Datamax I-4206 Operator's Manual
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Datamax I-4206 Operator's Manual

Thermal transfer printer
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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

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  • 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...

  • Page 3: Copyright Information

    Information in this document is subject to change without notice and does not represent a commitment on the part of Datamax Barcode Products Corporation. No part of this manual may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, for any purpose other than the purchaser's personal use, without the expressed written permission of Datamax Corporation.
  • Page 4 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

    Never insert anything into the ventilation slots and openings of the printer. Do not use the printer near water or spill liquid into it. Ensure that the AC power source matches the ratings listed for the printer. (If unsure, check with your dealer or local utility provider.) Do not place the AC power cord where it can be stepped on.

  • 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... 6 Hardware Components ... 7 Getting Started Unpacking the Printer... 9 2.0.1 Inspection ... 10 2.0.2 Additional Requirements ... 10 Media and Ribbon Selection ... 11 2.1.1...
  • Page 8 Quick Ribbon Test Label... 64 4.3.4 Dot Test Pattern Label ... 65 4.3.5 Validation Label... 66 4.3.6 User Defined Label... 66 Adjusting and Maintaining the Printer Media Sensor Calibration... 67 5.0.1 Standard Calibration... 67 5.0.2 Advanced Entry Calibration... 71 Printhead Adjustments ... 77 5.1.1...
  • Page 9 Boot Loader Program Updates ... 87 Troubleshooting Problem Resolution... 89 Fault and Warning Messages ... 93 Hex Dump Mode ... 101 Printer Specifications General Specifications ... 103 Media and Ribbon Requirements ... 105 Appendix A ASCII Control Code Chart... 107 Appendix B Available Fonts and Bar Codes ...
  • Page 10 Appendix E Menu System Multi-Language Support ... 121 Advance File Handling Information... 124 Appendix F Saving a Configuration File ... 127 Warranty Information ... 129 Glossary ... 133...

  • Page 11: Printer Overview

    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

    1.0.1 Standard Features This printer offers the following standard features: I-Class Standard Features Listing Feature Printhead Density (Dots Per Inch) Direct Thermal Printing On-Demand and Batch Printing Rotating Media Hub Media Tear Bar Fan-fold media capability Flash memory SDRAM RS-232 interface port...
  • Page 13 UNIX environment. IP and IPX SNMP support of MIB-2, proprietary NIC MIB and public and proprietary (private) Printer MIB. SNMP traps to alert administrators of printer errors (paper/ribbon out, head up, etc). E-mail notification of printer errors to specified addresses.

  • Page 14: Internal Rewinder

    Kanji Gothic B Scalable font Simplified Chinese GB Scalable font Korean Hangul Scalable font ILPC – CG Times The firmware can be upgraded to include the Datamax ILPC (International Language Printing Capability) CG Times Enhanced Language Code Pages. Internal Rewinder An internal mechanism to wind six-inch outer diameter rolls of printed labels, or the label backing material for the Peel and Present option.

  • Page 15: Present Sensor

    System/3X Twinax host system or 3270-type host system. Cable included. USB Port A slide-in circuit card that provides the printer with a Universal Serial Bus, Version 1.1, for Windows printing environments only. *Item unavailable for the I-4206. **Item unavailable for the I-4206 and I-4208 models. I-Class...

  • Page 16: Option Installation

    1.1 Option Installation The following table lists the available options and the recommended qualification level of the installer. For detailed information concerning a specific option, contact your dealer or Datamax Technical Support. Experience Level for Options Installation Option Cutters and trays: Light / Standard Duty...

  • Page 17: Hardware Components

    1.2 Hardware Components The following drawing highlights the user-assessable components of the printer. Items denoted with an asterisk (*) are optional equipment. I-Class...
  • Page 18 I-Class...

  • Page 19: Getting Started

    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. Complete the following steps prior to connecting power or attempting to load media.

  • Page 20: Inspection

    2.0.1 Inspection 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. 2.0.2 Additional Requirements The following items are necessary to produce labels.

  • Page 21: 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: The abrasive qualities of the material that covers the thermal reactive layer of the paper.
  • Page 22 The following table is intended for reference only (for specific application information, consult your media specialist or a Datamax Media Representative). Direct Thermal Media Type Fasson 300 HD Direct Thermal Facesheet...

