Page 1 MODEL 438TM DIRECT THERMAL PRINTER OPERATOR’S MANUAL PART NUMBER: 880049-0113 July 7, 2021 CPC Copyright © 2021 by Microcom Corporation, Lewis Center, Ohio – All rights reserved. Printed in the United States of America...
Page 3 Documentation support written up to code version 1.11.44. Liability Disclaimer Microcom Corporation makes every effort to assure that all information and specifications contained in this manual are accurate; however, mistakes are sometimes made. Microcom Corporation shall not be liable for any damages resulting in the use or misuse of this product.
Page 5 YB (Y Beginning Coordinate) ..............4-12 4.6.4 CC (Character Count) ................. 4-12 4.6.5 TCI (Text Conversion Identifier) ..............4-12 4.6.6 CGN (Character Generator Number) ............4-14 4.6.6.1 Embedded Fonts..................4-14 4.6.6.2 Downloadable Fonts and Graphics ............. 4-14 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113...
Page 6 Auto Reverse Video ..................4-22 APPENDIX ....................13-1 Appendix A: Limited Warranty .................. 13-1 Appendix B: RMA Procedure ................... 13-3 Appendix C: ^D Command Summary ............... 13-5 Glossary ........................13-19 Appendix D: User Notes ..................13-23 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113...
Page 7 Introduction The Model 438TM printer has been designed to provide solutions for the ticketing industry. The printer uses the same reliable print mechanism found in the Model 428TM printer and is intended to be a direct replacement. The print mechanism has been designed with a 4”...
Page 8 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113...
Page 9 General Specifications * NOTE: Listed specifications based on a standard print mechanism and may vary based on final configuration. ** NOTE: Higher temperature applications are possible; please contact your Microcom Corporation Sales representative for more information. 1.2 Printing Specifications Print Type Direct Thermal 203 DPI (8 dots/mm = 0.0049”...
Page 10: Table 1-3 Media Specifications
Maximum Media Width *NOTE: The printers may print on thicker media types depending on the pliability of the material; however, this requires testing and evaluation. Contact your authorized Microcom Corporation representative for additional information regarding testing and evaluation of thicker or rigid media types.
Page 11 · Storage of fonts, label formats and graphics in both volatile RAM and non- volatile FLASH memory. · All BMP files may be converted using a Microcom utility program. · Rotated: 0 º, 90 º, 180 º, and 270 º.
Page 12 · Ethernet Port (XPORT and Ethernet Option Board) · Pre-Stock Out Sensor Assembly · Low Paper Sensor Assembly · Wristband Option · Counter mounting plate (Boca and PA Size Compatible) · Paper Supply Holders · Media Catch Trays · Cleaning kit 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113...
Page 13: Figure 3-1 Typical Printer Accessories
After the printer is removed from the container(s), verify that all the items on the packing list are present and in good condition. The picture below (See Figure 3-1) shows a 438TM and optional power cord. Your shipment may contain different items.
Page 14: Figure 3-2 Printer Rear Panel
The printer uses a standard through serial cable, typically referred to as a modem cable, which may be purchased through Microcom Corporation or a local computer supply company. A NULL-modem cable is not required because the printer is configured as DCE.
Page 15: Table 3-1 Rs-232 Cable Configurations
RS-232 Cable Configurations USB Communication Interface The 438TM printer provides a single USB port for communication to a host device. In order to communicate with the printer, the FTDI USB driver must be installed on the host computer. This may be downloaded at http://www.microcomcorp.com/support/drivers/.
Page 16 The first option is a legacy option that uses an Xport converter that communicate like an Ethernet connection but on a serial channel inside the printer. This means that the speed is limited to 115200 baud rate. 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113...
Page 17 Chapter 3 Getting Started The second option is available on code version 1.11.32 and later is a Microcom developed solution that provide true Ethernet speeds that is not limited to the 115200 serial cap. The Microcom option board must be installed at the factory and is not intended for field installation.
Page 18 Select Assign a specific IP address and select Next. This screen allows you to assign the IP Address and the Subnet Mask. You will need to obtain these two items from your network administrator and select Next. 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113...
Page 19 Ethernet port selected as the active port. 3.5.2 Ethernet - Microcom Ethernet Option Board The Microcom Ethernet Option Board provides different methods of configuring the Ethernet port for usage. Printer’s ship from the factory with DHCP enabled and if a DHCP server does not assign an IP address within a minute, the printer will use AUTO IP to assign an available IP address (169.254.X.X with X representing a random unused value) and the NET Mask assigned to...
Page 20 3.5.2.2 HTTP Web Configuration – Microcom Ethernet Option Follow these instructions to use the HTTP Web interface to configure the Microcom Ethernet Option board. Power the printer up with the print button pressed and held in and then release the button once the printer boots and the light turns solid green.
Page 21 The File Upload section of the configuration screen may be used to send commands or files directly to the connected printer. Any feedback sent from the printer will be displayed in the 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113...
Page 22 3.5.2.3 Telnet Using MCT – Microcom Ethernet Option A terminal program like MCT may be used to open a Telnet session on port 23 of the ethernet option. This may be used to configure the Ethernet settings as well. The Username and Password are “mic”...
Page 23 Modes 1 (^A1^D108) sets the XPORT/USB Autodetect while modes 5 (Microcom Ethernet Option) and 6 (3 Port Auto Select) may be used to configure the printer for Microcom Ethernet Option. Turn the printer ON with the print button pressed and held in. Release the button after the printer status light turns a solid Green.
Page 24 Sending a ^A1^D108 would set the printer to the 2 Port Autoselect between the USB or the XPORT Ethernet port. Sending a ^A5^D108 or ^A6^D108 command would set the printer to either use the Microcom Ethernet Option board or to the 3 Port Auto Select (Serial, USB, or Microcom Ethernet). 3-12...
Page 25 The X38 based products use an FTDI based driver while the X85 based products use a Microcom Corporation based driver. The driver requires that the User has ADMIN privileges in order to install the driver. The installation process sample shows the Windows 7 installation.
Page 26 3. Wait for the installer to finish setting up the driver files. 4. Select the New install or Uninstall existing driver if already running a Qualsoft version or if installing more than one printer, select the Install another printer model (Copy n). 3-14 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113...
Page 27 Chapter 3 Getting Started 5. Select the Model number of the printer being installed. 6. Select the communication port that is going to be used with the printer. 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113 3-15...
Page 28 Getting Started Chapter 3 7. Select next to start the installation. 8. Once the installation is complete, select “Exit” to finish the installation. 9. Select “OK” if prompted to restart and complete the installation. 3-16 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113...
Page 29 This section will explain how to configure the Windows Driver for proper operation. The example below also shows a Microcom Thermal Printer under Unspecified devices. This is the USB driver that is loaded when the printer is powered on and the printer USB port is connected to the printer.
Page 30 3.6.5 Printing Preferences - About tab Selecting the Preferences icon at the bottom left of the Printing properties window opens the driver “About” tab. This shows the driver version number and release date. 3-18 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113...
