1. Manuals
  2. Brands
  3. RTI Manuals
  4. Label Maker
  5. Vortex 850R Series
  6. User manual

RTI Vortex 850R Series User Manual

Hide thumbs
Table of Contents

Advertisement

Quick Links

Download this manual
User Guide for Vortex 850R Series
1

Advertisement

Table of Contents
loading
Need help?

Need help?

Do you have a question about the Vortex 850R Series and is the answer not in the manual?

Questions and answers

Summary of Contents for RTI Vortex 850R Series

  • Page 1 User Guide for Vortex 850R Series...
  • Page 2 Last saved: 16/09/2014 Updated by:...
  • Page 3 Reprographic Technology. All content is the confidential property of, or licensed to, Reprographic Technology (“RTI,” “we,” or “us”) and is protected under Hungarian and Foreign copyright, trademark and other intellectual property laws.

  • Page 4: Table Of Contents

    Introduction 1.1 Introduction to Memjet print technology Printer parts and their functions 2.1 Printer 2.2 Print engine 2.3 Printhead 2.4 Printhead Cartridge Dock 2.5 Print Mechanism 2.6 Cutter 2.7 Ink Cartridges 2.8 Ink Connection Ports 2.9 Ink Delivery System (IDS) 2.10 Bulkhead Assembly 2.11 Other IDS Components 2.12 Maintenance Module...
  • Page 5 3.5 Turning Power On/Off 3.6 Setting up the Printer Maintenance Module (MM) Installing Ink Cartridges The Printhead Priming the Printhead Installing the Printhead Switch on the Printer Unwinder Setup 3.7 Media Handling Print Area Load Media 3.8 Connect the printer to a computer Connecting to a local area network Direct connection to a personal computer 3.9 Install the printer driver...
  • Page 6 Job Status Display Main Buttons Job Control Buttons Version Numbers 4.1 Paper Handling & Print Configuration Material Type Media Edge Detection Print Mode Cut Mode Adjustments Start of Job cut Batch Mode Sensor Calibration Paper Profiles 4.2 My Labels – Stored Jobs Creating a Stored Job Printing a Stored Job 4.3 One Touch Maintenance...

  • Page 7: Introduction

    1 Introduction The purpose of this manual is to describe the operation of the Vortex850R label printer. The first section provides and overview of the Memjet™ print technology to make you familiar with the terms and basics of this new technology that forms the basis of the Vortex850R printer series.
  • Page 8 Figure 2 The Memjet 8.5” printhead cartidge showing the ink inlet, outlet ports, various print-related parts and the printhead Figure 3 The Memjet printhead contains 70,400 nozzles in 10 rows (brown stripe in Figure a) An electron microscope image of a single nozzle (Figure b). The small size of the nozzles results in very small (1-2 picolitre) paint drops, approximately 14 micron drop diameter on paper, effectively achieving the highest print resolution the...

  • Page 9: Printer Parts And Their Functions

    2 Printer parts and their functions Touchscreen Top cover Integrated cutter Ink cartridge compartment cover Adjustable legs Figure 4 Printer View Nr.1 Paperguide Handle Service slot USB Connectors (4x) Figure 5 Printer View Nr.2...
  • Page 10 Power switch Power connector VGA – use for external monitor/tv LAN – use for Network printing mode NOTE: Opto In/Out, Dig.In, Relay Out, USB and RS-232 are not in use at the moment. Figure 6 Printer View Nr.3...

  • Page 11: Printer

    2.1 Printer The Vortex850R printer is a state-of-the-art Memjet printer designed for maximum usability and performance. The major components of the printer are the print engine, the controller and the control panel. Figure 7 Picture of the Vortex850R printer 2.2 Print engine The print engine is the heart of the Vortex850R printer.

  • Page 12: Printhead

    2.3 Printhead Figure 9 Picture of the Printhead 2.4 Printhead Cartridge Dock The printhead cartridge dock positions the page-wide, static, high-speed Memjet printhead in the correct location to maintain correct position with the print zone. Figure 10 Picture of Fluidic Connectors and Memjet Printhead Cartridge...

  • Page 13: Print Mechanism

    2.5 Print Mechanism During printing, the print mechanism moves the paper through the print zone below the static printhead. 2.6 Cutter The NorthStar cutter is designed to provide a complete cut of continuous media in the cross- web direction. This will provide the ability to singulate labels and enable a break in continuous media to allow servicing of the printhead.The cutter has a design target of providing a 400,000 cut life on thin tag media.
  • Page 14 Figure 13 Parts of the Ink Cartridge Figure 14 Picture of Ink Cartridge Cross-Section...

  • Page 15: Ink Connection Ports

    Figure 15 Picture of Ink Cartridge Cross-Section with Air Vent Path Detail 2.8 Ink Connection Ports Ink connection ports allow the connection of the external ink supply hoses to the print engine. Unique, zero insertion-force, ganged connectors allow all 10 ink hoses to be engaged with the printhead in one movement.

