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Microcom LDS II Programming Manual

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LDS II
PROGRAMMING
GUIDE
PART NUMBER 880019-0123
Revised: September 5, 2006 CPC
© Copyright 2006 by Microcom Corporation, Lewis Center, Ohio – All rights reserved.
Printed in the United States of America

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Summary of Contents for Microcom LDS II

  • Page 1 LDS II PROGRAMMING GUIDE PART NUMBER 880019-0123 Revised: September 5, 2006 CPC © Copyright 2006 by Microcom Corporation, Lewis Center, Ohio – All rights reserved. Printed in the United States of America...
  • Page 2 This Page Intentionally Left Blank...
  • Page 3 This Page Intentionally Left Blank...
  • Page 4 For this reason, specifications are subject to change without notice. Liability Disclaimer Microcom Corporation makes every effort to assure that all information and specifications contained in this manual are accurate; however, mistakes are sometimes made. Microcom Corporation shall not be liable for any damages resulting in the use or misuse of this product.

  • Page 5: Table Of Contents

    Table of Contents INTRODUCTION......................1 CHAPTER 1: DESIGNING USING LDSII ............... 3 ..................3 PECIAL ONTROL ODES ................5 CRIPT REATION VERVIEW - ^A) ................. 6 EGIN CRIPT FILENAME ....................6 CRIPT EADER 1.4.1 LSX (Label Width) ..................7 1.4.2 LSY (Label Height) ..................
  • Page 6 2.1.1 Begin Script - ^A)filename................20 2.1.2 Begin Temporary Script - ^AT)filename ............20 2.1.3 Format Entry Command - ..20 ^Fn)XB,YB,CI,SW,SH,AI,DN,FO,FJ,FW,CS,FC,CC 2.1.4 Text Entry Command - ^Tn)text data ............20 ..................21 ERIES OMMANDS 2.2.1 ^D200) LSX, LSY, GAP, DRM, SPD, DET, OFX, OFY (Script Header)..21 2.2.2 ^D202)n (Text Replacement Header) ............21 ..................22...
  • Page 7 2.4.2 ^D506)n (Select Cutter Type) ..............30 2.4.3 ^D507)n (Select Printed Media Handler) ..........31 2.4.4 ^D508)n (Select Label Present Detector Type) ........31 2.4.5 ^D509)n (Select INPUT1 Response Polarity and Action) ......31 2.4.6 ^D541)n (Select Button 1 Response) ............32 2.4.7 ^D550)n (Select Printer Response Set)............
  • Page 8 2.5.21 ^D670) (Set Serial Port) ................42 2.5.22 ^D674)n (Set Ethernet Port Number)............43 2.5.23 ^D675)n (Set Printer IP Address)..............43 2.5.24 ^D676)n (Set Server/Host IP Address) .............43 2.5.25 ^D677)n (Set Gateway IP Address) ............43 2.5.26 ^D678)n (Set Broadcast Mask Address) ...........44 2.5.27 ^D679)n (Set Net Mask Address) .............44 2.5.28 ^D680)n (Set Gap Threshold) ..............44 2.5.29 ^D681)n (Set Blackline Threshold) ............44 2.5.30 ^D682)n (Set Stock Sensor Threshold) ............44...
  • Page 9 2.7.9 ^D972)n (Edit Total Inches Run Statistic) ..........54 2.7.10 ^D973)n (Edit Power on Time Statistic) ............ 54 2.7.11 ^D974)n (Edit Head Up Cycles Statistic) ..........54 2.7.12 ^D975)n (Clear All Statistics) ..............55 2.7.13 ^D976)n (Edit Unit Serial Number) ............55 2.7.14 ^D977)n (Edit Cutter Cycles Statistic)............
  • Page 10 5.3.1 Data Matrix ....................69 5.3.2 PDF-417 .....................74 CHAPTER 6: DIAGNOSTICS AND TROUBLESHOOTING ........77 ....................77 IAGNOSTIC 6.1.1 Entering Diagnostic Mode................77 6.1.2 Status Label....................77 ..................80 NQUIRY ESPONSES ...................83 ATAL RROR ESPONSES 6.3.1 >STOCK OUT< (01) ...................83 6.3.2 >STOCK OVERADVANCED< (02) .............84 6.3.3 >STOCK JAMMED<...
  • Page 11 6.4.9 >FEEDING< (85) ..................88 6.4.10 >LABEL/TAG PRESENT< (86)..............88 6.4.11 >STOCK ADVANCED< (87)............... 88 6.4.12 >FLASH DEFRAGMENTING< (8A)............88 6.3.13 >STOCK NOT LOADED< (8F) ..............88 6.4.14 >RETRACTION DELAY< (90) ..............88 6.4.15 >PRINT DELAY< (91) ................88 6.4.16 >FLASH MEMORY LOW< (B0)..............89 6.4.17 >BUTTON 1 TAPPED<...
  • Page 12 USB P ......................94 APPENDIX A – ASCII CHART..................95 GLOSSARY ........................97 INDEX..........................101 USER NOTES ......................103 viii LDSII Programming Guide - 880015-0123...
  • Page 13 List of Tables Table 1 Resident Bitmapped Fonts ................11 Table 2 Bar Code Index ....................12 Table 3 Attribute Index ....................14 Table 4 Field Justifications ..................... 16 Table 5 ^Dxxx Series Commands .................. 19 Table 6 ^D365) Status Response List ................29 Table 7 Print Head Parameters ..................
  • Page 14 LDSII Programming Guide - 880015-0123...
  • Page 15 List of Figures Figure 1 Sample Script Format..................6 Figure 2 Script Parameters....................7 Figure 3 Distance-to-Registration Mark (DRM)..............8 Figure 4 Format Entry Command ..................9 Figure 5 Text Entry Command..................18 Figure 6 Detection Mode - None..................37 Figure 7 Detection Mode - Blackline................
  • Page 16 Figure 25 ^D324) - List Statistics Example ..............79 Figure 26 ^D960)1 or ^K Test Pattern................80 Figure 27 10/100 BASE-T Ethernet Port................. 94 LDSII Programming Guide - 880015-0123...