  • Page 23: Setting Up The Printer

    Setting Up the Printer 3.0 Installation This section explains how to connect the printer, and load it with media and ribbon. Note: When connecting the AC Power Cord or interface cables to the printer, ensure the Power On/Off Switch is in the ‘Off’ position.

  • Page 24: 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...
  • Page 25 I-Class For connection to a PC compatible with DB9P communication ports. Flow control can be either Xon/Xoff or CTS/DTR. Diagram only provided for reference. Not available for the I-4206 and I-4208. with option indicates operating “PC” (DB9P) to Printer...
  • Page 26 Consult the additional documentation supplied with this option for detailed information. The USB Port is plug and play and operates transparently within the printer; there are no menu-selectable settings or modes. The USB Port is a device-end only printer connection. Never connect a keyboard, mouse, modem, etc.

  • Page 27: Loading Media

    3.1 Loading Media Begin loading as follows: Raise the Access Cover. Rotate the Printhead Latch forward and raise the Printhead Assembly. Slide the Media Guide out away from the frame and then lower it to the down position. If using roll media, the Media Hub can accept 3.0-inch (76mm) and 1.5- inch (38mm) cores.

  • Page 28: Roll Media

    Lower the Printhead Assembly and rotate the Printhead Latch completely back into the locked position. Close the Access Cover. Turn ‘On’ the printer. After ‘Ready is displayed, press and hold the FEED Key until at least one label gap or mark is advanced; see Section 3.4.

  • Page 29: Fan-Fold Media

    Lower the Printhead Assembly and rotate the Printhead Latch completely back into the locked position. Close the Access Cover. Turn ‘On’ the printer. After ‘Ready is displayed, press and hold the FEED Key until at least one label gap or mark is advanced; see Section 3.4.

  • Page 30: 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, grasp the Slide...

  • Page 31: Loading Ribbon

    Ribbon is required with thermal transfer media. Depending upon the type of Ribbon Supply Hub (see the next page for examples), the printer must use either ribbons with the ‘coating side in’ or ribbons with the ‘coating side out’. To load: Note: Using a ribbon that is slightly wider than your media (and liner, if any) will help protect against printhead wear.
  • Page 32 Note: Directional Arrows near the Ribbon Supply Hub indicate the correct ribbon route. Ribbon types are available with the ink (coating) layer wound ‘in’ or ‘out’. These types are NOT interchangeable for use with the printer. Ribbon Routing Diagrams ‘Coating Side In’ Ribbon Supply Hub ‘Coating Side Out’...

  • Page 33: Quick Media Calibration

    Calibration Hints: In certain cases, the printer may have trouble differentiating between the label and liner. If the printer stops feeding in the middle of a label or if ‘Cannot Calibrate’ is displayed, try calibrating over a longer distance: Press and hold the FEED Key to allow two or more gaps (or marks) to advance under the sensor.

  • Page 34: Outputting Labels

    3.5.1 Rewinding With the Internal Media Rewinder option, the printer can wind the printed labels and backing material. To rewind labels: Note: When winding labels, do not allow the outer diameter of the roll to exceed 6 inches (154 mm) on the Media Rewind Hub.
  • Page 35 Route the media back to the Media Rewind Hub, as shown below. Insert the leading edge into a Slot on the Media Rewind Hub then insert the Media Clip into a Slot to secure it in place. Position the Rewind Retainer lightly against the edge of the media on the Media Rewind Hub.

  • Page 36: On-Demand Dispensing

    When equipped with the Peel and Present option, labels are dispensed then separated automatically from the liner for immediate application. With the Peel and Present Mechanism installed on the printer, pull outward on the Latch and allow the Roller Bracket to swing forward. With...
  • Page 37 If installed, remove the Media Clip and the Rewind Retainer from the Media Rewind Hub. Route the Backing Material around the Media Rewind Hub, as shown. Insert the leading edge into a Slot on the Media Rewind Hub then insert the Media Clip into a Slot to secure it in place.