Page 31 The Advanced tab is used to specify the print resolution and the printhead width. This tab is automatically set when selecting the printer model to install and should be ignored. This screen is typically used for development testing and custom solutions. 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113 3-19...
Page 32 3.6.8 Print tab - Halftone Properties The Halftone Properties page allows for dithering options and additional image manipulation to alter the image that is produced and printed. 3-20 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113...
Page 33 The Paper tab is where the user adds custom form sizes and adjusts minor handling effects. The form sizes that are created here are added to the Windows Print Server Properties for the model installed. 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113 3-21...
Page 34 Please note that this default may not represent your media type or size. 3.6.11 Printing Preferences - Media tab The Media tab is used to set specific setting of the media size and operations that in a form that the printer requires to maintain correct registration. 3-22 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113...
Page 35 The Cut with LPD is a mode that the printer will advance the Dispense Distance after printing and cut the label. The LPD is used to prevent the next job from printing until the current job has been taken by the user. 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113 3-23...
Page 36 A presenter is a post printing device that typically takes a printed and cut form and presents it to the user only after is has printed completely. Not every printer model is capable of running a presenter. Check with your printer model operator’s manual to see if a 3-24 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113...
Page 37 The Loop Height is a value in 1/10 inch that the printer uses to delay the presentation of the media. The printer would print and form a loop at the presenter and once this value is reached, the presenter would present. 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113 3-25...
Page 38 The Disable Status checkbox is used to control whether the Port Monitor Status popup window is displayed or not. This is used to get real time status from the printer while printing via the Windows driver. 3-26 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113...
Page 39 Chapter 3 Getting Started 3.6.14 Printing Preferences - Save/Restore tab The Save/Restore tab is used to export or import driver settings and to force back to the factory defaults based on the printer model installed. 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113 3-27...
Page 40 >CUTTER ERROR<, >DATA ERROR<, >FAIL TIMEOUT<, or >FAIL SIZE< LDS1 control messages. 3.6.15.7 PRINTER_STATUS_OFFLINE Message indicates that the printer is powered down or the driver is unable to communicate with the printer. No LDS1 equivalent control language printer message. 3-28 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113...
Page 41: Figure 3-3 Cash Drawer Pin-Out
The typically application for this sensor is to detect paper or media levels prior to the printer reporting out of stock errors. The operations range for the low paper sensor as .25" to .75" with .5" being the optimal range. 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113 3-29...
Page 42: Figure 3-4 Low Paper Sensor
For more details on this feature, please refer to Chapter 5, Autoload Commands. 3-30 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113...
Page 43 This section provides a description to familiarize you with the basic function of the Print Button and the Status Indicator Light. Status Light Print Button Figure 3-7 Print Button and Status Indicator Light 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113 3-31...
Page 44: Table 3-2 Print Button Description
The printer has four primary modes of operation. The different types of modes have an impact on how the Print Button and the Status Indicator Light operate. This section is intended to provide the user with an explanation of these different modes. 3-32 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113...
Page 45 These default settings will remain in effect until the printer power is cycled or a Soft RESET command is issued (^D32). These are the only 2 ways to get out of the DIAGNOSTICS mode. 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113 3-33...
Page 46 The printer has some basic requirements in order to operate reliably for years. The printer has some basic requirements in order to operate properly for years. Microcom has a staff that is committed to helping integrate our products. We will do as much as needed to ensure that the process goes correctly and smoothly.
Page 47 Environmental Considerations Unless specified differently in the operator’s manual or in the product specification sheet, the operating environment for Microcom printers is listed below. - Relative humidity: 10-85% non-condensing - Operation Temperature: 40° to 104° F (5° to 40° C) 3.12.2...
Page 48 Roll media must be able to turn with minimal resistance and allow the printer to smoothly pull media without jerking or snagging. Minimize friction with the roll holder contact and avoid sharp corners in the media path. Larger, heavier media rolls are 3-36 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113...
Page 49 3.12.4 Designing a Roll Support Media roll supports may be purchased from Microcom. If you are designing a custom roll support, please be aware of the following design guidelines. • Implement a simple design which allows the media to be gently placed in the kiosk.
Page 50 Power supplies sold by Microcom Corporation have gone through rigorous testing to ensure the proper function of the printer. If a non-Microcom supplied power supply is used with the printer, it must comply with the requirements of that printer.
Page 51 The output circuits (USB, Serial) may not be power limited. Equipment connected to these output connectors shall be of the certified type with their own fire enclosure. If a non- Microcom Corporation supplied power supply is used, it shall be of the certified type and a limited Power Source.
Page 52 The TOF Sensor is located in front of the cutter assembly TOF sensor when the cutter assembly is not installed. Figure 3-10 TOF (Top-Of-Form) Sensor 3-40 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113...
Page 53 Wristband Guide Loosen locking nut and slide guide into place and retighten into place Insert into media guide making sure that it is flush against the green media guide Figure 3-11 Wristband Media Adapter 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113 3-41...
Page 54 Getting Started Chapter 3 3-42 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113...
Page 55 C:\>COPY FILENAME COM1) command. When using DOS, it is a good idea to set the communications port up using the DOS MODE (for example: C:\>MODE COM1:115200, n,8,1, p) command before copying the files to the port. Create a text file, 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113...
Page 56 203 dpi or a 300 dpi head. The examples contained in this document discuss a 300 dpi printer. The conversion values for the 300dpi print head: Dots/mm Inch/Dot 0.0033 (1/300) EXAMPLE: A label that is 2” in length would be (2 x 300) = 600 dots. 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113...
Page 57 ^D2 <CR> Text data is coming. Microcom <CR> Text data string #1. Corporation <CR> Text data string #2. Thermal Printing Solutions <CR> Text data string #3. 012345 <CR> Text data string #4. ^D3 <CR> Print format. 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113...
Page 58: Figure 4-2 4X3 Sample Label
The label header consists of eleven parameters that control the media layout as well as printer configuration. A comma (,) delimiter is used to separate the parameters and a carriage return is required to terminate the header. 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113...
Page 59 Thermal Printing Solutions 3.0” or 900 Dots 012345 X beginning This is the Gap Value origin; 1,1 .125” or 38 Dots Y beginning 4.266” or 1280 Dots (Total Print Head Dots) Figure 4-3 Header Elements 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113...
Page 60 DPS value to a lower setting as shown on Table 4-1. Generally, better print quality is achieved by printing at lower speeds, however this is also dependent on the media and contrast settings as well. Labels per minute can be calculated by the equation below: 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113...
Page 61: Table 4-1 Dps Values
Continuous Media (setting = 2) If the LCB parameter is set to a value of “2”, the printer will not search for a registration mark. The gap detectors are only used for stock out conditions when set for continuous 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113...
Page 62 This parameter is required to properly register print on each label. The table below lists proper SPG settings for particular printer configurations when the LSY is greater than the D2G parameter value, the D2G value is used. 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113...
Page 63: Table 4-2 Dot To Gap Parameters
The Dot to Gap distance for the transmissive sensor (Table 4-2). LSY (203) = The height of the printable area; 1" x 203 DPI = 203 dots. SBL (25) = The Space Between Labels, or die-cut GAP in this case; 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113...