  • Page 17: Introduction

    (i.e., Procomm Plus, HyperTerminal, HyperAccess or Tera Term Pro). Microcom Corporation printers are shipped with serial parameters set to 9600- baud, no parity, 8 data bits, and 1 stop bit unless setup with a custom configuration. The emulator program will have to be set to these parameters for proper serial communication.
  • Page 18 LDSII Programming Guide - 880015-0123...

  • Page 19: Chapter 1: Designing Using Ldsii

    Chapter 1: Designing Using LDSII Label formats or scripts are very easy to design using LDSII by following these basic steps below. LDSII printers require the use of hardware flow control (CTS/RTS) for proper data management to occur. Software flow control should not be used to manage data being sent to an LDSII printer.
  • Page 20 Designing Using LDSII Chapter 1 Line Feed: Represents a Line Feed (LF) character or 0x0A. Print Test Label: Causes the printer to print a test pattern consisting of diagonal lines used to test the condition of the dots on the print head. Form Feed: Scrolls one label out of the printer using the previous formats layout.

  • Page 21: Script Creation: An Overview

    (Field #2 formatting instructions containing a Code128 bar code using automatic compression) ^F3)0.60, 0.13, @normal_10 (Field #3 formatting instructions containing text using a normal 10 point font) ^T1)MICROCOM CORPORATION (Text data for field #1) ^T2)12345678901234567 (Text data for field #2)

  • Page 22: Begin Script - ^A)Filename

    Designing Using LDSII Chapter 1 Field #1 – The ^F1) and ^T1) commands are formatting this field. MICROCOM CORPORATION Field #2 – The ^F2) and ^T2) commands are used to Field #3 – format this bar The ^F3) and code.

  • Page 23: Lsx (Label Width)

    ^D200)LSX, LSY, GAP, DRM, SPD, DET, OFX, OFY Print Direction MICROCOM CORPORATION LSY – Y Direction Virtually unlimited 12345 678 90123 45 6 7 8901234...

  • Page 24: Drm (Distance To Registration Mark)

    Designing Using LDSII Chapter 1 1.4.4 DRM (Distance to Registration Mark) LSX, LSY, GAP, , SPD, DET, OFX, OFY This parameter is typically only used when the registration mark is not located at the edge of the media. The “DRM” is the distance from the leading edge of the media to the beginning of the registration mark.

  • Page 25: Ofx (Offset X Direction)

    Chapter 1 Designing Using LDSII conjunction with media containing a blowhole. The blowhole and die-cut selections differ on how they detect an out of stock condition. See also ^D636)n command. None (gap sensors are disabled) Blackline (lower gap sensor is enabled) Die-cut (upper and lower gap sensors are enabled) Blowhole...

  • Page 26: Xb (X Coordinate)

    Designing Using LDSII Chapter 1 1.5.1 XB (X Coordinate) , YB, CI, SW, SH, AI, DN, FO, FJ, FW, CS, FC, CC This parameter is used to set the X coordinate of the field. The X coordinate is measured from the left edge of the media, as viewed from the front of the printer. The value is entered using the current unit of measure selected by the “^D564)”...

  • Page 27: Table 1 Resident Bitmapped Fonts

    Chapter 1 Designing Using LDSII CI - Font Name Font Sample 12 Point – 01234567890ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZa @bold_12 14 Point – 01234567890ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTU @normal_14 14 Point – 01234567890ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRST @bold_14 16 Point – 01234567890ABCDEFGHIJKL @normal_16 16 Point – 01234567890ABCDEFGHIJKL @bold_16 20 Point – 01234567890ABCDEFGHIJ @normal_20 20 Point –...

  • Page 28: Table 2 Bar Code Index

    Designing Using LDSII Chapter 1 This script would cause a line to be inserted an inch from the left side and an inch from the bottom. The line would be 1.11” in width or length (X direction) and would be 0.01” in height (Y direction).

  • Page 29: Sw (Size Width)

    Chapter 1 Designing Using LDSII Graphics The printer is capable of processing monochrome 1-bit bitmaps. If color 1-bit bitmaps are used, it is recommended that the user use Burkes dithering method at the print resolution of the printer. The bitmap graphic does not need a separate converter to convert to the printer’s recognized graphic structure as the printer will do this internally.