  • Page 16: Ink Delivery System (Ids)

    2.9 Ink Delivery System (IDS) The Ink Delivery System (IDS) is a complex system designed to cleanly and reliably deliver ink to the printhead while minimizing color mixing, drop weight variation, and dehydration. The major components of the Ink Delivery System (IDS) are: ...

  • Page 17: Other Ids Components

    2.11 Other IDS Components Figure 18 Picture of IDS Components 2.12 Maintenance Module Aka Service Station (SS) The multi-station, maintenance module (MM) maintains and cleans the printhead by wiping off waste ink and contamination. In addition, the MM assists with printing by priming the printhead, as well as protecting it when not in use, and guiding the paper as it passes under the printhead.
  • Page 18 The maintenance module (MM) is a sled that contains stations for wiper, cap/spittoon, and print zone platen. To position the correct station into place, a stepper motor moves the sled horizontally, and a DC motor moves the sled vertically. The maintenance module: ...

  • Page 19: Wiper Station

    2.13 Wiper station The printhead must be wiped to remove ink cross-contamination and particulates. The cylindrical wiper rotates to wipe the entire width of the printhead. The roller rotates for the duration of the lift-dwell-lower cycle. The intent is not to merely blot the nozzles but to have functionally translational wiping.

  • Page 20: Capping/Spittoon Station

    Capping/spittoon station The printhead should not be allowed to dry out after priming. The cap station is used when the printer is idle. The cap station limits evaporation from the printhead by sealing around the nozzles and maintaining a humid environment. The cap is an elastomer seal that fits around and over the printhead nozzles.

  • Page 21: Print Zone

    2.15 Print Zone The clamshell design allows for accessibility during paper loading and paper jam clearance in the print zone. 2.16 Onboard Print Engine Controller (OmniPEC) and Main Board The OmniPEC controls all electronic aspects of the printing and print engine operation. The custom 95-pin WaveTech connector connects the printhead to the printhead board, which is connected by cables to the OmniPEC main board.

  • Page 22: Control Panel

    2.18 Control Panel The Vortex850R printer has a large, user-friendly touch screen-based interface. This control panel provides vital printer status information and enables operators to control and monitor the printer in an effective way. The detailed description of the user interface can be found in the ‘Using the Printer’...

  • Page 23: Description Of The Unwinder

    Description of the Unwinder Media roll guide Motorized core Speed holder determining arms Paperguide Axle roller holder stand Figure 26 Unwinder Parts (1) Mandre Media Spindle Figure 27 Unwinder Parts (2)

  • Page 24: Installing The Printer

    3 Installing the Printer 3.1 Choose a location The Vortex850R should be placed on a properly leveled worktable or cabinet which is able to handle the printer’s weight and minimum 61 cm (24 inch) wide. 3.2 Unpacking and Setup The printer is shipped in a strong cardboard box. Before opening the box, check that the box is not damaged in any way and was not turned upside down during shipment.
  • Page 25 Figure 28 Printer and Contents Figure 29 Rewinder/Unwinder NOTE: 2 sets of ink cartridges and two printheads are part of the spares kit supplied and are priced separately. We need to clarify that the printer pricing includes on set of cartridges and one printhead.

  • Page 26: Connecting The Vortex850R

    3.4 Connecting the Vortex850R Make sure the printer is used with the mains cable suited to the requirements of the electrical system of your country. The internal power supply in the Printer is rated 115 to 240VAC, 50/60 Hz.  Insert the cable into the printer first. The cable connector should sit in the socket securely.

  • Page 27: Turning Power On/Off

    3.5 Turning Power On/Off Powering Up 1. Press the Main Power Button on the back of the Printer. Powering Down 1. Press the Power button within the Liberty software and choose „Shut Down Printer”. 2. Waint for the printer to stop processing (The screen will turn to black). 3.

  • Page 28: Maintenance Module (Mm)

    Maintenance Module (MM) In case your printer is shipped with a MM as a separate unit, before switching on the printer, you need to install the MM (After module has passed inspection). Figure 31 Service Station (aka Maintenance Module) The Service Station cleans the Printhead Cartridge of excess ink and debris, keeps the Printhead hydrated and protected when not in use, captures ink used to keep nozzles clear, and acts as a base to support media during printing.
  • Page 29 Figure 32 The Service Station fits in the port immediately above the Ink Tank Station.  Plug in the white flat flex cable to the motor PCA on the maintenance module. Slide the Latch open on the Maintenance Station Circuit Board: Figure 33 Maintenance Module Installation (1) ...
  • Page 30  Slide in the connected Service Station. Figure 35 Maintenance Module Installation (3)  Slowly turn the gear on the print engine until the maintenance module engages. Figure 36 Maintenance Module Installation (4)  Close the clamshell gently to avoid causing vibration on the printhead. NOTE: The MM must be perfectly aligned with bar to prevent misalignment!

