FARGO electronics Pro-LX Pro-LX Laminating Card Printer/Encoder User Manual
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FARGO electronics Pro-LX Pro-LX Laminating Card Printer/Encoder User Manual

Laminating card printer/encoder
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Pro-LX Laminating Card
Printer/Encoder User Guide (Rev.
4.0)
Part Number:
L000700

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Summary of Contents for FARGO electronics Pro-LX Pro-LX Laminating Card Printer/Encoder

  • Page 1 Pro-LX Laminating Card Printer/Encoder User Guide (Rev. 4.0) Part Number: L000700...
  • Page 2 RESTRICTED USE ONLY Pro-LX Laminating Card Printer/Encoder User Guide (Rev. 4.0), property of FARGO Electronics, Incorporated Copyright  2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006 by FARGO Electronics, Incorporated. All rights reserved. Printed in the United States of America. Exclusive permission is granted to authorized resellers of FARGO products to reproduce and distribute this copyrighted document to authorized FARGO customers, who have signed a “no disclosure agreement”...

  • Page 3: How To Use The Manual

    How to use the manual The Pro-LX Laminating Card Printer/Encoder User Guide (Rev. 4.0) is, in fact, the troubleshooting and field service manual for the entire Pro-LX Card Printer. The manual is designed to provide installers and technicians with quick, efficient lookup of related procedures, components, and terms.

  • Page 4: Safety Messages (Review Carefully)

     To prevent equipment or media damage, always remove the Pro- LX Ribbon and Cards from the printer before making any repairs, unless otherwise specified.  To prevent equipment or media damage, take jewelry off of fingers and hands, as well as thoroughly clean hands to remove oil and debris before working on the printer.

  • Page 5: Pro-Lx Laminating Card Printer/Encoder Overview

    Card Feed Print Stepper Ribbon Drive Print Headlift Lamination Stepper Lamination Drive Lamination Headlift Pro-LX Laminating Card Printer/Encoder User Guide (Rev. 5.0) Sensors Card Feed Print TOF (Top Of Form) Ribbon Encoder Wheel Ribbon Core ID Ribbon Sensor Head Lift...

  • Page 6: Reviewing Pro-Lx Boot Up Sequence

    The Flipper Clutch activates. The Lam Stepper Motor engages. The Flipper Home Sensor detects the homing flag and the Flipper Table levels. The Flipper Clutch disengages The Lam Stepper Motor disengages. Pro-LX Laminating Card Printer/Encoder User Guide (Rev. 5.0) Fargo Electronics, Inc.

  • Page 7: Reviewing Pro-Lx Sequence Of Operations

    Step Process The File information is received from the PC The Printer checks the installed Ribbon type stored in memory against the Ribbon type command that was sent from the printer. a. If Ribbon type does not match, a Wrong Ribbon Error is displayed on the LCD.
  • Page 8 The Flipper Clutch engages The Flipper Table rotates 180 degrees The Flipper Table Clutch disengages. All Stop. The Print and Lam Stepper Motors are activated. Pro-LX Laminating Card Printer/Encoder User Guide (Rev. 5.0) Fargo Electronics, Inc. Continued on the next page.
  • Page 9 The Card feeds to the Encoding TOF Sensor. All Stop. Repeat steps 40 through 45 for each verification pass. The Card is fed onto the Flipper Table. Pro-LX Laminating Card Printer/Encoder User Guide (Rev. 5.0) Fargo Electronics, Inc. Continued on the next page.
  • Page 10 All Stop. The Headlift Motor engages. The Headlift Sensor detects open state. The Headlift Motor disengages. The Lamination Stepper Motor is activated and card is fed out of the printer. Pro-LX Laminating Card Printer/Encoder User Guide (Rev. 5.0) Fargo Electronics, Inc.

  • Page 11: Table Of Contents

    Regulatory Compliances _______________________________________________________________15 Agency Listings______________________________________________________________________16 Technical Specifications _______________________________________________________________16 Functional Specifications ______________________________________________________________19 Printer Components: Top Cover to Power Port ___________________________________________20 Printer Components: Centronics-Type Parallel Interface ___________________________________24 Printer Components: Print Ribbons ____________________________________________________25 Printer Components: Resin-Only Print Ribbons __________________________________________26 Printer Components: Dye-Sublimation-Only Print Ribbons _________________________________27...
  • Page 12 Using the Character Parity radio buttons _______________________________________________127 Using the Verification radio buttons___________________________________________________128 Using the Shift Data Left checkbox ___________________________________________________129 Using the Encode Before Print checkbox _______________________________________________129 Reviewing ISO Track Locations _____________________________________________________130 Sending Track Information__________________________________________________________131 Pro-LX Laminating Card Printer/Encoder User Guide (Rev. 5.0) Fargo Electronics, Inc.
  • Page 13 Cleaning the Card Feed Rollers ______________________________________________________187 Replacing the Cleaning Tape ________________________________________________________189 Cleaning the Platen Rollers _________________________________________________________191 Cleaning the Printer’s Exterior _______________________________________________________192 Cleaning the Printer’s Interior _______________________________________________________192 Cleaning the Magnetic Encoder ______________________________________________________193 Pro-LX Laminating Card Printer/Encoder User Guide (Rev. 5.0) Fargo Electronics, Inc.
  • Page 14 Section 7: Fargo Technical Support _____________________________________________ 199 Contacting Fargo Technical Support_____________________________________________________199 Reading the Serial Numbers on a Fargo printer ____________________________________________200 Finding out when a Fargo Card Printer was manufactured _________________________________200 Reviewing Example No. 1: Serial Number 80453289_____________________________________200 Reviewing Example No. 2: Serial Number A1280224 ____________________________________200...

  • Page 15: Section 1: Specifications

    Card Printer as CSA Certified under CSA Standard 22.2. File Number: E145118 The Card Printer complies with the requirements in Part 15 of the FCC rules for a Class B digital device. (Note: These requirements are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation.)

  • Page 16: Agency Listings

    E-card Docking Station (required for 3rd party smart card encoding) Humidity 20% to 80% Non-Condensing. Interface Centronics parallel, IEEE-1284 Compliant Memory 4 MB RAM; expandable to 16 MB RAM. Operating 65ºF to 80ºF (18ºC to 27ºC). Temperature Pro-LX Laminating Card Printer/Encoder User Guide (Rev. 5.0) Fargo Electronics, Inc.
  • Page 17 37 seconds per card / 97 cards per hour (YMCKK/lamination) Print speed indicates an approximate batch print speed and is measured from the time a card feeds into the Printer to the time it ejects from the Printer. Print speeds do not include the time needed for the PC to process the image.
  • Page 18 133 MHz computer with 32 MB of RAM or higher, 200 MB free hard disk space or higher and ECP parallel port with DMA access. Warranty Printer - One year; optional Extended Warranty Program (U.S. only) Printhead - One year, unlimited pass with UltraCard cards Weight 40 lbs.

  • Page 19: Functional Specifications

    RESTRICTED USE ONLY Functional Specifications The Card Printer utilizes two different, yet closely related printing technologies to achieve its remarkable direct-to-card print quality for dye-sublimation and resin thermal transfer. (Note: The Card Printer will print from any IBM-PC® or compatible running Windows® 95/98/ME, Windows NT 4.0, Windows 2000 or Windows XP.)

  • Page 20: Printer Components: Top Cover To Power Port

    (Note: This cover must be closed in order for the Printer to begin Cover printing.) Lamination Opens to allow access to the lamination roller, overlaminate and card path. (Note: This cover must be closed in order for the Printer to begin Top Cover printing.) Cover Unlatches the Top Covers.
  • Page 21 RESTRICTED USE ONLY Printer Components: Top Cover to Power Port (continued) This table displays Printer components. Refer to the table in this section. Card Cleaning Cartridge Lamination Top Cover Cover Release Buttons Card Output Hopper Pro-LX Laminating Card Printer/Encoder User Guide (Rev. 5.0)
  • Page 22 Printer for the next print job if an unrecoverable print error has occurred. If a card is left within the Printer after a print job is canceled, it will automatically be ejected when the Printer is turned back ON. (Note: With the Top Cover(s) open, this button can also be used to manually rotate the feed Rollers forward.
  • Page 23 Card Output Hopper. (Note: The Printer will automatically eject cards into this Hopper if there is a printing error, encoding error or if a card is left in the Printer after a print job is canceled or the Printer restarted.)

  • Page 24: Printer Components: Centronics-Type Parallel Interface

    Fargo Electronics, Inc. Printer Components: Centronics-Type Parallel Interface The Card Printer is equipped with a standard 8-bit centronics-type parallel interface port. This communication port is the means through which the Printer receives data from the computer. This section describes the pin assignments and signal specifications for this port.

  • Page 25: Printer Components: Print Ribbons

    RESTRICTED USE ONLY Printer Components: Print Ribbons The Card Printer utilizes both dye-sublimation and/or resin thermal transfer methods to print images directly onto blank cards. Since the dye-sublimation and the resin thermal transfer print methods each provide their own unique benefits, Print Ribbons are available in resin- only, dye-sublimation-only and combination dye-sublimation/resin versions.