  • Page 30: Ai (Attribute Index)

    Designing Using LDSII Chapter 1 Bitmapped Fonts For bitmapped fonts, the SH can be used to adjust the height of the font chosen using the CI parameter. The parameter is entered in as an integer and has a valid range of 1 to 256. The SH default for bitmapped fonts is set a 1.

  • Page 31: Dn (Direction)

    Chapter 1 Designing Using LDSII Reverse Video The reverse video function inserts a black rectangle that is one dot larger than the contents of the text string field that will be printed. The result would be that the text would be placed as white on a black background area.

  • Page 32: Fw (Field Width)

    Designing Using LDSII Chapter 1 orientation may be; left will always be the left edge of the characters when the media exits the printer. Kerning is when one character in a proportional font can be slid under another character to achieve a more appealing result.

  • Page 33: Fc (First Character)

    Chapter 1 Designing Using LDSII values reduce the default spacing. The point values are accurate to a single digit following the decimal place (1.4 for example). 1.5.12 FC (First Character) XB, YB, CI, SW, SH, AI, DN, FO, FJ, FW, CS, , CC The FC parameter is used to select the first character to be used as data within the text string data.

  • Page 34: Figure 5 Text Entry Command

    Designing Using LDSII Chapter 1 This text is what will print out on the media. ^Tn)Your subject text is typed here. Identifies the subject text Subject data is entered line number and immediately after the command corresponds with the with no space between the same format line number.

  • Page 35: Chapter 2: Printer Commands

    Chapter 2: Printer Commands The script management commands may be issued inside a script file while the ^Dxx printer control commands may be issued from inside or outside a script file. Commands will be persistent and non-volatile if issued from outside a script file and temporary if issued from inside a script.

  • Page 36: Begin Script - ^A)Filename

    Printer Commands Chapter 2 2.1.1 Begin Script - ^A)filename This command is used to mark the beginning of a script file. The script may be saved into the printer’s non-volatile flash memory if a title or filename is placed after the command. The filename may contain to a maximum of 20 characters in length and include any character from ASCII 0x20 and 0x41 to 0x7A (alphabetical characters plus [\]_’and SP (space character)) with the exception of the caret (^) character.

  • Page 37: Series Commands

    Chapter 2 Printer Commands helpful for debugging purposes. The same would be true when using the line draw feature by entering the word “line” in the “^Tn)”, this also assists in debugging easier. Note: To print either the caret (“^”) or the pipe (“|”) characters simply enter them twice (example - “^^”).
  • Page 38 Printer Commands Chapter 2 ^D202 Print Example #1 Text Replacement Example The “^D202 Print Example #1” illustrates what the sample script listed above would generate if recalled using the “^D350) command (“^D350)test”). ^D202 Print Example #2 <-- start script <-- recalls file “test” Text ^D202)test Replacement...

  • Page 39: D300)N (Print Command)

    Chapter 2 Printer Commands 2.3.1 ^D300)n (Print Command) This command will print a label or a batch of labels where “n” controls how many labels of the identical script are printed. When this command is used within a script file, it should be placed at the end of the ^D commands.

  • Page 40: D323)N (List Enablements)

    Printer Commands Chapter 2 2.3.7 ^D323)n (List Enablements) The “^D323)” command will list the printers current configurable enablements along with each of the individual enablement specific ^D7xx command. This command should only be issued from outside a script file and not issued in a script file. The valid parameters for “n” are listed below.

  • Page 41: D340)Filename (Load/Save File)

    The file will then be permanently stored in the printer’s flash memory until it is explicitly erased. The printer will currently accept the following file types: 1-bit (monochrome) BMP graphics, and MCF’s (Microcom Corporation Converted Font). The file transfer can be sent in uncompressed or PKZIP compatible compressed formats. A ^E (0x05) character may be sent to the printer during the download without any negative effects towards the file size.

  • Page 42: D343)Filename (List Script)

    The printer will currently accept the following file types: 1-bit (monochrome) BMP graphics, MCF (Microcom Corporation Converted Font), and user created script files. The file transfer can be sent in uncompressed or PKZIP compatible compressed formats.

  • Page 43: D350)Filename (Execute Script)

    Chapter 2 Printer Commands command until the defragmenting operation has completed. The “^D360)”, “^D324)”, and ^W commands are helpful in determining when the printer requires defragmenting by listing the amount of available flash memory. If the printer responds with the “>INADEQUATE FLASH SPACE<”...
  • Page 44 Printer Commands Chapter 2 Byte Mode Responses Text / Verbose Mode Response Equivalent (ASCII) 0x22 >INPUT 2< 0x30 >SCRIPT ERROR< 0x31 >INVALID PARAMETER< 0X32 >PARSER ERROR< 0x40 >COMM ERROR< 0X51 >FLASH ERROR< 0x80 >RESTARTED< 0x81 >READY< 0x82 >BUSY< 0x83 >PAUSED< 0x84 >PRINTING<...

