User’s Guide

EasyCoder PX6i
Bar Code Label
Printer
(Fingerprint Version)

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 User’s Guide

EasyCoder PX6i
Bar Code Label
Printer
(Fingerprint Version)

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 Intermec Technologies Corporation
Corporate Headquarters
6001 36th Ave. W.
Everett, WA 98203
U.S.A.
www.intermec.com
The information contained herein is proprietary and is provided solely
for the purpose of allowing customers to operate and service Intermec-
manufactured equipment and is not to be released, reproduced, or used
for any other purpose without written permission of Intermec.
Information and specifications contained in this document are subject to
change without prior notice and do not represent a commitment on the
part of Intermec Technologies Corporation.
© 2004 by Intermec Technologies Corporation. All rights reserved.
The word Intermec, the Intermec logo, Norand, ArciTech, CrossBar,
Data Collection Browser, dcBrowser, Duratherm, EasyCoder, EasyLAN,
Enterprise Wireless LAN, EZBuilder, Fingerprint, i-gistics, INCA (under
license), InterDriver, Intermec Printer Network Manager, IRL, JANUS,
LabelShop, Mobile Framework, MobileLAN, Nor*Ware, Pen*Key,
Precision Print, PrintSet, RoutePower, TE 2000, Trakker Antares, UAP,
Universal Access Point, and Virtual Wedge are either trademarks or regis-
tered trademarks of Intermec Technologies Corporation.
Throughout this manual, trademarked names may be used. Rather than
put a trademark (™ or ®) symbol in every occurrence of a trademarked
name, we state that we are using the names only in an editorial fashion,
and to the benefit of the trademark owner, with no intention of infringe-
ment.
There are U.S. and foreign patents pending.
The name Centronics is wholly owned by GENICOM Corporation.
Microsoft is a registered trademark of Microsoft Corporation.
TrueDoc is a registered trademark of Bitstream, Inc.
TrueType is a trademark of Apple Computer Inc.
Unicode is a trademark of Unicode Inc.
Windows is a trademark of Microsoft Corporation.

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 Document Change Record
This page records changes to this document. The document was origi-
nally released as version -00.

Version Date Description of Change

-00 May 2004 For preproduction DAT printers
-01 Sept. 2004 For preproduction MAT printers

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 iv EasyCoder PX6i User’s Guide (Fingerprint version)

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 Contents

Contents
Before You Begin........................................................................... ix
Safety Summary .............................................................. ix
Safety Icons ..................................................................... x
Global Services and Support ........................................... xi
Warranty Information ...................................... xi
Web Support .................................................... xi
Telephone Support ........................................... xi
Who Should Read This Document .................. xi
Related Documents .......................................... xi

1 Introduction
Description of EasyCoder PX6i Printer .......................................... 2
Safety Summary ............................................................................. 3
Product Identification .................................................................... 3

2 Installation
Unpacking the Printer .................................................................... 6
Front View ..................................................................................... 7
Rear View ...................................................................................... 8
Media Compartment ..................................................................... 9
Print Mechanism.......................................................................... 10
Connections................................................................................. 11
Power ............................................................................ 11
Computer ...................................................................... 11
Controls and Indicators ............................................................... 12
Indicator Lamps ............................................................ 12
Display .......................................................................... 13
Keyboard ....................................................................... 13
Beeper ........................................................................... 14

3 Starting Up
Startup Files ................................................................................. 16
Memory Card .............................................................................. 17
Switching On the Printer ............................................................. 18

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4 Media Load
Tear-Off (Straight-through) ......................................................... 20
Cut-Off........................................................................................ 25
Peel-Off (Self-strip) ...................................................................... 30
External Supply (Fan-fold) ........................................................... 36

5 Thermal Transfer Printing

Ribbon Load ................................................................................ 40

6 Setting Up the Printer

Description. ................................................................................. 48
Default Setup ............................................................................... 49
Reading the Current Setup ........................................................... 50
Setup Parameters .......................................................................... 51
Serial Communication ................................................... 51
Baud Rate ....................................................... 51
Character Length ............................................ 52
Parity............................................................... 52
Stop Bits.......................................................... 52
Flow Control................................................... 52
New Line ........................................................ 53
Receive Buffer ................................................. 53
Transmit Buffer ............................................... 53
Feed Adjust .................................................................... 54
Start Adjust ..................................................... 54
Stop Adjust ..................................................... 54
Recommended Feed Adjustments.................... 55
Media ............................................................................ 56
Media Size ....................................................... 56
Media Type ..................................................... 59
Paper Type....................................................... 60
Contrast .......................................................... 62
Paper Sensor .................................................... 62
Testfeed ........................................................... 62
Print Defines ................................................................. 63
Head Resistance .............................................. 63
Testprint.......................................................... 63
Print Speed ...................................................... 63

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 Contents

LSS Test .......................................................... 63

LTS (Label Taken Sensor) ................................63
Returning to Factory Default Setup ............................................. 66

7 Setup Mode
Entering the Setup Mode at Installation ....................................... 68
Navigating in Setup Mode ........................................................... 69
Setup Mode Overviews ................................................................ 71

8 Intermec Shell Startup Program

Introduction ................................................................................ 82
Starting with Intermec Shell ......................................................... 84
Intermec Shell Overview .............................................................. 88
Line Analyzer ............................................................................... 89

9 Options
Introduction ................................................................................ 92
Liner Takeup Unit ........................................................................ 93
Paper Cutter................................................................................. 93
Fan-fold Guides ........................................................................... 94
3-inch Adapter ............................................................................. 94
Label Taken Sensor ...................................................................... 94
Real Time Clock .......................................................................... 95
CompactFlash Protection Plate .................................................... 95
Alphanumeric Keyboards ............................................................. 95
Interface Boards ........................................................................... 95

10 Troubleshooting
Intermec Readiness Indicator ....................................................... 98
Troubleshooting List .................................................................. 101

11 Maintenance
Printhead Cleaning .................................................................... 104
External Cleaning ...................................................................... 108
Cleaning the Label Stop Sensor .................................................. 109
Printhead Replacement .............................................................. 110
Media Jams ................................................................................ 114

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12 Adjustments
Narrow Media ............................................................................ 116
Printhead Pressure ...................................................................... 117
Label Stop Sensor ....................................................................... 118

A Technical Specifications
Technical Data ........................................................................... 122

B Media Specifications
Media Roll Size .......................................................................... 126
Media ........................................................................................ 127
Non-Adhesive Strip ..................................................... 127
Self-Adhesive Strip ....................................................... 128
Self-Adhesive Labels..................................................... 129
Tickets with Gap ......................................................... 131
Tickets with Black Mark .............................................. 133

C Interfaces
RS-232 Interface ........................................................................ 136
USB Interface ............................................................................ 137
Bar Code Wand Interface ........................................................... 138
Optional Interfaces .................................................................... 139

D Intermec Supplies
Direct Thermal Media................................................................ 144
Thermal Transfer Media ............................................................. 145
Transfer Ribbons ........................................................................ 146
Bar Code Directions .................................................................. 147
Recommended Paper Type Settings (Europe) .............................148
Recommended Paper Type Settings (North America) .................150

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 Before You Begin

Before You Begin

This section provides you with safety information, technical support
information, and sources for additional product information.

Safety Summary
Your safety is extremely important. Read and follow all warnings and
cautions in this document before handling and operating Intermec
equipment. You can be seriously injured, and equipment and data can be
damaged if you do not follow the safety warnings and cautions.
Do not repair or adjust alone
Do not repair or adjust energized equipment alone under any circum-
stances. Someone capable of providing first aid must always be present
for your safety.
First aid
Always obtain first aid or medical attention immediately after an injury.
Never neglect an injury, no matter how slight it seems.
Resuscitation
Begin resuscitation immediately if someone is injured and stops breath-
ing. Any delay could result in death. To work on or near high voltage,
you should be familiar with approved industrial first aid methods.
Energized equipment
Never work on energized equipment unless authorized by a responsible
authority. Energized electrical equipment is dangerous. Electrical shock
from energized equipment can cause death. If you must perform autho-
rized emergency work on energized equipment, be sure that you comply
strictly with approved safety regulations.

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 Before You Begin

Safety Icons
This section explains how to identify and understand dangers, warnings,
cautions, and notes that are in this document. You may also see icons
that tell you when to follow ESD procedures.

A warning alerts you of an operating procedure, practice,

condition, or statement that must be strictly observed to
avoid death or serious injury to the persons working on the
equipment.

A caution alerts you to an operating procedure, practice,

condition, or statement that must be strictly observed to
prevent equipment damage or destruction, or corruption or
loss of data.

This icon appears at the beginning of any procedure in this

manual that could cause you to touch components (such as
printed circuit boards) that are susceptible to damage from
electrostatic discharge (ESD). When you see this icon, you
must follow standard ESD guidelines to avoid damaging
the equipment you are servicing.

Note: Notes either provide extra information about a topic or

contain special instructions for handling a particular condition
or set of circumstances.

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 Before You Begin

Global Services and Support

Warranty Information
To understand the warranty for your Intermec product, visit the
Intermec web site at http://www.intermec.com and click Service &
Support. The Intermec Global Sales & Service page appears. From the
Service & Support menu, move your pointer over Support, and then
click Warranty.
Web Support
Visit the Intermec web site at http://www.intermec.com to download
our current documents in PDF format. To order printed versions of the
Intermec manuals, contact your local Intermec representative or distribu-
tor.
Visit the Intermec technical knowledge base (Knowledge Central) at
http://intermec.custhelp.com to review technical information or to
request technical support for your Intermec product.
Telephone Support
Contact your local Intermec representative. To search for your local rep-
resentative, from the Intermec web site, click Contact.
Who Should Read This Document?
This User’s Guide provides you with information about the features of
the EasyCoder PX6i printer and how to install, configure, operate, main-
tain, and troubleshoot it.
Related Documents
The Intermec web site at http://www.intermec.com contains our current
documents that you can download in PDF format. To order printed ver-
sions of the Intermec manuals, contact your local Intermec representative
or distributor.

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 Before You Begin

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 1 Introduction

This chapter introduces the EasyCoder PX6i printer.

The chapter covers the following topics:
• Description of EasyCoder PX6i
• Safety summary
• Product identification

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 Chapter 1 — Introduction

Description of EasyCoder PX6i Printer

The EasyCoder PX6i is an industrial, rugged, high-volume thermal
transfer printer with a printhead resolution of 8 dots/mm = 203.2 dots/
inch or 11.81 dots/mm = 300 dots/inch and a maximum print width of
168 mm (6.6 inches).
The EasyCoder PX6i offers a large number of useful features, such as:
• High speed printing up to 225 mm/sec. (9 inches/sec.)
• Flash memory SIMMs for firmware, fonts, bar codes, and application
programs
• Built-in CompactFlash memory card adapter
• Built-in RS-232 and USB interfaces
• Provision for up to three extra interface boards including wired or
wireless EasyLAN connections, parallel interface, double serial inter-
faces, and serial/industrial interfaces
• Keyboard and display with backlight
• Support for network monitoring through optional software tools
A large number of factory-installed or field-installable options are avail-
able, so the printer can be configured for a wide range of applications.
See Chapter 9 and Appendix A for more information.
The EasyCoder PX6i supports the unique and flexible Intermec Finger-
print v8.30 programming language, which allows the user or third-party
developer to create custom-made application programs and label formats
in a BASIC-like environment.
The printer is also designed to work with the Intermec Direct Protocol
programming language, the Intermec InterDriver, and Intermec Label-
Shop. The InterDriver allows you to print labels from standard MS
Windows applications, for example Microsoft Office. Intermec Label-
Shop is a series of label-design programs that work under various versions
of MS Windows.
The EasyCoder PX6i supports 15 scalable Unicode TrueType and
TrueDoc fonts as standard. Additional fonts can be downloaded into the
printer’s Flash memory, or be plugged in using a CompactFlash card.
The Unicode standard allows the use of special characters for various
languages including non-Latin fonts, such as Arabic, Cyrillic, Chinese,
Japanese, Korean, Hebrew, and similar.
A version of EasyCoder PX6i, that supports the Intermec Programming
Language (IPL) v2.30, is described in a special User’s Guide.

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 Chapter 1 — Introduction

Safety Summary
Intermec assumes no responsibility regarding the CE Directive if the
printer is handled, modified, or installed in any way other than that
described in Intermec’s manuals.
• Read this manual carefully before connecting the printer.
• Moving parts are exposed when the side doors are open, so ensure that
the doors are closed before you operate the printer.
• Do not remove the left-hand cover. Dangerous voltage!
• Do not remove the bottom plate. Dangerous voltage!
• Do not put your fingers inside the print mechanism when the power
is on.
• Place the printer on an even surface which can support its weight of
approximately 15 kg (33 pounds) plus supplies.
• Do not spray the printer with water. If you are using a hose to clean
the premises in an industrial environment, remove the printer or pro-
tect it carefully from spray and moisture.
• Carefully read the warning text on the envelope before using a clean-
ing card.

Product Identification
The machine label is attached to the printer’s rear plate and contains
information on type, model, and serial number as well as AC voltage. It
also contains various signs of approval.

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 2 Installation

This chapter explains how to unpack and install the

EasyCoder PX6i and also describes the printer’s vari-
ous parts in detail. It covers the following topics:
• Unpacking the printer
• Parts on the printer’s front
• Parts on the printer’s rear plate
• Parts in the media compartment
• Parts in the print mechanism
• Connecting the printer
• Using the controls and understanding the indica-
tors

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 Chapter 2 — Installation

Unpacking the Printer

Before you install the printer, examine the package for possible damage
or missing parts:
• Open the box and lift the printer out.
• Check that the printer has not been visibly damaged during transpor-
tation. Keep the packing materials in case you need to move or reship
the printer.
• Check the label on the printer’s rear plate, which gives the voltage, the
part number, and the serial number.
• Check that any options you ordered are included.
• Check that all the accessories are included. As standard, the box con-
tains:
- Intermec EasyCoder PX6i printer
- Two adapter for 3-inch media roll core
- Power cord
- Quality check card
- Cleaning card
- This User’s Guide
- Compact disk (CD) with supporting software, additional manuals,
and product information.
• Check that the type of power cord is appropriate for the local stan-
dard. The printer works within 90 to 265 VAC, 50 to 60 Hz.
If the printer has been damaged in any way during transportation, com-
plain to the carrier immediately.
If the delivery is incorrect or any parts are missing, report it immediately
to the distributor.