  • Page 26: Printer Components: Resin-Only Print Ribbons

    A scratch-off resin ribbon is available for printing over areas of a pre-printed card in order to hide specific information such as a (provides 1,000 prints) personal identification number. Pro-LX Laminating Card Printer/Encoder User Guide (Rev. 5.0) Fargo Electronics, Inc.

  • Page 27: Printer Components: Dye-Sublimation-Only Print Ribbons

    To apply the ribbon's clear overlay panel, select the Printer Driver’s Overlay / Print Area tab. By default, the Printer Driver is setup to automatically apply the overlay panel for a selected a ribbon type that provides an overlay (O) panel. To apply an overlaminate, select the Lamination tab.
  • Page 28 Since no overlay panel is included, this ribbon must be used in conjunction with the Printer's overlaminate feature. No overlaminate is necessary for the resin black-only side. Both infrared and visible-light bar code scanners can read bar codes printed with resin black.

  • Page 29: Printer Components: Blank Cards

    Caution: Never run cards with a contaminated, dull or uneven surface through the Printer. Printing onto such cards will ultimately lead to poor print quality and will greatly reduce the life of the Printhead. Always store the card stock in its original packaging or in a clean, dust-free container.
  • Page 30 Danger: The Printer’s Lamination Roller can reach temperatures exceeding 350 degree F (175° C). Use extreme caution when operating the Laminator. Never touch the Lamination Roller unless the Printer Power has been turned off for at least 20 to 30 minutes. Type...

  • Page 31: Reviewing The Upgraded 81754 Pvc Cards

    The upgraded 81754 PVC cards are designed for a sharper card image quality and for reduced debris and defects on Fargo Card Printers. Carefully read these detailed notes and instructions before applying this information to your Fargo printer or printers. ...
  • Page 32 Reviewing the upgraded 81754 PVC Cards (continued) Follow these two (2) instructions below: 1. Instruction for new 81754 PVC card stock: Increase the Printer Driver’s Dye-Sub Intensity to print with the new 81754 PVC card stock on Fargo Card Printers (S/N A319 and older).

  • Page 33: Printer Components: Laminator

    RESTRICTED USE ONLY Printer Components: Laminator The Printer's internal lamination system is used to choose between both a Thermal Transfer Film overlaminate and a polyester patch overlaminate called PolyGuard™. The Thermal Film overlaminate is a relatively thin material that covers a card edge-to-edge and provides a medium level of ID card durability and security.

  • Page 34: Visual Security Solutions (Specifications)

    Part No. 82255: PolyGuard 1.0 mil for HoloMarkTM and VeriMarkTM Cards, Clear  Part No. 82256: PolyGuard 1.0 mil for HoloMarkTM and VeriMarkTM Cards, High Resolution Globe design hologram with "Secure" micro-text Pro-LX Laminating Card Printer/Encoder User Guide (Rev. 5.0) Fargo Electronics, Inc.

  • Page 35: Visual Security Card Stock - Tolerances

     VeriMarkTM Card customers will be able to choose 1 of 8 pre-defined placements (corners) via printer driver (4 positions) Landscape and (4 Positions) Portrait mode.  VeriMarkTM foil placement will not interfere with card punch slots .

  • Page 36: Section 2: General Troubleshooting

    Printer/Encoder. LCD/SmartGuard Messages The LCD display shows the current status of the Printer. Refer to the cause and solution tables in this section for all possible LCD messages. (Note: These tables display the LCD messages in alphabetical order. If the LCD message is communicating an error or requires an action, these tables will also offer a solution to what should be done.)
  • Page 37 Attempts are made to print without the SmartGuard Access Card inserted. Appears only when using the SmartGuard Security Feature. See the SmartGuard User’s Guide for more information. Pro-LX Laminating Card Printer/Encoder User Guide (Rev. 5.0) Resolving the Headlift procedure in Section 2, page 49.
  • Page 38 Indicates a Lam Error/Out Error Message. See Error Message Error/Out Error Message Low Ribbon/Clean Indicates the Print Ribbon will soon run out and that the Printer should be cleaned. Mag Encoding Indicates the Mag Stripe is being encoded. Mag Verify Error The Mag Stripe was not encoded properly.
  • Page 39 Error occurred. See Section 2, page 63. Ribbon Jam/Out The Print Ribbon has become jammed in the Printer Rollers, it is Error stuck to the surface of the card or it is out. See the Ribbon Breaking issues Ribbon Low Error Indicates either the ribbon is running low or is out.

  • Page 40: Reviewing The Bottom Line Lcd Error / Status Messages

    Smart Card Good Indicates smart card was successfully encoded. Smart Encoding Indicates the Printer is writing or encoding data onto the SmartGuard Access Card. Appears only when using the SmartGuard Security Feature. See the SmartGuard User’s Guide for more information.
  • Page 41 Lamination Dwell Time and Temperature Lam Turned Off Indicates laminator is OFF. The laminator can be turned off by setting Switches 4 and 5 of the Printer's internal switches down (towards the circuit board). See the Section 3, page 134.
  • Page 42 Appears when deleting a SmartGuard Access Card. Appears only when using the SmartGuard Security Feature. RESUME=Delete DRAM Memory The Printer's 4 MB or 16 MB memory module is bad or not installed Bad! properly. See the Section 6, page 196.

  • Page 43: Communications Errors

    Close the software program and check the Printer Driver. b. Reboot the computer. c. Make sure the Printer Driver is installed correctly. (Note: Especially if an obsolete driver was recently removed.) d. Be sure the correct setup options within the Printer Driver are selected.
  • Page 44 Determine the problem with printing from the application. a. Print a self-test from the Printer as described in the procedure in Section 2, page 87, to ensure that the Printer (itself) is functioning properly. b. Print the Windows test page that is located in the General tab of the driver.
  • Page 45 Defragmenter found in the Accessories folder of the Start Menu.  Use a disk cleanup utility (such as Disk Cleanup found in the System Tools folder of the Start menu) or use a third party application. Pro-LX Laminating Card Printer/Encoder User Guide (Rev. 5.0) Fargo Electronics, Inc.

  • Page 46: Card Feeding Errors

    (Note: The card cleaning cartridge can also remain within the Printer during this cleaning process.) c. Use a cleaning card from the Printer Cleaning Kit and remove its adhesive backing paper. d. Insert the cleaning card into the card Hopper, above the card input tray, as normally done on any other type of card.
  • Page 47 (if the Printer seems unable to feed cards at the selected setting). c. Move the slide slightly toward a lower setting if the Printer seems to double- feed cards. (Note: The card thickness slide is adjustable to accommodate card thickness variations that often occur even within standard card sizes.)

  • Page 48: Resolving The Flipper Jam Error Message

    The platen roller and the flattener roller should be rolling. c. Replace (as needed) the Lamination Stepper Motor if none of the Rollers are turning. Inspect the gear configuration in the front of the Printer if any one of the Rollers is not turning.

  • Page 49: Print Process Errors

    Remove the back cover. b. Attach the positive lead from a Digital Voltmeter to Pin 1 of J3 for print side or Pin 1 of J4 for lamination. Attach the negative lead to the Printer Chassis for its ground.

  • Page 50: Resolving The Cover Open Error Message

    Replace the Sensor if the voltages are incorrect.  Verify that the voltage reads 5 VDC with the cover closed.  Verify that the voltage reads 0.12 to 0.17 VDC with the cover open. Pro-LX Laminating Card Printer/Encoder User Guide (Rev. 5.0) Fargo Electronics, Inc.

  • Page 51: Resolving The Blank Output Issues

    After a self-test has been run, open the top cover. b. Remove the Print Ribbon from the Printer. c. Visually inspect the set of panels that were last used by the Printer. d. If an image is noticeable on the used ribbon, continue to step 3.
  • Page 52 Ensure that a voltage between 22 to 23 VDC is read on each pin. e. If less than 22 volts is read on any of the pins, ensure that the Power Supply for the Printer is outputting 23 to 24 VDC by testing the power connection to the Printer with a voltmeter.

  • Page 53: Card Jam Errors

    Check to see if a card is jammed in the print station of the Printer. d. If a card is jammed in the Printer, use the Pause / Resume button and the On / Cancel buttons to move the feed Rollers and free the card. (Note: The card can then be fed out of the Printer.)

  • Page 54: Resolving The Card Jam: Mag Error / Smart Error Message

    Check to see if a card is jammed in the print station of the Printer. d. If a card is jammed in the Printer, use the Pause / Resume button and the On / Cancel buttons to move the feed Rollers and free the card. (Note: The card can then be fed out of the Printer.)

  • Page 55: Resolving The Card Jam: Lam Error Message

    Check to see if a card is jammed in the Lam Station of the Printer. d. If a card is jammed in the Printer, use the Pause / Resume button and the On / Cancel buttons to move the feed Rollers and free the card. (Note: The card can then be fed out of the Printer.)