  • Page 45: D390)1 (Reset Printer)

    Chapter 2 Printer Commands Byte Mode Responses Text / Verbose Mode Response Equivalent (ASCII) 0xDB >I/O FAILURE< 0xDC >FONT/GRAPHIC NOT FOUND< 0xDD >BAD FILENAME< 0xE1 >SWITCH 0 ACTUATED< 0xE2 >SWITCH 1 ACTUATED< 0xE3 >SWITCH 2 ACTUATED< 0xE4 >TOF SWITCH ACTUATED< 0xF0 >FIELD OFF IMAGE<...

  • Page 46: D394)1 (Draw Platen Roller Compensation Line)

    Printer Commands Chapter 2 “^D392)1” command after a Flash code update may cause the printer to become unstable. A reset (^D390) and/or power cycle is required for this command to complete. 2.3.24 ^D394)1 (Draw Platen Roller Compensation Line) The “^D394)1” command prints 10” lines in the “Y” direction that are used to correct any tolerance issues with the printer’s drive roller.

  • Page 47: D507)N (Select Printed Media Handler)

    Chapter 2 Printer Commands 2.4.3 ^D507)n (Select Printed Media Handler) This command is used to select the type of Printed Media Handler (PMH) that is installed on the printer. The valid parameters for “n” are listed below. Once this command is changed, printer power needs to be cycled before changes take effect.

  • Page 48: D541)N (Select Button 1 Response)

    Printer Commands Chapter 2 2.4.6 ^D541)n (Select Button 1 Response) This command is used to select the operation and response of Button 1 which is typically referred to as the print button. When set to a value of “1”, the printer will reprint the previously printed script with a short button press and if the button is held, the printer will continuously feed media until the button is released.

  • Page 49: D564)N (Select Measurement Units)

    Chapter 2 Printer Commands automatically generated is the >POWERED DOWN< response and occurs when power is removed from the printer. Byte: When the byte response set is selected, the printer returns all responses in binary form. Commands that are issued without an argument will return that commands current setting without descriptive text while in the byte mode response set.

  • Page 50: D566)N (Select Temperature Units)

    Printer Commands Chapter 2 2.4.10 ^D566)n (Select Temperature Units) The “^D566)” command is used to select the temperature unit of measure the printer will use for displaying the print head temperatures in degrees. This command is always processed first in a script or just after the “^D564)” and “^D565)” commands by the printer regardless of the placement within a script.

  • Page 51: D597)N (Select Dispense Mode)

    Chapter 2 Printer Commands Finish current label before halting. 2.4.14 ^D597)n (Select Dispense Mode) This command may be used for either Peel-N-Dispense and/or Tag/Tear dispense methods. The Tag/Tear dispense method is when the perforation of a tag that has printed is advanced out to the peel edge to make removal easier.

  • Page 52: Series Commands

    Printer Commands Chapter 2 Advance after every label (LTS Disabled) - Causes the label or tag perforation to be advanced to the peel edge after every label is printed. Before the printer retracts, it will wait only for any advance delay time setting.

  • Page 53: D635)N (Set Print Speed)

    Chapter 2 Printer Commands 2.5.5 ^D635)n (Set Print Speed) The “^D635)” command sets the print speed of the printer using the current selected unit of measure. Parameter “n” has a range of 1-6 inches per second or 2.54 - 15.24 cm/second. This command is also a parameter in the “^D200)”...

  • Page 54: Figure 7 Detection Mode - Blackline

    Printer Commands Chapter 2 2.5.6.2 Detection Mode - Blackline (1) This detection mode is used when a black line on the underside of the media is used to register the labels. The Lower Sensor detector “senses” the amount of light reflected off of the label from the Lower Sensor emitter.

  • Page 55: D637)N (Offset X Direction)

    Chapter 2 Printer Commands Upper Sensor Detector Emitter (Not Used) Label Stock Emitter Detector (Not used) Lower Sensor Figure 8 Detection Mode - Die-cut and Blowhole 2.5.7 ^D637)n (Offset X Direction) This command moves or offsets all fields in the “X” direction without altering the field’s insertion points.

  • Page 56: D642)N (Set Advance/Retract Distance)

    Printer Commands Chapter 2 2.5.12 ^D642)n (Set Advance/Retract Distance) This command is used to set the distance the media advances and retracts after printing while in dispense modes (“^D597)” command) or when a cutter is installed. The distance “n” is entered in based on the unit of measure selected by the “^D564)” command. The recommended “^D642)”...

  • Page 57: D647)Dc,Dp (Set Print Head Parameters)

    Chapter 2 Printer Commands the “^D394)1” command. This command is a “property” which means that it controls a specific distance that is set at the factory. The property commands may be set back to their default values using the “^D392)1” command. 2.5.17 ^D647)dc,dp (Set Print Head Parameters) The “^D647)”...

  • Page 58: D649)N (Set Gap Sensor To Print Head Distance)

    Printer Commands Chapter 2 Printer Model Recommended Number ^D648 Value 2.32” 1.36” 326M 1.36” 426M 2.32” Table 8 Blackline Sensor to Print Head Distance 2.5.19 ^D649)n (Set Gap Sensor to Print Head Distance) The “^D649)” command is used to set the gap sensor to print head distance at the factory. This command is a “property”...