  • Page 38: Cutting

    3.5.3 Cutting When equipped with a Cutter, cut labels are dispensed automatically from the printer. To load media on a cutter equipped printer Ensure the leading edge of media is clean, straight and firmly attached to the liner. Load media according to Section 3.1, except route the media out through the Opening of the Cutter Assembly.

  • Page 39: 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 printer keys are detailed below. 4.0.1 Ready Mode: I-Class Normal Operation (Ready Light ‘On’)

  • Page 40: Menu Mode: Configuration

    Ready Mode. When a print job is in progress, pressing the TEST Key will terminate the job. The printer will prompt you for confirmation; if ‘Yes,’ the current job is cancelled and then Menu Mode is restored.

  • Page 41: Quick Test Mode: Print Test Labels

    The ESCAPE Key will exit the Quick Test Mode without printing. The TEST Key will print the selected test label at the selected quantity. During test label printing, this key also functions as a cancel key (the printer will prompt cancellation occurs).

  • Page 42: Indicator Lights

    Following brief (initialization), the ‘Ready’ message. The time and date, if the printer has received it from one of the following: the host, the front panel setting, or the Time and Date option. A label counter during a batch print job.

  • Page 43: Resetting The Printer

    With the printer ‘On’, press and hold the CANCEL Key for approximately four seconds. 4.0.6.2 Level One Reset To return the printer to the factory default settings or, if saved, to restore the Factory Setting File: Turn ‘Off’ the printer. Press and hold the PAUSE and CANCEL Keys while turning ‘On’ the printer;...

  • Page 44: The Menu System

    While in the menu system, the current selection will be indicated with an asterisk (*) next to the displayed item on the LCD. Selections designated with a section symbol (§) will require a printer reset before becoming effective. A reset will be automatically invoked when exiting the menu system and answering ‘Yes’...

  • Page 45: Entrance And Exit Prompts

    4.1.1 Entrance and Exit Prompts With ‘Ready’ displayed on the LCD, press the Note: While in Menu Mode, the printer will stop processing new DPL (or bitmapped) data. MENU MODE ENTER PASSWORD 0 0 0 0 KEEP HOST CHANGES? ENTER = YES...

  • Page 46: Media Settings

    NOT print; see Appendix C for the default values. Adjusts the printer to sense your media. The user follows steps to allow the printer to calculate the empty, gap (or mark), and paper values to set the media sensor.

  • Page 47: Print Control

    Sets the label stop position past the start of print. When the next label format is received, the printer will automatically backfeed to the start position. If a quantity of more than one label is printed without a present sensor...
  • Page 48 PRESENT ADJUST XXX DOTS (0-128) These factory adjustments change the listed parameters to finely tune the printer and compensate for slight mechanical differences sometimes evident if 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 49: Printer Options

    4.1.4 Printer Options MODULES PRINT DIRECTORY PRINT FILE FORMAT MODULE DELETE FILE PACK MODULE PRESENT SENSOR ENABLED DISABLED NOT INSTALLED I-Class 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 in the menu system.
  • Page 50 Enables bar codes to be read by the Scanner. Reads horizontal bar codes (individual bars appear like the pickets in a fence) as the label exits the printer. Disables the scanner. Enables the scanner to read the respective bar code. Also see Appendix B.
  • Page 51 Printer Options (continued) BARCODE COUNT (00-99) REDUNDANCY LEVEL READ BARCODE (1X) READ BARCODE (2X) READ BARCODE (3X) READ BARCODE (4X) READ BARCODE (5X) READ BARCODE (6X) BUZZER ENABLED DISABLED SET DEFAULTS I-Class Used to set the specific number of barcodes to be read on the label.
  • Page 52 LOW PULSE HIGH PULSE ACTIVE LOW ACTIVE HIGH Model dependant option used to interface the printer to an external controlling device (see Appendix D). Input control signal is required to print a label. Disables the GPIO. Enables the GPIO for a Label Applicator.