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 Chapter 2 — Installation

Front View
At the front of the printer are the display window, the indicator lamps,
and the keyboard. These features allow the operator to control and set up
the printer manually.
The front door is held by a snap-lock. Open the front door to view the
various parts on the printer’s front.
Refer to Chapter 9 “Options” for information on possible optional
devices fitted on the printer’s front.

Indicator lamps

Display window

Keyboard

Connector
for optional
cutter

#LOSED
/PEN

Print mechanism

Front door

Side door

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 Chapter 2 — Installation

Rear View
The rear plate contains the On/Off switch, the AC power cord socket,
and various interface connectors and slots.

Provision for EasyLAN

Wireless antenna
(option)
Provision for EasyLAN
Ethernet connection
(option)
Intake slot for external
media supply
Memory card slot
Provision for two optional
interface boards

On/Off Switch
Bar code wand socket
("wand:")
AC Power cord socket
RS-232 serial interface
("uart1:")

USB Interface ("usb1:")

Machine label

Intake slot for external

media supply

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 Chapter 2 — Installation

Media Compartment
The media compartment is covered by the side door which can be
opened 180° downwards to provide full access for media and ribbon
load. The door is held in closed position by a magnetic lock. It can be
completely removed by pushing it rearwards.
The media can be supplied from a rotating hub or from an external
supply of fan folds behind the printer. Also see Chapter 9, “Options.”

Side door

Media supply
Ribbon supply hub roll hub
Ribbon rewind hub

#LOSED
/PEN

Slack absorber

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 Chapter 2 — Installation

Print Mechanism
The print mechanism features a high-performance thermal printhead
with quick-mount fittings to facilitate replacement.

Pressure arm
locking knob
Printhead
pressure
adjustment
knob

D
#LOSE
/PEN

Edge
guide

Pressure
arm
Thermal printhead

Tear bar

Printhead lift
lever
Locking handle

Label stop sensor

position adjustment screw
(hidden inside locking
handle)

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 Chapter 2 — Installation

Connections
Power
1 Place the printer on a level surface, near an AC outlet. You should be
able to access the printer to load supplies and to remove the printout.
2 Check that the printer is switched off.
3 Connect the power cord from the socket on the rear plate to an elec-
trical outlet (90 to 265 VAC).
Computer
The EasyCoder PX6i is fitted with one 9-pin D-style subminiature
(DB9) socket for the RS-232 serial interface port and one class B connec-
tor for the USB interface port (see Appendix C).
RS-232 Serial Interface ("uart1:")
Use the serial interface with Intermec LabelShop or the Intermec Inter-
Driver. Also use it with the Intermec Direct Protocol or the Intermec
Fingerprint programming language because you can receive error mes-
sages from your printer. Before you can use the serial interface, you may
need to set up the communication parameters, such as baud rate, parity,
etc. as described in Chapter 6, “Setting Up the Printer.”
USB Interface ("usb1:")
Use the USB interface with an USB-compatible version of the Intermec
InterDriver for printing. The USB interface is not suitable for program-
ming because the host cannot receive error messages from your printer.
Optional Interface and Network Boards
("uart2:", "uart3:", "uart4:", "uart5:", "centronics:", and "net1:")
Several types are available (see Chapter 9, “Options”). Refer to Chapter
6, Chapter 7, and Appendix C for connection and setup instructions.
The printer can be set to scan all communication ports. When it detects
incoming data on a port, the printer automatically switches to use that
port for both input and output. This facility ("auto") can be selected in
Intermec Shell (see Chapter 8) or using the Intermec Fingerprint instruc-
tion SETSTDIO, see Intermec Fingerprint v8.3x, Programmer’s Reference
Manual. Use the <F5/i> key to get information on the active communi-
cation channels.
Switch off both PC and printer before connecting them together.

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 Chapter 2 — Installation

Controls and Indicators

The EasyCoder PX6i has several ways of communicating directly with its
operator: three colored indicator lamps, a display window, a membrane-
switch keyboard with 23 programmable keys and buttons on the printer’s
front, and a beeper.

Indicator Lamps
The indicators are colored LEDs (Light Emitting Diodes) and are used
for the following purposes:
Power (solid green) indicates that the power is on.
Status (solid green) indicates that the printer is ready for use.
Status (flashing green) indicates that the printer is communicating.
Status (solid red) indicates an error condition (see Chapter 10).
Intermec Readiness Indicator (blue; on, blink, or off ).
Represented by a blue light on Intermec handheld computers, access
points, and printers, the Intermec Readiness Indicator is part of an
exclusive monitoring system from Intermec. The Intermec Readiness
Indicator helps users quickly determine the readiness of the Intermec
device individually and as part of a solution. The Intermec Readiness
Indicator has three different states: On, Blinking, and Off. When the
Indicator is off, the device is not ready to operate individually or as
part of a solution. When the Indicator is blinking, the device may be
initializing, waiting for external resources, or in need of user atten-
tion. And when the Indicator is On, the device is ready for use as
part of a solution. Also see Chapter 10.

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 Chapter 2 — Installation

Display
The display window contains an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) with
background illumination and two lines of text, each with 16 characters.
It provides information on installed firmware or running application,
prompts the operator in Intermec Shell and in the Setup Mode, and can
show information on possible errors and active communication channels.
The Intermec Fingerprint programming language and the Intermec
Direct Protocol allow custom-made messages to be composed and dis-
played according to the requirements of the application.

Keyboard
The keyboard is of the membrane-switch type and has 22 keys and a
“Print” button. Some keys have hard-coded functions in the startup and
setup modes.
Print button Print/Pause a print job. Repeat last printed label.

Toggle between pause and printing when executing a print job.

+ Interrupt a running Fingerprint program.

Enter the Setup Mode (see Chapter 7).

Feed out a blank label or the equivalent.

+ Perform a Testfeed (feed a blank label, adjust the media feed).

Display error messages, IRI status, and communication channel
information.
Scroll between various types of information after pressing the
<F5/i> key. Possible error messages and information on active
communication channels are shown in a loop.

In application programs created using the Intermec Fingerprint pro-

gramming language, the keys can be assigned to various functions or
be disabled individually. Since one key is assigned as shift key, up to 44
different key combinations are possible. An audible signal, which can be
turned off if so desired, acknowledges that a key has been pressed.

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 Chapter 2 — Installation

Keyboard Color Code

Yellow Operation of the printer (operator level)
Green Setup or service (site or service technician level)
White Data input to printer (operator or technician level)

Beeper
The beeper notifies the operator when an error has occurred and ack-
nowledges that a key has been pressed. The Intermec Fingerprint
programming language allows the key acknowledge signal to be turned
off. The frequency and duration of signals can be specified. Thus, it is
possible to create different signals for different conditions or even to
make the printer play simple melodies!

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 3 Starting Up

This chapter explains how to start up the printer after

installation or after having been switched off. It covers
the following topics:
• Startup files
• Memory cards
• Switching on the printer
• Display messages at startup

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 Chapter 3 — Starting Up

Startup Files
When the printer is switched on, its behavior depends on the existence of
a startup file (autoexec.bat) in its memory. There are two cases:
A The printer is only fitted with the Intermec Shell file-managing
program, which allows the operator to choose between a variety of
applications and functions.
B In addition to Intermec Shell, the printer may also be provided with a
custom-made application program that is design to perform a spe-
cific task, for example to print tickets, baggage tags, or product labels
for a certain company. Such a program may be initiated by a startup
file (autoexec.bat) stored in the printer’s permanent memory or in a
memory card.
There can be one startup file stored in each of three different parts of the
printer’s memory. If there are startup files stored in more than one part,
only one will be used with the following priority:
1 An autoexec.bat file stored in a memory card, provided the card was
inserted in the printer before the power was switched on.
2 An autoexec.bat file stored in the read/write part of the printer’s per-
manent memory (device "/c").
3 The pup.bat file (Intermec Shell) in the read-only part of the printer’s
permanent memory (device "/rom").

Note: If you insert a CompactFlash memory card that contains

a startup file before you switch on the printer, this startup file
will be used instead of Intermec Shell.

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 Chapter 3 — Starting Up

Memory Card
If you want to use a memory card, you must insert it into the slot in the
printer’s rear plate before you switch on the power. The memory card
must be a CompactFlash card (8MB-1GB). CompactFlash cards marked
“CF+” will not work. You can use the CompactFlash card to expand
the printer’s storage memory ("card1:"). There are also various types of
preprogrammed CompactFlash cards, for example:
• Font Cards provide additional fonts that can be used as long as the
card remains inserted in the printer.
• Font Install Cards permanently install additional fonts in the printer,
which can be used even after the card has been removed.
• Firmware Cards automatically replace the printer’s firmware, usually
with an updated version.
CompactFlash cards are widely used for consumer’s computer products
like digital cameras. You can get a certain protection from theft by install-
ing an optional plate that covers an inserted CompactFlash card.

CompactFlash
memory card

Protection plate
with screw
(option)

Note: Always switch off the power before inserting or removing

a memory card! The card will only fit in one way. A memory
card is only detected if it is inserted before the printer is
started.

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 Chapter 3 — Starting Up

Switching On the Printer

Before switching on the printer, make the necessary connections, insert
any memory card you want to use, and check that the printhead is
engaged.
Switch on the power using the On/Off switch on the rear plate. The
“Power” control lamp on the front panel lights up when the power is on.
Wait for a few moments, while the printer loads the program and runs
some self-diagnostic tests:
Starting
„„„„„„
After a short time, the printer is initialized. The progress of the initializa-
tion is indicated by an increasing number of colons on the lower line in
the display:
Initializing
:::
The type of startup file running in the printer is indicated by the message
shown in the display window immediately after initialization.

A. Intermec Shell Startup Program

ENTER=SHELL
5 sec. v.8.2
4 sec. v.8.2
3 sec. v.8.2
2 sec. v.8.2
1 sec. v.8.2

Refer to Chapter 8 for more information on Intermec Shell. The digits

in the lower right corner of the display indicate the version of Intermec
Shell.

B. Custom-Made Application Program

Any other display messages than those illustrated above indicates that the
printer is running some custom-made, non-standard application pro-
gram, or that some error has occurred.

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 4 Media Load

This chapter explains how to load the printer with

media, that is labels, tickets, tags, or strips, for the fol-
lowing modes of operation:
• Tear-Off (straight-through)
• Cut-Off (requires optional cutter)
• Peel-Off (self-strip), requires optional integral self-
strip unit with liner takeup
• External Supply (fan-folds), fan-fold guide avail-
able as option

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 Chapter 4 — Media Load

Tear-Off (Straight-through)
The EasyCoder PX6i can print on labels, tickets, tags, and continuous
stock in various forms. This section describes the case when the media
is torn off manually against the printer’s tear bar. This method is also
known as “straight-through printing.”
Use the <Feed> key (see figure #14) when loading the same type of
media as before. When switching to a new type of media, or if the
printer does not feed out the media properly, simultaneously press the
<Shift> and <Feed> keys to perform a “testfeed.”
Tear-off can be used for:
• Non-adhesive continuous stock
• Self-adhesive continuous stock with liner
• Self-adhesive labels with liner
• Tickets with gaps, with or without perforations
• Tickets with black marks, with or without perforations
An optional label taken sensor can hold the printing of the next copy
in the batch until the present copy has been removed, see Chapter 9,
“Options.”

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 Chapter 4 — Media Load

Tear-Off, cont.
1 2

#LOSED

/PEN
Fold the locking handle downward/
Open the front and side doors. forward.

3 4

#LOSED
/PEN

Turn the printhead lift lever counter- Remove any empty core from the media
clockwise to raise the printhead. supply hub.

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 Chapter 4 — Media Load

Tear-Off, cont.
5a 5b

Fit a new roll of media on the media In case of a media roll with a 76 mm (3-
supply hub and push the roll inwards as inch) core, first fit two adapters on the
far as it will go. media supply hub.

6 7

#LOSED
/PEN

Route the media underneath the slack

absorber and forward towards the print
mechanism. The slack absorber can be
rotated for better access and snap- Route the media through the print unit
locked in open positon. and push it inwards as far as it will go.

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 Chapter 4 — Media Load

Tear-Off, cont.
8 9

#LOSED

/PEN
Turn the printhead lift lever to ”Closed”
This diagram shows the media path. position.

10 11

#LOSED

D
#LOSE
/PEN
/PEN

Adjust the position of the green edge

guides so the media is guided with a Return the locking handle to closed
minimum of play. position.

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 Chapter 4 — Media Load

Tear-Off, cont.
13 14

&EED

Press the Feed key to advance the media

and adjust the media feed. Tear off the
media by grabbing the outer edge and
Close the front and side doors. pull downwards.

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 Chapter 4 — Media Load

Cut-Off
The EasyCoder PX6i can print on labels, tickets, tags, and continuous
stock in various forms. This section describes the case when the media is
to be cut off by an automatic paper cutter (option).
Use the <Feed> key (see figure #14) when loading the same type of
media as before. When switching to a new type of media or if the printer
does not feed out the media properly, simultaneously press the <Shift>
and <Feed> keys to perform a “testfeed.”
Cut-off can be used for:
• Non-adhesive continuous stock
• Self-adhesive labels with liner (cut only liner between labels)
The cutter is designed to cut through paper-based media with a thickness
between 60 and 175 µm, which roughly corresponds to a paper weight
of 60 to 175 grams/m2 (basis weight 40 to 120 lb.). The cutter should
not be used to cut through labels, because the adhesive will stick to the
shears, which can damage the cutter.
The optional label taken sensor cannot be used with the cutter.

The rotating cutting blade can be accidently activated while

the cutter is open. To avoid any risk of injury to fingers,
always switch off the power before loading media and/or
ribbon in a cutter-equipped printer.

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 Chapter 4 — Media Load

Cut-Off, cont.
1 2

#LOSED

/PEN
#LOSED
/PEN

Switch off the power. Open the cutter Fold the locking handle downward/
and the side door. forward.

3 4

#LOSED
/PEN

Turn the printhead lift lever counter- Remove any empty core from the media
clockwise to raise the printhead. supply hub.

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 Chapter 4 — Media Load

Cut-Off, cont.
5a 5b

Fit a new roll of media on the media In case of a media roll with a 76 mm
supply hub and push the roll inwards as (3-inch) core, first fit two adapter on the
far as it will go. media supply hub.