  • Page 59: D674)N (Set Ethernet Port Number)

    Chapter 2 Printer Commands following structure, ^D670) b, p, d, s. When changing the serial parameters, the host needs to be set to the new serial parameters that take effect immediately after setting. If the host parameters are not changed to the correct settings, the host and the printer will not communicate properly.

  • Page 60: D678)N (Set Broadcast Mask Address)

    Printer Commands Chapter 2 2.5.26 ^D678)n (Set Broadcast Mask Address) This command is used to set the Broadcast Mask address. This command is provided in all access modes. The default Broadcast Mask address is set to “255.255.255.255” at the factory. The printer uses the new settings only after a power cycle and/or reset command. 2.5.27 ^D679)n (Set Net Mask Address) This command is used to set the Net Mask address.

  • Page 61: D690)N (Set Darkness Range)

    Chapter 2 Printer Commands 2.5.32 ^D690)n (Set Darkness Range) The “^D690)” command is used to set the contrast of the printers output and does not correlate to actual print head temperature. The value for “n” is a range from 1 to 100 with a setting of 80 being the printers default.

  • Page 62: D726)N (Enable Auto Ack/Nak)

    Printer Commands Chapter 2 starting edge of the media is aligned to the print head reducing media waste. This command requires that the printer is equipped with an LPD and that it has been selected using the “^D508)” command. Disable Enable 2.6.5 ^D726)n...

  • Page 63: D740)N (Enable Cutter)

    Chapter 2 Printer Commands 2.6.9 ^D740)n (Enable Cutter) This command is used to control the enablement of a cutter that has been selected using the “^D506)” command. If a cutter is not installed, selected, and this command is enabled, the printer issues the >CUTTER INOPERATIVE< or 0x11 depending on the “^D550)” command configuration.

  • Page 64: Series Commands

    Printer Commands Chapter 2 9xx Series Commands The 9xx series commands are reserved for printer self tests, factory configuration, and setup commands. Most of the ^D9xx series commands are not available in access modes lower than SERVICE level. Commands will return the current status and/or setting if the ^Dxx command is entered without an argument.

  • Page 65: Figure 9 ^D900 Blackline Listing

    Chapter 2 Printer Commands 4. Be sure that the printer is in the reflective detection mode selected is a “1” by issuing the “^D636)?” command. 5. Enter Tic-Tic mode by issuing the “^D900)f,3” command. 6. The printer will return a numerical value for the sensor output selected by the ^D636 command.

  • Page 66: Figure 10 ^D900 Blackline Threshold Example

    Printer Commands Chapter 2 On-Screen Sensor value Threshold – 128 (Factory Setting) Grey indicates acceptable Threshold values Figure 10 ^D900 Blackline Threshold Example 2.7.1.2 Die-Cut/Blowhole Threshold Calculation Example Follow the process outlined below for an example to determine the die-cut/blowhole or transmissive sensor threshold calculation.

  • Page 67: Figure 11 ^D900 Die-Cut Listing

    Chapter 2 Printer Commands 2. Load media into the printer. 3. Establish communication with a terminal emulation program (HyperTerminal, Tera Term Pro, etc.). 4. Be sure that the printer is in a transmissive detection mode (“2” or “3”) by issuing the “^D636)?”...

  • Page 68: Figure 12 ^D900 Die-Cut Threshold Example

    Printer Commands Chapter 2 Grey indicates On-Screen Sensor acceptable value Threshold values Threshold – 30 (Factory Setting) Backing only (Gap) (Allows more light to pass through) Label + Backing (Allows less light to pass through) Figure 12 ^D900 Die-cut Threshold Example LDSII Programming Guide - 880015-0123...

  • Page 69: D930)Level (Get Access Code Key)

    The level parameter is the desired access level while the password parameter is the actual password for that access level. The password is received by Microcom Corporation support departments with the appropriate “^D930)” access code. The access levels and their meaning are listed in the table below.

  • Page 70: D960)N (Print Test Pattern)

    Printer Commands Chapter 2 entire listing is terminated with either an additional CR+LF or 0x1A character depending on the “^D550)” command configuration. The list is generated by issuing the command without the “n” parameter. Issuing the “^D945)” command with the “?” character will always report the “^D550)”...

  • Page 71: D975)N (Clear All Statistics)

    MAC address is assigned and set at the factory and is never edited and/or reissued. Microcom Corporation MAC addresses begin with “000257”. The MAC address is entered by issuing the “^D978)” command followed by the “0x” characters (indicating that the value for “n”...
  • Page 72 LDSII Programming Guide - 880015-0123...

  • Page 73: Chapter 3: Updating Flash Memory

    Refer to the “^D670)” command regarding the printer’s serial port parameters. If the printer does not update properly, use a slower Baud rate to transfer the update. 3. Contact the Microcom Corporation support department and/or visit the following web address www.microcomcorp.com to acquire the desired MCA file.

