309