Page 64 LCB of 0 for die-cut labels. AGD of 1 step. SPG of 385 for proper placement of the next label. No X offset. No Y offset. <CR> A carriage return must follow the header. 4-10 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113...
Page 65 1, 640, 650, 8, 1, , , 0 Feed Direction 4” PRINT HEAD Microcom Corporation Thermal Printing Solutions 012345 X beginning This is the origin; 1,1 Y beginning Figure 4-4 Label Format Field Elements 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113 4-11...
Page 66 For example, a TCI of “1” for the text string data “012345” would print the text “012345” while a TCI of “15” would produce an “Interleaved 2 of 5” symbol. 4-12 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113...
Page 67: Table 4-3 Tci Values
Code 93 Symbol PDF-417 Symbol Datamatrix Symbol Intelligent Mail Barcode Planetcode Symbol UCC/EAN 128 Symbol Text with EAN 128 Information Aztec Symbol QR Code * Human Readable - Refer to Chapter 8 Table 4-3 TCI Values 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113 4-13...
Page 68: Table 4-4 Cgn-Embedded Fonts
These fonts are stored in the printer’s non-volatile flash memory and are accessed with a TCI of 7 and the appropriate CGN value. Custom font sets may be loaded into printers at the factory, ask your Microcom Representative for additional information on custom font sets.
Page 69 Swiss™721 Bold 90 degree Swiss™721 Bold 0 degree Swiss™721 Bold 90 degree Swiss™721 Bold 0 degree Swiss™721 Bold 90 degree Swiss™721 Bold 0 degree Swiss™721 Bold 90 degree OCR-A Normal 0 degree OCR-A Normal 90 degree 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113 4-15...
Page 70 0123 Table4-6 CGN—Bar Code Symbologies * These Symbols must use the CMX or CMY multipliers by 2 to produce an 80% ratio. ** The “FO” field represents the available Field Orientation or print rotation. 4-16 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113...
Page 71: Table 4-7 Fo & Fj Character Starting Positions
CMY would be the actual height in thermal dots. For bar codes with a FO of 90 & 270 degree rotation, the CMX would be the actual height in thermal dots while the CMY parameter would be the multiplier. 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113 4-17...
Page 72 It is possible to design lines into a label utilizing some of the elements of label format fields. Specifically, a TCI value of “6” enables the line draw function. XB and XY provide a starting 4-18 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113...
Page 73: Figure 4-5 Line Draw Sample
1,286,127,,6,,,,25,600,,,,,0 <CR> ^D56 <CR> ^D2 <CR> Line <CR> ^D3 <CR> Figure 4-5 Line Draw Sample This is a list of the first label format field element mnemonics for the sample label in Figure 4-5: 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113 4-19...
Page 74 YB (Y Beginning Coordinate) The X and Y coordinates determine the start of the line draw. CC (Character Count) This element is not used in line draw. No value is necessary, however, a comma needs to be entered to acknowledge the position. 4-20 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113...
Page 75 Format Fields defining the line draw and the text fields. The size of the box is not defined by the text. Adjustment to the size of the box must be made by adjusting the line draw coordinates. 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113 4-21...
Page 76 It is possible to create a reverse video effect with barcodes using this method. ^D57 5,1280,900,19,38,7,0,1,395,0,0 Microcom 1,640,700,8,1,5,0,4,2,2,,,,,8 2,640,591,11,1,5,0,4,2,2,,,,,8 3,640,443,26,1,5,0,4,,,,,,,8 Corporation 4,640,296,6,1,5,0,4,,,,,,,8 4,640,148,6,16,3,,4,3,75,,,,,0 ^D56 Thermal Printing Solutions Microcom Corporation 012345 Thermal Printing Solutions 012345 Figure 4-8 Auto Reverse Video Sample 4-22 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113...
Page 77 “control B” is shorter, it is easier to use in direct terminal mode. In general, it is better to use the ^D2 command sequence inside a file or program to assist in trouble-shooting the format. 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113...
Page 78 ^E will not function. This means that if the printer is going to be using binary compression, the 5 NULL’s method should be used to request status instead of the ^E command. 5-10 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113...
Page 79 Byte Mode: The response is sent to the host as a hexadecimal number (byte) as shown in Table . Each string is represented by a single byte with nothing separating them. The end of the response is terminated with a 0xFF character. 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113 5-11...
Page 80 The printer failed to read and verify the FAILED< configuration parameters are present. >ERASE FAILED FOR The flash was unable to erase at the SECTOR n< memory sector noted by the “n” Table 5-1 Enquiry Responses 5-12 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113...
Page 81 Port #1 Parity Enable: Turns printer port #1 parity ON or OFF for serial communication. 1 = Disable Parity (NONE) 0 = Enable Parity Echo: If this feature is enabled, the printer will echo all received characters to the serial port. 1 = Enable 0 = Disable 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113 5-13...
Page 82 5 above. They determine which stored format is loaded at power-up. The printer can be instructed not to load a format at power- up by setting all three switches to 0. 000 = No Power-up Format 5-14 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113...
Page 83 0 = Enable (<|> key functions as <Ctrl> key) Accept “^” for Ctrl: Sets whether the “caret” character will be interpreted the same as the “Ctrl” key. The “caret” character is the <SHIFT> + 6 key. 1 = Disable 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113 5-15...
Page 84 Slashed Zeros: If enabled, the printer will print a slash through the embedded zero (“0”) characters. 1 = Enable 0 = Disable External Print Request: (Call Microcom for more information.) 1 = Enable 0 = Disable Stock Out function: Enable this function to get a >LOW STOCK<...
Page 85 The correct type of sensor is determined by the printer hardware configuration being used. 1 = TOF is TRANSMISSIVE 0 = TOF is REFLECTIVE 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113 5-17...
Page 86 Once enabled, when the PSO (>INPUT 1<) sensor goes active the printer will finish printing the 5-18 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113...
Page 87 The ^D151 is a nonvolatile command used to set which GP inputs are configured to cause an immediate error when active. An immediate error will immediately stop printing and go into an error condition. Once 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113 5-19...
Page 88 NOTE: A status request (^E, ^D5, or 5 NULL’s 01) will never show the status of the outputs while a status request will show the input status if: 1) GP I/O is enabled AND 5-20 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113...
Page 89 5 = ground 6 = g/p output 3 - Downloading a format 7 = ground 8 = g/p output 4 - Format loaded All outputs are active high. 24.0 VDC = high 0.0 VDC = low 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113 5-21...
Page 90 0 = Enable system parameter saving Finish Mode: When enabled, the printer will finish printing the current label as far as it can after a stock out error. The change will take place after a power 5-22 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113...
Page 91 When enabled, the printer will report the >LPD STOCK JAM< message if the printer was sent a print job and the LTS did not detect the media exiting the printer. 1 = Enable LTS Jam Detection 0 = Disable LTS Jam Detection 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113 5-23...