6 7

#LOSED
/PEN

Route the media underneath the slack

absorber and forward towards the print
mechanism. The slack absorber can be
rotated for better access and snap- Route the media through the print unit
locked in open positon. and push it inwards as far as it will go.

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 Chapter 4 — Media Load

Cut-Off, cont.
8 9

#LOSED

/PEN
Turn the printhead lift lever to ”Closed”
This diagram shows the media path. position.

10 11

D
#LOSE
/PEN

#LOSED
/PEN

Adjust the position of the green edge

guides so the media is guided with a Return the locking handle to closed
minimum of play. position.

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 Chapter 4 — Media Load

Cut-Off, cont.
12 13

#LOSED

#LOSED
/PEN

/PEN
Close the cutter unit while pulling at the
Route the media through the cutter end of the media. Close the side door
between the two guide plates. and switch on the power.

14

&EED

Press the Feed key to advance the media

and adjust the media feed.

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 Chapter 4 — Media Load

Peel-Off (Self-strip)
The EasyCoder PX6i can print on labels, tickets, tags, and continuous
stock in various forms.
This section describes the case when self-adhesive labels are separated
from the liner immediately after printing, which requires an optional
internal liner takeup unit, see Chapter 9, “Options.” This is also known
as “Self-strip” operation.
Use the <Feed> key (see figure #17) when loading the same type of media
as before. When switching to a new type of media, or if the printer does
not feed out the media properly, simultaneously press the <Shift> and
<Feed> keys to perform a “ testfeed.”
Peel-off can only be used for:
• Self-adhesive labels with liner
An optional label-taken sensor can hold the printing of the next label
in a batch until the present label has been removed, see Chapter 9,
“Options.”

Note: Peel-off operation sets high demands on the media in

regard of label stiffness, release characteristics of the adhesive
and liner, resistance against electrostatic charging etc., so the
labels will be dispensed properly. Consult your media supplier
or test the media to ascertain that it is suitable for your applica-
tion.

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 Chapter 4 — Media Load

Peel-Off, cont.
1 2

#LOSED

/PEN
Fold the locking handle downward/
Open the front and side doors. forward.

3 4

#LOSED 
/PEN

Pull out the green clip (1) on the liner

Turn the printhead lift lever counter- takeup hub and dispose of any wound-
clockwise to raise the printhead. up liner (2).

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 Chapter 4 — Media Load

Peel-Off, cont.
5 6a

Fit a new roll of media on the media

Remove any empty core from the media supply hub and push the roll inwards as
supply hub. far as it will go.

6b 7

Route the media underneath the slack

absorber and forward towards the print
In case of a media roll with a 76 mm (3- mechanism. The slack absorber can be
inch) core, first fit two adapters on the rotated for better access and snap-
media supply hub. locked in open positon.

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 Chapter 4 — Media Load

Peel-Off, cont.
8 9

#LOSED

/PEN

#LOSED

/PEN
IN
C M 


Pull out approximately 40 cm (15 in) of

Route the media through the print unit labels and remove the labels from the
and push it inwards as far as it will go. liner.

10 11

#LOSED
/PEN




Secure the liner to the takeup hub with

Route the liner around the tear bar and the clip (1) and rotate the hub (2) so the
back under the print unit. media becomes tight.

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 Chapter 4 — Media Load

Peel-Off, cont.
12 13

#LOSED

/PEN
This diagram shows the media and liner Turn the printhead lift lever to ”Closed”
paths. position.

14 15
D
#LOSE
/PEN

#LOSED
/PEN

Adjust the position of the green edge

guides so the media is guided with a Return the locking handle to closed
minimum of play. position.

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 Chapter 4 — Media Load

Peel-Off, cont.
16 17

&EED

Press the Feed key to advance the media

Close the front and side doors. and adjust the media feed.

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 Chapter 4 — Media Load

External Supply (Fan-fold)

This chapter describes the case when an external media supply is used,
for example a stack of fan-fold tickets or an external media roll.
It is possible to simply let the media enter the printer through either
of the two slots in the rear plate. However, we recommend to fit the
optional Intermec Fan-Fold Kit, which provides better guidance of the
media using adjustable guides. The kit can be fitted to either the upper
or the lower slot in the rear plate.
When using an external media supply, take care to protect the media
from dust, dirt, and other foreign particles, that can impair the printout
quality or cause unnecessary wear to the printhead.
Depending on brand and quality, all direct thermal media are more or
less sensitive to heat, direct sunlight, moisture, oil, plasticizers, fat, and
other substances. Protect it accordingly.
External supply can be used for:
• Tear-off operation
• Cut-off operation
• Peel-off operation (upper slot only)

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 Chapter 4 — Media Load

External Supply (Fan-fold), cont.

1 2

Use the upper slot in the rear plate

when the supply is at the same level Use the lower slot in the rear plate when
as the printer and when using peel-off the supply is placed lower than the
operation. printer.

3 4

As an option, the printer can be fitted

with a set of fan-fold guides in either The outer guide is adjustable for various
slot. media widths.

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 Chapter 4 — Media Load

External Supply (Fan-fold), cont.

5 6

Fit the fan-fold guide in the upper slot

when the supply is at the same level Fit the fan-fold guide in the lower slot
as the printer and when using peel-off when the supply is placed lower than
operation. the printer.

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 5 Thermal Transfer
Printing

This chapter explains how to load the printer with

ribbon for thermal transfer printing.

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 Chapter 5 — Thermal Transfer Printing

Ribbon Load
The EasyCoder PX6i can print on labels, tickets, tags, and continuous
stock using either direct thermal printing on special heat-sensitive media
or thermal transfer printing using a special ink-coated ribbon.
Thermal transfer printing makes it possible to use a wide range of receiv-
ing face materials and gives a durable printout less vulnerable to fat,
chemicals, heat, sunlight etc. than direct thermal printing. Make sure to
select a type of ribbon that matches the type of receiving face material
and to set up the printer accordingly.
The EasyCoder PX6i can use transfer ribbon rolls wound with the ink-
coated side facing either outward or inward. Illustrations in this manual
show the ink-coated side facing inward.
Even if ribbon usually is loaded in connection with media replenishment,
no loaded media are shown in the illustrations in this chapter in order to
give a clearer view of the ribbon path. Refer to Chapter 4 for media load
instructions.
Most transfer ribbons do not smear at room temperature.

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 Chapter 5 — Thermal Transfer Printing

Ribbon Load, cont.

1 2

#LOSED

/PEN
Fold the locking handle downward/
Open the front and side doors. forward.

3 4

#LOSED #LOSED
/PEN
/PEN

Turn the printhead lift lever clockwise to In case of ribbon reload, remove any
raise the printhead. used ribbon and empty ribbon core.

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 Chapter 5 — Thermal Transfer Printing

Ribbon Load, cont.

5 6a

In case of 76 to 90 mm (3 to 3.5 inches)

ribbon width, compress the ribbon
Unpack a roll of original Intermec supply bobbin and move it so it snaps
thermal transfer ribbon. into the second groove.

6b 6c

In case of 110 mm (4.3 inches) ribbon In case of 130 mm (5.1 inches) ribbon
width, compress the ribbon supply width, compress the ribbon supply
bobbin and move it so it snaps into the bobbin and move it so it snaps into the
third groove. fourth groove.

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 Chapter 5 — Thermal Transfer Printing

Ribbon Load, cont.

6d 6e

In case of 154 mm (6.0 inches) ribbon In case of 166 mm (6.5 inches) ribbon
width, compress the ribbon supply width, compress the ribbon supply
bobbin and move it so it snaps into the bobbin and move it so it snaps into the
fifth groove. sixth groove.

7 8

#LOSED


/PEN

D
#LOSE
/PEN

Press the ribbon roll onto the ribbon

supply bobbin (1) and route the ribbon Without releasing the ribbon, turn the
through the print unit. Pull out 20 cm (8 printhead lift lever to “Closed” position
inches) of ribbon. to lock the ribbon.

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 Chapter 5 — Thermal Transfer Printing

Ribbon Load, cont.

9 10

#LOSED

/PEN
D
#LOSE
/PEN

Press the cardboard core at the front

end of the ribbon onto the rewind hub.
During printing, the rewind hub will Turn the printhead lift lever to ”Open”
rotate counterclockwise. position.

11 12

#LOSED
/PEN

D
#LOSE
/PEN

Wind up the ribbon until all of the

transparent leader has passed the
printhead and the ribbon becomes Turn the printhead lift lever to “Closed”
tight. position.

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 Chapter 5 — Thermal Transfer Printing

Ribbon Load, cont.

13 14

#LOSED
/PEN

Close the locking handle. Close the front and side door.

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 Chapter 5 — Thermal Transfer Printing

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 6 Setting Up the Printer

This chapter describes the various parameters that are

used in the Setup Mode (see Chapter 7) or in the vari-
ous application programs to configure the printer for
the user’s specific requirements. It covers the following
topics:
• Description
• Default setup
• Setup Parameters in regard of communication, feed
adjust, media, and print defines.
When measures are specified as “dots”, the actual
length in millimeters or inches depends on the
printhead density. Convert as follows:
8 dots/mm (203.2 dots/inch) printhead:
1 dots = 0.125 mm = 0.0049 inches (4.9 mils)
11.81 dots/mm (300 dots/inch) printhead:
1 dot = 0.085 mm = 0.0033 inches (3.3 mils)

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 Chapter 6 — Setting Up the Printer

Description
The setup controls the printer in regard of serial communication, media
feed, and print speed, and specifies which type of media and (optionally)
ribbon is loaded in the printer.
Check the list of the printer’s default setup parameters on the next page
to see if they match your requirements. If not, you will have to change
the setup using one of the methods described below. The setup may also
be changed by Intermec PrintSet, InterDriver, and LabelShop, or third-
party application programs.

Setup Mode
• Press the <Setup> key on the printer’s built-in keyboard to enter the
Setup Mode, or
• select the Setup option in Intermec Shell to enter the Setup Mode, or
• execute the Intermec Fingerprint SETUP instruction to enter the
Setup Mode, or
• access the Setup Mode via the printer’s home (requires an optional
EasyLAN interface board).
See Chapter 7, “Setup Mode” in this manual and the EasyLAN docu-
mentation.

Intermec Fingerprint
• Use setup strings to change individual setup parameters remotely
from the host, or
• use setup files to create sets of setup parameters remotely from the
host.
See the Intermec Fingerprint v8.3x manuals.

Intermec Direct Protocol

• Use setup strings to change individual setup parameters remotely
from the host.
See the Intermec Direct Protocol v8.3x manuals.

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 Chapter 6 — Setting Up the Printer

Default Setup
The printer’s default setup is listed below (assuming no options installed):
Ser-Com "uart1:"
Baud rate 9600 bps
Character length 8 bits
Parity None
Stop bits 1 bit
RTS/CTS Disable
ENQ/ACK Disable
XON/XOFF, data to host Disable
XON/XOFF, data from host Disable
New line CR/LF
Receive buffer 1024 bytes
Transmit buffer 1024 bytes
Feedadjust:
Startadjust 0 dots
Stopadjust 0 dots
Media:
X-start 8 dots/mm = 203.2 dpi) 24 dots
11.81 dots/mm = 300 dpi 36 dots
Width 8 dots/mm = 203.2 dpi 1320 dots
11.81 dots/mm = 300 dpi 1948 dots
Length 8 dots/mm = 203.2 1200 dots
11.81 dots/mm = 300 dpi 1800 dots
Media type Label (w Gaps)
Paper type Thermal transfer
Ribbon constant 90
Ribbon factor 25
Label offset 0
Ribbon sensor (low diameter) 0 mm
Contrast ±0%
Paper sensor (low diameter) 0 mm
Print Defines:
Print speed 200 mm/sec.

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 Chapter 6 — Setting Up the Printer

Reading the Current Setup

The printer’s current setup values can be read from the printer’s display
window by browsing through the Setup Mode.
You can list the printer’s current setup values by printing test label “Setup
Info” in the Setup Mode or by using Intermec Shell.
The current setup values can be sent to the host via the standard serial
communication channel using a SETUP WRITE "uart1:" state-
ment (see Intermec Fingerprint v8.3x, Programmer’s Reference Manual).

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 Chapter 6 — Setting Up the Printer

Setup Parameters
Serial Communication
The serial communication parameters control the communication
between the printer and the connected computer or other devices on
the standard serial port "uart1:" and the optional serial ports "uart2:",
"uart3:", "uart4:", and "uart5:". The optional ports require one or two
optional interface boards. The printer’s firmware detects if an interface
board is installed in the printer and presents additional sets of commu-
nication setup menus depending on type of communication (refer to the
overviews in Chapter 7, “Setup Mode”).

Note: The serial communication parameters have no effect on

parallel or EasyLAN communications, or on the IN and OUT
ports on the optional Serial/Industrial Interface Board.

For the serial communication channel "uart1:", the following parameters

can be set. Make sure they match the setup of the connected device or
vice versa. If the setup of the printer and the setup of the host do not
match, the response from the printer to host will be garbled.
Baud Rate
The baud rate is the transmission speed in bits per second. There are 10
options:
• 300
• 600
• 1200
• 2400
• 4800
• 9600 (default)
• 19200
• 38400
• 57600
• 115200

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 Chapter 6 — Setting Up the Printer

Character Length
The character length specifies the number of bits that will define a
character. Eight bits are recommended, because that option allows more
special characters and characters specific for foreign languages to be used.
Refer to the Intermec Fingerprint v8.3x, Programmer’s Reference Manual
for more information.
• 7 Characters ASCII 000 to 127 decimal
• 8 Characters ASCII 000 to 255 decimal (default)
Parity
The parity decides how the firmware will check for transmission errors.
There are five options:
• None(default)
• Even
• Odd
• Mark
• Space
Stop Bits
The number of stop bits specifies how many bits will define the end of a
character. There are two options:
• 1 (default)
• 2
Flow Control
RTS/CTS is a protocol where the communication is controlled by cur-
rents through separate lines in the cable being set either to high or low.
By default, this option is disabled.
RTS high indicates that the transmitting unit is able to receive characters.
RTS low indicates that the receive buffer is filled to 75% (see XON/
XOFF).
CTS high indicates that the unit transmitting the CTS signal is ready to
receive data. CTS low indicates that the receive buffer is full (see XON/
XOFF). In some computer programs, for example MS Windows Termi-
nal, RTS/CTS is designated “Hardware.”
ENQ/ACK is a protocol where the communication is controlled by
the control characters ENQ (ASCII 05 dec.) and ACK (ASCII 06 dec.)
being transmitted on the same line as the data. The sending unit trans-
mits ENQ at regular intervals. If the response ACK is not received, the

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 Chapter 6 — Setting Up the Printer

transmission is held up awaiting an ACK character from the receiving

unit. By default, ENQ/ACK is disabled.
XON/XOFF is a protocol where the communication is controlled by
the control characters XON (ASCII 17 dec.) and XOFF (ASCII 19 dec.)
being transmitted on the same line as the data. XON/XOFF can be
enabled/disabled separately for data received from the host by the printer
(printer sends XON/XOFF) and for data transmitted to the host from
the printer (host sends XON/XOFF).
XOFF is sent from the printer when its receive buffer is filled to 75%,
and the transmission from the host is held, waiting for an XON charac-
ter. When enough data have been processed so the receive buffer is filled
only to 50%, the printer sends an XON character and the host resumes
transmitting data. The same principles apply to XON/XOFF sent by the
host, even if the percentage figure may differ. By default, XON/XOFF is
disabled for data in both directions.
New Line
Selects the character(s) transmitted from the printer to specify the switch-
ing to a new line. There are three options:
• CR/LF ASCII 13 + 10 dec. (default)
• LF ASCII 10 dec.
• CR ASCII 13 dec.
Receive Buffer
The receive buffer stores the input data before processing. Default size is
1024 bytes.
Transmit Buffer
The transmit buffer stores the output data to be transmitted before trans-
mission. Default size is 1024 bytes.

