AGFA W Class Operator's Manual
  1. Manuals
  2. Brands
  3. AGFA Manuals
  4. Printer
  5. W Class
  6. Operator's manual
AGFA W Class Operator's Manual

AGFA W Class Operator's Manual

Thermal printer
Hide thumbs
Table of Contents

Advertisement

Quick Links

Download this manual
Operator's Manual
Corporate Headquarters
4501 Parkway Commerce Blvd.
Orlando, Fl 32808
Phone: 407-578-8007
Fax: 407-578-8377
Asia-Pacific
Datamax International
19 Loyang Way
Herbert House
#01-01 CILC Building
12 Elizabeth Way, Pinnacles
Singapore 508724
Harlow, Essex CM19 5FE UK
Phone: +65 542-2611
Phone: +44 1279 772200
Fax: +65 542-3611
Fax: +44 1279 424448

Advertisement

Table of Contents
loading

Related Manuals for AGFA W Class

Summary of Contents for AGFA W Class

  • Page 1 Operator’s Manual Corporate Headquarters 4501 Parkway Commerce Blvd. Orlando, Fl 32808 Phone: 407-578-8007 Fax: 407-578-8377 Asia-Pacific Datamax International 19 Loyang Way Herbert House #01-01 CILC Building 12 Elizabeth Way, Pinnacles Singapore 508724 Harlow, Essex CM19 5FE UK Phone: +65 542-2611 Phone: +44 1279 772200 Fax: +65 542-3611 Fax: +44 1279 424448...
  • Page 3 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.
  • Page 5 Agency Compliance and Approvals: UL1950 Information Technology Equipment C22.2 No. 950-M93 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”...
  • Page 6 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.

  • Page 7: Table Of Contents

    Contents Printer Overview About the Printer..............1 1.0.1 Standard Features..........2 1.0.2 Optional Features..........2 Option Installation ..............4 Getting Started Unpacking the Printer ............5 Media and Ribbon Selection ..........7 2.1.1 Print Quality Controls..........7 Setting Up the Printer Installation ................9 3.0.1 Communications..........10 Loading Media ..............12 3.1.1 Roll Media ............13 3.1.2 Fan-Fold Media ...........14 Media Sensor Adjustment..........15...
  • Page 8 4.0.6.1 Soft Reset ..........27 4.0.6.2 Level One Reset ........27 4.0.6.3 Level Two Reset ........27 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 Display Messages..............48 4.2.1 User Prompts and Condition Messages....48...
  • Page 9 Troubleshooting Problem Resolution............75 Fault and Warning Messages ..........79 Hex Dump Mode..............85 Printer Specifications General Specifications ............87 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...
  • Page 10 Warranty Information ............113 Glossary ................117 Index ..................121...

  • Page 11: Printer Overview

    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.

  • Page 12: Standard Features

    RS-232 serial interface Operational 2 X 20 Backlit Liquid Crystal Display and functional keypad ™ CG Triumvirate Scalable font w/AGFA Scalable font engine EFIGS (multi-language display and configuration label support) 203 DPI Printhead (W-6208) 300 DPI Printhead (W-6308 and W-8306) 1.0.2...
  • Page 13 Heavy Duty 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 Heavy Duty Cutter (specify application at time of order).

  • Page 14: Option Installation

    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.

  • Page 15: Getting Started

    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.
  • Page 16 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: Printer Power cord Accessories CD Any special or additionally purchased items. Additional Requirements The following items are necessary for generating printed labels.

  • Page 17: Media And Ribbon Selection

    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: •...
  • Page 18 • 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.

  • Page 19: Setting Up The Printer

    Setting Up the Printer 3.0 Installation This chapter explains how to connect your printer, and load it with media and ribbon. Note: When connecting the AC Power Cord or data cables to the printer, ensure the Power On/Off Switch is in the ‘Off’ position. Place the printer on a firm, level surface.

  • Page 20: Communications

    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.
  • Page 21 Serial Port: serial interface supports RS-232C and, 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 •...