Page 92 “Active” port. The USB port will be selected if the USB cable is connected between the printer and a PC that is powered “ON.” The RS-232 port will be selected if the USB cable is not plugged in and a character comes 5-24 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113...
Page 93 USB port. Microcom Ethernet option board: When the active port is set to a 5, the printer will ignore other ports being plugged into the machine and will only be active on the Microcom Ethernet option board.
Page 94 Set the MAC Address: The MAC address is assigned at the Factory and should not be changed. If the CPU connected to the Ethernet Option Board is replaced, the MAC will need to be set. Contact Microcom Corporation for a valid MAC address if needed.
Page 95 The printer’s Ethernet interface will send the printer status byte to the HOST every few milliseconds. This is the command byte configuration: 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113 5-27...
Page 96 General Purpose mode. The printer will NOT go into General Purpose Mode until a power cycle occurs to cause the data to be stored in FLASH memory. This command is nonvolatile, so once the General Purpose 5-28 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113...
Page 97 All outputs are active high. 24.0 VDC = high 0.0 VDC = low Signal logic levels: The signals are active high and must be between +15Vdc and +24Vdc to be “1”. The signals must drop below +10Vdc to be “0”. 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113 5-29...
Page 98 LDS command protocol. This mode also uses additional baud rates for higher speed image printing. Protocol: 1. The HOST sends a format to the printer that identifies the media being used: Example: ^D57[CR][LF] 1,1280,940,,,3,0,1[CR][LF] ^D56[CR][LF] 5-30 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113...
Page 99 Higher contrast settings will reduce the life of the print head. 5.4.3.1 Adjust Contrast Base (Non-volatile - ^D36) This command is used to adjust overall contrast on all formats. 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113 5-31...
Page 100 While the printer is designed to work with a wide variety of label media, it is sometimes necessary to adjust the printer’s thresholds in order to obtain proper registration and operation. The numerical value in which the printer senses a registration mark is referred as the threshold value. 5-32 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113...
Page 101 Finish Mode feature; see the D27 command bit position 8 for more information. Printer Model Number Transmissive Dot2Gap 203dpi 438 300dpi 438 203dpi 438T Series 300dpi 438T Series 203dpi 238/338M Series 300dpi 238/338M Series Table 5-3 Transmissive Dot2Gap Values 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113 5-33...
Page 102 Same as ^A2^D39<CR>, but the values will be printed on the media. Diagnostic Mode that steps the motor while displaying the readings from the printers sensors to determine the media’s proper ^D90 and ^D91 settings. This is also referred to as “tick-tick” mode. 5-34 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113...
Page 103 Below is an example of a format that is being saved into memory that is used as an autoload template and sent to the printer as part of the printer’s configuration. 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113 5-35...
Page 104 “Flashing RED,” and if the queried, the printer will report a “>TOF ERROR< or 0x1F depending on the response mode of the printer. To clear the error, press the print button. Another TOF may then be attempted. 5-36 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113...
Page 105 Since commands are processed in the order they are received, this is typically the last command in the format file. This command is equivalent to the “^C” control code. 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113 5-37...
Page 106 ^D2 and before the print command. COMMAND Clears Commands 41 through 51 Load Number of Fields in Layout (HFM): The ^Axx specifies the value. Load Label Width in dots (LSX): The ^Axx specifies the value. 5-38 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113...
Page 107 Load Increment/Decrement Step Value: The single serial number functions increment or decrement by this value. ^Axx is the amount of increment or decrement. Fields that instructs the printer to decrement beyond 0 will be set to 0. 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113 5-39...
Page 108 (^A1^D84), load the step value of 5 (^A5^D85) and then print three serialized labels (^A3^D75). The printed result would be “20” for the first label, “15” for the second label, and “10” for the third or last label. 5-40 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113...
Page 109 ^D62 command is sent. The following is an example of Pre=padded text: ^D57<CR> 3,1280,900,,38,7,0,1,385,0,0 <CR> 1,300,500,7,1,5<CR> 2,300,400,7,1,5<CR> 3,300,300,7,1,5<CR> ^D56 <CR> ^D2 <CR> A<CR> B<CR> C<CR> ^D62<CR> 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113 5-41...
Page 110 ^D64 command. The following is an example of the ^D61, ^D63, and ^D64 commands: ^A0^D64<CR> (Clears any old settings) ^D57<CR> 6,1280,900,,38,7,0,1,385,0,0 <CR> 1,300,300,20,1,4<CR> 2,300,250,20,1,4<CR> 3,300,200,20,1,4<CR> 4,300,150,20,1,4<CR> 5,300,100,20,1,4<CR> 6,300,50,20,1,4<CR> ^D56 <CR> ^D2 <CR> 5-42 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113...
Page 111 Kiosk Cutter Advance/Retract Distance Command: This command sets the advance/retract distance for the Kiosk Cutter (^D111) Mode. This is the distance that the printer will advance after printing to control the cut placement. The same distance will 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113 5-43...
Page 112 The valid arguments for the X value are the DPS speed values for the printer. Please refer to the DPS and ^D49 sections for valid speed values. 5-44 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113...
Page 113 Advance/Retract Distance: This command is used in conjunction with the tag/tear (^D97), peel-n-dispense (^D98), and cutter (^D99) commands. It is used to adjust the number of steps the printer will advance the media after 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113 5-45...
Page 114 Process Format Saved in RAM: The ^Axx selects which stored format to process (1-128). This command is processed in the same was as if the format was sent directly to the port. 5-46 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113...
Page 115 Total Ram Memory Available - 258335 ß There are 258,335 bytes of RAM available. Flash Based Fonts/Graphics(TCI=7) - [file number(CGN), banks used, type] ß Slot #1 of FONT flash has a GRAPHIC that takes up 1 bank (64Kbyte) [1,1, Graphic] 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113 5-47...
Page 116 FLASH before storing a new FORMAT into the Slot. xxyy 133 Save Compressed GRAPHICS to FLASH. (See Chapter 6, Downloadable Graphics) Delete a GRAPHIC from FLASH. ^A0 deletes all GRAPHIC files in FLASH ^Axx deletes the GRAPHIC stored in FLASH Slot #xx 5-48 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113...
Page 117 FONT in FLASH must have a unique CGN #. If a FONT is downloaded that has the same CGN # as a FONT that is already stored in FLASH, then an error message is sent back indicating a Duplicate CGN error. 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113 5-49...
Page 118 This command tells the printer to take the Label FORMAT file in Slot #xx and build up its image in the printer’s slice buffer. After this command is finished, the label may be printed by sending the ^C print command. 5-50 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113...
Page 119 Please note that this command may take some time (depending on how much is stored). During this time the printer will not respond to commands. The printer may appear to be locked up until the command finishes. 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113 5-51...
Page 120 ^A62519^D7 command will update the printer’s bootloader, application, and embedded font set. This process requires some interactivity with the printer and failure to follow the proper process will cause the printer to become inoperable. Please contact your Microcom Corporation Representative for more information. 5.14...
Page 121 This command is a volatile command with a default of 0. The ^A1^D145 command lists the current setting under the Post Takeup Time. 25 msec 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113 5-53...