  • Page 31: Installing Ink Cartridges

    Installing Ink Cartridges Vortex850R Series Printers use a single Printhead Cartridge and five Ink Tanks (two Black, one Cyan, one Magenta, and one Yellow). During installing the ink cartridges the Printer should be turned off.  Remove the ink tanks from the shipping box. ...
  • Page 32 Yellow Magent Cyan Black Black Figure 38 Inserting Ink Cartridges (2)  Cyan (C), inserted in the top left slot.  Black (K) – two cartridges – inserted in the bottom left and bottom right slots.  Yellow (Y), inserted in the top middle slot. ...

  • Page 33: The Printhead

    The Printhead The printhead is the core of the print engine. As sensitive electromechanical equipment, it requires careful and special handling to avoid damage and ensure quality printing. NOTE: The printhead is sensitive to electro-static discharge (ESD). Use ESD protection when handling the printhead.

  • Page 34: Installing The Printhead

     DO NOT touch the printhead cartridge ink couplings, nozzle surface or the electrical contacts when installing the printhead cartridge. Hold the printhead cartridge ONLY by the handles.  DO NOT unpack the Printhead Cartridge until the Printer is ready for Once unwrapped, delay in installing the Printhead can compromise print quality due to dehydration.
  • Page 35  Remove the fluidic cap protectors from the two fluidic couplings. Figure 41 Installing the Printhead (2)  Open the end of the printhead package outer box and slide out the foil bag. Figure 42 Installing the Printhead (3)  Inspect the integrity of the foil vacuum sealing. The foil bag should be formed tightly to the contours of the printhead cartridge as shown above.
  • Page 36  Remove the printhead cartridge from the foil bag.  Remove the orange protective plastic cover from the printhead cartridge.  Holding the printhead cartridge by the handle  Release the flaps covering the ink ports (1 and 2).  Release the clip retaining the cover near the center of the printhead cartridge (3).
  • Page 37 cartridge by the handle with one hand, grasp the pull tab with the other hand and slowly and carefully peel back the plastic strip covering the printhead nozzles. Maintain an angle of no less than 45° with the printhead surface when pulling on the strip.
  • Page 38 Figure 48 Installing the Printhead (7)  Slowly close the printhead latch. The fluidic couplings should advance and seal to the printhead cartridge. Figure 49 Installing the Printhead (8)  Close the printhead latch. When the printhead latch is closed, the printer will prime, clean and cap the printhead automatically.

  • Page 39: Switch On The Printer

    Switch on the Printer After the print head and the ink tanks are installed, switch on the printer by switching on the main switch on the back of the printer. This will power up the print engine and the controllers. After few seconds, you will hear the ink pump starting to prime the system, then the wiper will wipe the print head and starts its first maintenance.

  • Page 40: Unwinder Setup

    After the software connected to the Print Engine the printer (Printer status will be ‘Standby’) is ready to use. Figure 51 Icons Showing Printer Status Change from Offline to Standby Unwinder Setup Install the first guide Install the second guide Install outer disk Insert the motorized core holder into the roll.
  • Page 41 Install the second outer Turn the knob to fix the roll. disk. IMPORTANT : turn the Install the motorized core holder with the connector holder into the guides to the tower side with the power cable. WRONG CORRECT Insert the power cable Switch on the unit...
  • Page 42 Install the baseplates Elevate the printer and move the printer onto the plate Fix the plates to the printer with two knobs Figure 52 Installing the Unwinder...

  • Page 43: Media Handling

    3.7 Media Handling Print Area Print area can be found on the back of the printer where the operator needs to feed the materials. Any media type must go through the metal paper guide in order to avoid any movement during printing. Figure 53 Paper Guide Printing Area is dedicated with the green bar.

  • Page 44: Load Media

    Load Media Lead the paper from the roll through the unwinder’s roller to keep the media tight during printing. Figure 55 Load Media (1) Drag on the paper and lead through the roller of the paper guide’s antistatic brushes. Feed the paper in the printer until you feel some resistance.
  • Page 45 Click the Paper Handling button on the start screen of Liberty application to popup the Paper Handling Window. Figure 57 Liberty Application's Paper Handling Window Select the Feed Paper button to feed the paper to its starting position. Choose Material Type according to the media inserted to the printer.

  • Page 46: Connect The Printer To A Computer

    3.8 Connect the printer to a computer Vortex850R printer uses an Ethernet connection for printing. There are different configuration steps to follow depending whether or not you have a local area network at your location. NOTE: Although the printer has a USB connector it is not activated as all communication between the Embedded PC and the Print Engine is working only via Ethernet connection.

  • Page 47: Install The Printer Driver

    3.9 Install the printer driver Start Vortex Printer Series Driver Installer for Windows on your PC or laptop: Run WinSetup.exe. Figure 58 Driver Installation (1) Figure 59 Driver Installation (2) Accept the license agreement.
  • Page 48 Figure 60 Driver Installation (3) On the printer connections screen select network printer. Figure 61 Driver Installation (4) During the setup process the installer detects Vortex850R printers connected to the network.
  • Page 49 Figure Driver Installation (4) Select your printer and click next to continue setup. Figure Driver Installation (5) Select Unblock to let the firewall unblocking cepting connections.
  • Page 50 Figure 64 Driver Installation (6) If the above dialog appears or setup asks you to let run firmware update answer NO. Restart your PC or Laptop to complete installation! NOTE: When installing the driver on Windows 7, you can skip the Reboot process by selecting Don’t reboot.

