Datamax M-Class Operator's Manual
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Datamax M-Class Operator's Manual

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M- Class
Operator's Manual

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  • Page 1 M- Class Operator’s Manual...
  • Page 2 Firmware (Software). Information in this document is subject to change without notice and does not represent a commitment on the part of Datamax Barcode Products Corporation. No part of this manual may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, for any purpose other than the purchaser's personal use, without the expressed written permission of Datamax Corporation.
  • Page 3 Agency Compliance and Approvals: UL60950 Information Technology Equipment C22.2 No. 950-M93 Listed EN60950 For 230 Volt Operation (Europe): Use a cord set, marked "HAR," consisting of a min H05VV-F cord which has a minimum 0.75 square mm diameter conductors, provided with an IEC 320 receptacle and a male plug for the country of installation rated 6A, 250V Für 230 Volt (Europa): Benützen Sie ein Kabel, das mit "HAR"...

  • Page 4: Important Safety Instructions

    Important Safety Instructions This printer has been carefully designed to provide many years of safe, reliable performance. As with all electrical equipment, there are a few basic precautions you should take to avoid hurting yourself or damaging the printer: • Carefully read the installation and operating instructions provided with your printer.

  • Page 5: Table Of Contents

    Printer Overview 1.0 Introduction ................ 1 1.1 About this Printer..............2 1.1.1 Standard Features............. 2 1.1.2 Optional Features ............. 3 Getting Started 2.0 Before Using the Printer ............5 Setting Up the Printer 3.0 Introduction ................ 7 3.1 Connecting the Printer ............7 3.1.1 Power Connection ............
  • Page 6 4.7 Calibration Mode – Button Functions ........32 4.7.1 Auto Media Sensor Calibration......... 33 4.7.2 Manual Media Sensor Calibration ......34 4.8 Internal Labels ..............35 4.8.1 Database Configuration and Dot Check Labels ..35 4.8.2 Test Label..............37 Using the Front Panel (display printers) 5.0 Introduction ................

  • Page 7: Maintenance And Adjustments

    Maintenance and Adjustments 6.0 Introduction ................ 79 6.1 Cleaning the Printhead............80 6.1.1 Automated Printhead Cleaning........80 6.2 Media Width Adjustment............. 81 6.3 Printhead Burn Line Adjustment.......... 82 6.4 Printhead Pressure Adjustment ..........83 6.5 Printhead Replacement ............84 6.6 Darkness Adjustment............85 6.7 Resetting the Printer ............
  • Page 8 Appendix D Menu System Multi-Language Support ........141 Appendix E Saving a Configuration File............147 Appendix F GPIO Port Description..............149 Appendix G Warranty Information ..............153 Glossary..........155...

  • Page 9: Introduction

    1.0 Introduction Congratulations on your purchase of an M-Class printer. The M-Class family, hereafter referred to as ‘the printer’, blends the rugged durability of die-cast construction with state-of-the-art electronics and user-friendly features to redefine the standard in industrial thermal printers. The printers, available in direct and optional thermal transfer configurations, use unique front panel designs to simplify operation, while its USB, RS232 serial, IEEE 1284 compliant parallel, and an optional internal printserver (M-4208 and M-4306 only) interfaces allow easy connection to your host system.

  • Page 10: About This Printer

    4 MB DRAM Memory (M-4206) 8 MB DRAM Memory (M-4208 and M-4306)) Interfaces USB interface DB-9 RS-232 serial interface ® IEEE 1284 Centronics parallel interface Operational Simple Media Loading Media Tearbar Fan-fold media compatible from the bottom and rear of printer M-Class...

  • Page 11: Optional Features

    International Language Printing Capability (ILPC) and/or additional fonts and graphics. ILPC The International Language Print Capability consisting of one of the following: CG-Times (western European) Scalable font Kanji Gothic B Scalable font Simplified Chinese GB Scalable font Korean Hangul font M-Class...
  • Page 12 M-Class...

  • Page 13: Before Using The Printer

    Remove the printer from the plastic bag. Remove any tape or additional packing foam from the inside of the printer. Note: It is a good idea to save all packaging materials in the event that shipping the printer is ever required. M-Class...
  • Page 14 The following items are necessary for generating labels from your printer. Contact your customer support or sales representative for advice on which media and software may best be suited for your application. Serial, USB or Parallel cable Ethernet cable for optional LAN connectivity Applicable Media Applicable Software M-Class...

  • Page 15: Introduction

    3. Connect the AC Power Cord to the receptacle on the back of the Printer, and then plug the AC Power Cord into a properly grounded outlet. (The power supply automatically detects and then adjusts to the applied line voltage; see Section 8.0 for the acceptable voltage ranges.) M-Class...

  • Page 16: Interface Connection

    Optional Internal Ethernet Print Server: (printers with front display only) The printer is available with an optional Internal Ethernet Print Server. When using this connection please refer to Appendix C or the instructions included with the option for proper setup and configuration. M-Class...

  • Page 17: Loading Media

    3.2 Loading Media Load media into the printer as follows: 1. Open the media cover and lower the Media Hub Guide and Media Guide. 2. Press in on the Printhead Latch and raise the Printhead Assembly. M-Class...
  • Page 18 Roll Media. 4. Route the Media through the printer as shown. Raise the Media Guide. The Media Guide should be pushed inward so that it is just touching the edge of the Media. M-Class...
  • Page 19 Printers with front display: FEED release. For additional calibration procedures, see section 5.4 Note: The printer is factory set to use 4-inch media (and ribbon, if thermal transfer equipped). When using a different width of media/ribbon, please refer to section 6.2. M-Class...