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 Chapter 6 — Setting Up the Printer

Feed adjust
The Feedadjust part of the Setup Mode controls how much of the media
is fed out or pulled back before and/or after the actual printing. These
settings are global and will be effected regardless of which program is
run.

Note: The firmware uses the front edges of labels with gaps, the
ends of detection slots, and the forward edges of black marks
for detection, all seen in relation to the feed direction.

Start Adjust
The Start Adjust value is given as a positive or negative number of dots.
Default value is 0, which places the origin a certain distance back from
the forward edge of the copy.
• A positive start adjustment means that the specified length of media
will be fed out before the printing starts. Thus, the origin is moved
further back from the forward edge of the copy.
• A negative start adjustment means that the specified length of media
will be pulled back before the printing starts. Thus, the origin is
moved towards the forward edge of the copy.
Stop Adjust
The Stop Adjust value is given as a positive or negative number of dots.
Default value is 0, which stops the media feed in a position suitable for
tear off operation.
• A positive stop adjustment means that the normal media feed after
the printing is completed will be increased by the specified value.
• A negative stop adjustment means that the normal media feed after
the printing is completed will be decreased by the specified value.

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 Chapter 6 — Setting Up the Printer

Recommended Feed Adjustments

The following settings allow printing from the top of the label. Minor
deviations from the recommended values may be required due to various
combinations of media types, roll size, type of media supply device, and
individual differences between printers.
Adjustment 8 dots/mm 11.81 dots/mm Distance Distance
type 203.2 dpi 300 dpi in mm in inches
Tear-Off (Straight-through)
Start adjust: -108 dots -160 dots 13.5 0.54
Stop adjust: 0 dots 0 dots 0 0
Peel-Off (Self-strip)
Start adjust: -80 dots -118 dots 10.0 0.39
Stop adjust: -40 dots -60 dots 5.0 0.20
Cut between labels w. gaps
Start adjust: -287 dots -424 dots 35,9 1.41
Stop adjust: +176 dots +260 dots 22.0 0.87
Cut fix and variable length strip
Start adjust: -294 dots -434 dots 36.8 1.45
Stop adjust: +298 dots +440 dots 37.3 1.47

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 Chapter 6 — Setting Up the Printer

Media
The media parameters tell the firmware the characteristics of the media
that will be used, so the printout will be positioned correctly and get the
best quality possible.
Media Size
The size of the printable area is defined by three parameters; X-Start,
Width, and Length.
X-Start
Specifies the position of the origin along the dots on the printhead.
The default X-start value prevents printing outside labels when the liner
is slightly wider than the labels. If you want to maximize the print width,
reset the X-start value to 0.
By increasing the value for the X-start parameter, the origin will be
moved outwards, away from the inner edge of the media path. In other
words, the larger X-start value, the wider inner margin and the less avail-
able print width.
Width
Specifies the width of the printable area in number of dots from the
origin. Thus, the sum of the X-start and width values gives the outer
margin of the printable area. The width should be set to prevent printing
outside the media, which may harm the printhead.
Length
Specifies the length of the printable area in number of dots from the
origin along the Y-coordinate and allocates memory space for two identi-
cal image buffers in the printer’s temporary memory.
The size of each buffer can be calculated using this formula:
Buffer size (bits) = [Print length in dots] x [Printhead width in dots]

Note: The temporary memory has other functions that also

require some memory space. To obtain a longer print area, the
memory can be increased by fitting a larger SDRAM SIMM on
the printer’s CPU board as described in the Service Manual.

• The length setup also decides the amount of media feed when using
“fix length strip.”

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 Chapter 6 — Setting Up the Printer

• The length setup creates an emergency stop, which works when

the printer is set up for “Label (w gaps)”, “Ticket (w mark)”, or
“Ticket (w gaps).” If the label stop sensor has not detected a gap or
mark within 150% of the set length, the media feed is automatically
stopped to avoid feeding out a whole roll of media, because of a sensor
malfunction.
By setting up the X-start, the Width, and the Length, you will create a
print window inside which the printing can be performed. Any object or
field extending outside the print window in any direction will either be
clipped or cause an error condition (Error 1003 “Field out of label”), see
Intermec Fingerprint v8.3x, Programmer’s Reference Manual.
Print Window 8 dots/mm (203.2 dpi) printhead

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 Chapter 6 — Setting Up the Printer

Print Window 11.81 dots/mm 300 dpi) printhead

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 Chapter 6 — Setting Up the Printer

Media Type
The Media Type parameters control how the label stop sensor (LSS) and
the media feed work. There are five media type options:
• Label (w gaps) is used for adhesive labels mounted on liner.
• Ticket (w mark) is used for labels, tickets, or continuous stock pro-
vided with black marks at the back.
• Ticket (w gaps) is used for tickets and tags with detection slots.
• Fix length strip is used for continuous stock where the length of the print
window decides the length of media to be fed out.
• Var length strip is used for continuous stock. The size of the print
images decides the length of each copy.
It is important to select the correct media type, so the printer can indi-
cate the following errors.
• Error 1005 “Out of paper” indicates that the last ordered copy could
not be printed because of an empty media stock.
• Error 1031 “Next label not found” indicates that the last ordered label
or ticket was successfully printed, but no more labels/tickets can be
printed because of an empty media stock.

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 Chapter 6 — Setting Up the Printer

Paper Type
The Paper Type parameters control the heat emitted from the printhead
to the direct thermal media or, optionally, the transfer ribbon in order to
produce the dots that make up the printout image.
Labels, tickets, tags, strip, and ribbons for various types of application are
available from Intermec. For the best printout quality and maximum life
of the printhead, use Intermec supplies.
As a general rule, high energy and/or high print speed will shorten the
life of the printhead. Never use higher paper type and print speed set-
tings than necessary for obtaining an acceptable printout quality and
throughput speed.
If the ambient temperature is lower than +15°C (+59°F), decrease the
print speed by 50 mm/sec.
Start by choosing between two alternatives:
• Direct Thermal printing (option)
• Thermal Transfer printing (default)
Your choice will decide which parameters to enter next:
Direct Thermal Printing
• Label Constant (range 50 to 115)
• Label Factor (range 10 to 50)
When adjusting the image darkness for non-Intermec direct thermal
media, set the Label Factor to the recommended value for the type of
direct thermal media listed in the table below. Then set the Label Con-
stant to the value listed in the table below and decrease or increase it
for lighter or darker images respectively until you are satisfied with the
printout quality. For Intermec media, refer to Appendix D.
General Paper Type Settings Guide (Direct Thermal)
Sensitivity1 Label Constant Label Factor Max Print Speed
Low 100 40 100
Standard 90 40 150
High 80 40 200
Ultra high 60 40 225

1
/. Note that preprint and varnish decrease the sensitivity of direct thermal media.

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 Chapter 6 — Setting Up the Printer

Thermal Transfer Printing

• Ribbon Constant (range 50 to 115)
• Ribbon Factor (range 10 to 50)
• Label Offset (range -50 to 50)
• Ribbon Sensor (autoadjustment)
• Low Diameter (range 25 to 80 mm)
When adjusting the image darkness for non-Intermec media and transfer
ribbons, set the Ribbon Factor to the recommended value for the type of
thermal transfer ribbon in the table below. Then set the Ribbon Constant
to the value listed in the table below and decrease or increase it for lighter
or darker images respectively until you are satisfied with the printout
quality. The Label Offset parameter is presently not used, so keep it at
the default value 0. For Intermec media, refer to Appendix D.
General Paper Type Settings Guide (Thermal Transfer)
Media Performance Ribbon Constant Ribbon Factor Max Print Speed
Low (Europe) 75 25 150
Low (U.S.A.) 70 25 150
Medium (Europe) 90 25 200
Medium (U.S.A.) 75 25 200
High (Europe) 90 25 225
High (U.S.A.) 90 25 225

The Ribbon Sensor parameter is read-only. When performing a Testfeed

or when pressing the <Enter> key when the Ribbon Sensor menu is dis-
played, the printer will feed out some media and auto adjust the sensor.
The resulting setting is displayed in the menu.
The Low Diameter parameter specifies the diameter of the ribbon supply
roll, where SYSVAR(26) switches from 0 to 1. SYSVAR(26) = 0 means
that there is still a sufficient supply of ribbon, whereas SYSVAR(26)
= 1 means that it is time to consider replacing the ribbon supply. The
diameter is expressed in millimeters (1 mm = 0.04 in.) and an accuracy
of ±3 mm can be expected. Note that this setting has little effect unless
SYSVAR(26) is read by a Fingerprint program. However, Error 1083
“Ribbon Low” is reported at every tenth printing operation. By default,
the low diameter is 0, that is, the ribbon low function is disabled.

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 Chapter 6 — Setting Up the Printer

Contrast
Use the contrast parameter to make minor adjustments of the blackness
in the printout, for example to adapt the printer to variations in quality
between different batches of the same media. 11 options are displayed in
an endless loop from -10% to +10%. Default value is +0%. The contrast
is reset to the default whenever a new paper type is specified, regardless
which method has been used.
Paper Sensor
The Paper Sensor parameter is read-only. By pressing the <Enter> key,
the paper sensor is automatically adjusted.
The Low Diameter parameter specifies the diameter of the media supply
roll, where SYSVAR(46) switches from 0 to 1. SYSVAR(46) = 0 means
that there is still a sufficient supply of media, whereas SYSVAR(46) = 1
initiates error 1084 “Paper low”. The diameter is expressed in millimeters
(1 mm = 0.04 in.). Default value is 0 (mm) and the maximum value is
200 (mm).
Testfeed
The sensitivity of the label stop sensor (LSS) may need to be adjusted
when switching from one type of media to another. This is especially
the case when using adhesive labels since the transparency of the liner
(backing paper) may vary. When the Testfeed menu is displayed, press
the <Enter> key. A number of blank copies will be fed out until the
firmware has decided the proper setting for the LSS. At the same time,
the front edges of the labels, tickets, etc. are detected so the feed control
can position the media according to the Feedadjust parameter (same as
the Intermec Fingerprint statement TESTFEED). Four values used for
troubleshooting the LSS are displayed (read-only information).

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 Chapter 6 — Setting Up the Printer

Print Defines
Head Resistance
The printhead resistance is measured automatically at startup (read-only
information).
Testprint
The test labels ”Diamonds”, “Chess”, “Bar Codes #1”, and “Bar Codes
#2” are used to check the printout quality and facilitate adjustment of
the printhead pressure, see Chapter 12. The test labels “Setup Info” and
“Hardware Info” list the printer’s current setup and the installed elec-
tronic devices. Test label “Network Info” is only printed if the printer
has an optional EasyLAN interface board. If the information does not
fit on one label, two or more labels will be printed. If the printer refuses
to print a test label, press the <F5/i> key to find out what is wrong, for
example “printhead lifted” or “out-of paper”.
Print Speed
The print speed is variable between 100 and 225 mm/sec. Generally, the
lower the speed, the better the printout quality. This is especially true
when printing bar codes with the bars running across the media path
(“ladder style”), when printing on demanding face materials, and when
printing at low ambient temperatures. The default setting is 200 mm/sec.
(approx. 8 inches/sec.).
Refer to Appendix D for recommended maximum print speed for vari-
ous combinations of Intermec media and transfer ribbon.
LSS Test
The function on the label stop sensor (LSS) can be tested automatically
or manually as described in Chapter 12 “Adjustments.”
LTS (Label Taken Sensor)
The sensitivity of the LTS can be tested and adjusted as described in
Chapter 12 “Adjustments.”

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 Chapter 6 — Setting Up the Printer

Test Labels (examples)

 OHMS DOTSMM

Diamonds

Chess

#/$% #/$%

  

Bar Codes #1

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Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine
(ARDWARE
5!24   . 
    035      243#43 $)3!",%
    #ONSOLE      %.1!#+ $)3!",%
    40(      8/.8/&&
    #05      $!4! 4/ (/34 $)3!",%
$!4! &2/- (/34 $)3!",%
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C  BYTES FREE 834!24 
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0!0%2 490% 42!.3&%2
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#/.42!34 
0!0%2 3%.3/2 
0!0%2 ,/7 $)!-%4%2 
4%34&%%$    
(%!$ 2%3)34 
02).4 30%%$ 

Setup Info
&)2-7!2%
Bar Codes #2

&INGERPRINT 

Hardware Info
-#3 $$ --- 99 HHMMSS
"OOT $$ --- 99 HHMMSS #/$%

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65
Chapter 6 — Setting Up the Printer
 Chapter 6 — Setting Up the Printer

Returning to Factory Default Setup

There are two ways to return to the factory default setup of the printer:
A Insert a special CompactFlash memory card and restart the printer.
B Using the printer’s built-in keyboard.
To reset the printer using the keyboard, do like this:
1 Lift the printhead.
2 Switch on the power to the printer and press the <i/F5> key and wait
until the printer beeps.
3 Swiftly press the following keys:
<d/F4> t <c/F2> t <c/F2> t <e/F1>
4 The following message will be displayed:
Factory Default?
Enter=Yes ESC=No
5 Within 10 seconds, press <Enter> to reset the printer to factory
default. The parameters will be reset and the printer will continue the
normal startup.
If you press <Esc/F2> or wait until the 10 seconds time out has
passed, the normal startup will continue without any reset being per-
formed.