Page 122 Sensor Status Byte: This command is used to report the real time sensor status of all the printer sensors. When the ^D163 command is issued, the printer returns a byte status that is defined below. 5-54 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113...
Page 123 X value in steps after the main motor starts. The valid range is 0 to 65535 steps. Please note that if a value is selected that exceeds to format LSY, the takeup would not turn on. 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113 5-55...
Page 124 Printer Commands Chapter 5 5-56 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113...
Page 125 Select an open slot number for storage. Use ^D119 to determine which slots are open. 5) Limit The maximum print width (in dots). Use ^D29 to determine print head size. 6) Destination Use “0” for FLASH and “1” for RAM. 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113...
Page 126 Press [ENTER] C:\>BMP2MIC.exe 2. Type the conversion utility name and required information at the command prompt. Press [ENTER]. BMP2MIC - Convert BMP Graphic File to Microcom Printer Graphic Rev. 2.01 Copyright 1998-2005 Microcom Corp., Westerville, Ohio Use: BMP2MIC <infile> <outfile> <outtype> <slotnum> <limit> <destination>...
Page 127 Please note that the compressed format is only usable on 8-bit data connections and will NOT function on 7-bit data connections. 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113...
Page 128 The following sections are provided to developers who wish to create usable GRAPHIC images within their own applications. Commands in the following section are not typically seen for users using Microcom GRAPHIC utilities. 6.5.1 Save Compressed Graphics to RAM (D107) The following is the format of the ^D107 command when used to store a compressed GRAPHIC image file into RAM.
Page 129 “<” character. (i.e. >192690<) Save GRAPHICs or FONTs into RAM Memory without Compression: This command is intended for legacy support only and Microcom Corporation recommends either the ^D104 or ^D107 commands. Fonts must be less than 64KB for this command to function.
Page 130 Downloadable Graphics Chapter 6 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113...
Page 131 CGN refers to the memory slot location of the downloaded font. Nonvolatile fonts are accessed thru TCI “7”. The following section details the process required to convert and download fonts to the printer. The conversion utilities “Fontcv16.exe” may be downloaded at http://www.microcomcorp.com. 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113...
Page 132 7-bit data connections. The uncompressed (^D104) is usable on either 7 or 8-bit connections and is more flexible but encodes using ASCII-HEX. This results in a much larger file size. Microcom Corporation recommends the use of the compressed format when possible.
Page 133 CGN #24 and TCI #7. The ^A0124^D135 command will be right at the beginning of the file. So the ^D135 command is never sent by itself, it’s always in a FONT download file, and the user never really sees it. 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113...
Page 134 This command clears all downloadable fonts, graphics, and stored label formats. List Memory Bytes Available: The printer will send the “>” character followed by the amount of available bytes and then finally a “<” character. (i.e. >192690<) 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113...
Page 135 Downloadable Fonts COMMAND Load GRAPHIC or FONT into RAM Memory without Compression: This command is intended for legacy support only and Microcom Corporation recommends either the ^D104 or ^D107 commands. Fonts must be less than 64KB for this command to function.
Page 136 Downloadable Fonts Chapter 7 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113...
Page 137 UPC-E bar codes do not use inter-character spacing, therefore the character spacing (CS) element must be defaulted. The chart listed in Table 14 illustrates how the 11 digits are reduced to only 6 using the “zero suppression” compression. 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113...
Page 138: Table 8-1 Upc-E Zero Reduction Format
(“*”) character, which is reserved for this purpose. This symbology uses 2:1, 3:1, 4:2, 5:2, and 8:3 ratios, which may be selected using the CGN parameter. Although most specifications require a specific inter-character 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113...
Page 139 Databar has been identified to solve problems in the grocery industry and in healthcare, where items are too small to allow for older barcode symbology. The printer should have binary compression disabled before using GS1 Databar. 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113...
Page 140: Figure 8-1 Gs1 Databar Omni-Directional
The barcode contains a separator pattern, containing no data, which has a height equal to 3 times the X dimension. This symbology may be scanned omni-directionally. This symbology does not allow for human readable text with the barcode. 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113...
Page 141: Figure 8-5 Gs1 Databar Limited Sample
2) Send a label format that calls the GS1 Databar barcode TCI #35. These are the 7 parameters that MUST follow the ^D114 command: 1) Type of GS1 Databar barcode 2) XY Multiplier 3) reserved 4) reserved 5) reserved 6) Separator Height 7) Data to be encoded 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113...
Page 142: Figure 8-7 Gs1 Databar Sample Label Format
1,190,300,1,35<CR> <---------------TCI=35 (GS1 Databar barcode) 2,190,200,11,1,5<CR> ^D56<CR> <---------END of Label FORMAT ^D2<CR> <--------- START of Text String <--------- any character will do… this is just a placeholder ^D3<CR> <--------- PRINT command Figure 8-7 GS1 Databar Sample Label FORMAT 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113...
Page 143 128 ASCII character set along with special control codes. This bar code uses manual compression, which provides full control by manually shifting between the available subsets using the special function access codes. The codes (#n) are 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113...
Page 144 128 ASCII character set. The 48 characters include the “space”, numerical characters 0 through 9, the English alphabet (uppercase only), characters $%+-. / along with five special characters including the start/stop character. 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113...
Page 145 Error Correction Control (ECC) of the PDF-417 symbology. This parameter has to be set to 0 if the ECC# method is desired. The default ECC% is set to 0. A carriage return character must be used to terminate this field. 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113...
Page 146: Figure 8-9 Pdf-417 Sample Format #1
The following format samples show how to generate a PDF-417 bar code: Sample Format #1: ^D77<CR> :PDF-417 bar code data^\ 3<CR> 30<CR> 0<CR> 0<CR> 0<CR> 2:1<CR> ^D57<CR> 2,832,609,,25,6,0,1,264<CR> Text string 1,416,300,1,46,,,4,2,10<CR> 2,416,200,11,1,5,,4<CR> ^D56<CR> ^D2<CR> P<CR> Text string<CR> ^D3<CR> Figure 8-9 PDF-417 Sample Format #1 8-10 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113...
Page 147: Figure 8-10 Pdf-417 Sample Format #2
The D164 command is used to receive and process the Datamatrix barcode with the elements discussed below. Once the Datamatrix barcode data is entered and processed, the barcode image may be placed using the normal format field by using a TCI of 47. 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113 8-11...
Page 148 This parameter is used to set the width or row size of the Data Matrix symbol. Zero entry will invoke auto sizing. Height Parameter- 0 This parameter is used to set the height or column size of the Data Matrix symbol. Zero entry will invoke auto sizing. 8-12 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113...
Page 149: Table 8-5 Data Matrix Configuration Parameters
See below for entire list. Values may be entered as upper or lower case. Encoding The Encoding parameter is used to set the encoding scheme that will be used for the supplied data. The printer default is set to “Auto”, which will automatically switch to the most 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113 8-13...
Page 150 X12 Encoding Scheme X12 encoding scheme is use to encode the standard ANSI X12 electronic data interchange characters, which are compacted three data characters to two codewords in a manner similar to C40 encoding. 8-14 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113...