  • Page 51: Driver Specifications - Printer Preferences

    Driver Specifications – Printer Preferences General Tab Figure 66 Vortex Printer Series Driver Printing Preferences (1) Print setting options on the General Tab: Field Options  Default  SpeedJet Glossy Label  SpeedJet Matte Label Media Type  SpeedJet Standard Label ...
  • Page 52 Field Options  Letter 8 ½ x 11 in  Legal 8 ½ x 14 in  Statement 5 ½ x 8 ½ in  Executive 7 ¼ x 10 ½ in  A4 210 x 297 mm  A5 148 x 210 mm ...
  • Page 53 Layout Tab Figure 67 Vortex Printer Series Driver Printing Preferences (2) Field Options Multi-Page  Pages per Sheet: 1, 2, 4, 9, 16 (N-Up)  Right, then down  Down, then right Arrange  Left, then down Pages  Down, then left My Print ...
  • Page 54 Media Tab Figure 68 Vortex Printer Series Driver Printing Preferences (3) Field Option  Horizontal Offset Position Adjusment  Vertical Offset  Inches  Millimeters Offset units  Pixels...
  • Page 55  Inter-Label Gap  Black Mark  Cut Sheet Media Layout  Continuous  Use Printer Setting  Job Cut (cut at end of job)  Sheet per cut (number of pages Page Cutting before cutting)  Use Printer Settings ...
  • Page 56 Import / Export Tab Figure 69 Vortex Printer Series Driver Printing Preferences (4) Field Options  Watermarks Include these custom  Media Sizes settings  Print Settings...
  • Page 57 Services Tab Figure 70 Vortex Printer Series Driver Printing Preferences (5) Field Services  Clean Printheads  Print Demo Page Maintenance  Print Configuration Page  Order Supplies Other Services  Get Support...

  • Page 58: Label Printing, Generating Print Jobs

    Label printing, generating print jobs. For printing labels the operator has two options:  Print label from a labelling/graphical or other software  Print labels from print jobs. Printing labels from softwares Printing labels from any kind of software is quite easy. The operator just needs to set all prefrences within the Vortex850R Series Driver (paper size, printing speed, number of copies, etc.) Printing labels from print jobs.

  • Page 59: Installing Liberty Application

    3.10 Installing Liberty Application Vortex 850R Liberty Installer updates your printer’s settings and installs all the files and resources that your printer needs to run Liberty 2.0. The installer will give you the option to retain your original database and stored labels from the previous version. Please follow the steps below during the installation process! Starting the Installation Before the installation make sure the USB-AB cable is connected to the engine so that the...

  • Page 60: Installing .Net Framework

    Installing .Net Framework Liberty runs in on .Net Framework 4.0. If the proper version of this framework cannot be found on your printer the installer opens up a separate install dialog called: .Net Framework Setup Dialog. Please complete this separate setup by accepting the License Agreement and selecting the Install button on the dialog and wait until the installation is complete.

  • Page 61: Setting Up Your License File

    As the installer informs you as well, you need to have an account for Vision Center – https://visioncenter.rti-digital.com and have your printer added to your account. In case of any of it missing, please contact your retailer! Start the licensing process with saving a License Enquiry File.
  • Page 62 License Enquiry file and hit Upload! After uploading the enquiry the website navigates you to the page you can download your freshly created license file from. The default name of the license file is Guid.rti. Figure 75 License Download at Vision Centre Copy the downloaded file to your printer and resume installation.

  • Page 63: Installing The Application

    Installing the Application Migrating your data The installer attempts to find your previous Liberty version and present you with the choice of migrating data to the new system. Figure 76 Data Migration Preferences in Liberty Installer Migrating your saved labels: You can access your saved labels from Liberty application if Copy labels box is checked.

  • Page 64: Updating The Firmware

    Updating the Firmware The installer checks the firmware version on your printer, and will automatically update it if necessary, this process can take more than 20 minutes, please be patient. If you are already running the latest version of the firmware, the installer will ask you to re-burn it or continue.

  • Page 65: Liberty

    4 Liberty 4.1 Overview Vortex850R printer has a unique control panel with an easy to handle touch-based user interface. The purpose of this interface is to provide real-time information and feedback to the user about the operation and status of the printer in order to give the user full control of the printer and a frustration free printing experience.

  • Page 66: Left Hand Side Status Bar

     Left hand side status bar These three icons show the current working status of the printer. Figure 79 Left Hand Side Status Bar Media Types The first label shows the current media type by changing its pictograms, and its color will change according to paper status.

  • Page 67: Right Hand Side Status Bar

    Cut after N labels Roll to Roll No cuts Right hand side status bar Labels next to language selection button inform about the state of RTI Service, Engine and Local LAN connections. Figure 80 Right Hand Side Status Bar Language Selection Button The language selection button opens a dropdown where the application language can be set.