  • Page 22: Loading Media

    3.1 Loading Media The following section explains the media loading steps. Before beginning, complete these steps: Raise the Access Cover. Rotate the Printhead Latch forward to raise the Printhead Assembly. 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-...

  • Page 23: Roll Media

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

  • Page 24: Fan-Fold Media

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

  • Page 25: Media Sensor Adjustment

    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: 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...

  • Page 26: Loading Ribbon

    3.3 Loading Ribbon Thermal transfer media requires the use of ribbon. To load: Note: Using a ribbon that is slightly wider than your media (and liner, if any) will help protect against printhead wear. With the access cover raised, remove the J-Hook from the Ribbon Take-Up Hub.

  • Page 27: Quick Media Calibration

    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).

  • Page 28: Outputting Labels

    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: Load media as described in Section 3.1.

  • Page 29: Rewinding Onto A Core

    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: Load media as described in Section 3.1. Remove the Tear Bar and install the Arc Plate;...

  • Page 30: On-Demand Dispensing

    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. 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.
  • Page 31 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.
  • Page 32 W-Class...

  • Page 33: Using The Front Panel

    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’)

  • Page 34: Menu Mode

    4.0.2 Menu Mode: Configuration (Ready Light ‘Flashing’) 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.

  • Page 35: Quick Test Mode

    4.0.3 Quick Test Mode: Print Test Labels Note: The Quick Test Mode functions are disabled while processing data from communications interfaces until the Host Timeout value expires. The DOWN ARROW key scrolls to the previous test function. The UP ARROW key scrolls to the next test function.

  • Page 36: Indicator Lights

    4.0.4 Indicator Lights ‘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. ‘Slow Flashing’ indicates a Warning. ‘Fast Flashing’...

  • Page 37: Resetting The Printer

    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.

  • Page 38: The Menu System

    ‘ ’ 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.

  • Page 39: Entrance And Exit Prompts

    4.1.1 Entrance and Exit Prompts With ‘Ready’ displayed on the LCD, press the key to enter the Menu Mode. Note: While in the Menu Mode, the printer will stop processing new DPL (or bitmapped) data. MENU MODE Depending upon the configuration of the printer, the following Entrance and Exit Prompts may be displayed when accessing or leaving the Menu System.

  • Page 40: Media Settings

    4.1.2 Media Settings MEDIA TYPE Selects the printing method. DIRECT THERMAL For use with heat sensitive media. THERMAL TRANSFER For use with media requiring a ribbon to create an image. SENSOR TYPE Selects the top-of-form (TOF) sensing method for the media. The printer recognizes the TOF by sensing gaps in the media.

  • Page 41: Print Control

    4.1.3 Print Control Refer to Section 2.1.1 for detailed information on print quality controls. HEAT Controls the ‘burn-time’ of the printhead. 10 (0-30) This is the equivalent of Heat Setting on most label software programs. PRINT SPEED Controls the rate of label movement during the printing process;...
  • Page 42 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.

  • Page 43: Printer Options

    4.1.4 Printer Options MODULES 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.
  • Page 44 Printer Options (continued) CUTTER Used to cut media into separate labels. (The physical presence of a cutter must be detected to show the ENABLE/DISABLE selections.) ENABLED Enables label cutting. DISABLED Disables the cutter. NOT INSTALLED No cutter is detected. GPIO PORT Model dependant option used to interface the printer to an external controlling device (see Appendix D).

  • Page 45: System Settings

    Appendix C. SINGLE BYTE SYMBOLS Selects the code page used to print single byte fonts unless otherwise specified in DPL. PC_850 MULTILINGUAL 61 selectable sets are standard; see the I & W Class Programmer’s Manual for details. W-Class...
  • Page 46 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. Japanese Industry Standard SHIFT JIS...
  • Page 47 System Settings (continued) CONFIGURATION LEVEL upgrade 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.

  • Page 48: Imaging Mode

    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. TRANSPARENT Intersecting text strings, images, and bar codes will not be printed. (An odd number of overlapping objects will print.)
  • Page 49 System Settings (continued) PAUSE MODE When enabled, Pause Mode suspends printing between each label until the PAUSE key is pressed. ENABLED Printer requires operator to press the PAUSE key after each label. DISABLED Printer completes label batch without pausing between labels. SECURITY ♦...
  • Page 50 System Settings (continued) BACK AFTER PRINT 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. ENABLED 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.