Note: If any of the files "card:NOSHELL.CFG",

rom:NOSHELL.CFG", or "c:NOSHELL.CFG" exists in the
printer’s memory, no reset to factory default will be performed.
The factory default will remove all files used to store settings.
It will not reset settings that already has been read when the
files are removed. This means that EasyLAN Wireless settings
(SSID, keys, etc.) will retain their values from the previous
start. However, the next reboot will reset them to factory
default.

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 7 Setup Mode

This chapter describes how to enter the setup mode at

installation, how to navigate in the setup mode, and
provides overviews over which parameters and mes-
sages are available for the standard printer and with
various interface boards.

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 Chapter 7 — Setup Mode

Entering Setup Mode at Installation

The method of entering the Setup Mode depends on which startup files
are stored in the printer’s memory, a subject that was more thoroughly
discussed in Chapter 3, “Starting Up.”

EasyCoder PX6i with Intermec Shell

• Switch on the power.
• When the display shows the message “Enter=Shell; x sec...”, press
<Enter>.
• Press <Setup> (this facility can be used anywhere within Intermec
Shell).
• Set up the printer as described in this chapter.
• Return to Intermec Shell by pressing <Setup>.

EasyCoder PX6i with a custom-made application program

• Normally, there is no need to enter the Setup Mode for custom-made
application programs. Necessary provisions for changing the setup,
manually or automatically, should be provided by the program.

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 Chapter 7 — Setup Mode

Navigating in Setup Mode

While going through the setup procedure, you are guided by texts in the
printer’s display. You can navigate between setup menus, acknowledge
displayed values, select or type new values, etc. by using the keys on the
printer’s keyboard.

Note: An external keyboard cannot be used inside the Setup

Mode.

Move one menu to the left on the same level or scroll back in a
stack of options1.

Move up one level1.

Move one menu to the right on the same level or scroll forward
in a stack of options1.

Move down one level1.

Display error messages at test label printing failure.

- Enter numeric values.

Specify negative values (leading position).

Clear displayed values.

Acknowledge and move to next menu or perform testfeeds in

the Testfeed menu, or print test labels in the Test label menu.

Exit the Setup Mode. Can be used anywhere in Setup Mode.

1
/. “Left”, “right”, “up”, and “down” refer to the overviews later in this chapter.

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 Chapter 7 — Setup Mode

The Setup Mode is organized as an endless loop, from which you can
select a number of sub-categories. At startup, the firmware determines if
options such as a label taken sensor or an interface board are installed in
the printer. Only installed options are shown in the Setup Mode.
The diagram below shows the options in the main loop. Detailed over-
views are shown on the pages that follow.

Starting point

SETUP:
SETUP: SER-COM, UART2
SER-COM, UART1 Option
SETUP:
SER-COM, UART3
SETUP: Option
PRINT DEFS
SETUP:
SER-COM, UART4
Option
SETUP: SETUP:
MEDIA SER-COM, UART5
Option
SETUP:
NET-COM, NET1
SETUP:
SETUP: Option
FEEDADJ
NETWORK
Option

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 Chapter 7 — Setup Mode

Setup Mode; Serial Communication "uart1:"

(Intermec Fingerprint v8.30)

Legend:
Dotted boxes and lines indicate options.
Thick boxes indicate default options.
Values inside brackets indicate default settings.

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 Chapter 7 — Setup Mode

Setup Mode; Feed Adjust

(Intermec Fingerprint v8.30)

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 Chapter 7 — Setup Mode

Setup Mode; Media

(Intermec Fingerprint v8.30)

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 Chapter 7 — Setup Mode

Setup Mode; Print Defs

(Intermec Fingerprint v8.30)

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 Chapter 7 — Setup Mode

Setup Mode; Serial Communication "uart2:" (option)

(Intermec Fingerprint v8.30)
3%4503%450
3%2 #/- 5!24

3%2 #/- 5!24

"!5$2!4%

"!5$2!4%

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"!5$2!4%

"!5$2!4%


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 Chapter 7 — Setup Mode

Setup Mode; Serial Communication "uart3:" (option)

(Intermec Fingerprint v8.30)

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 Chapter 7 — Setup Mode

Setup Mode; Serial Communication "uart4:" (option)

(Intermec Fingerprint v8.30)

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 Chapter 7 — Setup Mode

Setup Mode; Serial Communication "uart5:" (option)

(Intermec Fingerprint v8.30)

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 Chapter 7 — Setup Mode

Setup Mode; Network Communication "net1:" (option)

(Intermec Fingerprint v8.30)

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 Chapter 7 — Setup Mode

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 8 Intermec Shell Startup
Program

This chapter describes the Intermec Shell startup

program and covers the following topics:
• Introduction
• Starting with Intermec Shell
• Intermec Shell Overview
• Line Analyzer

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 Chapter 8 — Intermec Shell Startup Program

Introduction
Intermec Shell is a startup program, that is, a program that automatically
starts running when the printer is switched on. Intermec Shell helps the
operator to choose between a number of standard or custom-made appli-
cation programs and to start certain useful facilities, as listed below.

Application Programs
• Intermec Fingerprint (for creating your own programs or to run the
Intermec InterDriver)
• Intermec Direct Protocol (easy-to-use slave protocol)
• LINE_AXP.PRG (line analyzer program)
• Other application programs in the printer’s memory.
A prerequisite for a program to appear as an option in Intermec Shell
is that the program is provided with the extension “.PRG” and is
stored in the root of the directory "/c" or "card1:". However, some
original Intermec utility programs are excluded as long as they remain
stored in "/rom":
- ERRHAND.PRG
- FILELIST.PRG
- LBLSHTXT.PRG
- MKAUTO.PRG
- SHELLXP.PRG
- WINXP.PRG

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 Chapter 8 — Intermec Shell Startup Program

Other Facilities
• Setup Mode (manual setup from printer’s keyboard)
• Print Setup (printing setup on label)
• Testfeed (formfeeds and auto-adjust of the LSS)
• Test Label (printing of test labels)
• Default setup (resetting all setup parameters to default)
• Software Update (downloading data from a host to a CompactFlash
card in the printer, upgrading the printer’s firmware from a Compact-
Flash card, or upgrading the printer’s firmware from a file in a PC)
• Reboot (restarting the printer)

Note: Intermec Shell is factory-installed in the printer’s per-

manent memory (device "/rom"). If you insert a memory card
with another startup file before you switch on the printer, or if
there is a startup file stored in the printer’s permanent memory
(device "/c"), this startup file will be used instead of Intermec
Shell (see Chapter 3, “Startup Files”).

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 Chapter 8 — Intermec Shell Startup Program

Starting with Intermec Shell

A few seconds after you have switched on the power to the printer and
the initialization is completed, the countdown menu of the Intermec
Shell program will be displayed:
ENTER=SHELL
5 sec. v.8.2

Now you have 5 seconds to enter Intermec Shell by pressing <Enter>.

The lower line tells you how much time you have left. Should the time
run out before you have taken any action, the last selected application
in Intermec Shell will be opened. If you use the same application all the
time, you will only need to switch on the power, once the application has
been selected.
If no other application has yet been selected, the current version of
Intermec Fingerprint will be opened with "auto" selected as standard IN/
OUT channel (see Intermec Fingerprint manuals). When the countdown
is completed, you will see these lines in the display:
Fingerprint
8.30

If you want to select another application, just cycle the power and enter
Intermec Shell before the countdown is completed.
When you enter the Intermec Shell from the countdown menus, the
Select Application menu will be displayed:
SHELL
SEL. APPLICATION

In this menu, you can choose between two options:

• Press <Enter> to go to menus where you can select an application
program.
• Press <`> to go to the Facilities part of Intermec Shell.

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 Chapter 8 — Intermec Shell Startup Program

Selecting an Application
In Intermec Shell, the menus present the options in infinite loops, To see
all menus and options, refer to the overview in this chapter. The Select
application lets you choose an application program that resides in the
printer’s memory:
• Current appl. starts the last selected application (by default Intermec
Fingerprint with "auto" selected as standard IN/OUT channel).
• Fingerprint is used to create, modify, or run programs written in the
Intermec Fingerprint programming language and to run the Intermec
InterDriver. This option requires that you also select a standard
IN/OUT channel, which is the channel you want to use for commu-
nication between the printer and the computer. Normally, you select
"uart1:". Refer to the Intermec Fingerprint manuals.
• Direct Protocol is an easy-to-use printer protocol for downloading
label formats and variable input data to a printer from a host com-
puter. This option requires that you also select a standard IN/OUT
channel, that is the serial channel you want to use for communication
between the printer and the host. Normally, you select "uart1:". Refer
to the Intermec Direct Protocol v8.3x, Programmer’s Reference Manual.
• LINE-AXP.PRG (Line Analyzer) is a Fingerprint program that cap-
tures characters received by the printer on a communication channel
and prints them on labels. (See later in this chapter.)
• Other Application Programs will presented as additional options.

Note: When an application program is started, it may automat-

ically change the communication setup. If another application
is selected later, this communication setup will remain valid,
unless the new application includes instructions that auto-
matically change the setup. The setup could also be changed
manually in the Setup Mode.

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 Chapter 8 — Intermec Shell Startup Program

Selecting Other Facilities

As an alternative to selecting an application, you can step through a
number of other useful facilities:
Setup
Set up the printer using its built-in keyboard, see Chapter 7, “Setup
Mode.”
Print Setup
Produce a printout of the printer’s current setup values (test label “Setup
Info”).
Testfeed
Feed out a number of label, ticket, tag, or portions of continuous stock
while the printer auto-adjusts its media feed and label stop/black mark
sensor. It is recommended to perform a Testfeed each time you load a roll
of labels from a new batch or a different brand.
Test Label
Print a series of four test labels (test labels “Diamonds”, “Chess”, “Bar
Codes #1”, and Bar Codes #2”) in order to test the printout quality and
printhead alignment. The labels are presented in an infinite loop, so you
can print the series over and over again. Press <Enter> for each new label.
Default Setup
Reset all setup parameters to their default values, as listed in Chapter 6,
“Setting Up the Printer.”
Software Update
Using the Zmodem communication tool, files can be downloaded from
a PC, either to be stored on a standard CompactFlash memory card or to
upgrade the printer’s firmware. The following options are available:
• Update CompactFlash card allows the printer to be used as a
CompactFlash card programming device. Any files can be downloaded
from a PC to a standard CompactFlash card inserted in the memory
card slot in the printer’s rear plate.
A typical application is to create a firmware upgrade card from an
upgrade file stored in a PC. You can use the card to upgrade the
firmware in several printers simply by moving the card from printer
to printer. Just insert the card, switch on the power, and wait from the
prompts to appear in the printer’s display window.

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 Chapter 8 — Intermec Shell Startup Program

• Update firmware is used to directly upgrade the firmware of a specific

printer from a new firmware version stored as a file in a PC. If the
printer is equipped with an EasyLAN Ethernet or Wireless board, the
user must have access rights to upgrade the firmware, see the EasyLAN
User’s Guide.

If the CompactFlash card or upgrade file contains an earlier

firmware version than the one in the printer, the printer’s
firmware will be downgraded without warning.
Firmware upgrade files can be found on www.intermec.com or be
obtained from your local Intermec distributor.
Reboot
Corresponds to cycling the power to the printer. To exit Intermec Shell
without having selected any application, select Reboot. Then wait for the
5 seconds countdown to finish, and the last selected application will be
opened.

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 Chapter 8 — Intermec Shell Startup Program

Intermec Shell v8.2 Overview

POWER ON ENTER=SHELL SHELL SEL. APPLICATION
5 sec. v.8.2 SEL. APPLICATION CURRENT APPL.
Last selected application is started

ENTER=SHELL
SEL. APPLICATION
4 sec. v.8.2 Note: Dotted channels are only shown if
Fingerprint 8.30 the corresponding optional interface pcb
is fitted.
ENTER=SHELL STD I/O CHANNEL
SEL. APPLICATION
3 sec. v.8.2 auto
Direct Protocol

ENTER=SHELL STD I/O CHANNEL

Optional application
2 sec. v.8.2 uart1:
programs

The selected application is started

ENTER=SHELL STD I/O CHANNEL
1 sec. v.8.2 uart2:

Last selected STD I/O CHANNEL

application is started uart3:
Default:
Fingerprint 8.30 w. std I/O = "auto"
STD I/O CHANNEL
centronics:
Legend:
STD I/O CHANNEL
net1:
Return to previous menu.
STD I/O CHANNEL
Proceed to next menu. usb1:

STD I/O CHANNEL

Accept displayed option
and proceed, or uart4:
execute displayed option.
STD I/O CHANNEL
uart5:
Perform a Testfeed
anywhere in Intermec Shell.
SEL.APPL rom:
LINE_AXP.PRG
Enter the Setup Mode
from anywhere SHELL SETUP:
in Intermec Shell. SETUP SER-COM,UART1
See the chapter “Setup Mode”

SHELL
PRINT SETUP
Prints a list of current setup values (test label “Setup Info”).

SHELL Performs a Testfeed (feeds out a number of blank copies

TESTFEED while autoadjusting the label stop sensor).

SHELL Prints test labels “Diamonds”, “Chess”, “Bar Codes #1”, and “Bar Codes #2” in a loop
TEST LABEL Press Enter for each new label.

SHELL ARE YOU SURE? DEFAULT SETUP

DEFAULT SETUP YES=ENTER/NO=ESC PERFORMED

SHELL UPDATE: TRANSFER FILE

SOFTWARE UPDATE COMPACT FLASH? USING ZMODEM

TRANSFER
COMPLETED

SHELL UPDATE: TRANSFER FILE

REBOOT FIRMWARE? USING ZMODEM
Printer rebooted
Restarts the printer (same as power off/on) automatically.