  • Page 56: Resolving The Card Jam: Flip Error Message

    Check the Flipper Offset. a. Clear any card jams. b. Open the top covers. c. Unplug power from the Printer and reapply. (Note: The Flipper Table will cycle on startup.) d. When finished, the Flipper Table should be completely level with the card feed path.

  • Page 57: Ribbon Errors

    RESTRICTED USE ONLY Ribbon Errors Resolving the Lam Error/Out Error Message Symptom: The Printer seems to skip PolyGuard overlaminate patches or simply wind the overlaminate until the Printer's Ready LED flashes. Step Procedure Check that the proper Over-Laminate type is installed according to the Lamination Type option selected in the Printer Driver.
  • Page 58 If blocked, the voltage should read 4.9 to 5.5 VDC.  If unblocked, the Sensor should read 0.15 to 0.18 VDC. d. If the voltages do not read correctly the Sensor should be replaced. Pro-LX Laminating Card Printer/Encoder User Guide (Rev. 5.0) Fargo Electronics, Inc.

  • Page 59: Resolving The Skipping Ribbon Panel Issues

    RESTRICTED USE ONLY Resolving the Skipping Ribbon Panel issues Symptom: The Printer is using more than one set of ribbon panels to print one side of a card. Step Procedure Calibrate the Ribbon Sensor. a. Reset the Printer to clear any Error Messages by removing Power and reapplying.
  • Page 60 RESTRICTED USE ONLY Fargo Electronics, Inc. Resolving the Skipping Ribbon Panel issues (continued) Refer to the previous procedure. Continued on the next page Pro-LX Laminating Card Printer/Encoder User Guide (Rev. 5.0)
  • Page 61 Connect the positive lead to Pin 4 of J13.  If blocked, the voltage should read 4.9 to 5.5 volts DC.  If unblocked, the Sensor should read 0.15 to 0.18 volts DC. Pro-LX Laminating Card Printer/Encoder User Guide (Rev. 5.0) Fargo Electronics, Inc.

  • Page 62: Resolving The Wrong Ribbon Error (Being Displayed Incorrectly)

    If using Windows 95/98/ME, right click on the Pro-LX Card Printer Icon and select Properties.  If using Windows NT 4.0, right click on the Pro-LX Card Printer and select Document Defaults.  If using Windows 2000/XP, right click on the Pro-LX Card Printer and select Printing Preferences.

  • Page 63: Resolving The Ribbon Low Message

    Open up the top Print cover. g. Slowly rotate the supply side of the ribbon. (Note: As the spool is rolling, the Printer should emit a beep every time a metal pin from the ribbon ID core passes the Sensor.) h.

  • Page 64: Resolving The Ribbon Breaking Issues

    Symptom: The Ribbon breaks when printing or a Ribbon Jam Error is displayed on the LCD Step Procedure Calibrate the Ribbon Sensor. a. Reset the Printer to clear any Error Messages by removing Power and reapplying. b. From the Computer, open the Printer control panel. ...
  • Page 65 If the Ribbon broke after applying the print to the card, continue to Step 4. Adjust the Image Placement. a. Reset the Printer to clear any Error Messages by removing Power and reapplying. b. Open the Printer Control Panel from the Computer.
  • Page 66 If using Windows 95/98/ME, right click on the Pro-LX Card Printer Icon and select Properties.  If using Windows NT 4.0, right click on the Pro-LX Card Printer and select Document Defaults.  If using Windows 2000/XP, right click on the Pro-LX Card Printer and select Printing Preferences.

  • Page 67: Resolving The Lamination (Not Adhering To The Card Surface) Problem

    Procedure Ensure the Card quality by verifying that these requirements are met: a. Requirement 1: That the Printer does print onto any card with a clean, level and polished PVC surface. (Note: Although the Printer is equipped with card cleaning Rollers, it is very important to always print onto cards specifically designed for direct-to-card dye-sublimation printing to ensure proper print quality.)
  • Page 68 If using Windows 95/98/ME, right click on the Pro-LX Card Printer Icon and select Properties.  If using Windows NT 4.0, right click on the Pro-LX Card Printer and select Document Defaults.  If using Windows 2000/XP, right click on the Pro-LX Card Printer and select Printing Preferences.

  • Page 69: Encoding Errors

    Printer. Verify the Driver settings if cards are loaded properly. Properly loaded cards will be oriented with the mag stripe facing down and toward the back of the Printer. See the Using the Magnetic Encoding tab Verify that data is being encoded to the Magnetic Stripe.
  • Page 70 C a rd F e e d R olle r Pro-LX Laminating Card Printer/Encoder User Guide (Rev. 5.0) 0 .2 9 3 inc he s (nul c ha ra c te rs ) S ta rt S e ntine l...
  • Page 71 Open the program and type: “~1%JULIEANDERSON^1234567890?” then, go to File on the menu bar and select Print. (Note: The Printer should then feed a card into the Encoder and magnetically encode it.) Check the Magnetic Offset Setting.

  • Page 72: Resolving Data Intended For The Magnetic Stripe (Being Printed On The Card) Problem

    (Note: WordPad will automatically replace the values with it’s minimum margins.) e. Open the program and type: “~1%JULIEANDERSON^1234567890?” then, go to File on the menu bar and select Print. (Note: The Printer should then feed a card into the Encoder and magnetically encode it.) Pro-LX Laminating Card Printer/Encoder User Guide (Rev.

  • Page 73: Diagnosing Image Problems

    4, page 191. Replace the Printhead if the problem persists. See procedure in Section 5, page Error! Bookmark not defined.. Pro-LX Laminating Card Printer/Encoder User Guide (Rev. 5.0) Cleaning the Printhead procedure in Section 4, page Replacing the Cleaning Tape...

  • Page 74: Resolving The Card Surface Debris Problems

    Replace the Cleaning Tape. See Section 4, page 189. Clean the Platen Rollers. See 4, page 191. Pro-LX Laminating Card Printer/Encoder User Guide (Rev. 5.0) Fargo Electronics, Inc. Cleaning the Printer’s Interior Replacing the Cleaning Tape Cleaning the Platen Rollers...

  • Page 75: Resolving The Incorrect Image Darkness Problems

    Run a self-test to identify problems with the driver settings. See Test in Section 2, page 87. Adjust the Dye-Sub Intensity setting within the Image Color tab of the Printer Driver. See Using the Image Color tab Pro-LX Laminating Card Printer/Encoder User Guide (Rev. 5.0) procedure in Section 3, page 157.
  • Page 76 RESTRICTED USE ONLY Resolving the Incorrect Image Darkness problems (continued) Step Procedure Correct the Image Darkness. See 3, page 100. Pro-LX Laminating Card Printer/Encoder User Guide (Rev. 5.0) Fargo Electronics, Inc. Using the Image Darkness option in Section...

  • Page 77: Resolving The Ribbon Wrinkle Problems

    Step Procedure Confirm that the Printer is using the most current driver via: Reduce the Dye-Sub Intensity setting within the Image Color tab of the Printer Driver. See Using the Image Color tab Pro-LX Laminating Card Printer/Encoder User Guide (Rev. 5.0) Fargo Electronics, Inc.
  • Page 78  If the wrinkle effect is diminished, continue tightening the Ribbon Encoder nut, in ¼ - turn increments until the wrinkle is gone. Pro-LX Laminating Card Printer/Encoder User Guide (Rev. 5.0) Fargo Electronics, Inc. Using the Image Darkness option in Section...

  • Page 79: Resolving The Excessive Resin Printing Problems

    Symptom: Black resin text and barcodes appear smeared or too thick. Step Procedure Reduce the Resin Heat setting within the Image Color tab of the Printer Driver. Using the Image Color tab Pro-LX Laminating Card Printer/Encoder User Guide (Rev. 5.0) Fargo Electronics, Inc.
  • Page 80 RESTRICTED USE ONLY Resolving the Excessive Resin Printing problems (continued) Step Procedure Reduce the Image Darkness. See page 100. Pro-LX Laminating Card Printer/Encoder User Guide (Rev. 5.0) Fargo Electronics, Inc. Using the Image Darkness option in Section 3,...

  • Page 81: Resolving The Incomplete Resin Printing Problems

    Resolving the Incomplete Resin Printing problems Symptom: Black resin text and barcodes appear faded or too light. Step Procedure Increase the Resin Heat setting within the Image Color tab of the Printer Driver. See Using the Image Color tab Increase the Image Darkness. See Section 3, page 100.