  • Page 51: Communications

    4.1.6 Communications Controls the communications settings for SERIAL PORT A♦ Serial Port A. BAUD RATE Determines the serial communication rate. 38400 38400 bits per second 28800 28800 bits per second 19200 19200 bits per second 9600 9600 bits per second 4800 4800 bits per second 2400...
  • Page 52 Communications (continued) Same as Parallel Port A, for an optional PARALLEL PORT B♦ Ethernet connection. If not present, this displays ‘NOT INSTALLED’ when accessed. 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).
  • Page 53 Communications (continued) PROTOCOL 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. ENABLED Protocol is enabled by default. DISABLED Ignore LAT protocol. Select this option if LAT is not needed.
  • Page 54 Communications (continued) DISCOVERY 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. Note: For faster NIC Adapter boot times, disable any discovery methods not used.
  • Page 55 Communications (continued) HOST SETTINGS Settings which affect all communications with a host. HOST TIMEOUT The number of seconds a communications SEC (1-60) 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.
  • Page 56 Communications (continued) HEAT COMMAND Allows the user to disable the DPL Heat Command, providing compatibility with other DATAMAX printers. ENABLED Normal printer operating mode. DISABLED DPL Heat Commands are ignored. The heat value is controlled via the menu setting; see Print Control, Section 4.1.3.

  • Page 57: Diagnostics

    4.1.7 Diagnostics HEX DUMP MODE Most commonly used for troubleshooting. Prints data and instructions received from the host rather than interpreting them as label formats; see Section 6.2. ENABLE Prints raw ASCII data received from the host rather than executing the commands. DISABLE Executes and prints label formats (normal operating mode).

  • Page 58: Display Messages

    4.2 Display Messages The printer displays several different types of information (if not in the menu system or Quick Test Mode): User Prompts and Condition Messages (also see Section 4.1.1 for a listing of the Enter / Exit Prompts) Application and Boot Loader Updating Messages (see Section 5.3 and 5.4) Fault and Warning Messages (see Section 6.1) 4.2.1 User Prompts and Condition Messages...
  • Page 59 User Prompts and Condition Messages (continued) Displayed Message Description Condition(s) The Present Sensor option A label is awaiting is enabled and a label SFNPWF!MBCFM! removal. blocks the sensor. Remove the label to continue printing. Normal power-up and Follows the ‘SYSTEM TZTUFN! JOJUJBMJ[JOH! soft reset condition.

  • Page 60: Quick Test Mode

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

  • Page 61: Configuration Label

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

  • Page 62: Quick Ribbon Test Label

    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: Press the key. Use the key to scroll to ‘Ribbon Test Label’.

  • Page 63: Dot Test Pattern Label

    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: Press the key.

  • Page 64: Validation Label

    4.3.5 Validation Label The Validation Label is another useful tool for evaluating overall print quality. To generate a Validation Label: Press the key. Use the key to scroll to ‘Validation Label’. Use the key to select a quantity; see Section 4.0.3. Press the key to start printing.

  • Page 65: Adjusting And Maintaining The Printer

    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.
  • Page 66 Standard Calibration (continued) Step Operator Action Displayed Message Comment Press the key to See Section 4.1.2 NFEJB!TFUUJOHT! enter the Media Settings NFEJB!UZQF! for menu layout. menu. Press the Press the NFEJB!TFUUJOHT! and scroll to ‘Sensor TFOTPS!DBMJCSBUJPO! key to abort this Calibration’.
  • Page 67 Standard Calibration (continued) Step Operator Action Displayed Message Comment Proceed according to This sets the TDBO!CBDLJOH! your media type: parameter for the QSFTT!BOZ!LFZ!!!=zzz?! ‘gap’ or ‘mark’ Die-cut stock: strip the Or, for reflective media: value. media from the backing and then reinsert it into Where ‘yyy’...
  • Page 68 Standard Calibration (continued) Step Operator Action Displayed Message Comment Observe the display. The calibration HBQ!NPEF! DBMJCSBUJPO!DPNQMFUF! was successful. See note below if Or, for reflective media: another message SFGMFDUJWF!NPEF!! was displayed. DBMJCSBUJPO!DPNQMFUF! Or, for continuous media: DPOUJOVPVT!NPEF!! DBMJCSBUJPO!DPNQMFUF! 10 Exit upon successful The printer is now SFBEZ! calibration: Back out of...