Page 151 Barcode ID field. The CGN default is a 0 so if only one barcode is present and the Barcode ID is a 0, nothing has to be entered as the CGN. Data Data to be converted to 2D Data Matrix Barcode, maximum number of characters supported in the printer implementation is 1000. 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113 8-15...
Page 152 <CR> as a terminator. The '-' (dash) may be included only to separate the tracking code from the routing code. A maximum of 32 characters including the dash is allowed. Once the Intelligent Mail barcode data is entered and processed, the barcode image may be 8-16 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113...
Page 153: Figure 8-11 Intelligent Mail Barcode Bars
Special Services Tracking Code Customer Identifier 567094 Sequence Number 987654321 Routing Code Delivery Point ZIP Code 0, 5, 9, or 11 01234567891 Table 8-7 Intelligent Mail Barcode Structure Complete data string from above: 0123456709498765432101234567891 01234567094987654321-01234567891 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113 8-17...
Page 154 1 = 180 degree counter clockwise rotation. 2 = 90 degree counter clockwise rotation. 3 = 270 degree counter clockwise rotation. The second set of ASCII digits contains a valid planet code string with a <CR> as a 8-18 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113...
Page 155 3 alphabetic characters (fixed length) 3 numeric characters (fixed length) 3 alphanumeric characters (fixed length) a..3 3 alphabetic characters (variable length) n..3 3 numeric characters (variable length) 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113 8-19...
Page 156 325(***) Width, Diameter, or 2 Dimension, Feet n4+n6 326(***) Width, Diameter, or 2 Dimension, Yards n4+n6 327(***) Depth Thickness, Height or 3 Dimension, Inches n4+n6 328(***) Depth Thickness, Height or 3 Dimension, Feet n4+n6 8-20 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113...
Page 157 360(***) Volume, Quarts n4+n6 361(***) Volume, Gallons n4+n6 362(***) Gross Volume, Quarts n4+n6 363(***) Gross Volume, Gallons n4+n6 364(***) Volume, Cubic Inches n4+n6 365(***) Volume, Cubic Feet n4+n6 366(***) Volume, Cubic Yards n4+n6 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113 8-21...
Page 158 Mutually Agreed, Between Trading Partners or FACT n2+an..30 Intra-Company (Internal) n2+an..30 Intra-Company (Internal) n2+an..30 Intra-Company (Internal) n2+an..30 Intra-Company (Internal) n2+an..30 Internal-Carriers n2+an..30 Internal-Carriers n2+an..30 Intra-Company (Internal) n2+an..30 Intra-Company (Internal) n2+an..30 Internal n2+an..30 Table 8-8 UCC/EAN Application Identifiers 8-22 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113...
Page 159 The sample below shows how to generate a data matrix symbol: ^D193 <---------------------------------Start of Aztec Data 0 <----------------------------------------Size 0 <----------------------------------------Minimum error correction 0 <----------------------------------------Mode :0123456789^\<---------------------- Data to encode ^D57 2,1280,300,19,38,7,2,1,44,0,0 1,640,100,1,52,1,0,4,10,10 <---------- Multiplier (10, 10); TCI 52 1,640,25,11,7,10,0,4,2,2,,,,,0 ^D56 Aztec 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113 8-23...
Page 160 19x19 23x23 27x27 31x31 37x37 41x41 45x45 49x49 53x53 57x57 61x61 67x67 71x71 75x75 79x79 83x83 87x87 91x91 95x95 101x101 105x105 109x109 113x113 117x117 121x121 125x125 131x131 135x135 139x139 Table 8-9 Aztec Size Values 8-24 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113...
Page 161: Table 8-11 Aztec Minimum Error Correction
The D194 command is used to receive and process the QR Code barcode with the elements discussed below. Once the QR Code barcode data is entered and processed, the barcode image may be placed using the normal format field by using a TCI of 53. 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113 8-25...
Page 162 This parameter is used to set the size the Aztec code to be generated. A value of “0” will generate an automatically scaled Aztec. The overall size of the barcode is controlled by the Size and by the formats X and Y multiplier values. 8-26 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113...
Page 163 Aztec Size Values Minimum Error Correction- 0 This parameter is used to set the Minimum Error Correction level. This parameter must be set to 0 for Auto if a non-Auto is selected for the size parameter. 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113 8-27...
Page 164 (SP) in the field format parameters. On some bar codes that allow spacing to be adjusted, spacing may be increased from the default and not reduced to a smaller spacing. 8-28 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113...
Page 165: Figure 8-12 Bar Code Rotations
For bar codes that do not require extended bars, simply access the data that the bar code is using with a second field that generates a text representation of the data and insert in the desired position. 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113 8-29...
Page 166: Figure 8-13 Upc-A Text/Extended Bars
The main purpose of these codes is to add the automatically calculated check digit character to the human readable code. The data used to generate the human readable code should be the same data used to generate the bar code. 8-30 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113...
Page 167 Sample Format: ^D57<CR> 4,672,609,,25,35,0,1,276,0,0<CR> 1,200,418,11,12,,,,2,50<CR> 1,178,400,11,32,,,,2,2<CR> 1,200,150,11,12,,,,2,50<CR> 1,178,125,11,32,,,,2,2<CR> ^D56<CR> ^D2<CR> 01234567890<CR> ^D3<CR> 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113 8-31...
Page 168 Bar Codes Chapter 8 8-32 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113...
Page 169 2. Code Page 850 3. Code Page 852 4. Code Page 860 5. Code Page 863 6. Code Page 865 7. USA 8. British 9. German 10. French 11. Italian 12. Danish 13. Spanish 14. Swedish 15. Swiss 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113...
Page 170: Figure 9-1 Code Page - Default
Code Switching Chapter 9 9.3.1 Code Pages The Default Code Page is selected when SW4 :( 5-8) = 0000. Figure 9-1 Code Page - Default 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113...
Page 171: Figure 9-2 Code Page - Danish
Example: Sending a 0xA8 would produce the Copyright character. 9.3.2 Danish Code Page The Danish Code Page is selected when SW4 :( 5-8) = 0001. Refer to Section 5.1.2.4 for more details on SW4 settings. Figure 9-2 Code Page - Danish 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113...
Page 172 Code Switching Chapter 9 9.3.3 860 Code Page The 860 Code Page is selected when SW4 :( 5-8) = 0010 This code page is also known as DOS Portuguese. Figure 9-3 Code Page - 860 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113...
Page 173: Figure 9-4 Code Page - Spanish
Albanian, Rhaeto-Romanic, Dutch, German, Danish, Swedish, Norwegian, Finnish, Faroese, Icelandic, Irish, Scottish, and English. It covers the entire North American continent, Australia, and much of Africa. Refer to Section 5.1.2.4 for more details on SW4 settings. 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113...
Page 174 Code Switching Chapter 9 Figure 9-5 Code Page - 850 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113...