  • Page 82: Resolving The Image Placement Problems

    If using Windows 95/98/ME, right click on the Pro-LX Card Printer Icon and select Properties.  If using Windows NT 4.0, right click on the Pro-LX Card Printer and select Document Defaults.  If using Windows 2000/XP, right click on the Pro-LX Card Printer and select Printing Preferences.
  • Page 83 RESTRICTED USE ONLY Fargo Electronics, Inc. Resolving the Image Placement problems (continued) Refer to the previous procedure. Pro-LX Laminating Card Printer/Encoder User Guide (Rev. 5.0)
  • Page 84 If using Windows 95/98/ME, right click on the Pro-LX Card Printer Icon and select Properties.  If using Windows NT 4.0 right click on the Pro-LX Card Printer and select Document Defaults.  If using Windows 2000/XP, right click on the Pro-LX Card Printer and select Printing Preferences.
  • Page 85 RESTRICTED USE ONLY Fargo Electronics, Inc. Resolving the Image Placement problems (continued) Refer to the previous procedure. Pro-LX Laminating Card Printer/Encoder User Guide (Rev. 5.0)

  • Page 86: Resolving The Poor Image Quality Problems

    Caution: If a small or low-resolution image is stretched or "blown up", a pixilated or grainy effect will occur when printing, as shown below (right side). Pro-LX Laminating Card Printer/Encoder User Guide (Rev. 5.0) Fargo Electronics, Inc.

  • Page 87: Running The Self Test

    RESTRICTED USE ONLY Running the Self Test Perform a self-test after (a) an initial setup of the Printer, (b) a calibration procedure has been conducted or (c) a part has been replaced to check for proper Printer operation. Step Procedure Verify that a full-color ribbon is installed and that cards are properly loaded.

  • Page 88: Reviewing The Main Circuit Board

    Perform the standard self-test and the other test modes (made available by changing the DIP Switch Settings within the Printer). Use these additional self-tests to isolate and diagnose Printer problems and test for proper Printer operation after Printer calibration. (Note: The Main Circuit Board (below) displays the location of the DIP switches and how to activate them.)

  • Page 89: Using The Dip Switch (Self-Test)

    Using the DIP Switch (Self-test) Step Procedure Activate any of these diagnostic tests and Calibration modes. See Self Test in Section 2, page 87. During the activation of the Self-test, the Printer will:  Detect the change to the DIP Switch Settings. See Test in Section 2, page 89.
  • Page 90 RESTRICTED USE ONLY Using the DIP Switch (continued) Step Procedure When completed, turn OFF the power to the Printer to reset the operating mode of the Printer.  The first illustration (below) shows all eight (8) switches in the normal OFF position.

  • Page 91: Setting The Dip Switch Settings

    RESTRICTED USE ONLY Setting the DIP Switch Settings (Note: The capital letter “X” indicates that the switch should be set to ON or DOWN.) Pro-LX Laminating Card Printer/Encoder User Guide (Rev. 5.0) Diagnostic modes Standard Self-test (YMC) front, (K or B) on...

  • Page 92: Running The 15-Shade Self Test

    RESTRICTED USE ONLY Fargo Electronics, Inc. Running the 15-Shade Self Test This is the Self-test that appears when specific changes are made to the DIP Switch Settings. Pro-LX Laminating Card Printer/Encoder User Guide (Rev. 5.0)

  • Page 93: Interfacing Information

    The Printer is equipped with a standard 8-bit Centronics-type Parallel Data Communications Port. (Note: The Printer's Parallel Interface Connector is a standard 36-pin Amp type with two metal-wire retaining clips. It mates with a standard PC to Printer parallel cable.) Caution: For best results, keep the Interface Cable to less than six (6) feet.

  • Page 94: Reviewing The Centronics Parallel Pin Assignments

    A high logic level is sent to the Printer to indicate to the host that it cannot receive data due to a data entry, an error status or a full buffer. Pro-LX Laminating Card Printer/Encoder User Guide (Rev. 5.0) Fargo Electronics, Inc. Direction Description Data bit 0...
  • Page 95 Chassis Gnd 19 to 30 Sig Gnd _________ Reset/Input Clean _____ Error 33 to 36 Pro-LX Laminating Card Printer/Encoder User Guide (Rev. 5.0) Fargo Electronics, Inc. Direction Description Low = OK, High = media error Low = off-line, High = on-line...

  • Page 96: Reviewing The Printer Timing Diagram

    The timing diagram (below) illustrates the data and handshake lines during the transfer of one data byte to the Computer. DATA VALID Data 0 - Data 7 Strobe Tdsu Tstr Busy Tack Acknlg Pro-LX Laminating Card Printer/Encoder User Guide (Rev. 5.0)

  • Page 97: Reviewing The Printer Timing

    1 µs Tack ______ Acknlg pulse width 3.75 µs Data hold time _____ Busy delay time from data strobe 0.5 µs (max.) Pro-LX Laminating Card Printer/Encoder User Guide (Rev. 5.0) Fargo Electronics, Inc. Minimum Typical Value Value 0.5 µs 0.5 µs...

  • Page 98: Section 3: Printer Adjustments

    RESTRICTED USE ONLY Section 3: Printer Adjustments Review this section for specific information on the Safety Messages and the Printer Driver Options; and the Calibrate, Magnetic Encoding, Lamination, Overlay / Print Area, Image Color, Device Options and Card tabs for the Pro-LX Card Printer. (Note: Procedures and instructions in this Section may require special precautions to ensure the safety of the personnel performing the operations.)

  • Page 99: Using The Settings Dialog Box

    Placement, Print Length, Magnetic Offset, Flipper Offset and Lamination Placement. (Note: The Card Printer is equipped with an internal adjustment mode programmable through the Settings dialog box. This dialog box is accessible only if the Printer is powered ON, in Ready Mode and is properly connected to the PC.)

  • Page 100: Using The Image Darkness Option

    Printhead heat. Caution #2: If the positive value is set too high, the Print Ribbon may jam or even break. The maximum adjustment range is ±100. Pro-LX Laminating Card Printer/Encoder User Guide (Rev. 5.0) Fargo Electronics, Inc. to enter a negative...

  • Page 101: Using The Image Placement Option

    Procedure Click on the left arrow toward the leading edge of the card or the card output to the side of the Printer. Click on the right arrow toward the trailing edge of the card or the card input to the side of the printer/encoder.

  • Page 102: Using The Print Length Option

    (Note: When adjusting this value, keep in mind that cards always remain in the same position while moving through the Printer.) The diagram (below) represents how the print length will move in relation to the fixed card position as a positive or negative Print Length value is entered.

  • Page 103: Using The Magnetic Offset Option

    RESTRICTED USE ONLY Using the Magnetic Offset option Use this option only if the Printer has a built-in Magnetic Stripe encoder. (Note: If so, use this option to shift the starting point of where the Printer will begin encoding the magnetic Track data on a card's Magnetic Stripe.

  • Page 104: Using The Flipper Offset Option

    Caution #2: If the positive value is set too high, the Flipper angle may be too high causing a card jam. (Maximum Range: The maximum adjustment range is ±10.) Pro-LX Laminating Card Printer/Encoder User Guide (Rev. 5.0) Fargo Electronics, Inc. arrow to enter a positive value.

  • Page 105: Using The Lamination Placement Option

    Use this option to adjust the lengthwise or horizontal position of a PolyGuard patch on a card so it appears centered. (Note: When adjusting this value, the cards always remain in the same landscape orientation while moving through the Printer.) The diagram (below) represents how the PolyGuard patch will move in relation to the fixed card position as a positive or negative Lamination Placement value is entered.
  • Page 106 Print a self-test after making adjustments to the Internal Printer settings. (Note: This self-test print helps determine if these settings are set properly.) b. If the Printer has a Magnetic Stripe Encoder (and the Magnetic Offset option is adjusted, test this adjustment by sending down a command to encode from the specific software program.

  • Page 107: Adjusting The Card Flattener

    Card Flattener. (Note: By default, the Card Flattener is configured at the factory to accommodate UltraCard III type card stock.) Open the Lamination Top Cover. Remove the over-laminated material if installed. Pro-LX Laminating Card Printer/Encoder User Guide (Rev. 5.0) Fargo Electronics, Inc. Continued on the next page...
  • Page 108 Caution: Some card types have very low heat resistance and may not be acceptable for laminating. (Note: Contact the authorized reseller with specific questions about acceptable card stock.) Adjustment Knob Pro-LX Laminating Card Printer/Encoder User Guide (Rev. 5.0) Fargo Electronics, Inc.

  • Page 109: Adjusting The Laminator

    RESTRICTED USE ONLY Adjusting the Laminator Adjust the laminator's Card Guide Rail if the PolyGuard patches are being applied too closely to or overlapping a card's top or bottom edge (as the card travels through the Printer. Step Procedure Loosen the two screws that fasten the Card Guide Rail to the Printer's main chassis.
  • Page 110 Step Procedure Move the Card Guide Rail slightly toward the front of the Printer (opposite the direction the patch must move in) if the PolyGuard patch is being placed more toward a card's bottom edge (as shown in the lower display).

  • Page 111: Printer Driver Options

    RESTRICTED USE ONLY Fargo Electronics, Inc. Printer Driver Options Access the Pro-LX Card Printer Properties window via Start > Settings > Printers > Pro-LX Card Printer (icon) > Pro-LX Card Printer (which brings up the Pro-LX Card Printer Properties window).