  • Page 74: Mca Compressed File Recovery

    Updating Flash Memory Chapter 3 8. After the file has been unzipped and the checksum verified, the following dialog is reported to the host: “ ” (The checksum shown is for Unzipped. CRC Okay: 0x36410D55 demonstration purposes only. The checksum will reflect the MCA files internal checksum and report any differences automatically.) This dialog is only reported if the printer is set to use the VERBOSE response set.
  • Page 75 1. Make sure the RS-232 serial connection is made between the host and the printer including the proper Baud rate. 2. Contact Microcom Corporation support department and/or visit www.microcomcorp.com to acquire the desired MCA code file. 3. Start the terminal emulation program and set the serial parameters to 115200,n,8,1.

  • Page 76: Figure 13 Auxiliary Button

    Updating Flash Memory Chapter 3 Note: The emulation program used to transfer the MCA file via the serial port must be capable of sending Binary data, (i.e., Tera Term Pro) for proper transfer to occur. If the transfer was not successful the emulation program used, may not have the ability to transfer Binary data.

  • Page 77: Chapter 4: Special Features

    Chapter 4: Special Features Reverse Video The Reverse Video feature is used to automatically generate a box, using the current foreground color, on top of text. This creates text that is the background color, and is done by setting the “AI” (Attribute Index) field to a “2” in the Format Entry command (“^Fn)”). The box can be increased in size by simply overlaying the desired area with a line using the Line Draw feature.

  • Page 78: Line Draw

    Special Features Chapter 4 Line Draw Reverse Video Example: ^D200) 3.3, 1.9, 0.125, 1.063, 5, 1 Line Draw feature ^F1) 0.25, 0.50,@line, 2.75, 1.00 to produce a larger ^F1) 1.0, 1.0, @normal_14, , , 2 box for Reverse ^T1)Reverse Video Video.

  • Page 79: Figure 16 Line Draw Feature

    Chapter 4 Special Features Line Draw Feature Figure 16 Line Draw Feature Two Lines Example: ^D200) 3.3, 1.9, 0.125, 1.063, 5, 1 ^F1) 1.0, 1.0, @line, 1.11, 0.01 ^F1) 1.55,0.25,@line, 0.01, 0.75 ^F1) 1.0, 1.0, @normal_14 ^T1)Line Draw Feature ^D300)1 Line Draw Feature Figure 17 Two Lines...

  • Page 80: Figure 18 Box Creation

    Special Features Chapter 4 The Line Draw feature can also be used to create boxes. To accomplish this you simply create four lines that connect together to form a box. Box Creation Example: ^D200) 3.3, 1.9, 0.125, 1.063, 5, 1 ^F1) 0.90, 1.00, @line, 1.35, 0.01 ^F1) 0.90, 1.25, @line, 1.35, 0.01 ^F1) 0.90, 1.00, @line, 0.01, 0.25...

  • Page 81: Chapter 5: Bar Codes

    Chapter 5: Bar Codes The purpose of this chapter is to provide information and the formatting requirements of the different bar codes that are stored in the printer’s memory. Generating Bar Codes Bar codes that are stored in the printer are generated by using the CI, SW, SH and the AI (when applicable) parameters of the Format Entry Command (“^Fn)”).

  • Page 82: Linear Bar Codes

    Bar Codes Chapter 5 Linear Bar Codes This section provides information regarding the different requirements of the linear bar codes. Unless stated otherwise in the descriptions below, the printer will automatically generate the necessary check digits when required. 5.2.1 Codabar (Rationalized) Codabar is a variable length linear symbology that is commonly used in libraries, blood banks, and in the air parcel business.

  • Page 83: Code 128 (Automatic Compression)

    Chapter 5 Bar Codes Data String using Manual Compression ABC#3012345#5abc The “#5” code, The “#3” code, while while in subset The printer C, switches to defaults to in subset B, switches subset A. subset B to subset C. Figure 19 Code 128 Subset Switching Subset A This subset contains 106 unique characters, which includes numbers 0 through 9, the...

  • Page 84: Code 39

    Bar Codes Chapter 5 5.2.4 Code 39 Code 39 is a variable length, alphanumeric symbology that is very popular and is extensively used in the non-retail, military, manufacturing and medical industries. Code 39 is capable of encoding numerical characters 0 through 9, the English Alphabet (uppercase only), characters -.

  • Page 85: Msi2 (Modified Plessey)

    Chapter 5 Bar Codes 5.2.9 MSI2 (Modified Plessey) The MSI Plessey is a variable length, numeric only symbology used for retail shelf labeling. When using the MSI2 bar code, the printer will calculate both check digits. CI text equivalent codes: @msi2 5.2.10 Postnet The Postnet symbol is used to encode digits for postal applications to sort mail.
  • Page 86 Bar Codes Chapter 5 Y Parameter This parameter is used to set the Y coordinate start position of the Data Matrix symbol. CI Code This is the Text Equivalent Code that is used to generate the Data Matrix symbol associated with the Text Entry command line (“^Tn)”).

  • Page 87: Table 14 Data Matrix Configuration Parameters

    Chapter 5 Bar Codes Numeric Alphanumeric Binary Byte Symbol Size Capacity Capacity Capacity 120 x 120 2100 1573 1048 132 x 132 2608 1954 1302 144 x 144 3116 2335 1556 8 x 18 8 x 32 12 x 26 12 x 36 16 x 36 16 x 48...