  • Page 20: Media Sensor Adjustment

    Media Sensor Selection and Adjustment Sensor Eye Mark Position Media Type Sensing Required Die-cut Near the middle of the label Notched Centered over the notch Reflective Centered over the black mark Reflective Continuous Near the middle of the media Continuous M-Class...

  • Page 21: Loading Ribbon

    Ensure the ribbon unwinds in the correct direction (see 3.4.1 for examples). Illustrations depict a ‘Coated Side In’ assembly. 3. Route the ribbon under the Ribbon Idler and then out the front of the printer approximately 12 inches. M-Class...
  • Page 22 FEED 7. The ‘Media Type’ setting within the printer’s setup must be set to ‘Thermal Transfer’ to print using a ribbon; See section 4.5.2 Printers without front display: See section 5.1.2 Printers with front display: M-Class...

  • Page 23: Ribbon Routing

    (coating) layer wound ‘in’ or ‘out’. These types are NOT interchangeable for use with the printer. Note: Ensure the inked side of the ribbon faces the media and NOT the printhead. Ribbon Routing Diagrams ‘Coating Side In’ Ribbon Supply Hub ‘Coating Side Out’ Ribbon Supply Hub M-Class...
  • Page 24 M-Class...

  • Page 25: Introduction

    4.01 DMXConfig DMXConfig (located on the M-class CD-ROM) is a windows based configuration utility that can simplify the printer setup process. This application allows the user to make changes to the existing printer setup without using the front panel buttons. Visit our website at www.datamaxcorp.com/software/m-class/ for the latest releases.

  • Page 26: Lights

    Allows quick access to the most common printer settings, (Sensor Type, Media Type, and Option Control. See Section 4.4. Printer Setup: Allows changes to the printer’s operational settings. See Section 4.5. Calibration: Allows the ‘calibration’ of the media being used for the correct sensing of the top of form. See Section 4.7. M-Class...

  • Page 27: Normal Mode - Button Functions

    Button Combinations (push buttons simultaneously) PAUSE FEED Prints the Test Label, see Section 4.8.2. Performs a warm reset and returns to the Normal Mode of operation. PAUSE CANCEL FEED CANCEL Produces Database Configuration and Test Labels, see Section 4.8.1 M-Class...

  • Page 28: Express Setup Mode - Button Functions

    The selected setting is represent by a specific combination of the printer’s indicator lights for each of the three items, (Sensor Type, Media Type, and Option Control). To enter the Express Setup… Turn the printer OFF to save settings. M-Class...

  • Page 29: Printer Setup Mode - Button Functions

    Press and FEED Selects the next menu item Release Press and ”Direct Select” menu item Hold eg. 7 Error light flashes = Baud Rate menu item #7 CANCEL Decrements item’s value PAUSE Accepts the current values for “test” CANCEL M-Class...

  • Page 30: Printer Setup Menu List

    = LABEL ALIGNMENT = ALIGNMENT LENGTH, 0.01 in. AUTO = OPTION CONTROL = INPUT MODE STANDARD = DPL EMULATION = HEAT = EXACT TIME = GPIO = NO REPRINT Note: When using narrow media, the ‘Menu Items’ column may be truncated. M-Class...

  • Page 31: Menu Items And Values

    Of Stock condition. value. continuous media. Possible Values: Possible Values: Possible Values: Range: 0 – 16; nominal = *2 Range: 0 – 15; nominal = *10 Range: 0 – 9999; default = *100 (Units = .1 volt) (Units = .01 inch) M-Class...
  • Page 32 (Units = .01 inch) will automatically be set. Host commands are ignored.) HOST (Sets stop position according to options installed. If no options are installed the printer sets stop location to the next label’s start of print. Host commands will override.) M-Class...
  • Page 33 Possible Values: Possible Values: YES or NO; default = *NO YES or NO; default = *NO (NO = NO REPRINT” disabled, reprinting will occur.) Note: All of the menu items listed in the previous section are stored in non-volatile memory. M-Class...

  • Page 34: Step By Step Modification Of The Printer Setup

    Note: If you wish to discard your changes and revert back to the previous values simply turn off power to the printer before Step 5. 5. Now you can save your changes and resume by simultaneously and briefly pressing the PAUSE buttons. Wait until the light goes off. CANCEL STOP M-Class...
  • Page 35 OPTION CONTROL____AUTO SYMBOL SET________ PM FONT SUBSTITUTION_ NONE INPUT VALUES IGNORE COMMANDS PAPER_____________ 207 SYMBOL SET SELECT_ NO POT_______________ CNTRL CODES_______ NO TRAN______________ 157 HEAT______________ NO REFL______________ SPEED_____________ NO RIBN______________ 237 SOP OFFSET________ NO TEMP______________ VOLT______________ 218 PRESENT SENSOR____ M-Class...

  • Page 36: Label Alignment

    Then, in Normal Mode, press and hold the button (about 4 FEED seconds). The printer will align the label to the top of form position. Note: If media with a different label length is subsequently loaded, the ‘ALIGN LENGTH’ must be recalculated and re-entered. M-Class...

  • Page 37: Label Alignment = Auto

    When Label Alignment is not enabled (i.e., set to NO), printing begins at the current label position without alignment, assuming the label is at the start of print position. Additionally, if the label length is short, labels between the printhead and the media sensor may be unused. M-Class...

  • Page 38: Label Alignment Troubleshooting

    Measure the label length and use the Setup Menu to set the when any larger label new length. Print a Database Configuration label to ensure the length is used without new length has been set. setting the appropriate length. M-Class...
  • Page 39 Tear Bar. position (present position) is too far ~OR~ forward. The Present Adjust value is not correct. Use the Setup Menu to modify the Present Adjust value. light The label supply is empty Load media. ERROR illuminates during label alignment. M-Class...