  • Page 112: Using The Calibrate Tab

    Fargo Electronics, Inc. Using the Calibrate tab Use this option to (a) control the position of the printable area in relation to the card, (b) calibrate Sensors and (c) adjust the internal Printer settings. Pro-LX Laminating Card Printer/Encoder User Guide (Rev. 5.0)

  • Page 113: Using Image Position Controls

    Position values.  When adjusting these values, keep in mind that cards always remain in the same position while moving through the Printer, regardless of image orientation.  To illustrate this, the card illustration shown in the Image Position box will flip and rotate according to the Portrait, Landscape or Rotate 180 Degrees selection.
  • Page 114 Use the Horizontal adjustment to move the image:  Move toward the card output side of the Printer if a positive number is entered.  Move toward the card input side of the Printer if a negative number is entered.

  • Page 115: Using The Lamination Position Control

    Enter a negative number to move the overlaminate more toward the card input side of the Printer. To adjust the Vertical placement of the PolyGuard overlaminate, see the Adjusting the Laminator Pro-LX Laminating Card Printer/Encoder User Guide (Rev. 5.0) procedure in Section 3, page 109. Fargo Electronics, Inc.

  • Page 116: Using The Sensors And Settings Buttons

    RESTRICTED USE ONLY Fargo Electronics, Inc. Using the Sensors and Settings buttons Use the Sensors button to bring up a separate dialog box for calibrating the Printer's ribbon and lamination Sensors. Continued on the next page Pro-LX Laminating Card Printer/Encoder User Guide (Rev. 5.0)
  • Page 117 Fargo Electronics, Inc. Using the Sensors and Settings buttons (continued) Use the Settings button to bring up a separate dialog box for adjusting the internal Printer settings (that are customized for every Printer at the factory and saved directly within the Printer's memory).

  • Page 118: Using The Magnetic Encoding Tab

    RESTRICTED USE ONLY Using the Magnetic Encoding tab Use this option only if the Printer has an optional Magnetic Stripe Encoding Module installed. This Section describes these options and the Printer's magnetic encoding process. Step Procedure Select the Magnetic Encoding tab to display options for controlling the Magnetic Stripe encoding process.
  • Page 119 RESTRICTED USE ONLY Using the Magnetic Encoding tab (continued) Step Procedure Adjust the following Magnetic Encoding options accordingly to change the ISO Standards for Tracks 1, 2 and 3. Pro-LX Laminating Card Printer/Encoder User Guide (Rev. 5.0) Fargo Electronics, Inc.

  • Page 120: Using The Encoding Mode Option

    Select the ISO option provides encoding capability for either high or low- coercivity cards on Tracks 1, 2 and 3. The ISO option is the industry's most standard mode of magnetic encoding. Pro-LX Laminating Card Printer/Encoder User Guide (Rev. 5.0) Fargo Electronics, Inc.

  • Page 121: Using The Coercivity Option

    (Note: Although the default ISO Magnetic Track Options should be correct for almost all applications, these options can be customized if the application requires it.) Pro-LX Laminating Card Printer/Encoder User Guide (Rev. 5.0) Fargo Electronics, Inc. Continued on the next page...
  • Page 122 Use the Magnetic Track Selections to configure the way in which each of the three magnetic Tracks will encode. (Note #1: They do not designate which Tracks the Printer will encode (e.g., to encode only Track 2). This must be done through the specific software program.)

  • Page 123: Reviewing The Enable Mle Support Checkbox

    Multi-Language Extension (MLE) support in Windows XP can cause text strings to be broken up into fragments. This fragmentation of the text string prevents magnetic encoding. Step Procedure Check this box to allow the Driver to process the fragmented text. Pro-LX Laminating Card Printer/Encoder User Guide (Rev. 5.0) Fargo Electronics, Inc.

  • Page 124: Using The Magnetic Track Options

    (Note #1: After making the required selection, the Magnetic Track Options box displays the current set of customization options for the selected Track.) (Note #2: For most applications, the default settings for these options do not need to be changed.) Pro-LX Laminating Card Printer/Encoder User Guide (Rev. 5.0) Fargo Electronics, Inc.

  • Page 125: Using The Bit Density Radio Buttons

    Select 5 Bits to change the bits per character to 5 BPC. Select 7 BPI to change the bits per character to 7 BPC. Select 8 BPI to change the bits per character to 8 BPC . Pro-LX Laminating Card Printer/Encoder User Guide (Rev. 5.0) Fargo Electronics, Inc.

  • Page 126: Using The Ascii Offset

    Step Procedure Select NULL to change the ASCII Offset to NULL. Select SPACE to change the ASCII Offset to SPACE. Select ZERO to change the ASCII Offset to ZERO. Pro-LX Laminating Card Printer/Encoder User Guide (Rev. 5.0) Fargo Electronics, Inc.

  • Page 127: Using The Lrc Generation Radio Buttons

    Select No Parity to change the Character Parity to none. Select Even Parity to change the Character Parity to Even Parity. Select Odd Parity to change the Character Parity to Odd Parity Pro-LX Laminating Card Printer/Encoder User Guide (Rev. 5.0) Fargo Electronics, Inc.

  • Page 128: Using The Verification Radio Buttons

    Step Procedure Select the Auto Eject 1st Error option to instruct the Printer to verify that all magnetic data has been correctly encoded on each card. (Note: The Auto Eject option is the most direct means of dealing with misverified cards; however, it may be undesirable when dealing with encoding errors.) For this reason, a Manual...

  • Page 129: Using The Shift Data Left Checkbox

    Step Procedure Select the Shift Data Left option to apply to all Tracks. Using the Encode Before Print checkbox Use the Encode Before Print option to instruct the Printer to encode the card first, before anything is printed. Step Procedure Select this option to have the Printer encode the card before it is printed.

  • Page 130: Reviewing Iso Track Locations

    Review the magnetic encoding module, which encodes onto Tracks in accordance with an ISO 7811-2 Magnetic Stripe. (Note: Refer to the diagram (below) for Track locations.) 0.223" 0.353" 0.493" TRACK1 0.110" TRACK2 0.110" TRACK3 0.110" Pro-LX Laminating Card Printer/Encoder User Guide (Rev. 5.0) Fargo Electronics, Inc. 0.130" 0.140"...

  • Page 131: Sending Track Information

    Specific Characters added: In other words, specific characters must be added to the magnetic Track data in order for the Printer Driver to know which data is to be encoded, which Tracks to encode, when the Track data stops and starts and so forth.

  • Page 132: Reviewing Tracks 1, 2 And 3 (In Table Format)

    Data Entry Sending data to Track 1 ~1%JULIE ANDERSON^623-85-1253? ~2;0123456789? Sending data to Track 2 Sending data to Track 3 ~3;0123456789? Pro-LX Laminating Card Printer/Encoder User Guide (Rev. 5.0) Field Valid Characters Separator ASCII 32-95 (See the table below.) ASCII 48-63 (See the table below.)

  • Page 133: Reviewing The Ascii Code And Character Table

    RESTRICTED USE ONLY Reviewing the ASCII Code and Character Table ASCII Code Character space " & Pro-LX Laminating Card Printer/Encoder User Guide (Rev. 5.0) ASCII Code Character < > Fargo Electronics, Inc. ASCII Code Character...

  • Page 134: Using The Lamination Tab

    RESTRICTED USE ONLY Fargo Electronics, Inc. Using the Lamination tab Use these options to control the Printer's lamination process. Pro-LX Laminating Card Printer/Encoder User Guide (Rev. 5.0)

  • Page 135: Selecting From The Lamination Side Dropdown Menu

    RESTRICTED USE ONLY Selecting from the Lamination Side dropdown menu Use this option to customize what side(s) of the card the Printer is supposed to laminate. Step Procedure Select the No Lamination option to avoid using the Printer's built-in laminator.

  • Page 136: Selecting From The Lamination Type Dropdown Menu

    Avoid using these types of ribbons in conjunction with these Thermal Transfer Film options. Caution #2: With any of these PolyGuard options, do not apply the ribbon overlay (O) when laminating with PolyGuard. Pro-LX Laminating Card Printer/Encoder User Guide (Rev. 5.0) Fargo Electronics, Inc. Continued on the next page...
  • Page 137 RESTRICTED USE ONLY Fargo Electronics, Inc. Selecting from Lamination Type dropdown menu (continued) Refer to the previous procedure. Pro-LX Laminating Card Printer/Encoder User Guide (Rev. 5.0)

  • Page 138: Selecting Lamination Dwell Time And Temperature

    Preset Default Settings: The default settings for the Lamination Dwell Time and Temperature are preset for manufacturer-recommended card stocks and overlaminate types.  Required Adjustments: Some adjustment to these settings may be required if using other brands of these supplies. Pro-LX Laminating Card Printer/Encoder User Guide (Rev. 5.0) Fargo Electronics, Inc.