  • Page 68: Notification Bar

    Engine and Local LAN Labels Engine LAN is Liberty’s connection to the print engine, while Local LAN denotes the printer’s link state to the local network. Engine LAN and Local LAN States Connected Reduced link state Connection error Notification Bar Notification bar messages appear on the top of the main buttons.

  • Page 69: Job Status Display

    Figure 82 Ink Status Display Job Status Display Liberty updates the Job Status Display area according to the processing states of the current job. Job Status Display Fields Labels Printed (complete / all) Remaining Labels Time to Finish Cost / Label Job Status The following chart shows various states of the print process which are displayed in the Job Status field.

  • Page 70: Main Buttons

    Main Buttons Figure 83 Main Buttons Main buttons navigate you to the following windows of Liberty application: Button Navigates to Paper Paper Handling Window Handling Statistics Statistics Window Maintenanc Maintenance Window My Labels My Labels Window Job Control Buttons Job Control buttons allow you to control the printing process. Stop buttons stops printing in any state while Pause button pauses the print in the Printing state.

  • Page 71: Version Numbers

    Version Numbers Liberty application version and firmware version numbers can be found on the Main Screen under the Vortex logo. FIRMWARE VERSION LIBERTY VERSION...

  • Page 72: Paper Handling & Print Configuration

    4.1 Paper Handling & Print Configuration Paper Handling Window provides ways to control print configuration and perform paper- related operations. Figure 85 Paper Handling Window Paper Handling and Print Configuration The following table shows the function of the buttons on Paper Handling Window: Button Function Feed Paper...

  • Page 73: Material Type

    Material Type Figure 86 Material Type Options There are three material type options to select: Material Type Die-cut with gaps (label material) Continuous Tick marks on back (also known as blackmark) Media Edge Detection Figure 87 Media Edge Detection Options The following table describes media edge detection options: Edge Description...

  • Page 74: Print Mode

    Print Mode Figure 88 Print Mode Options The following table describes the print mode options: Print Mode Description When a Roll to Roll mode is selected the printer forwards long enough blank media through the printer to attach it to the Roll to Roll rewinder.

  • Page 75: Adjustments

    Adjustments Figure 90 Adjustment Settings The table below shows the adjustment setting possibilities: Adjustment TOF – Top of Form BOF – Bottom of Form Cutter NOTE: The values are set in microns. 1000 micron = 1 millimeter. Start of Job cut Figure 91 Start of Job Cut If the Start of Job Cut checkbox is checked the printer executes a cut before starting a...

  • Page 76: Sensor Calibration

    Sensor Calibration Figure 93 Sensor Calibration Button The Sensor Calibration button opens the Sensor Calibration window, where the Black Mark and Label Gap sensors’ sensitivity can be enhanced. The below table shows the range of the sensitivity enhancement setting of the two sensors: Sensor Range...

  • Page 77: Paper Profiles

    Paper Profiles A paper profile is a print configuration that can be saved for later use. Paper Profile Settings Print Mode Cut Mode Material Type Media Edge Detection Adjustments A paper profile can be created by setting the above properties on Paper Handling window and saving it.
  • Page 78 The saved profiles can be accessed and managed through the second tab of the Paper Handling window. Tabs can be selected on the top of the window! PAPER LOAD HANDLING PROFILES TAB Figure 96 Load Profiles Tab on the Paper Handling Window The Load Profiles Tab show a list of your stored profiles.

  • Page 79: My Labels - Stored Jobs

    4.2 My Labels – Stored Jobs Stored jobs are pre-set jobs for future retrieval and printing. Vortex850R printer allows you to save jobs. Liberty displays stored jobs on My Labels window. Figure 97 Stored Jobs Creating a Stored Job  To create a stored job first configure your Vortex Printer Series Driver to Print to File! PRINT TO FILE Figure 98 Creating a Stored Job (1)
  • Page 80  Choose a file you would like to print and right click it and select Print to open the Print dialog! PRINT Figure 99 Creating a Stored Job (2)  On Print Dialog select the Options link! OPTIONS LINK Figure 100 Creating a Stored Job (3) ...
  • Page 81 PRINTER PROPERTIES LINK Figure 101 Creating a Stored Job  Configure your print! Figure 102 Creating a Stored Job  Make sure Media Layout and Page Cutting on Media tab are set to Use Printer Settings!
  • Page 82 MEDIA LAYOUT PAGE CUTTING Figure 103 Creating a Stored Job  Click OK to return to the Print dialog and start print!  Save the print output to a .prn file! The name of the .prn file has to match exactly the name of the image file (e.g.

  • Page 83: Printing A Stored Job

    Printing a Stored Job  Select your job on My Labels window! Scroll your job list with the help of the arrow buttons on the bottom of the screen. You can search for a job by typing its name to the search textbox on the top of the screen.

  • Page 84: One Touch Maintenance

    4.3 One Touch Maintenance The role of the maintenance window is to make printer maintenance functions accessible and control the quality of printing. Figure 105 Maintenance Window Maintenance Window Functions Clear Color Mixing Fix Drooling Fix Streaks Fix Fading Lines Fix Other Artifacts Wipe Circulate Ink...