  • Page 69: Advanced Entry Calibration

    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.
  • Page 70 Advanced Entry Calibration (continued) Step Operator Action Displayed Message Comment Press the You are entering TFOTPS!DBMJCSBUJPO! BEWBODFE!FOUSZ! to scroll to ‘Advanced Advanced Entry Entry’. Calibration. Press the key. Press the BEWBODFE!FOUSZ! TFOTPS!MFWFMT! key to abort this procedure. Press the key. You are beginning BEWBODFE!FOUSZ! TFOTPS!HBJO!
  • Page 71 Advanced Entry Calibration (continued) Step Operator Action Displayed Message Comment 11 Proceed according to Where ‘yyy’ is a HBJO!USBO!!!!!=zzz?! your media type: +11!!!!!!!!)1!.!42*! numerical value representing the Die-cut stock: strip the Or, for reflective media: current sensor media from the backing reading: useful in and then reinsert it into HBJO!SFGM!!!!!=zzz?!
  • Page 72 Advanced Entry Calibration (continued) Step Operator Action Displayed Message Comment 12 From the data collected in Both sensor HBJO!USBO!!!!!!=zzz? Steps 10 and 11, where +11!!!!!!!!!)1!.!42*! readings must both the sensor readings are be above 20. Or, for reflective media: above 20, subtract each Label Value from the HBJO!SFGM!!!!!!=zzz? corresponding TOF Value.
  • Page 73 Advanced Entry Calibration (continued) Step Operator Action Displayed Message Comment 13 Using the key, Selection is HBJO!USBO!!!!!!=zzz? select the Gain Number denoted with an +19!!!!!!!!!)1!.!42*! determined in Step 12. ‘*’. Press the key to Or, for reflective media: select the setting. HBJO!SFGM!!!!!!=zzz? +19!!!!!!!!!)1!.!42*! Place the media in the...
  • Page 74 Advanced Entry Calibration (continued) Step Operator Action Displayed Message Comment 16 Press the key. The selection QBQFS!TFOTPS!MFWFM! Q+2:9!H+195!F+125! will flash and Using the or the the display key, set the heading will HBQ!TFOTPS!MFWFM! ‘Paper’ level to the value change to Q+2:9!H+195!F+125! determined in the previous indicate the...

  • Page 75: Printhead Adjustments

    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.

  • Page 76: Pressure Adjustment

    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).

  • Page 77: Maintenance Schedule

    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 •...

  • Page 78: Cleaning The Printhead

    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: Turn ‘Off’...

  • Page 79: Cleaning The Platen Roller

    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: Turn ‘Off’...

  • Page 80: Cleaning Interior And Exterior Surfaces

    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’...

  • Page 81: Updating From The Ready Mode

    5.3.1 Updating from the Ready Mode Updating Procedure for Application Version 2.091 or greater Step Displayed Message Operator Action Comment(s) Using the DOS As an example, this would be SFBEZ! copy command entered as: (where ‘filename’ copy 4212tb 1.zs lpt1 is the program to be (Where ‘lpt1’...

  • Page 82: Updating From The Download Mode

    5.3.2 Updating from the Download Mode Required Updating Procedure for Application Version 2.08 or earlier* Step Displayed Message Operator Action Comment(s) Press and hold the The Boot Loader version CPPU.QB21! 13/19!3022011! PAUSE and TEST is displayed. keys while turning Note: This information ‘On’...

  • Page 83: Possible Problems During An Update

    5.3.3 Possible Problems during an Update The following is list of possible error messages when downloading: 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). ®...