  • Page 88: Table 16 Ascii Codeword Values

    Bar Codes Chapter 5 ACSII Encoding Scheme ASCII encoding is the basic scheme that encodes ASCII data, double density numeric data and symbology control characters. Which means it encodes one alphabetic or two numeric characters per byte. All other encoding schemes are invoked from ASCII and will then return to this scheme through the use of code words, refer to Table 9.
  • Page 89 Chapter 5 Bar Codes Module Width This parameter is used to adjust the size of the individual square modules that are used to create the Data Matrix symbol. This parameter uses dots as its unit of measure with 4 being the default value.

  • Page 90: Table 17 Data Matrix Special Characters

    Bar Codes Chapter 5 Special Description Character Represents the ASCII encoded by the “NNN” value. For example: ~dNNN “~d065” would represent the ASCII character “A”. Table 17 Data Matrix Special Characters CI text equivalent codes: @datamatrix, @data 5.3.2 PDF-417 The Portable Data File 417 or PDF-417 is a two-dimensional stacked symbology that is capable of encoding the entire ASCII character set, 2710 digits, and up to 1108 bytes in a single bar code.

  • Page 91: Table 18 Pdf-417 Error Correction Level

    Chapter 5 Bar Codes #Rows This parameter is used to specify the number of rows used for rendering the PDF-417 symbol. The PDF-417 symbol may have as few as 3 or as many as 90 rows with a default setting of 90. #Columns This parameter is used to specify the number of columns used for rendering the PDF-417 symbol.
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  • Page 93: Chapter 6: Diagnostics And Troubleshooting

    Chapter 6: Diagnostics and Troubleshooting The purpose of this chapter is to provide some information about the diagnostic reporting of the printer that can be used to help identify, diagnose and troubleshoot problems. Diagnostic Mode Diagnostic Mode temporarily powers the printer using factory default parameters while printing out the printer’s current configuration on what is called the Status Label.

  • Page 94: Figure 23 ^D326) - List Settings Example

    Diagnostics and Troubleshooting Chapter 6 Settings (D326 or <Ctrl> V) Operational Print Speed: (D635) 6.0 ips Detector mode: (D636) 0 (none) Slew Speed: (D645) 6.0 ips Darkness: (D690) 75 (Dark) Retraction delay: (D641) 0.5 sec. Print delay: (D640) 0.0 sec. Labels printed: (D655) 42 Distances...

  • Page 95: Figure 24 ^D325) - List Selections Example

    Chapter 6 Diagnostics and Troubleshooting Selections (D325 or <Ctrl> U) Operational Dispense mode: (D597) 3 Emulation: (D501) Microcom 426 Cutter Type: (D506) NONE PMH Type: (D507) NONE Button Mode: (D541) 1 Stock-out handling (D581) Halt Response Mode: (D550) Text RS-232 connection:...

  • Page 96: Enquiry Responses

    Diagnostics and Troubleshooting Chapter 6 Figure 26 ^D960)1 or ^K Test Pattern Enquiry Responses Enquiry responses provide a method of determining the current status of the printer as well as identifying different error conditions. This is possible by sending either the “Ctrl+E” combination, issuing the “^D327)”...
  • Page 97 Chapter 6 Diagnostics and Troubleshooting Byte Mode Responses Text and Verbose Mode Responses Definition (ASCII Hex) >CUTTER WATCHDOG The software cannot reset the 0x13 WON’T RESET< cutter after a stopped condition. Generated if more than one die- 0x1C >MISSING LABEL< cut label has been detected.
  • Page 98 Diagnostics and Troubleshooting Chapter 6 Byte Mode Responses Text and Verbose Mode Responses Definition (ASCII Hex) Flash file system is optimizing 0x8A >FLASH DEFRAGMENTING< memory. The printer was powered up with 0x8F >STOCK NOT LOADED< out media installed. The retraction has been 0x90 >RETRACTION DELAY<...

  • Page 99: Fatal Error Responses

    Chapter 6 Diagnostics and Troubleshooting Byte Mode Responses Text and Verbose Mode Responses Definition (ASCII Hex) 0xE1 >SWITCH 0 ACTUATED< Switch 0 has been actuated. 0xE2 >SWITCH 1 ACTUATED< Switch 1 has been actuated. 0xE3 >SWITCH 2 ACTUATED> Switch 2 has been actuated. The TOF switch has been 0xE4 >TOF SWITCH ACTUATED<...

  • Page 100: Stock Overadvanced< (02)

    Diagnostics and Troubleshooting Chapter 6 6.3.2 >STOCK OVERADVANCED< (02) This error response is typically generated when the printer has an excess amount of media feed out of the printer and a Top-of-Form operation is executed. If the printer is configured for byte responses, the code ASCII 0x02 will be issued from the printer in response to an enquiry command.

  • Page 101: Cutter Watchdog Stopped Cutter< (12)

    Chapter 6 Diagnostics and Troubleshooting 6.3.7 >CUTTER WATCHDOG STOPPED CUTTER< (12) This error response is generated when the cutter cannot complete a full rotation and is jammed while in text and verbose modes. The cutter watchdog timer will disable the power to the cutter to prevent damage from occurring.