  • Page 85: Fixing Print Quality Issues

    Fixing print quality issues Figure 106 Buttons for Fixing Print Quality These buttons perform special head cleaning steps. Normally the engine’s internal maintenance is sufficient for assuring good print quality. However in cases of visible print quality degradations the manual cleaning buttons can be used. Most options are self- explanatory.

  • Page 86: Network Settings

    Network Settings The network settings button opens the Network Interfaces dialog to display LAN connection settings. Figure 109 Network Interfaces Troubleshooting Window The Troubleshooting window can be accessed via clicking on the Troubleshooting button in the Maintenance window! Figure 110 Troubleshooting Window...
  • Page 87 Button Troubleshooting Function Clear Engine Error The controller attempts to discover error states and guide the user in order to recover from these. In cases when this is not sufficient or the controller failed to detect the engine error and react to it, pressing this button may help clearing engine error states (eg after paper jam).

  • Page 88: Tilt Calibration

    Tilt Calibration Tilt Calibration button navigates you to Calibration window. Figure 111 Tilt Calibration Button The printer has built-in tilt sensor which should be calibrated once the printer is installed. It should also be recalibrated if the unit is moved. Figure 112 Tilt Calibration Window...

  • Page 89: Statistics

    Statistics Liberty collects several printer-related data and stores them in a database. You can see these data on the statistics window. Statistics data can help you to follow-up the the number of jobs printed, printing costs, printhead and ink-usage, the printed length or area etc.
  • Page 90 Figure 115 Service Contact Box The Service Contact box displays contact information. You can edit contact information with the help of the Configuration Editor application. Figure 116 Last Job Tab The Last Job show the latest print job data. The printer records the state, size, ink consumption etc.
  • Page 91 4.5 Configuration Editor Configuration Editor is a separate application for editing Liberty’s settings. application installs to c:\Vortex\Versions\Liberty2.0 folder and can be started from there. The application edits the LibertyConfig.ini file which is used for the initialization of Liberty. Figure 118 Configuration Editor Location...
  • Page 92 CONFIGURATION CONFIGURATION SECTIONS ENTRY (GROUPS) Figure 119 Configuration Editor Configuration Entries are grouped in sections. Sections appear as different tabs on the screen. Tabs can be selected on the top of the window. Entries consist of a key and a value. Values are editable. WARNING Please edit configuration entries carefully! Changes may cause Liberty to malfunction!
  • Page 93 Section Description Contact Information The folder Liberty stores WorkingDirectory labels and .prn files by default. folder Liberty’s DatabaseDirectory database is stored in. The folder labels are stored LabelDirectory The folder .prn files are PrnDirectory stored in. Makes the mouse pointer visible / hideMouse invisible.
  • Page 94 Entry Context Menus Entry context menu can be accessed with the button next to the value textbox. Figure 120 Config Entry Context Menu The below table shows the functions of entry context menu items. Menu item Function Makes an entry commented / uncommented. Comment Commented entries are ignored.