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 Chapter 8 — Intermec Shell Startup Program

Line Analyzer
The Line Analyzer (LINE_AXP.PRG) is a program written in the
Intermec Fingerprint programming language and is intended to help
solving possible communication problems. As the name implies, the Line
Analyzer captures all incoming characters on a specified communication
channel and prints them on one or more labels.
Printable characters are printed in black-on-white, whereas control
characters and space characters (ASCII 000–032 dec.) are printed in
white-on-black.
While the printer is receiving data, the “Status” indicator lamp blinks.
There is a 0.5 second time out. That is, if no more characters have been
received after 0.5 second, the program considers the transmission termi-
nated and prints out a label.
As long as a continuous string of characters is being received, the pro-
gram wraps the lines until the label is full and then starts to print another
label. At the bottom of each label, the following information is printed:
• Page number
• Number of characters printed on the label
• Total number of characters received so far
The Line Analyzer is displayed as the option “LINE_AXP.PRG" under
the “SEL. APPLICATION” menu. After the Line Analyzer has been
selected and the printer has started up again, the printer feeds out two
labels and the following menu is displayed:
Line Analyzer
Sel.port(1-8) 1
Enter the desired communication port using the numeric keys on the
printer’s keyboard:
1 = "uart1:"
2 = "uart2:"
3 = "uart3:"
4 = "centronics:"
5 = "net1:"
6 = "usb1:"
7 = "uart4:"
8 = "uart5:"

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 Chapter 8 — Intermec Shell Startup Program

If the printer is not fitted with the specified port, an error message
appears in the display and you can select another port:
Line Analyzer
Error:56

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 9 Options

This chapter describes the options available for the

EasyCoder PX6i printer. The options can be factory
installed, field-installed by an authorized service tech-
nician, or in some cases installed by the operator.

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 Chapter 9 — Options

Introduction
The EasyCoder PX6i provides a high degree of flexibility because it has
a modular design. By adding options to the basic printer, the EasyCoder
PX6i can be adapted for a variety of applications. Some options should
be installed by an authorized service technician or are only available as
factory-installed options.

EasyLAN Wireless Fan-fold

3-inch antenna guides
adapter
(included)

Alphanumeric
keyboard

Label taken
sensor

#LOSED
/PEN

Paper
cutter

Liner takeup

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 Chapter 9 — Options

Liner Takeup Kit

This is a factory-installed option only and is used to separate labels from
the liner and wind up the spent liner inside the printer’s media compart-
ment.
The kit consists of a stepper motor that drives the liner drive roller in the
print unit (fitted as standard) and a takeup hub in the media compart-
ment. A guide shaft is fitted to the center section immediately behind the
slack absorber.
Operation and media load are described in the section “Peel-Off ” of
Chapter 4, “Media Load.”

Paper Cutter
The EasyCoder PX6i can easily be fitted with an optional paper cutter,
provided the printer is not also equipped with a label taken sensor (LTS.)
The cutter unit replaces the front door using the same hinges. It is con-
nected by a single cable to the DIN-connector on the printer’s front. The
paper cutter is available both as a factory-installed option and as a opera-
tor-installable kit.
The paper cutter is intended to cut through continuous non-adhesive
paper-based media or through the liner between labels. It must not cut
through any adhesive, which would stick to the cutting parts and rapidly
render the cutter inoperable–possibly also causing damage to the electric
motor. Maximum thickness for normal paper-based materials is 175 µm
(≈175 grams/m2).
The paper cutter increases the printer’s total weight by approx. 1.0 kg
(2.2 pounds) and its length by 28 mm (1.1 inches).
The paper cutter can be tilted forward in order to facilitate cleaning and
media load. For media load instructions, see section “Cut-Off ” in Chap-
ter 4, “Media Load.”
The cutter is activated by CUT or CUT ON instructions, see the
Intermec Fingerprint v8.3x manuals.
The rotating edge will cut through the media approx. 37 mm (1.5
inches) in front of the printer’s dot line. The media feed should be
adjusted accordingly, see Chapter 7, “Setting Up the Printer.”

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 Chapter 9 — Options

Should you inadvertently have cut through self-adhesive labels, you will
have to clean the cutting parts. Tilt down the cutter and clean using a
piece of tissue moistened with isopropyl alcohol.

The cutting edge will rotate when the power is switched on

and when the printer is re-booted. Always keep the cutter
in closed position during operation. Switch off the power
or disconnect the cutter before cleaning. Keep your fingers
away from cutting parts!

Fan-Fold Guides
The fan fold guides provide a more exact guiding of the media, when the
supply is placed outside the media compartment, for example a stack of
fan-folded tickets. The guides come as an operator-installable kit with
installation instructions. The guides can be fitted in the upper or lower
slot in the rear plate. Instructions for loading the media is included in the
section “External Supply” in Chapter 4, “Media Load.”

3-inch Adapter
Two 3-inch/76 mm adapters are included in the package and makes it
possible to use media rolls with 3 inch/76 mm inner diameter cardboard
cores.
The adapter is pressed onto the media supply hub and is held in place
by a screw. When fitting the adapters, make sure that the screw hits a
rounded plastic surface, not a metal leaf spring. Illustrations of how to
load the media using the adapter can be found in Chapter 4, “Media
Load.”

Label Taken Sensor

The Label Taken Sensor (LTS) is a photoelectric sensor fitted to the
center section inside the front door. It allows the printer’s firmware to
detect if the latest printed label, ticket, tag etc. has been removed before
printing another copy.
The label taken sensor is usually factory-fitted, but is also available as a
kit for installation by an authorized service technician. It cannot be fitted
in combination with a paper cutter.

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 Chapter 9 — Options

The LTS can be enabled or disabled using the instructions LTS& ON

and LTS& OFF respectively in Intermec Fingerprint and the Intermec
Direct Protocol.

Real Time Clock

This factory- or field-installed circuit (RTC) relieves the operator or the
host from having to set the clock/calendar using the Intermec Fingerprint
instructions DATE$ and TIME$ after each power up. The RTC has its
own backup battery backup that will last 10 years or more.

CompactFlash Protection Plate

The protection plate encloses an inserted CompactFlash card and makes
it more difficult to steal, see illustration in Chapter 3. Operator-installed.

Alphanumeric Keyboards
The overlay of the printer’s built-in keyboard can be replaced with an
alphanumeric overlay. However, such a keyboard requires an application
program created using the Intermec Fingerprint programming language.
External alphanumeric keyboards can be connected to the serial port.

Interface Boards
A number of interface boards are available for use with the EasyCoder
PX6i printer. The interface boards are either factory-fitted or can easily
be fitted by an authorized service technician.
The EasyCoder PX6i can accommodate one EasyLAN interface board
plus one or two other interface boards.
EasyLAN boards:
• EasyLAN Ethernet interface
• EasyLAN Wireless interface
Other communication boards:
• Parallel Interface Board (IEEE 1284)
• Double Serial Interface Board
• Serial/Industrial Interface Board

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 10 Troubleshooting

This chapter describes how the Intermec Readiness

Indicators work. It also lists various possible cases of
inferior printout quality, describes possible causes, and
suggests remedies.

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 Chapter 10 — Troubleshooting

Intermec Readiness Indicator

The readiness of the printer, individually or as a part of a solution, is
indicated by the blue Intermec Readiness Indicator (IRI).
If the IRI blinks or is switched off, the printer is not ready. Further infor-
mation can be obtained in the display window by pressing the <F5/i>
key. In case of several errors or similar conditions occurring simultane-
ously, only the most significant error is displayed. Once this error has
been cleared, next remaining error is displayed.
The printer will also return error messages to the host, provided there
is a working two-way communication. Refer to the Intermec Fingerprint
v8.3x, Programmer’s Reference Manual.
Provided the printer is connected to a network, all conditions that pre-
vents printing are reported to the Easy ADC Console. The Easy ADC
Console is a PC-based software which allows a supervisor to monitor all
connected devices that have an Intermec Readiness Indicator, including
handheld computers, access points, and printers.

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 Chapter 10 — Troubleshooting

Display Messages and LED Indications

Error/Event IRI Error No. Comment

Operational On 0 No error
Out of paper Blink 1005
Next label not found Blink 1031
Label not taken Blink
Out of transfer ribbon Blink 1027
Transfer ribbon is installed Blink 1058
Head lifted Blink 1022
Cutter does not respond Blink 1059
Cutter error1 Blink 1701
Cutter error2 Blink 1702
Cutter error3 Blink 1703
Cutter open Blink 1704
Lss too high Blink 1007
Lss too low Blink 1008
Testfeed not done Blink 1606
Pause Mode entered Blink
Setup Mode entered Blink Including interactive setup from
Fingerprint/Direct Protocol
IP link error Blink See note 1, 2, and 3
IP configuration error Blink See note 1, 3, and 4
Generic DP error Blink See note 5
Press any key to continue Blink See note 6
Application load error Blink See note 7
IRI blink by application Blink Set by Fingerprint instruction
SYSHEALTH
IRI off by application Off Set by Fingerprint instruction
SYSHEALTH
Application break Off See note 8
Printhead not found Off
Rebooted Off
Initializing Off Set at startup until operational
Printer crash Off See note 3 and 9

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 Chapter 10 — Troubleshooting

Printer turned off Off

Maintenance Off Set when upgrading
Power supply Over tem- Off 1718
perature
Printhead too hot Off 1088 See note 10

Note 1: This is only applicable for printers equipped with an EasyLAN interface.
Note 2: A printer that is equipped with an EasyLAN interface, but is not connected to
a network, will have a blinking IRI. To avoid this, the user can set “IP SELECTION” to
“MANUAL” and “IP ADDRESS” to “0.0.0.0”. This will indicate that the user does not
regard the lack of network connection as an error.
Note 3: No trap can be sent when this error/event occurs.
Note 4: This error indicates that the printer has not received an IP address. It is only
applicable for printers with IP SELECTION set to DHCP and/or BOOTP.
Note 5: In the Direct Protocol, the user can enable error handling for specific errors using
the ERROR statement. When errors added to the built-in error handling occur, this
event will be set. The text included in the snmp trap is the standard text corresponding to
the error.
Note 6: If an error occurs in the Fingerprint immediate mode, for example “out of paper”
when the print key is pressed, this event will be set.
Note 7: If an application is started but does not execute, the IRI will blink. This will
occur for example if there is a syntax error in the loaded program file.
This is useful when a printer has an AUTOEXEC.BAT file (startup file) that is supposed
to run automatically.
Note 8: When execution is stopped with user break (SHIFT + PAUSE) or due to a
run-time error, the IRI shall be off. It will be set to on if the user changes mode to Direct
Protocol or runs an application.
If, however, the application program handles the user break (ON BREAK) or the run-
time error (ON ERROR GOTO), the IRI will not be affected. In this case, it is up to the
application to set the status.
Note 9: At most, but not all, printer crashes, the console is reset. This will make the IRI
go off.
Note 10: If the printhead temperature raises above 100°C, error 1088 occurs.
In Fingerprint, printing will be aborted. Resuming printing after the printhead has
cooled off to 85°C must be handled by the application program.
In the Direct Protocol, the printing is paused but will be automatically resumed when the
printhead has cooled off to 85°C. Meanwhile, the printer is able to receive instructions
and data until the buffer is filled.

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 Chapter 10 — Troubleshooting

Symptom Possible Cause Remedy Refer to

Overall weak print- Wrong Paper Type Change parameter Chapter 6
out parameter
Contrast value too Change parameter Chapter 6
low
Printhead pressure Adjust Chapter 12
too low
Worn printhead Replace printhead Chapter 11
Wrong printhead Replace CPU board Call Service
voltage
Printout weaker on Uneven printhead Adjust arm align- Chapter 12
one side pressure ment
Weak spots Foreign particles on Clean or replace Chapters 4 & 5
media
Media/ribbon don’t Change to matching Chapter 6
match media
Poor media or Select a better brand Chapter 6
ribbon quality of media or ribbon
Worn printhead Replace printhead Chapter 11
Worn platen roller Check/replace Call Service
Overall dark print- Wrong Paper Type Change parameter Chapter 6
out parameter
Contrast value too Change parameter Chapter 6
high
Printhead pressure Adjust Chapter 12
too high
Wrong printhead Replace CPU board Call Service
voltage
Excessive bleeding Wrong Paper Type Change parameter Chapter 6
Contrast value too Change parameter Chapter 6
high
Printhead pressure Adjust Chapter 12
too high
Faulty energy Replace CPU board Call Service
control
Dark lines along Foreign objects on Clean printhead Chapter 11
media path printhead

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 Chapter 10 — Troubleshooting

White vertical lines Printhead dirty Clean printhead Chapter 11

Missing printhead Replace printhead Chapter 11
dots
Large part of dot line Wrong X-start or Change parameter Chapter 6
missing Width parameter
Failing printhead Replace printhead Chapter 11
Failing strobe signal Check CPU-board Call Service
Printout missing Bad media align- Adjust Chapter 4
along inner edge ment
X-start parameter Increase Chapter 6
value too low
Transfer ribbon Ribbon not fitted Reload ribbon Chapter 5
breaks correctly
Wrong paper type Change parameter, Chapter 6
parameter then clean printhead
Bad energy control Adjust Call Service
Transfer ribbon Faulty ribbon break Adjust Chapter 12
wrinkles shaft adjustment
Incorrect edge guide Adjust Chapter 4
adjustment
Too strong Adjust Chapter 12
printhead pressure
No thermal transfer Ink-coated side does Reload ribbon Chapter 5
printout not face media
Media feed not Changed media Perform a Chapter 4
working properly characteristics TESTFEED
Wrong start- and Check/change Chapter 6
stop adjust values
Wrong Media Type Check/change Chapter 6
parameter
Wrong LSS position Check/change Chapter 12
Dirty sensors Clean Chapter 11
Faulty sensors Replace Call Service

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 11 Maintenance

This chapter describes how the operator can maintain

the printer. Regular maintenance is important for the
printout quality and for the life of the printhead. The
chapter covers the following topics:
• Printhead cleaning
• External cleaning
• Cleaning the label stop sensor
• Printhead replacement
• Media jams

When cleaning or replacing the

printhead, take ample precautions to
avoid electrostatic discharges.

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 Chapter 11 — Maintenance

Printhead Cleaning
Cleaning the printhead on a regular basis is important for the life of the
printhead and for the printout quality. You should clean the printhead
each time you replace the media. This section describes how to clean
the printhead using cleaning cards. If additional cleaning is required, for
example removing adhesive residue from the platen roller or tear bar, use
a cotton swab moistened with isopropyl alcohol.

Isopropyl alcohol [(CH3)2CHOH; CAS 67-63-0] is a highly

flammable, moderately toxic, and mildly irritating sub-
stance.

