Ribbon Alignment; Troubleshooting - Datamax ?-class series Maintenance Manual

2.6 Ribbon Alignment

Correct ribbon alignment ensures smooth, taut ribbon flow during the print process. When irregular voids
extend diagonally through the printed images on thermal transfer-equipped models, the cause may be due
to ribbon overlapping (wrinkling). Begin troubleshooting by checking the Media Width Adjustment
(Section 2.3), Printhead Pressure Adjustment (Section 2.5), and the Printhead Burn Line Adjustment
(Section 2.4). Also examine the Platen Roller for signs of wear, debris build-up and excessive side-to-
side play. If all of these adjustments and components are in good order, then proceed with the Ribbon
Alignment as follows:
1. Load 4-inch (102 mm) or wider media. Load a matching ribbon, but do not secure the leader to the
Ribbon Take-up Hub. Instead, allow the media and ribbon to feed together from the printer.
2. Ensure the Media Width Adjustment is disengaged (its left-most position); see Section 2.3.
3. Press the FEED Button several times to normalize the tracking of the ribbon and media. (Continued
excessive side-to-side [lateral] movement of the labels must be corrected before proceeding - typical
causes include uneven printhead pressure, a worn platen roller, or worn platen bearings.)
4. Observe the ribbon for rippling and bagging as it travels down from the Ribbon Supply Hub and
under the Printhead Assembly. If the travel is smooth, proceed to Step 5; otherwise, loosen the
Ribbon Idler Screw then, while repeatedly pressing the FEED Key, slowly turn the Ribbon Idler Cam
until the ribbon is dispensed smoothly from the Ribbon Supply Hub to the Printhead Assembly.
Carefully tighten the Ribbon Idler Screw and feed several more labels to verify adjustment, repeat if
necessary.
Adjustments and Maintenance
2-21