  • Page 95: Maintenance Overview

    5 Maintenance Guide 5.1 Maintenance Overview To ensure reliable operation and high print quality while using the product, the regular inspection and maintenance steps are required to be performed. These include mechanical subsystems checks, occasional cleanings, consumables changing and print head cleaning.
  • Page 96 NOTE: Repair and replacement tasks, are referred to qualified technicians! For some maintenance tasks it is better to remove the engine from the printer! Use the table below to determine which maintenance task (inspection, cleaning, lubrication, or replacement, etc.) to perform at a given time period or usage interval. The following tasks are to be performed by the operator only with very basic supplies, no special tools are needed.
  • Page 97 In order to avoid personal injury, always use appropriate personal protection when performing maintenance tasks  Clothing protection  Powder-free nitrile gloves  Lint-free cloth wipes – It is critical that the wipes used be soft to avoid scratching the printhead, and lint-free to avoid contaminating the printhead.
  • Page 98 Figure 122 Picture of the opened clamshell  Dampen a lint-free cloth with distilled water.  Wipe the system components and paper path surfaces (uppen and lower), with a clean, damp lint-free cloth, to remove ink overspray (aerosol) and debris. NOTE: Do not wipe the starwheels as they may release and fall out.
  • Page 99 STARWHEELS PINCH ROLLERS Figure 124 Wipe Upper Surfaces AEROSOL Figure 125 Removing Aerosol from Housing Surface  Fold the cloth between wipes to ensure a clean, uncontaminated surface is used each time.
  • Page 100  Use a vacuum cleaner if necessary to remove debris inside and outside surfaces of the clamshell. Bi-Weekly Maintenance Tasks  Aerosol and debris removal  Paper path optical sensor cleaning  Wiper inspection Aerosol and debris removal – see at daily maintenance tasks Optical Sensor Cleaning Clean the four optical sensors in the paper path every two weeks.
  • Page 101 Figure 126 Paper Path Optical Sensor Locations – Top...
  • Page 102 Figure 127 Paper Path Optical Sensor Locations - Bottom  Moisten a foam swab with distilled water.
  • Page 103  Place the damp swab on each sensor and twist back and forth to clean the surface. Use a new, moist swab on each sensor.  4. Repeat cleaning and drying process for all four sensors.
  • Page 104 Wiper Inspection  Pinch the clamshell latches to release and opened the clamshell. NOTE: The wiper is automatically in the up position when the clamshell is open.  Go to Liberty and click on ‘Eject Service Station’ button.  Inspect the wiper to ensure that it is spins freely with no excessive noise ...
  • Page 105 Waste ink absorber inpection Waste ink absorber must be inspected every month. The waste ink absorber was designed to last the life of the printer under normal printing conditions.  Release the waste ink tray latches at the front of the unit and slide the tray out. WASTE INK TRAY LATCHES ...
  • Page 106 Ink Tubing Inspection The following ink tubing and connections, visible to the operator, must be inspected every month:  Fluidic coupling (aka Revolver Caps)  Buffer box  Pinch valve  Peristaltic (ink) pump Refer to the following pictures to identify the specific hardwares. Remove any housing or covers positioned around the ink tubing.
  • Page 107 INK TUBING PINCH VALVE AND PUMP MOTOR VENTS (X5) Figure 129 PERISTALTIC BUFFER BOX Ink Tubing Details INK PUMP  Use a finger to gently pry both fluicid coupling covers off in order to inspect the ink tube connections underneath. Figure 130 Remove Fluidic Coupling Covers ...
  • Page 108 Lifter Motor – Gear Inspection and Encoder Cleaning  The lift motor gear, on the right side of the unit, must be inspected every month. LIFT MOTOR GEAR LIFT MOTOR Lift MOTOR ENCODER (UNDER COVER) Gear Figure 131 Lift Motor Assembly Location ...
  • Page 109 Figure 133 Cleaning the Lift Motor Encoder Figure 134 Removing the Lift Motor Encoder Cover...
  • Page 110 Paper Path Grit Roller Inspection The three paper path grit rollers must be inspected every month. GRIT ROLLERS Figure 135 Grit Rollers  Inspect the print rollers for ink residue and debris. If none is found, proceed to the next PM task.
  • Page 111 Annual Maintenance Tasks Perform the following maintenance procedures once a year:  Aerosol and debris removal  Paper path optical sensor cleaning  Wiper cleaning  Waste ink absorber inspection  Ink tubing inspection  Lift motor gear inspection  Paper path grit roller inspection ...
  • Page 112 NOTE: it recommended to do a System Deprime before ejecting the Maintenance Module. Also it is better to remove the printhead and cap itt o avoid contamination and adequate moisture.  In Liberty navigate to OneTouch Maintenance and push ’Eject Service Station’ button to send the Maintenance Module to the eject position.
  • Page 113 POSITIONING GEAR Figure 139 Removing the Maintenance Module  Disconnect the ribbon cable connector for the wiper motor to free the MM. Figure 140 Disconnecting MM from Wiper Motor  Use a lint-free cloth, moistened with DI water, to gently remove any ink residue or debris from the Maintenance Module.
  • Page 114 Figure 141 Ink Residue removal from the Maintenance Module  Inspect both wicks (printing platen and cap) for warping, plugged up sections, or to see if it is falling out. If fouled, escalate to a technician for replacement with new wick(s). ...
  • Page 115  Remove the paper dust from underneath the maintenance module, during the annual cleaning. Use a vacuum cleaner for the interior of the unit, if necessary. Figure 143 Using a Vacuum cleaner to remove debris from under the MM Wiper cleaning Wiper cleaning usually means that the oparator has to change the microfiber roller as it comes to the end of its lifetime.
  • Page 116  Disconnect the wiper PCB from the ribbon cable, as shown int he figure below. Figure 145 Disconnecting Wiper PCD from ribbon cable  Route the ribbon cable through the housing to free the wiper, as shown on the next pictures.