  • Page 40: Calibration Mode - Button Functions

    Saves the current values and resumes DONE Normal Mode CANCEL (See section 4.7.2) Media Sensor Calibration PAUSE Analyze for ‘Paper’ Analyze for ‘Backing or ‘Mark’ FEED Analyze ‘Out of Media’ condition CANCEL PAUSE Accepts the current values for “test” CANCEL M-Class...

  • Page 41: Auto Media Sensor Calibration

    Note: If you wish to discard the changes and revert back to the previous calibration simply turn off the printer before Step 4. 4. Now save the changes and resume by pressing the buttons simultaneously and PAUSE CANCEL briefly. Wait until the light goes off. STOP M-Class...

  • Page 42: Manual Media Sensor Calibration

    If you wish to discard the changes and revert back to the previous calibration simply turn off the printer before Step 7. 7. Now save the changes and resume by pressing the buttons simultaneously and PAUSE CANCEL briefly. Wait until the light goes off. STOP M-Class...

  • Page 43: Internal Labels

    OPTION CONTROL____AUTO SYMBOL SET________ PM FONT SUBSTITUTION_ NONE INPUT VALUES IGNORE COMMANDS PAPER_____________ 207 SYMBOL SET SELECT_ NO POT_______________ CNTRL CODES_______ NO TRAN______________ 157 HEAT______________ NO REFL______________ SPEED_____________ NO RIBN______________ 237 SOP OFFSET________ NO TEMP______________ VOLT______________ 218 PRESENT SENSOR____ M-Class...
  • Page 44 The second label printed is the Test Label. This label is used to test the condition of the printhead, as shown below: Good Print Quality Label: Even pattern consistency indicates correct printhead operation. Faulty Print Quality Label: Streaks indicate a dirty or faulty printhead. See Section 6.1 for cleaning instructions. M-Class...

  • Page 45: Test Label

    The Test Label is used to evaluate the current printer setup for print quality, label tracking, and print positioning. To print the Test Label: With the printer loaded with media (at least 4 inches wide), and ribbon (if printing with thermal transfer media), simultaneously press the buttons. PAUSE FEED M-Class...
  • Page 46 M-Class...

  • Page 47: Introduction

    Pressing and holding four seconds will reset the printer and clear temporary host settings (soft reset). MENU The MENU Key toggles between the Ready and Menu Modes. In the Ready Mode, pressing and holding four seconds will change the display contrast. The TEST Key enters (or exits) the Quick Test Menu. M-Class...

  • Page 48: Menu Mode: Configuration

    The ESCAPE Key moves to the previous menu level, and finally back to the Ready Mode. When a print job is in progress, pressing the TEST Key will terminate the job. The printer will prompt you for confirmation; if ‘Yes,’ the current job is cancelled and then Menu Mode is restored. M-Class...

  • Page 49: Quick Test Mode: Print Test Labels

    (the printer will prompt you for confirmation before cancellation occurs). You can program a time delay between the printing of test labels using the ‘Print Test Rate’ feature; see Section 5.1.7 M-Class...

  • Page 50: Indicator Lights

    • The time and date, if the printer has received it from one of the following: the host, the front panel setting, or the Time and Date option. • A label counter during a batch print job. • The Menu System when in Menu Mode. • Any prompt, condition, downloading, warning, or fault message. M-Class...

  • Page 51: The Menu System

    ENTER = YES Pressing ENTER will reconfigure your printer according to these changes; otherwise, the printer will revert to previously saved settings. Note: If changes have been made that require a reset, the printer will automatically invoke that reset. M-Class...

  • Page 52: Media Settings

    SENSOR LEVELS Sets threshold values for the media sensor parameters. Manual entry for paper, gap (or mark), and empty thresholds. SENSOR GAIN Observe A/D reading and set SENSOR GAIN. Adjusts the sensitivity of the sensor for custom label stock. M-Class...
  • Page 53 Initiates printhead cleaning and resets the Clean Head Counter. Notes: Remove ribbon, if installed. Enter Menu Mode / Media Settings / Media Type and set the printer for Direct Thermal. Ensure that full width media is installed. See Section 6.1 for detailed instructions. M-Class...

  • Page 54: Print Control

    Shifts both the horizontal start of print position and the LABEL WIDTH termination 000 DOTS (0-128) point to the right in dots to fine-tune the COLUMN OFFSET setting. PRESENT ADJUST Adjusts the label stopping position in dots to fine-tune the PRESENT DISTANCE 064 DOTS (0-128) setting. M-Class...

  • Page 55: Printer Options

    ENABLE/DISABLE selections, else NOT INSTALLED will be displayed momentarily). AUTO Enables the cutter when option is installed. Stop location (present distance is automatically set appropriately for the installed hardware. ENABLED Enables cutting. DISABLED Disables cutting. M-Class...
  • Page 56 LOW PULSE Outputs a low pulse (approximately 30 milliseconds long) following printing. HIGH PULSE Outputs a high pulse (approximately 30 milliseconds long) following printing. ACTIVE LOW Outputs a logic ‘low’ following printing. ACTIVE HIGH Outputs a logic ‘high’ following printing. M-Class...