  • Page 102: Parser Error< (32)

    Diagnostics and Troubleshooting Chapter 6 responses, the code ASCII 0x31 will be issued from the printer in response to an enquiry command. 6.3.14 >PARSER ERROR< (32) The “>PARSER ERROR<” indicates that the printer has detected an internal error with the parser while in text and verbose response sets.

  • Page 103: Input 1< (21)

    Chapter 6 Diagnostics and Troubleshooting 6.4.2 >INPUT 1< (21) The “>INPUT 1<” response indicates that the INPUT 1 sensor option is tripped while in text or verbose response modes. If the printer is configured for byte responses, the code ASCII 0x21 is issued from the printer in response to an enquiry command.

  • Page 104: Feeding< (85)

    Diagnostics and Troubleshooting Chapter 6 6.4.9 >FEEDING< (85) The “>FEEDING<” response indicates that the printer is currently feeding media while in text and verbose response sets. If the printer is configured for byte responses, the code ASCII 0x85 will be issued from the printer in response to an enquiry command. 6.4.10 >LABEL/TAG PRESENT<...

  • Page 105: Flash Memory Low< (B0)

    Chapter 6 Diagnostics and Troubleshooting 6.4.16 >FLASH MEMORY LOW< (B0) The “>FLASH MEMORY LOW<” response indicates that the user storage area of the flash memory is 95% full while in text and verbose response sets. This message will continue to be received until files are removed from flash memory or until the printer performs garbage collecting and defragmenting.

  • Page 106: File Conversion Error< (D4)

    Diagnostics and Troubleshooting Chapter 6 If the printer is configured for byte responses, the code ASCII 0xD3 will be issued from the printer in response to an enquiry command. 6.4.23 >FILE CONVERSION ERROR< (D4) This enquiry response indicates that the printer encountered an error while performing an internal conversion of the received file while in text and verbose modes.

  • Page 107: Font/Graphic Not Found< (Dc)

    Chapter 6 Diagnostics and Troubleshooting 6.4.30 >FONT/GRAPHIC NOT FOUND< (DC) This enquiry response typically indicates that a font being specified a script file does not exist in flash memory. If the printer is configured for byte responses, the code ASCII 0xDC will be issued from the printer in response to an enquiry command.
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  • Page 109: Chapter 7: Communications

    The other signals are offered in the event that the host computer requires them. 7.1.1 RS-232 Printer Cables The printer uses standard cables that may be purchased through Microcom Corporation or a local computer supply company. A NULL-modem cable is not required because the printer is configured as DCE.

  • Page 110: Ethernet - 10/100 Base-T

    1.1. The USB Type 1 port is a virtual serial communications port and requires the installation of the Microcom Corporation supplied virtual serial communication USB driver to be installed to properly function. Refer to the “^D570)” command for additional information regarding the available communication ports the printer offers.

  • Page 111: Appendix A - Ascii Chart

    Appendix A – ASCII Chart ASCII ASCII ASCII ASCII Ctrl @ Space Ctrl A Ctrl B " Ctrl C Ctrl D Ctrl E Ctrl F & ‘ Ctrl G Ctrl H Ctrl I Ctrl J Ctrl K Ctrl L Ctrl M Ctrl N Ctrl O Ctrl P...
  • Page 112 LDSII Programming Guide - 880015-0123...

  • Page 113: Glossary

    Glossary Alphanumeric - A term used to identify characters consisting of letters, numbers, and other symbols such as punctuation marks and mathematical symbols. Bar code - Alphanumeric characters that are represented using a system of printed lines, which can be read by a computer. Blackline - A registration mark, typically a black line on the underside of certain media that is used to identify the starting position of a label.
  • Page 114 Ethernet - A fast and capable serial interface used by many networks for connecting host computers to various peripherals. Fanfold media - Die-cut or tag media that is folded into stacks. Flash memory - Memory that is used to store font, graphics and label formats for faster access.
  • Page 115 TXD (Transmit Data) - An essential signal that carries data from the DTE to the DCE for 2- way RS-232 serial communication. Also known as TX and TD. USB (Universal Serial Bus) - A high-speed asynchronous serial interface typically transfers up to 12M bits/second, used for connecting host computers to various peripherals.
  • Page 116 LDSII Programming Guide - 880015-0123...

  • Page 117: Index

    Index AGD Parameter ......................................39 AI Parameter ..................................61, 65, 66, 68 AN Parameter ..................................15, 16, 45, 46 Auxiliary Switch ...................................... 60 Bar Codes ................................12, 13, 14, 65, 66, 69, 95 Box Creation ......................................64 CI Parameter....................10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 17, 20, 25, 62, 65, 66, 67, 68, 69, 70, 74 Codabar Symbol....................................
  • Page 118 Lines ........................10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 17, 20, 61, 62, 63, 64, 70, 74, 97 LSX Parameter ......................................7 LSY Parameter ....................................7, 8, 9 Modified Plessey Symbol ...................................68, 69 ON Parameter ......................................15 Operation Commands ................................4, 23, 24, 25 PDF-417 Symbol ....................................74, 75 Printhead......................................97, 98 Reverse Video ....................................61, 62 RS-232 Cable......................................93...

  • Page 119: User Notes

    User Notes LDSII Programming Guide - 880015-0123...

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