  • Page 53: System Settings

    Selecting a file from the list causes a printer reset; afterward, the printer is configured according to the activated file. Saves the entire effective configuration of the printer to a file. Unique names with up to nineteen characters are possible. Provides a list of available configuration files.
  • Page 54 System Settings (continued) DOUBLE BYTE SYMBOLS UNICODE BIG 5 SHIFT JIS TIME AND DATE MEDIA COUNTERS ABSOLUTE COUNTER RESETTABLE COUNTER RESET COUNTER PRINT CONFIGURATION When equipped with the ILPC option, this selects the code page used to print double byte fonts unless otherwise specified in DPL;...
  • Page 55 – is a manufacturing date code zzz – is a unique time stamp This function is used to upgrade the software feature level of the printer. Datamax authorization is required. program hardware hardware main software...
  • Page 56 The printer images the next label only after the previous label has been successfully printed. Single processing provides time- stamps that are more accurate, but it slows label throughput time.
  • Page 57 Specifies that a Feed prevented when the label is presented and not removed, or if the printer is to wait for the GPIO start of print signal. Feed is inhibited according to the above criteria. Feed is always enabled.
  • Page 58 System Settings (continued) Note: As indicated, the following menu selections will only appear according to the model of your printer. PLUS EMULATION ENABLED DISABLED This instructs the firmware to process specific DPL data as would the ® Prodigy Plus printer without all of the variations.
  • Page 59 406 DPI. Label formats interpreted as intended for 203 DPI. For users who want to print DPL files intended for a 203 or 300 DPI printer. Label formats interpreted as intended for 600 DPI. Label formats interpreted as intended for 300 DPI.
  • Page 60 250 (PRODIGY) DISABLED BACK AFTER PRINT ENABLED DISABLED Provides compatibility Datamax products. The Prodigy Plus and Allegro calculated column positions using 200 DPI math but had 203 DPI printheads. Also, decreasing the DPI compensates for different printer models positions. Selects the desired DPI emulation.
  • Page 61 When a faulted condition (ribbon or paper out, failed bar code, etc.) has been detected, this setting determines the action to be taken by the operator and the printer. Establishes the required corrective action following a fault. Stops and displays a fault message. The...
  • Page 62 Note: If the CANCEL Key is pressed when the printer is faulted and the last printed label was not completed, the operator has a choice to cancel the reprint of the last label. Subsequent pressing of the CANCEL Key will allow canceling the entire label batch.

  • Page 63: Communications

    4.1.6 Communications SERIAL PORT A BAUD RATE 38400 28800 19200 9600 4800 2400 1200 PROTOCOL BOTH SOFTWARE HARDWARE NONE PARITY NONE EVEN DATA BITS STOP BITS SERIAL PORT B I-Class Controls the communications settings for Serial Port A. Determines the serial communication rate. 38400 bits per second 28800 bits per second 19200 bits per second...
  • Page 64 PARALLEL PORT B 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 65 SNMP Traps will be sent. If zeroed, no traps are sent. The network protocols recognized by the NIC Adapter. Allow the printer to be driven from an NDS Novell Print Queue. Netware is enabled by default. Ignore the Netware protocol. Select this option if Netware is not needed.
  • Page 66 Settings which affect all communications with a host. The number of seconds a communications 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 67 DISABLED I-Class Allows the user to disable the DPL Heat Command, providing compatibility with other DATAMAX printers. Normal printer operating mode. DPL Heat Commands are ignored. The heat value is controlled via the menu setting; see Print Control, Section 4.1.3.

  • Page 68: Diagnostics

    4.1.7 Diagnostics HEX DUMP MODE ENABLE DISABLE OPTIONS TESTING TEST PRESENT SENSOR TEST CUTTER PERFORM TEST 1 TIME MONITOR GPIO INPUT TEST GPIO OUTPUT TEST SCANNER SCAN TEST ALIGNMENT TEST PRINT TEST RATE Most commonly used for troubleshooting. Prints data and instructions received from the host rather than interpreting them as label formats;...
  • Page 69 Diagnostics (continued) SENSOR READINGS THR TRAN RIBM 24V 255 255 255 255 PS HD RANK 255 255 RIBBON SENSOR LIMITS RIBBON ADC LOW HIGH I-Class Analog Sensor readings are displayed. Live sensor values are displayed. View can be toggled with the FORWARD and REVERSE Keys.