  • Page 57: System Settings

    Manual. UNICODE Unicode (including Korean) Government Bureau Industry Standard; Chinese (PRC) BIG 5 Taiwan encoded Japanese Industry Standard SHIFT JIS Shift Japanese Industry Standard Extended UNIX Code TIME AND DATE Allows the user to set the time and date. M-Class...
  • Page 58 BOOT LOADER Displays the Boot Loader version of the printer’s firmware. UPGRADE PRINTER CODE This function is used to upgrade the software feature level of the printer. Datamax authorization is required. UNLOCK FEATURE This function is used to unlock the additional optional features within the printer.
  • Page 59 PAUSE MODE When enabled, suspends printing between each label until the PAUSE Key is pressed. ENABLED Requires an operator press the PAUSE Key after each label. DISABLED The printer completes label batch without pausing between labels. M-Class...
  • Page 60 INPUT MODE ♦ Defines the type of printer language. Standard DPL processing. LINE Standard DPL processing with addition Line mode Template processing enabled. Line Mode exacts data terminated by a carriage return to be inserted in a DPL template and printed. M-Class...
  • Page 61 The row position is calculated based on 194 DPI. COLUMN EMULATION ♦ Compensation for location of column position 0 via columnar dots per inch (dpi) * Not available in M-4306 emulation 203 in (180 - 250) Dpi emulation, smaller numbers shrink text from right to left. M-Class...
  • Page 62 The printer will not initiate repositioning until the next label is ready to print. May help prevent the curling of the label edge. FONT EMULATION ♦ The selected font is substituted for all Datamax internal fonts. This function provides the printer to define a new default font without changing the host DPL data streams.
  • Page 63 RETRY COUNT Establishes the number of times the printer will attempt to reprint a label. If the last (0-3) label printed in this count has been voided, the printer will stop and display a fault message. M-Class...

  • Page 64: Communications

    Two stop bits PARALLEL PORT A♦ Controls the communications settings for Parallel Port A. PORT DIRECTION Determines if data is sent from the printer to the host via the parallel port. UNI-DIRECTIONAL One-way printer communication. BI-DIRECTIONAL Enables IEEE 1284 back-channel operation. M-Class...
  • Page 65 Hex 5E = SOH command; Hex 7E = STX command; count-by = @; Hex 1B = ESC; Hex 0x7C = Carriage Return CUSTOM CODES Each DPL command (SOH, STX, CR, and count-by) may be selected by entering the desired Hex code. (The Keys will scroll the characters, while the ENTER Key selects character and then advances the cursor.) M-Class...
  • Page 66 ESC sequences are ignored and the data is processed. Bitmapped font downloads are disabled in this mode. HEAT COMMAND Allows the user to disable the DPL Heat Command, providing compatibility with other DATAMAX printers. ENABLED Normal printer operating mode. DISABLED DPL Heat commands are ignored.

  • Page 67: Diagnostics

    RANK = the value of the printhead ranking resistor. RIBBON SENSOR LIMITS ♦ Displays ribbon sensor ADC low and high values used for motion detection. RIBBON ADC LOW HIGH Approximate default values are shown here (actual values will vary). M-Class...

  • Page 68: Mcl Options

    DISABLED Normal printer functions. START MCL ♦ MCL with be started after exiting from the menu. M-Class...

  • Page 69: Display Messages

    The current print batch will be cancelled if ENTER is DBODFM!CBUDI@! FOUFS!LFZ!>!ZFT pressed during a batch job. pressed; the remaining labels will not be printed. The printer is paused or offline. The printer is in a paused condition. QBVTFE! M-Class...
  • Page 70 Occurs when the user resets the printer via the host or TZTUFN!SFTFU!! JO!QSPHSFTT! condition. Front Panel. The media calibration is not set. Perform calibration; see Section 5.4. VODBMJCSBUFE! The print job is being processed. Batch status indication, updated with each label printed. YYYY!PG!YYYY! QSJOUJOH! M-Class...

  • Page 71: Quick Test Mode

    (Section 5.1.2) to match your media’s width to avoid printing on the platen. (2) During any Quick Test, press the Key or the Key to stop printing. (3) Using the ‘Print Test Rate’ feature (Section 5.1.7), a time delay can be set for printing labels in Quick Test Mode. M-Class...

  • Page 72: Print Quality Label

    Key to select a quantity; see Section 5.0.3. Press the Key to start printing. Good Print Quality Label: Even pattern consistency indicates correct printhead operation. Faulty Print Quality Label: Streaks indicate a dirty or faulty printhead. See Section 6.1 for cleaning instructions. M-Class...

  • Page 73: Configuration Label

    RIBBON SENSOR LIMITS RIBBON ADC LOW SCALABEL FONT CACHE 312 KB RIBBON ADC HIGH SINGLE BYTE SYMBOLS PC-850 MULTILINGUAL DOUBLE BYTE SYMBOLS MCL OPTIONS UNICODE MCL AT POWER-UP MEDIA COUNTERS: DISABLED ABSOLUTE COUNTERS 374 in. 07MAY2003 RESETTABLE COUNTERS 374 in. 07MAY2003 M-Class...

  • Page 74: Quick Ribbon Test Label

    The Quick Ribbon Test Label features a compliant picket-fence bar code that can be used to verify thermal transfer and print quality functions. To print a Quick Ribbon Test Label: Press the Key. Use the Key to scroll to ‘Ribbon Test Label’. Use the Key to select a quantity; see Section 5.0.3. Press the Key to start printing. M-Class...

  • Page 75: Validation Label

    Key to select and print the label. Note: If a job was cancelled prior to its completion, or if power has been removed since the last print job and the request for this label, ‘NO FILES AVAILABLE’ will be displayed and no printing will occur. M-Class...

  • Page 76: Media Sensor Calibration

    ‘Cannot Calibrate’ is displayed, try calibrating over a longer distance: • Press and hold the Key to allow two or more gaps (or marks) to advance under the sensor. If this method fails, see Standard Calibration (Section 5.4.2). M-Class...