  • Page 84: Boot Loader Program Updates

    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 ftp://ftp.datamaxcorp.com can be found at 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 WARNING...

  • Page 85: Troubleshooting

    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.
  • Page 86 If experiencing this problem… Try this solution… ™ ™ Intellifont will not print: Intellifont format is Little/Big Endian specific. The printer uses Big Endian. Refer to your font supplier for information. • The Leveling Cam may be incorrectly Light print on the right side (facing the printer) of the adjusted;...
  • Page 87 If experiencing this problem… Try this solution… • Verify that the AC power cord connection No power (all indicator lights are ‘Off”): 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.
  • Page 88 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. W-Class...

  • Page 89: Fault And Warning Messages

    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).
  • Page 90 Printer Fault Messages (continued) Displayed Message Description Possible Solution(s) The printer has Try cycling the printer power detected a Direct ‘Off’ and ‘On’. If the fault ENB!GBVMU! Memory Access does not clear, call for failure. service. Consistently low Press any key to continue. HBQ!NPEF! DBOOPU!DBMJCSBUF! sensor readings...
  • Page 91 Printer Fault Messages (continued) Displayed Message Description Possible Solution(s) Two possible Depending upon the cause: QPTJUJPO!GBVMU! causes: (1) Press the FEED key in an (1) The printer was attempt to identify and then powered-off or clear the related fault reset during a condition;...
  • Page 92 Printer Fault Messages (continued) Displayed Message Description Possible Solution(s) Consistently high Press any key to continue. SFGMFDUJWF!NPEF! GBVMUZ!TFOTPS! sensor readings Ensure that media was were detected. removed from the media sensor during the appropriate calibration steps; also ensure that no labels are stuck in the media sensor.
  • Page 93 Printer Fault Messages (continued) Displayed Message Description Possible Solution(s) The printer could If media is moving: UPQ!PG!GPSN!GBVMU! not find the TOF 1) Press the FEED key. It may mark within the be necessary to re-calibrate maximum label the printer; see Section 5.0. length setting or it found a TOF in an 2) The Media Sensor may be...

  • Page 94: Warning Messages

    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 Displayed Message Description Action(s) The printer has Replace the printhead if the detected defective print quality becomes EPU!GBJMVSF!

  • Page 95: Hex Dump Mode

    (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).
  • Page 96 W-Class...

  • Page 97: Printer Specifications

    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 &...

  • Page 98: Environmental Requirements

    Electrical Input Voltage: 90 – 132 or 180 – 264 VAC @ 47–63 Hz, auto- ranging. Grounding: Unit must be connected to a properly grounded receptacle. Power Consumption – Typical Operating / 127 Watts / 21 Watts W-6208 Standby: 140 Watts / 21 Watts W-6308 162 Watts / 21 Watts W-8306 Environmental Requirements Operating Temperature:...

  • Page 99: Media And Ribbon Requirements

    Printing Specifications (continued) SDRAM Memory: 16 MB Flash Memory: 2 MB Maximum Print Width: 6.40” (162.6 mm) W-6308 6.62” (168.1 mm) W-6208 8.53” (216.7 mm) W-8306 Minimum Print Width: 2.0” (50.8 mm) W-6208, W-6308 3.0” (76.2 mm) W-8306 Print Length Range: .5”...
  • Page 100 Media and Ribbon Requirements (continued) Media Dimensions Maximum Minimum Designator Description media width: W-6208 and W-6308 6.700 2.000 W-8306 9.000 3.000 backing material width: W-6208 and W-6308 6.700 2.000 W-8306 9.000 3.000 gap (or notch) between labels .100 label length 0.500 media thickness .0100...

  • Page 101: Ascii Control Code Chart

    Appendix A ASCII Control Code Chart Char Char Char Char Ctrl @ Ctrl A Ctrl B “ Ctrl C Ctrl D Ctrl E Ctrl F & Ctrl G ‘ Ctrl H Ctrl I Ctrl J Ctrl K Ctrl L Ctrl M Ctrl N Ctrl O Ctrl P...
  • Page 102 ASCII Control Code Chart (continued) Char Char Char Char Ç á Ó ü í ß é ó Ô â ú Ò ä ñ õ à Ñ Õ å ã µ ç ° Ã ê ¿ è ® Ú è Û ï...