  • Page 70: 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 5.4 and 5.5) Fault and Warning Messages (see Section 6.1)
  • Page 71 The media calibration is not set. The print job is being processed. Condition(s) Normal operating mode. The printer is ready to receive and process label formats. The Present Sensor option is enabled and a label blocks the sensor. Remove the label to continue printing.

  • Page 72: Quick Test Mode

    4.3 Quick Test Mode This section explains the functions of the resident Quick Tests, accessible by pressing the 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 73: Configuration Label

    ‘Print Configuration’. Press the Note: The contents of this label may vary with the application version and printer model and equipped options. To capture all the information, use media at least 2 inches wide (51mm) with the Label Width setting matched accordingly (see Section 4.1.2).

  • Page 74: 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 Use the Key to scroll to ‘Ribbon Test Label’. Use the Key to select a quantity;...

  • Page 75: Dot Test Pattern Label

    4.3.4 Dot Test Pattern Label The Dot Test Pattern Label features patterns that exercise the thermal elements of the printhead to indicate its overall condition (see examples below). To print a Dot Test Pattern Label: Press the Use the Key to scroll to ‘Dot Test Pattern’. Use the Key to select a quantity;...

  • Page 76: 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 Use the Key to scroll to ‘Validation Label’. Use the Key to select a quantity; see Section 4.0.3. Press the 4.3.6 User Defined Label...

  • Page 77: Adjusting And Maintaining The Printer

    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. 5.0.1 Standard Calibration Standard Calibration is appropriate for most media types.
  • Page 78 Standard Calibration (continued) Step Operator Action Press the to enter the Media Settings menu. Press the and scroll to ‘Sensor Calibration’. Press the Press the Remove the media from the Media Sensor then press any key. Displayed Message NFEJB!TFUUJOHT NFEJB!UZQF NFEJB!TFUUJOHT TFOTPS!DBMJCSBUJPO Key.
  • Page 79 Standard Calibration (continued) Step Operator Action Proceed according to your media type: Die-cut stock: strip the media from the backing and then reinsert it into the sensor; adjust the Sensor Eye Mark over the center of the backing. Notched stock: adjust the Sensor Eye Mark over the center of the notch.
  • Page 80 DBMJCSBUJPO!DPNQMFUF Or, for continuous media: DPOUJOVPVT!NPEF! DBMJCSBUJPO!DPNQMFUF SFBEZ Comme nt The calibration was successful. See note below if another message was displayed. The printer is now ready to begin printing. If this calibration was unsuccessful, go to Section 5.0.2. I-Class...

  • Page 81: Advanced Entry Calibration

    To perform an Advanced Entry Calibration: Step Operator Action (Media should be loaded and the appropriate Sensor Type selected.) Turn ‘On’ the printer. Press the Key. Raise the printhead assembly. Press the to enter the Media Settings menu.
  • Page 82 Advanced Entry Calibration (continued) Step Operator Action Press the to scroll to ‘Advanced Entry’. Press the Press the Press the Place the label under the Sensor Eye Mark and lower the printhead assembly. 10 Press the to select the setting (denoted by an ‘*’) and then record the sensor reading (the ‘yyy’...
  • Page 83 Advanced Entry Calibration (continued) Step Operator Action 11 Proceed according to your media type: Die-cut stock: strip the media from the backing and then reinsert it into the sensor; adjust the Sensor Eye Mark over the center of the backing. Notched stock: adjust the Sensor Eye Mark over the center of the...
  • Page 84 Advanced Entry Calibration (continued) Step Operator Action 12 From the data collected in Steps 10 and 11, where both the sensor readings are above 20, subtract each Label Value from the corresponding TOF Value. These are the Difference Values. From the resulting list, find the largest Difference Value (see example below).
  • Page 85 +19!!!!!!!!!)1!.!42* Or, for reflective media: HBJO!SFGM!!!!!!=zzz? +19!!!!!!!!!)1!.!42* Key. BEWBODFE!FOUSZ TFOTPS!MFWFMT Comme nt Selection is denoted with an ‘*’. Where ‘yyy’ is a numerical value representing the current sensor reading. The sensor readings must be manually entered into the printer now.
  • Page 86 Advanced Entry Calibration (continued) Step Operator Action 16 Press the Using the Key, set the ‘Paper’ level to the value determined in the previous step. Press the to set the entry (indicated by the ‘*’) and advance the menu. Repeat for the ‘Gap’ (or ‘Mark’) and ‘Empty’...