  • Page 77: Standard Calibration

    You are beginning the standard calibration procedure. QFSGPSN!DBMJCSBUJPO! Press the Key. SFNPWF!MBCFM!TUPDL! This sets the parameter for the ‘empty’ value. QSFTT!FTD!LFZ!=zzz?! Remove the media from the Where ‘yyy’ is a numerical value representing the Media Sensor then the current sensor reading. key. M-Class...
  • Page 78 Sensor Eye Where ‘yyy’ is a numerical value representing the Mark. current sensor reading. Note: If using preprinted media, ensure the label area under the sensor is free of preprinted text, graphics or borders. Press the key to continue. M-Class...
  • Page 79 (or mark) to advance under the sensor. Note: A ‘Warning Low Backing’ message indicates that the calibration was successful with notched media or media on a transparent liner; see Section 7.1 for details on this and other possible messages. M-Class...

  • Page 80: Advanced Entry Calibration

    Key to enter the See Section 5.1.2 for menu layout. NFEJB!UZQF! Media Settings menu. NFEJB!TFUUJOHT! Press the Key and scroll Press the Key to abort this procedure. TFOTPS!DBMJCSBUJPO! to ‘Sensor Calibration’. TFOTPS!DBMJCSBUJPO! Press the Key. You are entering the calibration submenu. QFSGPSN!DBMJCSBUJPO! M-Class...
  • Page 81 Note: Never position the sensor over a perforation table similar to the one shown +11!!!!!!!!)1!.!42*! when recording a sensor reading. after Step 12, as a Label Value. Next, press the Key to increment the Gain Number. Repeat this step for each of the Gain Numbers (00-32). M-Class...
  • Page 82 Step 12, as a TOF Value. Next, press the Key to increment the Gain Number. Repeat for each of the Gain Numbers (00-32). Note: Do NOT move the position of the Media Sensor after it has been adjusted. M-Class...
  • Page 83 Gain Number 8 would be chosen because it has the highest Difference Value (146) where both the Label Value and the TOF Value are above 20. … … … … M-Class...
  • Page 84 ‘G’ or ‘M’ (Gap or Mark). Remove all media. Record the sensor reading and label it ‘E’ (Empty). 15 Press the Key. Then The sensor readings must be manually entered into BEWBODFE!FOUSZ! TFOTPS!MFWFMT! press the Key. the printer now. M-Class...
  • Page 85 Re-enter Media Settings / Calibration / Advanced Entry / Sensor Gain and lower the selected Gain Setting number by one (to make the sensor less sensitive). Select the new Gain Setting, save the changes, exit the menu, and then test your media. Repeat the procedure until a usable media setting is obtained. M-Class...
  • Page 86 M-Class...

  • Page 87: Introduction

    Mild detergent or desktop cleaner. As needed Interior Brush or vacuum cleaner As needed. * It is recommended that a solvent containing isopropyl alcohol be used. Isopropyl alcohol is a flammable solvent, always take the proper precautions when using this substance. Warning M-Class...

  • Page 88: Cleaning The Printhead

    6.1.1 Automated Printhead Cleaning (printers with display only) 1. Remove media and ribbon. 2. Place a Datamax Cleaning Card, part number 70-2013-01 under the printhead. Lower and lock the printhead. Ensure that the Leveling Cam is not engaged (positioned in its left most position).

  • Page 89: Media Width Adjustment

    (see note below). the Thumbscrew to the right. When changing to a different width of label, readjust the Leveling Cam. Note: Under-adjustment of the Leveling Cam: Problems can include ribbon wrinkling, label tracking, and platen roller and printhead wear. M-Class...

  • Page 90: Printhead Burn Line Adjustment

    Typically, thicker media requires a slight forward adjustment, while thinner media requires a slight backward adjustment. If you have questions, contact a qualified technician or Datamax Technical Support before proceeding. To adjust the Burn Line: 1.

  • Page 91: Printhead Pressure Adjustment

    When using narrow media it is sometimes necessary to increase the pressure on the inner (closest to centerplate) Printhead Pressure Adjustment Screw to prevent ribbon smudging. Note: Excessive pressure can reduce the service life of the printhead and platen roller. Unequal pressure may cause ribbon and label tracking problems. M-Class...

  • Page 92: Printhead Replacement

    Note: Printheads are fragile; use extreme care when handling and never use a sharp object on the surface. If you have questions, contact a qualified technician or Datamax Technical Support before proceeding. 1. Touch a bare metal part of the printer’s frame to discharge any static electricity that may be present on your body.

  • Page 93: Darkness Adjustment

    Display Printers: Depending upon the method used, there are three reset levels possible: Soft Reset To reset the printer and clear any temporary host settings: With the printer ‘On’, press and hold the CANCEL Key for approximately four seconds. M-Class...
  • Page 94 Press and hold the PAUSE, FEED, and CANCEL Keys while turning ‘On’ the printer; continue to depress the keys until the ‘READY’ message appears. Note: After executing a Level 2 Reset, the media calibration must be performed; see Section 5.4. A listing of the factory default settings can be found in Section 5.1. M-Class...

  • Page 95: Downloading Firmware And Fonts

    The operating programs and fonts for the printer are stored in Flash memory on the Main PCB. When program updates and/or new features are added, they can be downloaded to the printer as follows: 1. Identify the new version for your model of printer from the Datamax Web site at www.datamaxcorp.com and download it onto your computer’s hard drive or a floppy disk.
  • Page 96 M-Class...

  • Page 97: Problem Resolution

    (For printers equipped with a display, see Section 7.1. for information on displayed messages.) Items denoted with an ‘*’ are for printers with displays only. If you have questions, or if problems persist, contact a qualified technician or Datamax Technical Support. Try this solution…...
  • Page 98 • The heat setting may be too low. Make an adjustment in the software program or through the Front Panel. • The media/ribbon combination may be incorrect. Contact a Media Representative. • The printhead or printhead cable(s) may be loose; power ‘Off’ the printer then reconnect. M-Class...
  • Page 99 Unable to print rotated text: The characters may be formatted outside the label dimensions. Ensure the row/column values provide enough room for the height of the characters or bar code to be printed. See the Class Series Programmer’s Manual for details. M-Class...