  • Page 103: Available Fonts And Bar Codes

    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...
  • Page 104 The table below lists the font sizes; the numbers indicate the number of dots. Font Height Width Spacing Font 0: 96-character alphanumeric, Font 1: 145-character upper and upper and lower case. lower case alphanumeric with descenders and ascenders. Font 2: 138-character alphanumeric, Font 3: 62-character alphanumeric, upper and lower case.
  • Page 105 Font 4: 62-character alphanumeric, Font 5: 62-character alphanumeric, uppercase. uppercase. Font 6: 62-character alphanumeric, uppercase. W-Class...
  • Page 106 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. W-Class...

  • Page 107: Bar Code Summary Data

    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. Valid ASCII Characters, Code Type Length Checksum...
  • Page 108 Bar Code A: Code 3 of 9 Bar Code B: UPC-A Bar Code D: Interleaved 2 of 5 Bar Code C: UPC-E Bar Code E: Code 128 Bar Code F: EAN-13 Bar Code H: Health Industry Bar Code (HBIC) Bar Code G: EAN-8 Bar Code I: Codabar Bar Code J: Interleaved 2 of 5 w/modulo 10 checksum...
  • Page 109 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...
  • Page 110 Bar Code T: Telepen Bar Code S: UCC/EAN Code 128 Random Weight Bar Code v: FIM Bar Code u: UPS MaxiCode Bar Code WG: USD-8 Bar Code z: PDF-417 Bar Code W1c: DataMatrix Bar Code W1d: QR Code Bar Code W1z: MicroPDF417 Bar Code W1f: Aztec W-Class...

  • Page 111: Appendix C Module Assignments

    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 Future Option Future Option 1024 KB Main PCB SDRAM – user addressable...

  • Page 112: Available Speeds And Default Settings

    Available Speeds and Default Settings Printer Speeds and Defaults Speed Range Default Setting Model MMPS MMPS W-6208: Print 51 – 203 Feed 2-10 51 – 254 Reverse 51 – 152 W-6308: Print 51 – 203 Feed 2-10 51 – 254 Reverse 51 –...

  • Page 113: Gpio Port

    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.
  • Page 114 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 TTL-level input or (2) with an interface circuit similar to the one shown right.

  • Page 115: Menu System Multi-Language Support

    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)’...
  • Page 116 Creating a Menu Language: 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: W-Class...
  • Page 117 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.

  • Page 118: Advance File Handling Information

    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.
  • Page 119 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. Downloading the same language twice will automatically delete the first occurrence, but will not free the memory space.
  • Page 120 W-Class...

  • Page 121: Saving A Configuration File

    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.
  • Page 122 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 Displayed Message Operator Action Comment(s) You are entering Press the key. ‘Menu Mode’. SFBEZ! Use the key can...

  • Page 123: Warranty Information

    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.
  • Page 124 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.

  • Page 125: Limitation Of Liability

    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.
  • Page 126 W-Class...
  • Page 127 Glossary 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.
  • Page 128 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 multi- language support as programmed for the printer’s menu system and configuration label.
  • Page 129 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.
  • Page 130 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.
  • Page 131 Index DPI, 88, 101, 118 DPL, 29, 46, 85, 118 alphanumeric, 117 application program, 37, 70 ASCII, 47, 85, 91, 92 EFIGS, 2, 70, 101, 105 - 109, 118 emulation, 39 bar code, 76, 78, 87, 93, 97 - 100, 117 boot loader, 72 - 74, 117 factory default settings, 27, 28 - 47, 83, burn line, 68, 117...
  • Page 132 media quick test mode, 23, 25, 47, 48, 50 - 54, backing material, 7, 16 - 20, 58, 89, 77, 79 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, ready mode, 23, 24, 26, 48, 70, 71, 85 117, 119...

Table of Contents