  • Page 139: Using The Overlay / Print Area Tab

    (Note: This option is helpful if, for Note, to omit or block out the overlay or printing around a card's smart chip or Magnetic Stripe. By default, this option is set to print and overlay the entire card.) Continued on the next page Pro-LX Laminating Card Printer/Encoder User Guide (Rev. 5.0)

  • Page 140: Using The Overlay / Print Area Dropdown Menu

    Using the Overlay / Print Area dropdown menu Step Procedure Select the Full Card option for the Printer to overlay and/or print the entire card. Select the Defined Area(s) option for the Printer to overlay and/or print only in the selected and defined area or areas.

  • Page 141: Using The Overlay / Print Area

    (Important: In this mode, the overlay is completely disabled so it will not be applied.) Caution: An overlay or an overlaminate must protect dye-sublimation printing or it will quickly begin to wear or fade. Pro-LX Laminating Card Printer/Encoder User Guide (Rev. 5.0) Fargo Electronics, Inc. Continued on the next page...
  • Page 142 Select the Defined Area(s) option to activate the card grid in the upper half of the window. It is through this card grid that up to five areas can be defined. Pro-LX Laminating Card Printer/Encoder User Guide (Rev. 5.0) Fargo Electronics, Inc.
  • Page 143  Determine the area size by actually printing a card and looking at it in the same orientation as when it exits the Printer. Measure the total size of the desired area and enter those dimensions into the dimension boxes. (Note: The minimum size an area is .2" x .2" / 5mm x 5mm.) Pro-LX Laminating Card Printer/Encoder User Guide (Rev.
  • Page 144 X and Y boxes. (Note: The card grid lines are spaced at .2 inch / 5mm intervals.) Pro-LX Laminating Card Printer/Encoder User Guide (Rev. 5.0) Fargo Electronics, Inc.
  • Page 145 Procedure a. Print the card design and observe how the image is oriented on the card as it ejects from the Printer. (Note: The location of a defined area is based on the card orientation as it exits the Printer.) b.
  • Page 146 Delete an area by using the Defined Area arrows to select the area and click on the Delete button. (Note: If all areas are deleted, the K Panel Resin options will automatically be deselected.) Pro-LX Laminating Card Printer/Encoder User Guide (Rev. 5.0) Fargo Electronics, Inc.

  • Page 147: Using Security Options (Visual Security Solutions)

    The following actions will occur when one of the Visual Security locations is selected.  The Overlay / Print Area will be disabled.  SmartShield will be disabled.  The Foil Options become selectable. Pro-LX Laminating Card Printer/Encoder User Guide (Rev. 5.0) Fargo Electronics, Inc.

  • Page 148: Selecting Orientation - Landscape Under Card Tab

    Step Procedure Select the Landscape radio button (below) under Orientation under the Card Size tab to use the Visual Security Solutions (A to D), as shown in this window. Pro-LX Laminating Card Printer/Encoder User Guide (Rev. 5.0) Fargo Electronics, Inc.

  • Page 149: Selecting The Visual Security Solutions Dropdown Menu (A To D)

    Selecting the Visual Security Solutions dropdown menu (A to D) Step Procedure Click on the Visual Security Solutions dropdown menu (below) under the Landscape - Orientation (see above) to use the options shown in this display. Pro-LX Laminating Card Printer/Encoder User Guide (Rev. 5.0) Fargo Electronics, Inc.

  • Page 150: Selecting Orientation - Portfolio Under Card Tab

    Step Procedure Select the Portrait radio button (below) under Orientation under the Card Size tab to use the Visual Security Solutions (E to H), as shown in this window. Pro-LX Laminating Card Printer/Encoder User Guide (Rev. 5.0) Fargo Electronics, Inc.

  • Page 151: Selecting The Visual Security Solutions Dropdown Menu (E To H)

    Selecting the Visual Security Solutions dropdown menu (E to H) Step Procedure Click on the Visual Security Solutions dropdown menu under the Portrait - Orientation (see above) to use the options shown below. Pro-LX Laminating Card Printer/Encoder User Guide (Rev. 5.0) Fargo Electronics, Inc.

  • Page 152: Selecting The Verimark Radio Button

    (Note: When VeriMark is selected a rectangle-sized area is excluded, HoloMark uses a square sized area.) Click on the VeriMark radio button (below) for the rectangle-sized area. Pro-LX Laminating Card Printer/Encoder User Guide (Rev. 5.0) Fargo Electronics, Inc.

  • Page 153: Selecting The Holomark Radio Button

    RESTRICTED USE ONLY Selecting the HoloMark radio button Step Procedure Click on the HoloMark radio button (below) for the squared-area size. Pro-LX Laminating Card Printer/Encoder User Guide (Rev. 5.0) Fargo Electronics, Inc.

  • Page 154: Reviewing The Custom Verimark Card (Custom Graphic In A 2D Foil)

    (A to H), as shown in the Portrait and Landscape samples below. Sample 1: VeriMark Card (Landscape - Orientation) - 4 positions (below) Sample 2: VeriMark Card (Portrait - Orientation) - 4 positions (below) Pro-LX Laminating Card Printer/Encoder User Guide (Rev. 5.0) Fargo Electronics, Inc.

  • Page 155: Reviewing The Custom Holomark Card (Custom Graphic In A 2D Foil)

    (A to H), as shown in the Portrait and Landscape samples below. Sample 1: HoloMark Card (Landscape - Orientation) - 4 positions (below) Sample 2: HoloMark Card (Portrait - Orientation) - 4 positions (below) Pro-LX Laminating Card Printer/Encoder User Guide (Rev. 5.0) Fargo Electronics, Inc.

  • Page 156: Using Smartshield Area Dropdown Menu

    RESTRICTED USE ONLY Using SmartShield Area dropdown menu Use the SmartShield Area options, which apply only if using the Printer's optional SmartGuard Security Feature and the SmartShield option is enabled. Step Procedure Select the Apply SmartShield option to print the custom SmartShield Security Image if using the Printer's optional SmartGuard Security Feature and the SmartShield option is enabled.

  • Page 157: Using The Image Color Tab

    (Note: This slide only affects those images printed with dye- sublimation ribbon panels (YMC).) Control the amount of heat the Printer uses when printing with the resin black panel(s) of a full-color ribbon or when printing with a resin-only ribbon by adjusting the Resin Heat slide.
  • Page 158 RESTRICTED USE ONLY Fargo Electronics, Inc. Image Color Tab (continued) Refer to the previous procedure. Pro-LX Laminating Card Printer/Encoder User Guide (Rev. 5.0)

  • Page 159: Using The K Panel Resin Tab

    Panel Resin options will be grayed out.  Resin black text is desirable due to its sharp, saturated black coloring and resin black bar codes are often required to ensure readability when scanned.) Pro-LX Laminating Card Printer/Encoder User Guide (Rev. 5.0) Fargo Electronics, Inc.

  • Page 160: Selecting From The Print All Black With K Panel Options

    TrueType fonts and/or are not printing with the resin black panel. (Note: The Printer Driver will print areas of the image where it finds black coloring with the Print Ribbon's resin black (K) panel as specified by each of the following options.

  • Page 161: Selecting The Full Card Option

    Selecting the Full Card option Step Procedure Select the Full Card option for the Printer Driver to print the resin black (K) panel for all black found within all areas of the image. Pro-LX Laminating Card Printer/Encoder User Guide (Rev. 5.0)

  • Page 162: Selecting The Defined Area(S) Option

    Selecting the Defined Area(s) option Step Procedure Select the Defined Area(s) option for the Printer Driver to print the resin black (K) panel for all black found only in a desired and defined area or areas. Pro-LX Laminating Card Printer/Encoder User Guide (Rev. 5.0)

  • Page 163: Selecting The Undefined Area(S) Option

    Step Procedure Select the Undefined Area(s) option for the Printer Driver to print the resin black (K) panel for all black found only in the space outside the defined areas. (Note: In the card grid, black indicates the area in which the resin black (K) panel will be printed.)