  • Page 100: Fault And Warning Messages

    Press any key to continue. Ensure that media was removed from HBQ!NPEF! GBVMUZ!TFOTPS! the media sensor during the appropriate calibration steps; also readings were detected. ensure that no labels are stuck in the media sensor. Retry the calibration. If the problem persists, call for service. M-Class...
  • Page 101 GBVMUZ!TFOTPS! readings were detected. Ensure that media was removed from the media sensor during the appropriate calibration steps; also ensure that no labels are stuck in the media sensor. Retry the calibration. If the problem persists, call for service. M-Class...
  • Page 102 Check the Media Settings / Maximum Label Length; see Section 5.1.2. 6) The Media Sensor may be obstructed. Check and carefully remove any obstruction (labels, paper dust, adhesive, etc). If media is not moving: The printhead assembly may not be latched; close it. M-Class...

  • Page 103: Specifications

    DHCP server. button. To stop this from reoccurring be sure the menu item ‘IP DISCOVERY’ is set to ‘DISABLED’, see Section 5.1.6. A high printhead temperature No action required. Printing will resume after the printhead UFNQFSBUVSF!QBVTF! has been detected. cools. M-Class...

  • Page 104: Hex Dump Mode

    As a final note, many software programs use bit mapping to construct the label, making diagnosis difficult. Contact Datamax Technical Support with any questions. Note: To return to Ready Mode, re-enter the Diagnostics Menu and disable the Hex Dump Mode, exit the menu, then save the changes.
  • Page 105 2 - 6 IPS (50 - 152 mm/s) M-4206 and M-4306 2 - 8 IPS (50 - 203 mm/s) M-4208 Resolution 203 dpi (8 dots/mm) M-4206 and M-4208 300 dpi (11.8 dots/mm) M-4306 Tear Bar Tear Down DRAM Memory 4MB M-4206 8MB M-4208 and M-4306 FLASH Memory M-Class...

  • Page 106: Embedded Bar Codes

    AGFA Scalable Font Engine featuring CG Triumvirate™ regular and bold-condensed scalable fonts with dynamic font attributes. Embedded Bar Codes The printer is equipped with the most popular industry bar codes, see Appendix B for a full listing and detailed information. M-Class...

  • Page 107: Approved Media

    To achieve optimum print quality and maximum printhead life, Datamax specifies the use of DATAMAX brand media and ribbons. These supplies are specially formulated for use in our printers; use of non-Datamax supplies may affect the print quality, performance, and life of the printer or its components.
  • Page 108 M-Class...

  • Page 109: Ascii Control Code Chart

    Ctrl M Ctrl N Ctrl O Ctrl P Ctrl Q Ctrl R Ctrl S Ctrl T Ctrl U Ctrl V Ctrl W Ctrl X Ctrl Y Ctrl Z Ctrl [ Ctrl \ < Ctrl ] Ctrl ^ > Ctrl _ M-Class...
  • Page 110 Notes: For the hardware handshake XON/XOFF commands: Ctrl Q (DC1) XOFF Ctrl S (DC3) The Euro character has been added to the table above at 255 (FF) as a Datamax standard for resident bit-mapped fonts 0,1,2,3,4,5,6, and 9 (CG Triumvirate). M-Class...

  • Page 111: Embedded Fonts And Barcodes

    32, 48-57, 60, 62, 67, 69, 78, 83, 84, 88, 90 32-126, 128-169, 171-173, 181-184, 189, 190, 198, 199, 208-216, 222, 224-237, 241, 243, 246-250,255 Smooth Font Downloadable Dependent upon selected symbol set; see the Scalable Font Programmers Manual * Not available on non-display printers M-Class...
  • Page 112 Font 6 Font 7 Font 8 Font 0 96-character Font 1 145-character upper and alphanumeric, upper and lower lower case alphanumeric w/ case. descenders and ascenders. Font 3 62-character Font 2 138-character alphanumeric, uppercase. alphanumeric, upper and lower case. M-Class...
  • Page 113 Font 4 62-character Font 5 62-character alphanumeric, uppercase. alphanumeric, uppercase. Font 6 62-character alphanumeric, uppercase. M-Class...
  • Page 114 Point sizes are selected by the number in the barcode height. Larger point sizes can be obtained by increasing the height and width multipliers, 48pt and 72pt fonts are generated by doubling the 24pt and 36pt fonts respectively (see the Programmer's Manual for more information). M-Class...
  • Page 115 USD-8 (Code 11) – Non-Human Readable Varies Yes, C&K 0 through 9 and “-“ *W1G USD-8 (Code 11) - Human Readable Varies Yes, C&K 0 through 9 and “-“ EAN128 (Code 128 with Auto Subset Switching Varies Alphanumeric between B/C) M-Class...
  • Page 116 Limited) RSS Expanded Varies Subset of ISO646 including Alphanumeric TCIF Linked Barcode 3 of 9 (TLC39) Varies Alphanumeric MicroPDF417 Varies All 8-bit values MicroPDF417 with Byte Count Specified All 8-bit values * Not available on non-display printers M-Class...
  • Page 117 Barcode B Code 39 UPC-A (regular) Barcode C Barcode D Interleaved 2 of 5 UPC-E (zero suppression) Barcode E Code 128 Barcode F EAN-13 Barcode G EAN-8 Barcode H Health Industry Bar Code (Code 39 Mod and 43 checksum) M-Class...
  • Page 118 Barcode J Interleaved 2 of 5 w/module 10 checksum Barcode K Plessey Barcode L ITF SCC-14/ I 2 of 5 Shipping Container Code Barcode M 2 Digit UPC Barcode N 5 Digit UPC addendum addendum Barcode O Code 93 Barcode p Postnet M-Class...
  • Page 119 Barcode Q Barcode R UCC/EAN Code 128 SSCC-18/Serial Shipping Container Code KMART NON EDI Barcode S UCC/EAN 128 Random Weight Barcode T Telepen Barcode u UPS MaxiCode M-Class...
  • Page 120 Barcode z PDF417 Bar Code W1c: DataMatrix Bar Code W1d: QR Code Bar Code W1g: USD-8 (Code 11) Bar Code W1f: Aztec Bar Code WI: EAN128 Bar Code WJ: Code 128 Auto (Code 128 with Auto Subset Switching between B/C) M-Class...
  • Page 121 Bar Code W1k: RSS Bar Code W1z: MicroPDF417 (Reduced Space Symbology) Bar Code W1T: TCIF Linked Barcode 3 of 9 (TLC39) M-Class...
  • Page 122 M-Class...