  • Page 87: 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 a Leveling Cam adjustment and a Burn Line adjustment. 5.1.1 Leveling Cam Adjustment When printing on less than full width...

  • Page 88: Burn Line Adjustment

    Section 2.1.1 and 5.3.1. If print quality remains unacceptable, an adjustment may be required. Typically, thicker media requires a slight forward adjustment, while thinner media requires a slight backward adjustment. If you have questions, contact a qualified technician or Datamax Technical Support before proceeding. To adjust the Burn Line:...

  • Page 89: Printhead Replacement

    Note: Printheads are fragile; use extreme care when handling and never use a sharp object on the surface. If you have questions, contact a qualified technician or Datamax Technical Support before proceeding. To replace the printhead: Touch a bare metal part of the printer’s frame to discharge any static electricity that may be present on your body.

  • Page 90: Maintenance Schedule

    A clean, lint-free cloth Soft-bristle brush Soapy water/mild detergent Compressed air For your safety and to avoid damaging the printer, turn ‘Off’ and unplug the printer before cleaning; and take proper precautions when using isopropyl alcohol, a flammable liquid. CAUTION...

  • Page 91: Cleaning The Printhead

    Replace the ribbon and media. Lower the Printhead Assembly and rotate the Printhead Latch completely back, to the locked position. Close the cover. Plug in and turn ‘On’ the printer. Feed several labels to normalize tracking. NEVER use a sharp object to clean the Printhead.

  • Page 92: Cleaning The Platen Roller

    Lower the Printhead Assembly and rotate the Printhead Latch completely back, to the locked position. Close the access cover. Plug in and turn ‘On’ the printer. Feed several labels to normalize tracking. NEVER use a sharp object to clean the Platen Roller.

  • Page 93: Cleaning Interior And Exterior Surfaces

    Updates can be found at ftp://ftp.datamaxcorp.com. There are two modes in which the firmware of the printer can be updated: (1) the Ready Mode, or (2) the Download Mode. Before beginning an update, identify the current version of the printer’s application program by printing a...

  • Page 94: Updating From The Ready Mode

    The Ready Indicator will flash as data is received. No action required. The new application program is being stored and verified. No action required. The printer has reset automatically and is now displaying the new firmware version. No action required.

  • Page 95: Updating From The Download Mode

    (LPT1) must be used to ‘Comment’ Step 1 write to the printer. in Section 5.4.1). No action required. The printer is receiving the new image (program). No action required. The program has been received and verified; now memory is being cleared of the previous application.

  • Page 96: Possible Problems During An Update

    1) Use the Download Mode (see Section 5.4.2). 2) Windows users – try restarting the computer in MS-DOS mode. 3) Use the Datamax Driver by Seagull Scientific Send File to Printer function. Application Update Error Messages...

  • Page 97: Boot Loader Program Updates

    5.5 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...
  • Page 98 I-Class...

  • Page 99: Troubleshooting

    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. If experiencing this proble m… Can not communicate through...
  • Page 100 Missing print on left or right side of the label: Try this solution… The printer may be in Hex Dump Mode; see Section 6.2. If using the serial port for communicating, check both the host and printer port settings;...
  • Page 101 Try this solution… Verify that the AC power cord connection 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 102 Skips labels when printing: Unable to print rotated text: Try this solution… Ensure that the printer is at READY. Observe the Front Panel, if the READY light does not flash as you send the format check the protocol and port settings between the printer and host.

