Integrated Print Management System - Printronix P7000 Series Maintenance Manual

Constant ribbon tension is maintained by controlling each motor with a drive
and a drag circuit. While the shuttle assembly is in motion, one motor acts as
a drive motor, pulling the ribbon against the resistance exerted by the other
motor—the drag motor. This system maintains constant motor speed and
ribbon tension.

Integrated Print Management System

The Integrated Print Management System monitors and communicates ribbon
life. Using specially barcoded ribbon spools, the printer automatically detects
when a new or used ribbon is loaded. A sophisticated software algorithm
monitors all jobs printed and periodically updates the remaining ribbon life on
the front panel display. The accurate presentation of available ribbon life
allows for efficient planning of print jobs.
The Integrated Print Management System uses a bar coded label on special
high-capacity ribbon spools and a photo-reflective sensor mounted beneath
the right-hand ribbon spool. A bar coded label is affixed to each ribbon spool
on opposite sides, so that the underside of the right-hand spool can always be
read by the sensor. The bar code contains the following encoded information:
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To verify the authenticity of the ribbon, the bar coded label is scanned by the
sensor as the spool rotates and the input data are decoded by the printer and
interpreted by Integrated Print Management software.
Reading the information from the bar code, the system automatically sets up
the parameters which dictate the ribbon life, based upon pre-determined
depletion rates to a set dot density. The desired ribbon end point and alert
actions can be adjusted to accomodate individual requirements.
Each ribbon spool label has a different identification sequence number. This
permits the ribbon to be flipped over and re-used one time, while the system
recognizes and tracks it as a new ribbon installation. In this manual, "new
ribbon" means either a brand new ribbon or one that has been flipped once.
Identifies the ribbon as Printronix (or authorized OEM)
The thickness and length of the ribbon fabric to select the correct motor
stepper tables
The expected yield, which is used by Integrated Print Management
software to set the ink depletion rate
A unique identification sequence that is not duplicated on any other
ribbon
Shuttle Drive Motor
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