  • Page 123: Optional Internal Ethernet Printer Server

    Optional Internal Ethernet Printer Server (printers with display only) Indicators and Connector M-Class Ethernet Indicates a valid 10-megabit Ethernet connection is present Print Server when lit. 10 Meg. Ethernet Connection Indicator 100M Indicates a valid 100-megabit Ethernet connection is 100 Meg. Ethernet...
  • Page 124 Once you have obtained the assigned IP from the configuration label you can then install the port and printer driver using the Windows ® ‘Add a Printer Wizard’. See section, Installing the Printer Driver and Port in this document. M-Class...
  • Page 125 6. Using the button scroll to and press the ‘DISABLED’ JQ!EJTDPWFSZ! +EJTBCMFE! button. 7. Press the button once to return to the ‘NIC ADAPTER’ OJD!BEBQUFS! JQ!BEESFTT! menu level. Then use the button scroll to ‘IP ADDRESS’ and press the button. M-Class...
  • Page 126 ON. Once you have entered your IP settings into the printer you can then install the port and printer driver using the Windows ® ‘Add a Printer Wizard’. See section, Installing the Printer Driver and Port in this document. M-Class...
  • Page 127 Note: Consult with your system administrator for all necessary address, printer, and protocol information. To change these settings you will be asked for an authentication password. Type sysadm and click “Apply”. Next you should see the Print Server’s Unit Information page: M-Class...
  • Page 128 Network Status M-Class...
  • Page 129 TCP/IP Configuration M-Class...
  • Page 130 Many of the printer's internal menu settings can be controlled from the following next six screens. This allows the user to adjust many of the printer's settings remotely without using the printer's front panel. For more information on the function of these settings see the M-Class Operator’s Manual. M-Class...
  • Page 131 System Settings, Media Settings, and Print Control (continued) Printer Options, Communications, and Diagnostics M-Class...
  • Page 132 Printer Options, Communications, and Diagnostics (continued) M-Class...
  • Page 133 Network Print Options Reset Network Parameters M-Class...
  • Page 134 Change Password M-Class...
  • Page 135 Installing the Printer Driver and Port Windows 95/98 Driver and Port Installation Insert the M-Class CD-ROM into your computer’s drive. The M-Class CD-ROM should start automatically, if it does not Click ‘Start’ and then select ‘Run’ from the window’s menu. Then type d:\datamax.exe (where “d:”...
  • Page 136 Browse to the “Drivers” Click ‘OK’. folder on the CD-ROM, make sure the file “Datamax for 95, 98, me, 2000, and xp.inf” is selected and click ‘OK’. Select the ‘M-4208’ Your computer will printer from the list and now copy the necessary then click ‘Next’.
  • Page 137 IP address of your printer. The ‘Port The driver and port Number’ and ‘Port installation is now Name’ fields do not complete. The printer need to be changed. can be selected through When finished click any window’s “OK’ application. M-Class...
  • Page 138 Windows NT 4.0 Driver and Port Installation Insert the M-Class CD-ROM into your computer’s drive. The M-Class CD-ROM should start automatically, if it does not Click ‘Start’ and then select ‘Run’ from the window’s menu. Then type d:\datamax.exe (where “d:” is the location of the CD-ROM) At the main screen click Now click “Install...
  • Page 139 Double-click ‘LPR In the top field enter Port’. the IP address of your printer. In the bottom field enter PORT1. When finished click “OK’. Click ‘Close’ Click ‘Next’. Click on ‘Have Disk’. Click ‘Browse’. M-Class...
  • Page 140 Browse to the Click ‘OK’. “Drivers\Nt4\” folder on the CD-ROM, make sure the file “Datamax for nt 4.0 only” is selected and click ‘Open’. Select the ‘M-4208’ Name your printer in printer from the list and the ‘Printer name:’ then click ‘Next’.
  • Page 141 Windows 2000 Driver and Port Installation Insert the M-Class CD-ROM into your computer’s drive. The M-Class CD-ROM should start automatically, if it does not Click ‘Start’ and then select ‘Run’ from the window’s menu. Then type d:\datamax.exe (where “d:” is the location of the CD-ROM) At the main screen click Now click “Install...
  • Page 142 IP Address:’ field enter is selected and then the IP address of your click ‘Next’. printer. The ‘Port Name’ field does not need to be changed. When finished click ‘Next’. Confirm your settings Click on ‘Have Disk’. and then click ‘Finish’. M-Class...
  • Page 143 Click ‘Browse’. Browse to the “Drivers” folder on the CD-ROM, make sure the file “Datamax for 95, 98, me, 2000, and xp.inf” is selected and click ‘OK’. Click ‘OK’. Select the ‘M-4208’ printer from the list and then click ‘Next’.
  • Page 144 Your computer will "Digital Signature Not now copy the necessary Found" window, click files from the CD- ‘Yes’ to continue ROM. installation. The driver and port installation is now complete. The printer can be selected through any window’s application. M-Class...
  • Page 145 Windows XP Driver and Port Installation Insert the M-Class CD-ROM into your computer’s drive. The M-Class CD-ROM should start automatically, if it does not Click ‘Start’ and then select ‘Run’ from the window’s menu. Then type d:\datamax.exe (where “d:” is the location of the CD-ROM) At the main screen click Now click “Install...
  • Page 146 IP Address:’ field enter is selected and then the IP address of your click ‘Next’. printer. The ‘Port Name’ field does not need to be changed. When finished click “Next’. Confirm your settings Click on ‘Have Disk’. and then click ‘Finish’. M-Class...
  • Page 147 Click ‘Browse’. Browse to the “Drivers” folder on the CD-ROM, make sure the file “Datamax for 95, 98, me, 2000, and xp.inf” is selected and click ‘OK’. Click ‘OK’. Select the ‘M-4208’ printer from the list and then click ‘Next’.
  • Page 148 Your computer will "Digital Signature Not now copy the necessary Found" window, click files from the CD- ‘Yes’ to continue ROM. installation. The driver and port installation is now complete. The printer can be selected through any window’s application. M-Class...