  • Page 164: Using The Defined Area(S) Function

    .2" x .2" / 5mm x 5mm and at its default location in the lower left-hand corner (0,0). This square represents the first defined area. Pro-LX Laminating Card Printer/Encoder User Guide (Rev. 5.0) Fargo Electronics, Inc. Continued on the next page...
  • Page 165 Determine the size of this area by actually printing a card and looking at it in the same orientation as when it exits the Printer. Measure the total size for the area and enter those dimensions into the dimension boxes.
  • Page 166 (Note: The card grid lines are spaced at .2 inch / 5mm intervals.) a. Print the card design and note how the image is oriented on the card as it ejects from the Printer. (Note: The location of a defined area is based on the card orientation as it exits the Printer.) b.
  • Page 167 RESTRICTED USE ONLY Fargo Electronics, Inc. Using the Defined Area(s) function (continued) Refer to the previous procedure. Continued on the next page Pro-LX Laminating Card Printer/Encoder User Guide (Rev. 5.0)
  • Page 168 RESTRICTED USE ONLY Using the Defined Area(s) function (continued) Refer to the previous procedure. X=1.4“ Pro-LX Laminating Card Printer/Encoder User Guide (Rev. 5.0) Karen Atkins Access Level-2 ID# 1234478 * 172355* Y=0.2“ Continued on the next page Fargo Electronics, Inc.
  • Page 169 RESTRICTED USE ONLY Fargo Electronics, Inc. Using the Defined Area(s) function (continued) Refer to the previous procedure. Continued on the next page Pro-LX Laminating Card Printer/Encoder User Guide (Rev. 5.0)
  • Page 170 Delete an area by using the Defined Area arrows to select the area and clicking on the Delete button. (Note: If all areas are deleted, the K Panel Resin options will automatically be deselected.) Pro-LX Laminating Card Printer/Encoder User Guide (Rev. 5.0) Fargo Electronics, Inc. Continued on the next page...
  • Page 171 (Note: When this option is selected, all black in the designated areas will print only with the resin black (K) panel.) Pro-LX Laminating Card Printer/Encoder User Guide (Rev. 5.0) Fargo Electronics, Inc.
  • Page 172 RESTRICTED USE ONLY Fargo Electronics, Inc. Using the Defined Area(s) function (continued) Refer to the previous procedure. Pro-LX Laminating Card Printer/Encoder User Guide (Rev. 5.0)

  • Page 173: Using The Device Options Tab

    RESTRICTED USE ONLY Fargo Electronics, Inc. Using the Device Options tab Use the Device Options tab to select options that control the Printer’s functions. Pro-LX Laminating Card Printer/Encoder User Guide (Rev. 5.0)

  • Page 174: Selecting The Ribbon Type

    Selecting the Ribbon Type Use the Ribbon Type dropdown menu to select the correct ribbon type. Step Procedure Select the appropriate Ribbon Type option for the type of Print Ribbon in use. Pro-LX Laminating Card Printer/Encoder User Guide (Rev. 5.0) Fargo Electronics, Inc.

  • Page 175: Selecting From The Color Matching Options

     If some other third party color matching software is in use. Select Algebraic for the Printer Driver to make very simple, yet fast, color balance adjustments. Select Monitor for the Printer Driver to make complex color corrections similar to the Algebraic option but through a more complex color matching algorithm.

  • Page 176: Selecting From The Resin Dither Dropdown Menu

    YMCKO, YMCKOK or YMCKK Print Ribbon.) Step Procedure Select the Optimized for Graphics option. Select the Optimized for Photos option. Pro-LX Laminating Card Printer/Encoder User Guide (Rev. 5.0) Fargo Electronics, Inc.

  • Page 177: Selecting The Print Both Sides Checkbox

    (on page 1) of the document and the monochrome backside (on page 2). (Note: The Printer Driver will always place all odd numbered pages on the front side of the card and all even numbered pages on the backside.) Pro-LX Laminating Card Printer/Encoder User Guide (Rev.

  • Page 178: Selecting The Split 1 Set Of Ribbon Panels Checkbox

    (Note #1: This option is automatically enabled when the either the YMCKOK or YMCKK ribbon type is selected.) (Note #2: The Print Both Sides option is automatically enabled when this option is selected.) Pro-LX Laminating Card Printer/Encoder User Guide (Rev. 5.0) Fargo Electronics, Inc.

  • Page 179: Using The Print Back Side First Option

    Select this option if you need to print the first page of a two-page document on the backside of the card. The second page of the document will be printed on the front side of the card. Pro-LX Laminating Card Printer/Encoder User Guide (Rev. 5.0) Fargo Electronics, Inc.

  • Page 180: Selecting The Print Back Side Only Checkbox

    Selecting the Rotate Back 180 Degrees checkbox Select this option to change the position of the printed image in relation to the set location of a card's Magnetic Stripe or smart chip. Pro-LX Laminating Card Printer/Encoder User Guide (Rev. 5.0)

  • Page 181: Selecting The Buffer Single Card Checkbox

    RESTRICTED USE ONLY Selecting the Buffer Single Card checkbox Use this option to force the Printer's memory to buffer or hold, only one print job at a time. Step Procedure Select this option only to print to multiple Printers sharing print jobs over a network.

  • Page 182: Selecting The Pause For Low Ribbon Checkbox

    Use this option to generate a definitive warning when the Print Ribbon is running low. (Note: When this option is selected, the Printer will "beep", pause and the Ready LED will flash when approximately 10 to 20 prints remain on the Print Ribbon.)

  • Page 183: Using The Card Tab

    Procedure Specify the number of copies to be printed by clicking on the up or down arrows. Clicking on the Test Print button Use this option to send a simple self-test print to the Printer. Step Procedure Install a full-color Print Ribbon as a requirement. Use this test print procedure to ensure that the computer is effectively communicating with the Printer and that the Printer is functioning properly.

  • Page 184: Clicking On The About Button

    Click the About button to open a dialog box containing the copyright and version information about this Printer Driver software. Step Procedure Review the information in the dialog box (as needed). Pro-LX Laminating Card Printer/Encoder User Guide (Rev. 5.0) Fargo Electronics, Inc.

  • Page 185: Section 4: Cleaning

    Section 4: Cleaning This Section deals with the Printer’s internal and external maintenance in regards to the unit's cleaning and general upkeep. (Note: The Printer should be cleaned on a regular basis to insure that the Printer consistently produces high quality output.) Danger: Be sure to disconnect the Printer's power cord whenever performing any type of maintenance procedure unless otherwise directed.

  • Page 186: Cleaning The Printhead

    Perform this procedure approximately every 1,000 prints or as needed, depending on the cleanliness of the card stock and the environment in which the Printer is located. Perform this procedure (as needed) if a streak on the card appears where color was not transferred.

  • Page 187: Cleaning The Card Feed Rollers

    Refer to Steps 2 to 5 (in this procedure) to clean all these Rollers through a single, easy process: a. Open the Printer's Top Covers and remove all card, Print Ribbon and over laminate from the Printer. b. Leave the Printer power ON and the Top Covers open throughout this procedure.
  • Page 188 Repeat this cleaning procedure as needed. c. After the cleaning procedure is finished, re-install media, close the Printer's Top Covers and turn the Printer power OFF and ON to reset the Printer. Be sure to use either clear tape or masking tape. (Note: If the cleaning kit is not available, adhesive tape is also an effective method for removing lint and debris from the Rollers.)

  • Page 189: Replacing The Cleaning Tape

    The Card Cleaning Cartridge removes dust particles from the top and bottom of a blank card as it feeds into the Printer. It accomplishes this through two (2) Cleaning Rollers that are in turn, continually cleaned by a replaceable Card Cleaning Tape.
  • Page 190 Insert the Cleaning Cartridge back into the Printer as shown. b. Be sure to insert the cartridge with the Release Tab toward the input end of the Printer. Caution: If the cartridge is not inserted properly, the Printer will not feed cards. Release Tab Pro-LX Laminating Card Printer/Encoder User Guide (Rev.

  • Page 191: Cleaning The Platen Rollers

    RESTRICTED USE ONLY Cleaning the Platen Rollers Clean the Printer's Platen Rollers approximately every 1,500 prints or as needed depending on the cleanliness of the card stock and the environment in which the Printer is located. Step Procedure Clean if the Rollers appear dirty or if the cards start showing speckles or debris on the printed surface.

  • Page 192: Cleaning The Printer's Exterior

    RESTRICTED USE ONLY Cleaning the Printer’s Exterior The Printer has a durable casing that should retain its luster and appearance for many years. Steps Procedures Clean it only with a Cleaning Pad from the Printer Cleaning Kit. Caution: Do not use cleaning solvents of any kind or spray the cabinet with a cleaner.

  • Page 193: Cleaning The Magnetic Encoder

    The card will be passed through the encoder twice in an attempt to write data and to verify.  The Printer will be unable to read any data and will eject the card from the Printer. Press the On/Cancel button twice to reset the Printer.

  • Page 194: Section 5: Packing The Pro-Lx Card Printer

    Follow this instruction to pack the Card Printer for transport. Step Procedure Clean the inside of the Printer with deionized air. Wipe it down with a lint-free cloth. Clean the Printhead with a Printhead pen. Pack the Printer in the original carton and packing materials.

  • Page 195: Section 6: Board Level Diagnostics

    RESTRICTED USE ONLY Section 6: Board Level Diagnostics The purpose of this section to provide the User with specific Board Level Diagnostic procedures for Board Errors and Sensor Testing for the Pro-LX Card Printer. Board Errors Resolving the EE Memory Error Symptom: An EE Memory Error is displayed on the LCD display.

  • Page 196: Resolving The Dram Memory Error

    See the Sensor Location and Voltages table on the next page. b. Block a Slot Sensor with a card. c. Cover a Reflective Sensor with a card. Pro-LX Laminating Card Printer/Encoder User Guide (Rev. 5.0) Fargo Electronics, Inc.