  • Page 103: 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 104 ENB!GBVMU HBQ!NPEF DBOOPU!DBMJCSBUF HBQ!NPEF GBVMUZ!TFOTPS PVU!PG!TUPDL Description The printer has Try cycling the printer power detected a Direct ‘Off’ and ‘On’. If the fault Memory Access does not clear, call for failure. service. Consistently low Press any key to continue.
  • Page 105 TOF fault; or (2) Section 5.1. the printer was unable to complete the Media Calibration. The printer has Try cycling the printer power detected a problem ‘Off’ and ‘On’. If the fault within the print does not clear, call for logic. service.
  • Page 106 Printer Fault Messages (continued) Displayed Message SFGMFDUJWF!NPEF GBVMUZ!TFOTPS SJCCPO!GBVMU Description Consistently high Press any key to continue. 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 107 Linear Scanner Operation Instructions, or call for service. The printer has Turn ‘Off’ the printer until shutdown to allow cool to prevent permanent the printhead damage due to an excessive temperature to printhead temperature.
  • Page 108 Printer Fault Messages (continued) Displayed Message UPQ!PG!GPSN!GBVMU Description The printer could If media is moving: not find the TOF 1) Press the FEED Key. It mark within the maximum label length setting or it found a TOF in an unexpected place.
  • Page 109 Printer Fault Messages (continued) Displayed Message WFSJGJFS!GBVMU 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. Displayed Message EPU!GBJMVSF HBQ!NPEF XBSOJOH!MPX!CBDLJOH HPPECZF IPTU!DIBOHFT!QFOEJOH I-Class...
  • Page 110 Action(s) Possible low or fluctuating line voltage level. Try moving the printer to another outlet. When more than 50% black is being printed, try reducing the Heat Value or the size of the black image. If the condition persists, call for service.

  • Page 111: Hex Dump Mode

    To begin, go to the Diagnostics menu and enable Hex Dump Mode; see Section 4.1.7. Exit the menu and save the changes. Now, ‘HEX DUMP MODE’ will be indicated by the display and all data sent to the printer will now be output in hexadecimal code, along with the printable ASCII equivalents.
  • Page 112 I-Class...

  • Page 113: Printer Specifications

    Printer Specifications 7.0 General Specifications Bar Codes (See the I &W Class Programmer’s Manual for details. See Appendix B for 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 114: Environmental Requirements

    18.60” (472.5 mm) 45 lbs. (20.5 kg) Direct Thermal or optional Thermal Transfer 2 – 6 IPS (51 – 152 mmps) I-4206 2 – 8 IPS (51 – 203 mmps) I-4208 2 – 12 IPS (51 – 305 mmps) I-4212 2 –...

  • Page 115: Media And Ribbon Requirements

    Supply Hub type. Also, the ribbon width should slightly exceed label width (including the backing material) to protect the printhead. I-Class .25” – 99” (6.4 mm – 2514.6 mm) I-4206, I-4208, .25” – 84” (6.4 mm – 2133.6 mm) I-4406 .25” – 55” (6.4 mm – 1397 mm) I-4604 1.25”...

  • Page 116: Approved Media

    To achieve optimum print quality and maximum printhead life, DATAMAX brand media and ribbons are recommended. These supplies are specially formulated for use in this printer. The use of non-Datamax supplies may affect the print quality, performance, and life of the printer or its components (see the Warranty Statement).

  • Page 117: Ascii Control Code Chart

    Appendix A ASCII Control Code Chart 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 Ctrl Q Ctrl R Ctrl S...
  • Page 118 ASCII Control Code Chart (continued) Char Char Ç á ü í é ó â ú ä ñ à Ñ å ç ° ê ¿ è ® è ï î ì ¡ Ä Å – É Æ Æ ô ö ´ ò...

  • Page 119: Available Fonts And Bar Codes

    Appendix B Available Fonts and Bar Codes All character fonts and bar codes available with the printer are described in this section. 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.
  • Page 120 The table below lists the font sizes; the numbers indicate the number of dots. Font Font 0: 96-character alphanumeric, upper and lower case. Font 2: 138-character alphanumeric, upper and lower case. Height Width Font 1: 145-character upper and lower case alphanumeric with descenders and ascenders.
  • Page 121 Font 4: 62-character alphanumeric, Font 5: 62-character alphanumeric, uppercase. uppercase. Font 6: 62-character alphanumeric, uppercase. I-Class...
  • Page 122 Font 7: OCR-A, size I. 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. Font 8: OCR-B, size III. I-Class...

  • Page 123: Bar Code Summary Data

    Bar Code Summary Data Bar Code fonts have alpha names (Bar Code ID): Lowercase names only print barcodes; uppercase names print barcodes with human-readable interpretations. The table is followed by visual samples. Code Symbology Code 39 UPC-A UPC-E Interleaved 2 of 5 (I2 of 5) Varies Code 128 EAN-13 EAN-8...
  • Page 124 Bar Code A: Code 39 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 125 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 126 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 I-Class...