  • Page 149: Menu System Multi-Language Support

    (printers with display only) This printer provides the user with the ability to download new menu system languages and/or replace the Datamax provided translations. A Microsoft® Excel Spreadsheet defines the menu dictionary – the user adds a new language column or modifies an existing column in the spreadsheet, clicks on the ‘Generate DPL file(s)’...
  • Page 150 Creating a Menu Language: Invoke Excel and open the gemmsglst.xls file. Excel opens the file and the following screen appears. Click the “Enable Macro” box and the following appears: M-Class...
  • Page 151 When editing has been completed, highlight all of the columns you desire to create (more than one language may be selected) by pressing the letter above the column. Press the Generate DPL File(s) radio button. A file will be generated for each of the selected columns and Excel will provide confirmation. (Example: small.ls) M-Class...
  • Page 152 English an error has occurred. Re-check the process. Contact Datamax Technical Support if problems continue (be prepared to provide the Gemmsglst.xls and the DPL download file that you have created). Other possible error messages are as follows:...

  • Page 153: Advanced File Handling Information

    To restore the factory generated EFIGS image, download the file 832296.08A to the printer. This file is located on the Datamax FTP site. The letter at the end of the file name (e.g., A) specifies the revision. The latest revision will be available on the FTP site.
  • Page 154 M-Class...

  • Page 155: Saving A Configuration File

    The DOWN ARROW Key scrolls down through the alphanumeric, underscore, and delete character. The UP ARROW Key scrolls up through the alphanumeric and underscore characters, and the delete function. The ENTER Key accepts the displayed character and advances the cursor. Saves the displayed file. M-Class...
  • Page 156 To abort the “save setting” function, delete all entered characters in the file name and press the ESCAPE Key. TQFDJBM!TUPDL! Press the Key repeatedly to save Save complete. (To restore a saved file using the TVDDFTTGVM the file name and return to ‘Ready’. front panel see Section 5.1.5.) M-Class...

  • Page 157: Gpio Port Description

    Main PCB. Requires firmware version 5.07 or greater. The option port connector is an 8-pin Molex Microfit 3.0 P/N 44300-800. The J6 connector is an AMP connector P/N 640456-8. Each GPIO pin’s function is detailed in the table below: Options Port Connector Main PCB Connector J6 M-Class...
  • Page 158 Selection for this option can be set via the Printer Set Configuration Command <STX>Kc or the Printer Setup Function. The Printer Set Configuration Parameter Mnemonics are “PS” for Present Sensor (N,Y,A(Auto)); “CE” for Cutter Equipped (N,Y,A(Auto)) and “GE” for GPIO (N,YorA(Applicator)). The Printer Setup selections are: Item #3 PRESENT SENSOR; Item #4 CUTTER EQUIPPED; and Item #25 GPIO. M-Class...
  • Page 159 1.65 VDC maximum (low level input voltage) -8 mA typical, - 25 mA maximum (high level output current) 8 mA typical 25 mA maximum (low level output current) = -8 mA, minimum 3.8 VDC = 8 mA, maximum .44 VDC M-Class...
  • Page 160 M-Class...

  • Page 161: Warranty Information

    This one year (365 days) warranty is valid only if a Datamax - approved thermal label media is used, as defined in the then current Datamax list of approved thermal/thermal transfer media, a copy of which is available from Datamax. Failure to use Datamax-approved media is justification for invalidation of this thermal printhead warranty.

  • Page 162: Limitation Of Liability

    Datamax hereunder by the purchaser for a defective product. In no event shall Datamax be liable to the purchaser for any damages resulting from or related to any failure or delay of Datamax in the delivery or installation of the computer hardware, supplies or software or in the performance of any services.

  • Page 163: Glossary

    Media that has been cut into a pattern using a press, where the excess paper is removed leaving individual labels, with gaps between them, attached to a backing material. direct thermal The printing method that uses a heat sensitive media and only the heat of the thermal printhead to create an image on the label. M-Class...
  • Page 164 Also referred to as “resolution”. DPL (Datamax Programming Language) programming commands used specifically for control of and label production in Datamax printers. A complete listing of commands can be found in the Programmer’s Manual. fan-fold Media that is folded and stacked.
  • Page 165 The printing method that creates an image by transferring ink from a ribbon onto the media using the heat from the thermal printhead. TOF (top of form) The start of a new label as indicated by a label gap, notch, mark or programming. void An undesirable blank space in a printed image. M-Class...
  • Page 166 M-Class...

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