Page 175: Figure 9-6 Code Page - German
Code Page Switching 9.3.6 German Code Page The German Code Page is selected when SW4 :( 5-8) = 0101. Refer to Section 5.1.2.4 for more details on SW4 settings. Figure 9-6 Code Page - German 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113...
Page 176 Code Switching Chapter 9 9.3.7 865 Code Page The 865 Code Page is selected when SW4 :( 5-8) = 0110 This code page is also known as DOS Nordic. Figure 9-7 Code Page - 865 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113...
Page 177: Figure 9-8 Code Page - Swiss
The 852 Code Page is selected when SW4 :( 5-8) = 1000. This code page is also known as DOSLatin2 (Eastern Europe). Latin2 covers the languages of Central and Eastern Europe: Czech, Hungarian, Polish, Romanian, Croatian, Slovak, Slovenian, and Sorbian. 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113...
Page 178 Code Switching Chapter 9 Figure 9-9 Code Page - 852 9-10 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113...
Page 179: Figure 9-10 Code Page - French
Code Page Switching 9.3.10 French Code Page The French Code Page is selected when SW4 :( 5-8) = 1001. Refer to Section 5.1.2.4 for more details on SW4 settings. Figure 9-10 Code Page - French 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113 9-11...
Page 180 Code Switching Chapter 9 9.3.11 863 Code Page The 863 Code Page is selected when SW4 :( 5-8) = 1010 This code page is also known as DOS CanadaF. Figure 9-11 Code Page - 863 9-12 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113...
Page 181: Figure 9-12 Code Page - Swedish
Code Page 437 is the famous code page used in the original IBM PC. This code page contains lot of box drawing characters and a few foreign letters. The 437 Code Page is selected when SW4 :( 5-8) = 1100. This code page is also known as DOS Latin US. 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113 9-13...
Page 182 Code Switching Chapter 9 Figure 9-13 Code Page - 437 9-14 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113...
Page 183: Figure 9-14 Code Page - Italian
9.3.14 Italian Code Page The Italian Code Page is selected when SW4 :( 5-8) = 1101 Refer to the ^D24 command description for more details on SW4 settings. Figure 9-14 Code Page - Italian 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113 9-15...
Page 184: Figure 9-15 Code Page - British
Chapter 9 9.3.15 British Code Page The British Code Page is selected when SW4 :( 5-8) = 1110. Refer to Section 5.1.2.4 for more details on SW4 settings. Figure 9-15 Code Page - British 9-16 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113...
Page 185: Figure 9-16 Code Page - Usa
Code Page Switching 9.3.16 USA Code Page The USA Code Page is selected when SW4 :( 5-8) = 1111. Refer to Section 5.1.2.4 for more details on SW4 settings. Figure 9-16 Code Page – USA 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113 9-17...
Page 186 Code Switching Chapter 9 9-18 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113...
Page 187 It is important to note that the optimum print quality and print head life is achieved by maintaining a clean printer and print head. A Microcom Corporation approved cleaning kit (part # 040005-0000) is available; contact your sales representative for purchasing information.
Page 188: Figure 10-1 Releasing The Printhead Assembly
2. Dampen both sides, on one end, of the cleaning card with isopropyl alcohol or use a pre-moistened cleaning card. 3. Release the printhead assembly to insert the cleaning card under the printhead. Figure 10-1 Releasing the Printhead Assembly Figure 10-2 Rotate the Printhead Assembly to the Open Position 10-2 438TM Operator’s Manual- 880049-0113...
Page 189: Figure 10-3 Remove The Cleaning Card
3. Release the printhead assembly and rotate to the open position. 4. The exposed Drive Roller, Printhead, and Paper Path may be cleaned using a cotton swab or lint-free wiping rag dampened with isopropyl alcohol. 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113 10-3...
Page 190: Figure 10-4 Internal Cleaning
CAUTION: Isopropyl Alcohol or other approved non-Abrasive solution should be used to clean the drive roller. The use of other cleaning solvents or materials is not recommended and may degrade the performance of the drive roller. 10-4 438TM Operator’s Manual- 880049-0113...
Page 191: Figure 10-5 Cleaning The Print Head
1. Slide the black latches towards the center to release the printhead assembly and then rotate to the open position. Figure 10-6 Releasing the Print Mechanism 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113 10-5...
Page 192: Figure 10-7 Cutter Or Tear Assembly Mounting Screw
Figure 10-8 Removing the Platen 4. Replace the assembly with a new platen assembly making sure that the bushings snap into the sheet metal. 10-6 438TM Operator’s Manual- 880049-0113...
Page 193: Figure 10-9 Cutter Or Tear Assembly Mounting Hook
The heavy spring pressure is typically used on media that is over 2” wide. The spring pressure is not intended to overcome print quality issues. If light print is detected, please adjust your printer’s contrast setting (^D36) and/or verify that the thermal coating on the media is sufficient. 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113 10-7...
Page 194: Figure 10-10 Narrow Media Light Spring Setting
Printer Maintenance Chapter 10 Figure 10-10 Narrow Media Light Spring Setting Figure 10-11 Wide Media Heavy Spring Setting 10-8 438TM Operator’s Manual- 880049-0113...
Page 195 ü Verify that the media contains some sort of registration mark. ü Verify that the printer is received proper formatting instructions. ü Verify that nothing is blocking the internal registration mark sensors. ü Contact your Service Representative. 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113 11-1...
Page 196 ü Contact your Service Representative. The status indicator light is flashing green in color: ü Indicates that the printer is detecting data on its active port. ü While in this state, the printer is in good working order. 11-2 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113...
Page 197 ^D35 Adjust Contrast Window ........................13-9 ^D36 Adjust Contrast Base ........................5-32, 13-9 ^D39 Auto-Size Label ........................... 5-34, 13-9 ^D40 Clear Commands 41 thru 51 ....................... 5-38, 13-9 ^D41 Load Number of Fields in Layout (HFM) ..................5-38, 13-9 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113 12-1...
Page 198 Bar Code Symbologies ............................ 4-16 Codabar ................................. 8-8 Code128 automatic compression ........................8-7 Code128 manual compression ........................8-7 Code93 ................................8-8 EAN-13 ................................8-3 EAN-8 ................................8-3 I2of5 ................................8-2 MSI 1 ................................8-3 12-2 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113...
Page 199 DOSLatin1 (Western Europe) ........................... 9-5 DOSLatin2 (Eastern Europe) ..........................9-9 DOSLatinUS ..............................9-13 DOSNordic ................................ 9-8 DOSPortuguese ..............................9-4 DPI ................................. 13-20 Drive Roller ............................10-1, 13-20 DSR ................................13-20 DTE ................................13-20 DTR ................................13-21 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113 12-3...
Page 200 Limited Warranty .............................. 13-1 LPI.................................. 13-21 Maintenance ............................10-1, 10-4 Exterior ................................ 10-1 Interior ................................. 10-3 Printhead ..............................10-4 Schedule .............................. 9-1, 10-1 Thermal Card .............................. 10-1 Media ..............................1-2, 4-7, 4-8 Maximum Thickness ............................1-2 12-4 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113...