  • Page 197: Reviewing The Sensor Location And Voltages

    Card Detection Sensor Print TOF Sensor Lamination TOF Sensor Flipper Home Sensor Encoder TOF Sensor Pro-LX Laminating Card Printer/Encoder User Guide (Rev. 5.0) Low Range VDC High Range VDC Present .02 Not present .70 Present .02 Not present .70 Unblocked 2.2 Blocked 5 Unblocked 2.2...

  • Page 198: Reviewing The Motor Voltages (When Active)

    Use this table as a reference tool for Board Level Diagnostics. Motor Location Print Drive Stepper Lamination Drive Stepper Print Headlift Lamination Roller Lift Card Feed Ribbon Drive Lamination Drive Pro-LX Laminating Card Printer/Encoder User Guide (Rev. 5.0) 17.0 23.00 Fargo Electronics, Inc.

  • Page 199: Section 7: Fargo Technical Support

    RESTRICTED USE ONLY Section 7: Fargo Technical Support The purpose of this section to provide the User with an efficient, step-by-step procedure to be used when contacting Fargo Technical Support as needed for the Pro-LX Card Printer. Contacting Fargo Technical Support Step...

  • Page 200: Reading The Serial Numbers On A Fargo Printer

    You can determine when your card printer was manufactured by reading directly from the serial number (affixed to your card printer). 1. Year Built: The first two digits in the serial number indicate the year that the printer was manufactured.

  • Page 201: Section 8: Reviewing The Spare Parts List

    RESTRICTED USE ONLY Fargo Electronics, Inc. Section 8: Reviewing the Spare Parts List Pro-LX ID Card Printer Recommended Spare Parts List Effective Date: April 2004 For current pricing see http://www.fargopartner.com/support_services/ Pro-LX Laminating Card Printer/Encoder User Guide (Rev. 5.0)

  • Page 202: Glossary Of Terms

    Institute) AS400 An IBM operating system running on a main frame. DTC500 Fargo Printers are built with fonts saved in the Printer memory so users of AS400 can write escape codes and print from the Printer. ASCII (American A standard for processing information in computer processors. An...
  • Page 203 Buffer A block of memory, in the Printer or PC, that holds print files until the processor is ready to print them. Cable...
  • Page 204 Compressed air Air stored in a tank or produced by an aerosol can, delivered by through nozzle at a high speed. Used in the Printer to blow out debris. Contrast The degree of difference in luminance of two areas.
  • Page 205 The default values for the firmware are usually denoted on a label attached to the Printer. Defrag Abbreviation for defragmenting. The process of reformatting data on a hard drive so that it uses space more efficiently.
  • Page 206 Typically, it works as a pass-through device and is connected in serial to the parallel cable. The smallest unit of an image that the Printer is able to produce. The smaller the dot, see dot pitch, the sharper the image.
  • Page 207 The device in the Printer that accepts smart cards with an ISO Station smart card contact station. This allows the user to write to the smart card chip with a standard RS-232 interface in the back of the Printer or with the optional built-in encoder. Edge-to-Edge Refers to the maximum printable area on a card resulting in printed cards with virtually no border.
  • Page 208 A Printer that also laminates would have both a print engine and a lamination engine. EOF (End Of Form) The trailing edge of the card, detected to indicate when the Printer should stop printing. EPP (Enhanced...
  • Page 209 A Windows standard for protocol between drivers and Interface (GDI) applications and the Windows interface. An application uses a driver to rasterize the data in the format necessary for the Printer but also for the Windows interface to execute the print commands.
  • Page 210 A high capacity storage device in a PC consisting of non- removable magnetically encodable platters. Hardware Physical components of a system such as the Printer, the PC, the power supply. HDP (High Definition The High-Definition Printing process prints full-color images onto Printing™)
  • Page 211 Input Any data or material being transferred to the Printer. Input Hopper The area of the Printer that stores the blank cards, ready to print. Intermediate Transfer A thin flexible material coated with a resin material into which the Media (InTM) dye is transferred from the ribbon by the Printhead.
  • Page 212 A semiconductor that emits light when a current is applied. Diode) Media A generic reference to anything onto which the Printer can transfer an image including cards, ribbon and film. LoCo (Low The coercivity value of magnetic media between 250 - 600 Oe Coercivity) (ISO 7811-2).
  • Page 213 System) computer's operations and applications. The driver used for any given OS will differ from other platforms. The correct version driver must be loaded for the Printer to interface with the OS and the application to print. Output Any product of the Printer including card image, encoded data and lamination.
  • Page 214 Peripheral Any device that is attached externally to a PC. These often share the same data cable or port as a Printer and may be the source of communication problems. Pro-LX Laminating Card Printer/Encoder User Guide (Rev. 5.0) Fargo Electronics, Inc.
  • Page 215 Print Job A file of one or more cards for the Printer to print, including image data and Printer functions, transmitted through the parallel interface and at times stored temporarily in the print buffer and spooler.
  • Page 216 Term Definition Printhead The device on a Printer that produces the image on the media. Abbreviation for polyvinyl chloride, often called vinyl. PVC is the component of the 0.002" thick clear, dye receptive film on the surface of the identification card and is the primary component of the identification card cores.
  • Page 217 Authorization number) Roller Elements of the Printer used for the transport of media consisting of a rotating steel shaft (for ribbon) or a rotating steel shaft with a rubber cylinder installed at the shaft midpoint (for moving cards). RS-232...
  • Page 218 Printer's memory. Sensor An electro-mechanical/electro-optical device used to indicate a change in state in the Printer such as when a card reaches a certain location. Serial The transfer of data, one bit at a time and in sequential order, communications using a single wire.
  • Page 219 Term Definition Spooling Rather than moving a print job directly to the Printer, the job is written to the disk so that the user can access the application faster while Windows takes care of printing in the background. SS (Start Sentinel) The character denoting the end of a magnetic data string.
  • Page 220 An interruption of a print job that occurs when a function is not completed in the time allotted by the operating system. TOF (Top of Form) The leading edge of the card, as it travels through the Printer. Track The area on a mag stripe designated to contain the magnetic data string.
  • Page 221 The designation of colored ribbon by the panels of color in the order in which they are printed: Yellow (Y), Magenta (M), Cyan (C), Black (K), Overlay (O), Black (K) (used for backside, black only printing). Pro-LX Laminating Card Printer/Encoder User Guide (Rev. 5.0) Fargo Electronics, Inc.

  • Page 222: Index

    Sensors, 112 Calibrate tab, 51, 54, 57, 65, 66, 71, 82, 112 Calibrating, 204 calibration mode, 89 Pro-LX Laminating Card Printer/Encoder User Guide (Rev. 5.0) Fargo Electronics, Inc. CANCEL=Abort, 42 Card Capacity, 16 Card Cleaning Cartridge, 20, 46, 187, 189...
  • Page 223 165 defined area, 145 Defined Area arrows, 146 Defined Area(s), 164 Pro-LX Laminating Card Printer/Encoder User Guide (Rev. 5.0) Fargo Electronics, Inc. Defined Area(s) check box, 164, 165, 166, 170, 171, 172 Defined Area(s) option, 140, 142, 162...
  • Page 224 Full-Color YMC+K Print Ribbon types., 178 Functional Specifications, 19 Gamma, 209 Glossy / Matte, 209 Glossy PVC, 209 Graphical Device Interface (GDI), 209 Pro-LX Laminating Card Printer/Encoder User Guide (Rev. 5.0) Fargo Electronics, Inc. Gray Scale, 209 gummy residue, 188 Halftoning, 209 Hard Drive, 210...
  • Page 225 Laminator Controls, 30 LAN (Local Area Network), 211 Landscape, 212 Landscape orientation, 113 LCD (Liquid Crystal Display), 212 Pro-LX Laminating Card Printer/Encoder User Guide (Rev. 5.0) Fargo Electronics, Inc. LCD Display, 20 LCD Messages, 36, 37, 38 LED (Light Emitting Diode), 212...
  • Page 226 PolyGuard Alternating Patch option, 136 PolyGuard lamination, 136 PolyGuard Lamination, 136 PolyGuard overlaminate, 115 Pro-LX Laminating Card Printer/Encoder User Guide (Rev. 5.0) Fargo Electronics, Inc. PolyGuard Overlaminate, 215 PolyGuard patch, 105, 109, 110 poor image quality problems, 82, 84, 86...
  • Page 227 77, 78 RibbonTraq, 217 RMA number, 217 Roller, 217 Roller Up/Down Error, 49 Pro-LX Laminating Card Printer/Encoder User Guide (Rev. 5.0) Fargo Electronics, Inc. Roller-dn Failed, 41 Rollers appear dirty, 187 Roller-up Failed, 41 Rotate Front 180 Degrees option, 145, 166...
  • Page 228 UltraCard Stock, 29 unblocked Sensor, 49, 53, 54, 55, 58 Undefined Area(s) option, 140, 163 Update, 220 Pro-LX Laminating Card Printer/Encoder User Guide (Rev. 5.0) Fargo Electronics, Inc. UPS (Un-interruptible Power Supply), 220 USB (Universal Serial Bus), 221 Using the Image Color tab, 81...

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