  • Page 127: Module Assignments

    Future Option 1024 KB (default size) 4 MB 256 KB 64 KB 4 MB *When power is removed from the printer, stored data will be lost. Print Resolutions and Maximum Label Widths Model Printhead Resolution I-4206, I-4208, & 203 dots/inch...

  • Page 128: Available Speeds And Default Settings

    Available Speeds and Default Settings Model I-4206: Print Feed Reverse I-4208: Print Feed Reverse I-4212: Print Feed Reverse I-4308: Print Feed Reverse I-4406: Print Feed Reverse I-4604: Print Feed Reverse *Consult the I & W Class Programmer's Manual for detailed information.

  • Page 129: Gpio Port Description

    When the GPIO is enabled, the printer will not print a label unless the Start of Print signal is active. When a label is ready to print and the printer is waiting for the Start of Print signal the printer will display “WAITING FOR SIGNAL”.
  • Page 130 (as viewed from the rear of the printer) 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. For additional interfacing requirements, see the table below.

  • Page 131: Menu System Multi-Language Support

    I-Class Application Version 3.0 or greater* Microsoft Excel 97 Img2dl.exe** Gemmsgxls.xls** Datamax provides these software files and programs. They are available on the Datamax FTP site – ftp:\\ftp.datamaxcorp.com Datamax recommends that the Img2dl.exe and Gemmsgxls.xls files reside in the same directory. I-Class 2000.
  • Page 132 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: I-Class...
  • Page 133 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 134: Advance File Handling Information

    MAX = xx designated characters for this MID Advance File Handling Information The Standard Datamax Printer leaves the factory with EFIGS loaded into module Y. At this point, Module Y is LOCKED and will only accept additional Language Downloads. After downloading a language update, Module Y is left UNLOCKED until the printer is reset or power is cycled.
  • Page 135 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.
  • Page 136 I-Class...

  • Page 137: 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 138 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 SFBEZ NFOV!NPEF! NFEJB!TFUUJOH NFOV!NPEF TZTUFN!TFUUJOHT TZTUFN!TFUUJOHT! DPOGJHVSBUJPO!GJMF DPOGJHVSBUJPO!GJMF SFTUPSF!BT!DVSSFOU DPOGJHVSBUJPO!GJMF TBWF!TFUUJOH!BT TBWF!TFUUJOH!BT TBWF!TFUUJOH!BT! TQFDJBM!}...

  • Page 139: Warranty Information

    Limited Warranty Statement I-Class Printers Printer Datamax warrants* to Purchaser that under normal use and service, the I-Class Printers, (with the exception of the thermal printhead, platen roller, and belts) purchased hereunder shall be free from defects in material and workmanship for a period of three years, (1095 days), or three million (3,000,000) linear inches of use, whichever comes first, from the date of shipment by Datamax.
  • Page 140 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 141: Limitation Of Liability

    Datamax’s products. Limitation of Liability In no event shall Datamax be liable to the purchaser for any indirect, special or consequential damages or lost profits arising out of or relating to Datamax’s products, or the performance or a breach thereof, even if Datamax has been advised of the possibility thereof.
  • Page 142 I-Class...

  • Page 143: Glossary

    The row of thermal elements in the printhead that create the images on the media. calibration The process through which sensor readings are entered into the printer for correct sensor function (for example, detection of a given media type) and TOF positioning. character set The entire complement of alphanumeric symbols contained in a given font.
  • Page 144 Also referred to as “resolution”. DPL (Datamax Programming Language) programming commands used specifically for control of and label production in Datamax printers. A complete listing of commands can be found in the I & W Class Programmer’s Manual.
  • Page 145 Generalized term for all types of printing stocks, including: roll fed, continuous, die-cut, reflective, and fanfold. me dia hub Device in the printer used to support roll media. me dia sensor An electronic device equipped with photosensors to detect media and the top-of-form on die-cut, notched or reflective media.
  • Page 146 Repeatable top to bottom alignment of printed labels. 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.

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