Print Speed; Formats; Printhead Pressure; Dark Adjust - Intermec 4400 User Manual

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Troubleshooting
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Print Speed

The print speed you select greatly affects the printed image. Therefore, it is
important to select the proper media when printing at higher speeds. The
highest quality labels are produced at lower speeds. Optimal print quality for
most direct thermal media is achieved at speeds below 3.5 ips.
In order to print labels as quickly as possible, you must adjust the print speed
in conjunction with the number of image bands. The Print Speed and Image
Band settings determine the rate at which the printer processes the images of
your labels. This in turn affects the speed of the entire printing process. Refer to
"Optimizing the Print Speed and Image Bands" in Chapter 5.
In order to achieve optimal print quality at speeds greater than 6.0 ips, you
may need to fine-tune the printer controls. At higher print speeds, it is
important to properly set the sensitivity number and the dark adjust. If
necessary, further adjustment of controls such as the printhead adjustment
lever, altering of the format, and changing printhead pressure can improve
print quality.

Formats

The format can be altered to improve print quality and print speed. At high
speeds, the best quality bar codes are produced when the drag orientation
(perpendicular to paper motion) is used. For more information on formats,
please refer to Chapter 6, "Designing Labels and Using Commands."

Printhead Pressure

Raising the printhead pressure increases the force and area contact between the
printhead and the media. The 4400 printer has two head pressure settings: high
and low. Low printhead pressure is recommended for most applications.
However, we recommend using high printhead pressure for tag stock. Please
contact your Intermec service representative for specific information.

Dark Adjust

The dark adjust feature allows fine tuning of energy levels to optimize print
quality. However, if you set too high of a darkness level, you may reduce
printhead life. We recommend that you initially set the sensitivity rating and
leave the dark adjust at zero. Only use the dark adjust as the printhead wears,
for media variations from lot to lot, or for printhead resistance variations.
Refer to "Setting the Dark Adjust" in Chapter 4 for more information.
Note: It is important to enter the sensitivity rating before you adjust the level of the
darkness.
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