1 2

#LOSED
/PEN

Fold the locking handle downward/

Open the front and side doors. forward.

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 Chapter 11 — Maintenance

Printhead Cleaning, cont.

3 4

#LOSED

/PEN

#LOSED

/PEN

Turn the printhead lift lever counter-

clockwise to raise the printhead. Remove any media and transfer ribbon.

5 6

 #LOSED


/PEN


DN

JO

Open the cleaning card envelope and Insert most of the cleaning card under
pull out the cleaning card. Read the the printhead (1). Engage the printhead
warning text. (2).

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 Chapter 11 — Maintenance

Printhead Cleaning, cont.

7 8

#LOSED

/PEN

Pull out the cleaning card (1) and raise Wait for approx. 30 seconds to allow the
the printhead (2). cleaning fluid to dissolve the residue.

9 10

 #LOSED

 #LOSED
/PEN

/PEN


DN

JO

Insert most of the cleaning card under Pull out the cleaning card. If necessary,
the printhead again (1). Engage the repeat the process with a fresh cleaning
printhead (2). card.

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 Chapter 11 — Maintenance

Printhead Cleaning, cont.

11 12

#LOSED

/PEN

Return the locking handle to closed Allow the cleaned parts to dry before
position. loading any media and ribbon.

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 Chapter 11 — Maintenance

External Cleaning
1 2

Wipe external surfaces with a soft cloth

Always remove the power cord before slightly moistened with water or a mild
cleaning! detergent.

3 4

D
#LOSE
/PEN

Never use any sharp tools for removing

Never spray the printer. Protect it from stuck labels. The printhead and rollers
water when cleaning the premises. are delicate.

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 Chapter 11 — Maintenance

Cleaning the Label Stop Sensor

The label stop sensor, which controls the media feed, is partially enclosed
by two plastic guides. The guides have slots where the light between the
upper and lower part of the label stop sensor can pass. The guides must
be kept free from stuck labels and other objects that can block the light.
If the printer starts to feed out labels in an unexpected way, remove
the two guides as described below and check for dust on the sensors or
anything that may block the beam of light. If necessary, clean the guides
using a cleaning card or a soft cloth soaked with isopropyl alcohol. Do
not use any other type of chemicals.

Isopropyl alcohol [(CH3)2CHOH; CAS 67-63-0] is a highly

flammable, moderately toxic, and mildly irritating sub-
stance.

1 2

Snap-lock

Pull the upper guide straight out. (Upper Press the snap-lock, lift the outer end
part of print unit omitted for better of the lower guide and pull it out. After
view.) cleaning, reassemble in reverse order.

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 Chapter 11 — Maintenance

Printhead Replacement
The printhead is subject to wear both from the direct thermal media or
transfer ribbon and from the rapid heating and cooling process during
printing. Thus, the printhead will require periodic replacement.
Time between printhead replacements depends on the print images, the
type of direct thermal media or ribbon in use, the amount of energy to
the printhead, the print speed, the ambient temperature, and several
other factors.

While replacing the printhead, the power must be off. The

firmware will not detect the new printhead resistance and
density until the printer has been restarted.

Note: Check that the density of the new printhead matches

the printhead you are replacing. However, you can switch
between densities at will, but be advised that the printout will
be affected accordingly.

1 2

#LOSED
/PEN

Fold the locking handle downward/

Open the front and side doors. forward.

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 Chapter 11 — Maintenance

Printhead Replacement, cont.

3 4

#LOSED

/PEN

#LOSED

/PEN

Turn the printhead lift lever counter-

clockwise to raise the printhead. Remove any media and transfer ribbon.

5 6

#LOSED
/PEN

Disconnect the hooked printhead

bracket fingers from the shaft and pull
Pull the printhead bracket away from out the printhead as far as the cables
the magnet in the pressure arm. allow.

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 Chapter 11 — Maintenance

Printhead Replacement, cont.

7 8

Disconnect the cables from the print-

head. Note the snap-lock on the inner
connector. Pull at the connectors—not Connect the two cables to the replace-
at the cables! ment printhead.

9 10

#LOSED
/PEN

Fit the hooks of the printhead bracket

fingers onto the headlift shaft. Make
sure that the cables do not prevent the
bracket fingers from being properly Close the printhead so the magnet
seated on the headlift shaft. engages the printhead bracket.

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 Chapter 11 — Maintenance

Printhead Replacement, cont.

11 12

#LOSED

/PEN

Return the locking handle to closed Load a new supply of media and ribbon,
position. as described earlier in this manual.

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 Chapter 11 — Maintenance

Media Jams
Should a media jam occur in the print mechanism, proceed this way to
clear it:
• Always switch off the power before starting to clear the jammed
media.
• Raise the printhead and pull out the media.
• If the media has been wound up or has stuck on the platen roller, care-
fully remove it by hand without using any sharp tools that can damage
the delicate platen roller or printhead. Avoid rotating the platen roller.

If you must pull away the media by force causing the platen
roller to rotate, it is very important that the power has been
off for a minute or more. If not, the electronics can be dam-
aged beyond repair.
• Cut off any damaged or wrinkled part.
• Check if there is any adhesive somewhere in the print mechanism,
clean using a cleaning card or cotton swab soaked in isopropyl alcohol.

Isopropyl alcohol [(CH-3)2CHOH; CAS 67-63-0] is a

highly flammable, moderately toxic, and mildly irritating
substance.

• Reload the media as described in Chapter 4.

• Switch on the power.
• Readjust the media feed by pressing the <Feed> key.

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 12 Adjustments

This chapter describes how the operator can adjust

the printer. The chapter covers the following topics:
• Narrow media adjustment
• Printhead pressure adjustment
• Label stop sensor adjustment

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 Chapter 12 — Adjustments

Narrow Media
The printer is factory-adjusted for full size media width. When using
media less than full width, it is recommended that you adjust the pres-
sure arm so it becomes centered on the media. Thereby, an even pressure
across the media is obtained.
A poorly adjusted pressure arm may be detected by a weaker printout on
either side of the media path.
To adjust the pressure arm, proceed as follows:
• Remove the ribbon, if any.
• Loosen the knob that holds the pressure arm. Move the arm inwards
or outwards until the arrow on the tip of the arm becomes centered
with the media stock.
While moving the arm, push at the part where the knob is situated,
not at the tip. If the arm is hard to move, lift the printhead and pull
the printhead bracket free from the magnet in the arm.
• After having centered the arm, lock it by tightening the knob.
• Adjust the edge guides.
• Reload the ribbon, if any.

Knob

#LOSE
D
Edge guide
/PEN

Center of
media

Edge guide
Pressure arm

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 Chapter 12 — Adjustments

Printhead Pressure
The pressure of the thermal printhead against the ribbon or direct
thermal media is factory adjusted. However, the use of thicker or thinner
media than normal could require the printhead pressure to be readjusted.
Turn the adjustment knob clockwise for increased pressure, or counter-
clockwise for less pressure. Print a few labels, preferably test labels (see
Chapter 6, “Setting Up the Printer”), and check the printout. Increased
pressure generally gives a darker printout and vice versa. Repeat until the
desired result is obtained.
To find the basic setting, turn the knob counterclockwise until there is
no pressure left. Test with a piece of media under the printhead. You
should be able to pull it out without more than just a little resistance.
Then turn the knob five full turns clockwise. Fine-adjust using the trial-
and-error method.

Do not use a higher printhead pressure than necessary,

because it may increase the wear of the printhead and
shorten its life.
Knob

#LOSED
/PEN

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 Chapter 12 — Adjustments

Label Stop Sensor

The label stop sensor (LSS) is a photoelectric sensor that controls the
printer’s media feed by detecting gaps between labels or slots or black
marks in continuous stock, depending on the printer’s setup in regard of
media type (see Chapter 6, “Setting Up the Printer”). The LSS should be
aligned with the gaps, slots, or black marks. If using irregularly shaped
labels, align the LSS with the front tips of the labels.
The label stop/black mark sensor (LSS) can be moved laterally within a
range of 0 to 50 mm (0 to 1.96 inches) from the inner edge of the media
path. There is a screw running through the outer lower gable inside the
locking handle. Turning the screw clockwise will move the LSS inwards
and vice versa. The position of the LSS in relation to the media is best
checked by looking head on into the print unit when the printhead
is raised. Align the centerpoint of the V-shaped upper sensor with the
center of the slots or marks to be detected.
The linear markings on the lower guide plate can also be used for posi-
tioning of the LSS because they are spaced with an interval of exactly 1
cm (0.39 inches.) This method is especially useful for black marks (mea-
sure the lateral position of the black marks with a ruler before loading the
media).

Detection slots Upper part of LSS

).
/54

Adjustment screw

Upper part of print unit removed to improve visibility.

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 Chapter 12 — Adjustments

In the Print Defines part of the Setup Mode, you have two ways to test
the label stop sensor if you have a detection problem; LSS Auto and LSS
Manual.
The menus only provide indications from the label stop sensor unit.
The testing menus can determine if the sensor unit is not physically in
position, is blocked by dust or stuck labels, or is defective in some way.
Furthermore, this is an aid if media has detection complications.

Note: There is no way to adjust the LSS-function; the menus

only indicate values from the LSS obtained by performing a
TESTFEED operation.

LSS Auto is the quick and normal way to determine if the label stop
sensor works properly and is able to detect gaps, slots, or black marks.
LSS Manual shows the actual setting provided by the latest TESTFEED
operation. It is also possible to try other settings. LSS Manual is primar-
ily intended for service and is not described in this manual.
LSS Auto
• Check that the printer is set up for the type of media loaded in your
printer (Setup Mode/Media/Media type/LABELS (w GAPS);TICKET
(w MARK), TICKET (w GAPS), FIX LENGTH STRIP; or VAR
LENGTH STRIP.
• Perform a TESTFEED by simultaneously pressing the <Shift> and
<Feed> keys on the printer’s keyboard.
• Make sure that there is a label—not a gap or mark—at the LSS.
• Check that the media is routed as close to the center section as the
guides allow.
• Enter the Setup Mode (see Chapter 7) and go to Setup Mode/Print
Defines/LSS Test/LSS Auto.
• The menu should look like this with the cursor placed in the center:
LSS Auto

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 Chapter 12 — Adjustments

• Gap or slot detection:

Lift the printhead and pull out the media slowly. When the LSS
detects a gap or a detection slot, the cursor moves to the right.
LSS Auto

• Black mark detection:

Lift the printhead and pull out the media slowly. When the LSS
detects a black mark, the cursor moves to the left.
LSS Auto

• It is possible to refresh the centered cursor position by pressing the

<d/F4> key.
• If the cursor behaves as described above, the LSS is working and is
properly aligned with the gaps, slots, or black marks.
• If the cursor does not react on a gap, slot, or black mark, check this:
- Is the LSS laterally aligned with the slots or black marks?
- Are both the upper and lower part of the LSS aligned with each
other?
- Is the transfer ribbon properly loaded so it does not interfere with
the LSS? (See Chapter 5.)
- Are the label stop sensors free from dust and are the guides free
from stuck labels or other objects that may interfere with the light
that goes from one part of the LSS to the other? If not, clean as
described in Chapter 11.
- Does the media have some kind of preprint that can disturb the
detection?
- Is there too little difference between the black marks and the sur-
rounding areas?
- Does the liner have too little transparency?
- Does the LSS work with another type of media? (Remember to
change the Media Type setup and perform a new TESTFEED.)

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 A Technical Data

This appendix lists the technical data for the printer.

Please note that Intermec reserves the right to change
without prior notice and that this information does
not represent a commitment on the part of Intermec.

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 Appendix A — Technical Data

Printing
Print Technique Direct Thermal and Thermal Transfer
Printhead Resolution 8 dots/mm (203.2 dpi) or
11.81 dots/mm (300 dpi)
Print Speed (variable) 100 to 225 mm/sec.
(≈ 4 to 8.85 in./sec.)
Print Width (max) 167.4 mm (6.59 in.)
Print Length (max) 32767 dots
= 409.5 cm (161.25 in.) at 203.2 dpi1
= 277.5 cm (109.23 in.) at 300 dpi1
Media Width (min/max) 76 to 170 mm (3 to 6.69 in.)
Media Roll Diameter (max) 213 mm (8.38 in.) Tear-off
205 mm (8.07 in.) Peel-off
Media Roll Core Diameter 38 to 40 mm (1.5 in.) or
76 mm (3 in.) with adapters fitted
Ribbon Width (min/max) 76.2 to 168 mm (3 to 6.61 in.)
Ribbon Roll Diameter 80 mm (3.15 in.) ≈ 450 m (1476
(outer), max. ft) of ribbon
Ribbon Roll Core Dia- 25 mm (1.00 inches)
meter (inner)
Print Directions 4
Modes of Operation
Tear-Off (Straight-through) Yes
Cut-Off Option With cutter
Peel-Off (Self-strip) Option With rewinder
Firmware
Operating System Intermec Fingerprint v8.30 Incl. Direct
Protocol
Smooth Fonts TrueDoc and TrueType fonts
Resident scalable fonts 15 Unicode fonts2
Resident bar codes 59
Startup Program (std) Intermec Shell v8.2
Physical Measures
Dimensions (W × L × H) 335 × 482 × 238 mm
(13.2 × 19.0 × 9.4 in)
Weight (excluding media) 14.8 kg (32.6 pounds)

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 Appendix A — Technical Data

Ambient Operating Tem- +5°C to +40°C (+41°F to +104°F)

perature
Storage Temperature -20°C to +70°C (-4°F to +152°F)
Humidity 10 to 90% non-condensing
Electronics
Microprocessor 32 bit RISC
On-board Flash SIMMs 2 sockets for 4MB or 8MB each Std. 1 × 4MB
On-board SDRAM SIMM 1 socket 16MB Std. 16MB
Power Supply
AC Voltage 90 to 265 VAC, 45 to 65 Hz
PFC Regulation IEC 61000-3-2
Power Consumption Minimum 20W; Continuous print-
ing, average 125W; Peak 400W
Sensors
Label Gap/Black Mark/ Yes Variable posi-
Out of Media tion
Printhead Lifted Yes
Ribbon End/Ribbon Low Yes
Paper Sensor Yes
Controls
Indicator Lamps 3
Display 2 × 16 character LCD Background
light
Keyboard 22 keys membrane-switch type
Print button 1
Beeper Yes
Data Interfaces
Serial 1 × RS-232 + 1 × USB
Bar Code Wand Yes
Connection for Optional 1+2 1 for EasyLAN
Interface Boards 2 for other
boards
Cutter Interface 1
Memory Card Adapter 1 CompactFlash
cards

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 Appendix A — Technical Data

Accessories and Options

Integral Self-strip Unit with Option3,4 For peel-off
Liner Takeup operation
Fan-fold Guide Option5
Cutter Option5
Label Taken Sensor Option3,4
Real Time Clock Option3,4 10+ years life
3,4
Parallel Interface Board Option IEEE 1284
Double Serial Interface Option3,4 2 serial ports
Board
Serial/Industrial Interface Option3,4 1 serial port +
Board 1 industrial
interface port
EasyLAN Ethernet Inter- Option3,4
face
EasyLAN Wireless Inter- Option3,4
face
Built-in Alphanumeric Option3,4
Keyboard
External Alphanumeric Option5
Keyboard
CompactFlash Cards for Option5 8MB-1GB
various purposes
CompactFlash Protection Option5
Plate
1
/. The max. print length is also restricted by the amount of free SDRAM memory.
2
/. Latin, Greek, and Cyrillic fonts according to Unicode standard are included.
3
/. Factory installed option
4
/. Field-installable kit. Installation should be performed by a service technician.
5
/. Operator-installable option.