  • Page 117  Remove the MFR to access the transfer roller (TR) that is installed below the MFR in the wiper module assembly. Figure 148 Transfer Roller (TR)  Visually inspect the transfer roller (TR) for unusual ink accumulation. The transfer roller is stainless steel. Ink may accumulate in scratches on the roller. Wash the roller with damp lint-free cloth if necessary.
  • Page 118  Carefully slide all five ink tanks, one at a time, out of the unit. Figure 150 Removed Ink Tanks  Verify that Liberty reflects the tank removal.  Align each ink tank with the rails on the printer and insert. Repeat until all five ink tanks are re-installed.
  • Page 119  Re-fasten each ink tank latch to ensure it moves properly and engages fully. If not, escalate to a technician for replacement. Figure 152 Opened and closed Ink Tank Latch...
  • Page 120 Cutter Inspection and Cleaning WARNING To avoid personal injury, power off the printer before performing this task!  Fold a damp lint-free cloth and insert it into the groove beneath the cutter Figure 153 Cleaning the Cutter  Wipe back and forth to remove aerosol and debris ...
  • Page 121 As Needed Maintenance Tasks The following general maintenance tasks should be performed on an as needed basis, based upon inspection during every day use and/or when performing other tasks. The printhead cartridge should be manually wiped after the following occurrences: ...
  • Page 122  Locate the printhead nozzle strip. PRINTHEAD NOZZLE STRIP Figure 155 Printhead Nozzle Plate  Dampen a lint-free cloth with distilled water  Gently wipe the print nozzle plate from one end to the other Figure 156 Wiping the Nozzles...
  • Page 123  Fold the cloth and clean the nozzle plate again to remove remaining debris. Figure 157 Soiled lint-free cloth  Close the clamshell.
  • Page 124 Printhead Cartridge Cleaning (Remove Cartridge) Preparation  Lightly dampen a lint-free cloth with DI water.  Set the wipe on a clean surface.  Lightly moisten the cloth strip in a PH shipping cap with a small amount of DI water and set aside.
  • Page 125 LATCH POPPED LATCH POPPED Figure 160 Released Latch and empty ink tubes  Open the latch. Figure 161 Opening the latch  Tilt the printhead cartridge towards the rear of the unit until it clicks...
  • Page 126 Figure 162 Tilting PH towards rear of the unit  Slide the printhead cartridge out of the print engine. Figure 163 Sliding the PH out of the unit...
  • Page 127 Figure 164 Capping the PH NOTE: Each time the printhead is removed, clean the PPCA contacts and fluidic couplings!  Locate the PPCA contacts. PPCA CONTACTS Figure 165 PPCA Contacts  Use a new, lint-free cloth dampened with DI water to gently wipe up-and-down to clean the PPCA contacts.
  • Page 128 Figure 166 Cleaning the PPCA Contacts  Locate the fluidic couplings. FLUIDIC COUPLINGS Figure 167 Fluidic Coupling Location Figure 168 Fluidic Coupling with ink residue  Moisten a foam swab with DI water.
  • Page 129 Figure 169 Moisten a swab  Place the foam swab in one of the ink channels on the fluidic coupling and rotate to clean. Figure 170 Cleaning the ink channel  Use a new, moist foam swab and repeat the process for each ink channel on both fluidic couplings until all 10 openings are cleaned.
  • Page 130 Figure 171 Soiled swab for one fluidic Coupling (5-channels)  Remove the cap from the printhead. Figure 172 Uncapping the PH  Wipe from one end to the other with the damp lint-free cloth. Figure 173 Wiping the PH...
  • Page 131  Align the PH cartridge with the pin on the PPCA board and slide it into the print engine. ALIGNMENT Figure 174 PH alignment Pin PH GROOVE ALIGNMENT Figure 175 PH alignment pin interface  Tilt the top of the printhead cartridge toward the back of the printer, about 20º. ...
  • Page 132 If the printhead will not rotate into position, do not force  . Slowly close the printhead latch. The fluidic couplings will advance and seal to the printhead cartridge.  Close the printhead latch. When the printhead latch is closed, the printer will prime, clean and cap the printhead automatically.
  • Page 133 Figure 177 Waste Ink Absorber  Use a gloved hand to pull the waste ink absorber out of the waste ink tray and dispose of it according to local regulations.  Align a new waste ink absorber with the shape of the waste ink tray and push into place until evenly seated and flush with the tray top edge.
  • Page 134 6 Troubleshooting 6.1 Maintenance Module (aka Service Station) Troubleshooting The following table lists some possible problems related to the maintenance module, with possible causes and solutions. Problem Possible Causes Solution  Jammed  Check through each of gear train from broken post or improperly the possible causes.
  • Page 135 6.2 Printhead Troubleshooting Occasionally, print quality is affected by minor problems that arise with the printhead. The following table provides a list of common printhead issues, their symptoms, and solutions: Problem Problem Causes Solution Air and air bubbles Appear as missing groups of Cured by recirculation, causing adjacent drops but the shape...
  • Page 136 6.3 Liberty Troubleshooting Problem Problem Causes Solution Liberty starts up with ‘Mech_error’ determines First go to OneTouch ‘Mech_error’ various errors Maintenance and push ‘Clear Error’ button. If this not helps contact Customer Support Liberty starts up with The printer was tilted Make sure that the printer is ‘Tilt_error’...

  • Page 137: Printer Specifications

    7 Printer Specifications Printer Technology Drop on Demand Thermal Inkjet printing Printable width is 215.9 mm (8.5 inch) 70,400 nozzles (14,080 per color) Five channels: Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Black (2x) Print Speed 300mm/s at 1,600 x 1,600 dpi black 300mm/s at 1,600 x 800 dpi color 150mm/s at 1,600 x 1,600 dpi black and color 12 inches/s (21,6 km/day) Print Quality...
  • Page 138 Operation data Power supply 90-240 V ~50/60 Hz, PFC Power consumption max. 1200 W (5A bizt.) Operating temperature 15-35 C Humidity range Dimensions Width 61 cm Height 40 cm Depth 40.5 cm Weight 40 kg Print speed quick chart The table below shows the print performance of the printer expressed in printing length and label count for given print time intervals.

Table of Contents