Page 201 Rolled media ..............................13-21 Rotary Cutter ..............................13-21 RS-232 ................................13-21 RS-232 signals CTS ................................13-20 DCD................................13-20 DCE ................................13-20 DSR ................................13-20 DTE ................................13-20 DTR ................................13-21 GND ................................13-21 RI 13-21 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113 12-5...
Page 202 Tag stock ............................... 13-22 Temperature ..............................1-1 Thermal Printer Card ............................10-2 Troubleshooting ............................... 11-1 TXD ................................13-22 Unpacking ................................3-1 UPC-A Symbol ..............................8-1 UPC-E Symbol ............................. 8-1, 8-2, 8-3 USB................................13-22 Warranty ................................13-1 12-6 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113...
Page 203: Table Of Contents
Code 128 Subset Switching ..............8-8 Figure 8-9 PDF-417 Sample Format #1 .............. 8-10 Figure 8-10 PDF-417 Sample Format #2 .............. 8-11 Figure 8-11 Intelligent Mail Barcode bars .............. 8-17 Figure 8-12 Bar Code Rotations ................8-29 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113 12-7...
Page 204 Figure 10-8 Removing the Platen ................. 10-6 Figure 10-9 Cutter or Tear Assembly Mounting Hook ........... 10-7 Figure 10-10 Narrow Media Light Spring Setting ..........10-8 Figure 10-11 Wide Media Heavy Spring Setting ..........10-8 12-8 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113...
Page 205 Table 8-11 Aztec Minimum Error Correction ............8-25 Table 8-12 Aztec Modes ..................8-25 Table 8-13 Aztec Size Values ................8-27 Table 8-14 QR Code Minimum Error Correction ..........8-28 Table 8-15 QR Code Modes ................8-28 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113 12-9...
Page 206 Table 8-10 Human Readable/Extended Bars TCI’s ..........8-30 Table 10-1 Recommended Maintenance Schedule ..........10-1 12-10 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113...
Page 207 Although the user is not required to purchase Microcom Corporation brand supplies, to the extent it is determined that the use of other supplies (such as non-approved label stock, ribbons, and cleaning solutions) shall have caused any defects in the thermal print head for which the warranty claim has been made, the user shall be responsible for Microcom Corporation’s...
Page 208 13-2 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113...
Page 209 Return the defective item(s) for repair to the address listed above, freight and insurance prepaid. Upon receipt of an RMA number, the customer contact will be notified by a Microcom Corporation representative regarding repair charges, at which time the ship method will be determined.
Page 210 13-4 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113...
Page 211 Print Command: Prints a single label or starts the printing of a batch of labels (Equivalent to ^C). Send Printer Status: (Equivalent to ^E). Update printer flash: This command is used to update the printer’s software which includes the application, the bootloader, and the embedded fonts. 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113 13-5...
Page 212 1 = Enable >RESTARTED< Response; 0 = Disable 1 = Disable Button; 0 = Enable 1 = Enable Print Repetition; 0 = Enable Form Feed 1 = Use Saved Format File; 0 = ROM Format 13-6 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113...
Page 213 0110 = 865 (8 bit) 0111 = Swiss (7 bit) 1000 = 852 (8 bit) 1001 = French (7 bit ) 1010 = 863 (8 bit) 1011 = Swedish (7 bit) 1100 = 437 (8 bit) 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113 13-7...
Page 214 Software Bank Switch #7: A non-volatile command used to set the various functions identified below. ^AB12345678 Position: Reserved Reserved 1 = Disable System Parameter Saving; 0 = Enable 1 = Enable Finish Mode; 0 = Disable 13-8 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113...
Page 215 Load Number of Fields in Layout (HFM): The ^Axx specifies the value. Load Label Width in dots (LSX): The ^Axx specifies the value. Load Label Height in dots (LSY): The ^Axx specifies the value. 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113 13-9...
Page 216 Text Mode Control: Allows the entry of new text without the ^D2 command and/or clears all previous text when new text is added. Disable 1 and 2 Enable Auto-Print Mode Clear all previous text upon receiving new data. 13-10 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113...
Page 217 Disable Serial Number Function: This command disables the serial number function for either single or multiple serial numbers. Load Text String Number to Increment/Decrement: Instructs the printer which text string to increment/decrement. Only used in conjunction with single serial numbers. 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113 13-11...
Page 218 Retraction Delay: The ^Axx specifies the amount of delay, in Milliseconds, the printer waits before retracting to dot row in cutter and dispense modes. Tag/Tear Dispense Mode: Disables Tag/Tear Mode Advance after every label. Advance after copies count. Advance when idle. 13-12 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113...
Page 219 (i.e. >192480<). Use the D119 command for additional reporting. Save ASCII Graphics to RAM: This command is intended for legacy support only. Microcom Corporation recommends using the ^D107 command instead of the ^D106. xxyy 107...
Page 220 AutoLoad Delay Selection: The AutoLoad Delay is the amount of time, in Milliseconds, that the printer waits after detecting that media has been put into the printer before it starts feeding it in. COMMAND 13-14 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113...
Page 221 The number of additional 64KB sectors needed to save the graphic file. The memory slot location of the graphic being saved; CGN # (1-255) COMMAND 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113 13-15...
Page 222 If it does not find a configuration in the first backup, it will then search the second backup location and restore the configuration stored in this location. The command may be 13-16 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113...
Page 223 8.0 ips (inches per second) 7.5 ips 7.0 ips 6.5 ips 6.0 ips 5.5 ips 5.0 ips 4.5 ips 4.0 ips 3.5 ips 3.0 ips 2.5 ips 2.0 ips 1.5 ips 1.0 ips COMMAND 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113 13-17...
Page 224 After a power up, reports the “running” total of detected Brownouts. Clears the “running” total or volatile brownout count Reports the non-volatile brownout count stored in memory Clears the non-volatile brownout count stored in memory COMMAND 13-18 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113...
Page 225 The range is 0 to 65535. If the delay distance is set to a value greater than the label height, the takeup will not turn on. Generate Aztec Barcode Generate QR Code Barcode Glossary 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113 13-19...
Page 226 DSR (Data Set Ready) - A status signal from the printer (DCE) to the host PC (DTE) telling the PC that the printer is powered up. Used in conjunction with DTR. Microcom Corporation does not use this signal.
Page 227 DCE end of an RS-232 link. Used in conjunction with DSR. Microcom Corporation does not use this signal. Ethernet - A fast and capable serial interface used by many networks for connecting host computers to various peripherals.
Page 228 #3 of the RS-232 connector. USB (Universal Serial Bus) - A high-speed asynchronous serial interface that connects a PC to a peripheral, such as a printer. There are 3 versions of USB: 13-22 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113...
Page 229 _________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________ 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113 13-23...
Page 230 13-24 438TM Operator’s Manual - 880049-0113...

Microcom 438TM Operator's Manual

Quick Links

Need help?

Questions and answers

Subscribe to Our Youtube Channel

Related Manuals for Microcom 438TM

Summary of Contents for Microcom 438TM

Table of Contents