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 B Media Specifications

This appendix specifies the physical measures for vari-

ous types of media.

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 Appendix B — Media Specifications

Media Roll Size

Core
Diameter (A), standard: 38-40 mm (1.5 inches)
Diameter (A), with adapter: 76.2 mm (3 inches)
Width: Must not protrude outside the media.

The media must be wound up on the core in such a way

that the printer can pull the end free.

Roll
Max. diameter (B), tear-off and cut-off: 213 mm (8.38 inches)
Max. diameter (B), peel-off and batch takeup: 205 mm (8.07 inches)
Max. width (C): 170 mm (6.69 inches)
Min. width (C) : 76 mm (3.00 inches)
The recommended media thickness is 60 to 170µm (2.4 to 6.7 mils).
Thicker media may be used, but print quality will be reduced. The
stiffness is also important and must be balanced against thickness to
maintain print quality.
Media rolls to be loaded inside the printer should be wound with the
printable side facing outwards.
The media supply must not be exposed to dust, sand, grit, etc. Any hard
particles, however small, can damage the printhead.

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 Appendix B — Media Specifications

Media
Non-Adhesive Strip
⇐ a ⇒ Media Width
Maximum: 170 mm (6.69 inches)
Minimum: 76 mm (3.00 inches)
Media Type Setup
• Fix length strip
• Var length strip

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 Appendix B — Media Specifications

Self-Adhesive Strip
⇐ a ⇒ Media Width (including liner)
Maximum: 170 mm (6.69 inches)
Minimum: 76 mm (3.00 inches)
⇐ b ⇒ Liner
The liner must not extend more than a total of 1.6 mm (0.06 inches)
outside the face material and should protrude equally on both sides.
⇐ c ⇒ Media Width (excluding liner)
Maximum: 168.4 mm (6.63 inches)
Minimum: 74.4 mm (2.93 inches)
Media Type Setup
• Fix length strip
• Var length strip

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 Appendix B — Media Specifications

Self-Adhesive Labels
⇐ a ⇒ Media Width (including liner)
Maximum: 170 mm (6.69 inches)
Minimum: 76 mm (3.00 inches)
⇐ b ⇒ Liner
The backing paper must not extend more than a total of 1.6 mm (0.06
inches) outside the labels and should protrude equally on both side. Rec-
ommended minimum transparency: 40% (DIN 53147).
⇐ c ⇒ Label Width (excluding liner)
Maximum: 168.4 mm (6.63 inches)
Minimum: 74.4 mm (2.93 inches)
⇐ d ⇒ Label Length
Maximum:
8 dots/mm (203.2 dpi): 6,143 mm (241 inches)
11.81 dots/mm (300 dpi): 4,162 mm (163 inches)
provided there is a sufficient amount of free SDRAM memory
Minimum (without LTS): 8.0 mm (0.32 inches)
Minimum (with LTS): 12.0 mm (0.47 inches)
⇐ e ⇒ Label Gap
Maximum: 25.0 mm (0.98 inches)
Recommended: 3.0 mm (0.12 inches)
Minimum: 1.27 mm (0.05 inches)
The Label Stop Sensor must be able to detect the extreme front edges of
the labels.
Opacity
The difference between in opacity between label plus liner and liner only
should be ≥ 19% units.
Maximum liner opacity is 72%.
Media Type Setup
• Label (w gaps)

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 Appendix B — Media Specifications

Feed direction

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 Appendix B — Media Specifications

Tickets with Gaps

⇐ a ⇒ Media Width
Maximum: 170 mm (6.69 inches)
Minimum: 76 mm (3.00 inches)
⇐ b ⇒ Copy Length
Maximum:
8 dots/mm (203.2 dpi): 6,143 mm (241 inches)
11.81 dots/mm (300 dpi): 4,162 mm (163 inches)
provided there is a sufficient amount of free SDRAM memory
Minimum (without LTS): 8.0 mm (0.32 inches)
Minimum (with LTS): 12.0 mm (0.47 inches)
⇐ c ⇒ LSS Detection Position
Variable, see Chapter 12.
⇐ d ⇒ Detection Slit Length
The length of the detection slit (excluding corner radii) must be mini-
mum 2.5 mm (0.10 inches) on either side of the LSS detection position
(e).
⇐ e ⇒ Detection Slit Height
Maximum: 25.0 mm (0.98 inches)
Recommended: 1.6 mm (0.06 inches)
Minimum: 1.27 mm (0.05 inches)
Opacity
Max opacity difference: 48%
Media Type Setup
• Ticket (w gaps)

Note: Do not allow any perforation to break the edge of the

media as this may cause the media to split and jam the printer.

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 Appendix B — Media Specifications

Feed direction

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 Appendix B — Media Specifications

Tickets with Black Mark

⇐ a ⇒ Media Width
Maximum: 170 mm (6.69 inches)
Minimum: 76 mm (3.00 inches)
⇐ b ⇒ Copy Length
Maximum:
8 dots/mm (203.2 dpi): 6,143 mm (241 inches)
11.81 dots/mm (300 dpi): 4,162 mm (163 inches)
provided there is a sufficient amount of free SDRAM memory
Minimum: 20.0 mm (0.8 inches)
⇐ c ⇒ LSS Detection Position
Variable, see Chapter 12.
⇐ d ⇒ Black Mark Width
Maximum: Full media width
Recommended: 10.0 mm (0.39 inches)
Minimum: 5.0 mm (0.20 inches)
⇐ e ⇒ Black Mark Length
Maximum: 25.0 mm (0.98 inches)
Recommended: 3.2 mm (0.13 inches)
Minimum: 1.27 mm (0.05 inches)
⇐ f ⇒ Black Mark Y-Position
It is recommended that you place the black mark as close to the front
edge of the ticket as possible and use a negative Stop Adjust value to
control the media feed, so the tickets can be properly torn off. The black
mark can be placed either on the top or at the back of the media.
Black Mark Characteristics
Maximum reflectance: 15%, 940 nm
Difference between mark and media: 55%
Media Type Setup
• Ticket (w mark)

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 Appendix B — Media Specifications

Note: Preprint that may interfere with the detection of

the black mark should be avoided. However, the Intermec
Fingerprint statement LBLCOND allows the sensor to be
temporarily disabled during a specified amount of media feed
in order to avoid unintentional detection, see Intermec Finger-
print manuals.
Note: Do not allow any perforations to break the edge of the
media as this may cause the media to split and jam the printer.

Feed direction

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 C Interfaces

This appendix describes the interface connectors

found on the printer’s rear plate. It covers the follow-
ing topics:
• RS-232 interface
• USB Interface
• Bar Code Wand Interface
• Optional interfaces

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 Appendix C — Interfaces

RS-232 Interface
Protocol
Default setup:
Baud rate: 9600
Char. length 8 bits
Parity: None
Stop bits: 1
RTS/CTS Disabled
ENQ/ACK: Disabled
XON/XOFF: Disabled (both ways)
New Line: CR/LF
To change the RS-232 interface settings, see Chapter 6, “Setting Up the
Printer.”
Signals on printer’s serial port "uart1:"
DB-9 Signal Meaning
1 External +5V DC*
2 TXD Transmit data
3 RXD Receive data
4 DSR Data set ready
5 GND Ground RS-232
6 DTR Data terminal ready ("uart1:")
7 CTS Clear to send
8 RTS Request to send
9 – Not used
*
/. The external +5V is limited to 500
mA and is automatically switched off at overload.

Interface Cable
Computer end: Depends on computer model
Printer end: DB-9 plug

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 Appendix C — Interfaces

USB Interface
This printer supports USB v1.1 (also called USB 2.0 full speed). To use
the USB interface for printing from a PC, you need a special Intermec
USB printer driver installed in your PC.
The printer is a so called “self-powered device.” We recommend that you
only connect one printer to each USB port on the host, either directly or
via a hub. Other devices, like a keyboard and a mouse, can be connected
to the same hub. If you need to connect more than one Intermec USB
printer to a host, you should use different USB ports.
Using a USB Class A/B cable, connect the Class A plug to your PC or
hub and the Class B plug to your printer.
The USB interface is essentially a one-way communication interface and
is thus not recommended for programming. There is no communication
setup for the USB port.

USB Class A connector.

Connect to PC or hub.

USB Class B connector.

Connect to USB receptacle
on the printer’s rear plate.

USB ("usb1:")

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 Appendix C — Interfaces

Bar Code Wand Interface

The printer has a socket on the CPU board for connecting a bar code
wand or scanner. The socket is accessible through a slot in the printer’s
rear plate.
If a Code 128 bar code that contains the character FNC3 is read via this
port, the data will be treated as a setup string and will change the print-
er’s setup accordingly. A setup bar code may contain a single parameter
or a combination of up to 3 or 4 setup parameters. Refer to the EasySet
Bar Code Wand Setup manual for more information on how to produce
setup bar codes.
The printer will acknowledge that a bar code has been successfully read
by emitting a short beep signal.
If no FNC3 character is found in the bar code, the data will be stored
in a buffer which could be read by specifying the "wand:" device. The
buffer is small, so it is recommended to use short bar code data (max. 16
characters) and read the buffer regularly to avoid overflow.
For more demanding applications or for reading bar codes other than
Code 128, choose a regular bar code scanner from Intermec’s wide prod-
uct range and connect it to a serial port.

Bar code wand

interface ("wand:")

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 Appendix C — Interfaces

Optional Interfaces
The printer can optionally be fitted with one or two of the following
interface boards at the right-hand side of the printer’s rear plate:
• Double Serial Interface Board
• Serial/Industrial Interface Board
• IEEE 1284 Parallel Interface Board (only one at a time)
Regardless of any of the interface boards mentioned above are installed,
the printer can also be fitted with one of the following EasyLAN inter-
face boards for connection to a Local Area Network (LAN):
• EasyLAN Ethernet Interface
• EasyLAN Wireless Interface

Double Serial Interface Board

"uart3:"
RS-232,
RS-422 non isolated,
or 20 mA current loop

"uart2:"
RS-232,
RS-422 non isolated,
RS-422 Isolated,
or RS-485

Serial/Industrial Interface Board

Industrial interface
8 digital In ports
8 digital Out ports
4 relay ports

"uart2:"
RS-232,
RS-422 non isolated,
RS-422 Isolated,
or RS-485

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 Appendix C — Interfaces

IEEE 1284 Parallel Interface Board

"centronics:"

Allowed interface combinations

Left-hand slot Ports Right-hand slot Ports

Double Serial uart2: + uart3: – –
Double Serial uart2: + uart3: Double Serial uart4: + uart5:
Double Serial uart2: + uart3: Serial/industrial uart4:
Double Serial uart2: + uart3: IEEE 1284 centronics:
Serial/Industrial uart2: – –
Serial/Industrial uart2: Serial/Industrial uart3:
Serial/Industrial uart2: Double Serial uart3: + uart4:
Serial/Industrial uart2: IEEE 1284 centronics:
IEEE 1284 centronics: – –
IEEE 1284 centronics: Double Serial uart2: + uart3:
IEEE 1284 centronics: Serial/Industrial uart2:

Remarks:
• The left-hand slot is the slot closest to the center section.
• Always start by fitting an interface board in the left-hand slot.
• RS-485 is only supported by "uart2:"

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 Appendix C — Interfaces

EasyLAN Ethernet Interface

"net1:"

EasyLAN Wireless Interface

"net1:"

For information on how to set up, operate, configure, and troubleshoot

an EasyLAN interface, please refer to the following manuals that are
included in .pdf format on the attached CD-ROM:
• EasyLAN Interface Kit, Installation Instructions
• EasyLAN Wireless Interface Kit, Installation Instructions
• EasyLAN, User’s Guide
• EasyLAN Network Setup, User’s Guide

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 Appendix C — Interfaces

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 D Intermec Supplies

This appendix describes the supplies offered by

Intermec for use with this printer, that is, direct ther-
mal media, thermal transfer ribbons, and receiving
face materials for thermal transfer printing

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 Appendix D — Intermec Supplies

Direct Thermal Media

Intermec offers two quality grades of direct thermal media for the Easy-
Coder printers:

Premium Quality
Top-coated media with high demands on printout quality and resistance
against moisture, plasticizers, and vegetable oils. Examples:
Europe North America
Thermal Top Board Duratherm II
Thermal Top Duratherm II Tag
Thermal Top High Speed Duratherm Lightning
Duratherm Lightning Plus
Duratherm IR
Economy Quality
Non top-coated media with less resistance to moisture, plasticizers,
and vegetable oils. In all other respects, it is equal to Premium Quality.
Examples:
Europe North America
Thermal Eco –
Thermal Eco Board

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 Appendix D — Intermec Supplies

Thermal Transfer Media

Intermec offers stock labels for thermal transfer printing in a wide range
of quality grades.

Uncoated Papers
Economical high-volume printing. To be used with GP/TMX 1100/
TMX 1500 ribbons. Examples:
Europe North America
TTR Uncoated –

Coated Papers
Various coat-weight, smoothness, and gloss. To be used with HP/TMX
2500 and GP/TMX 1100/TMX 1500 ribbons. Examples:
Europe North America
TTR Coated Duratran II
TTR Premium Duratran II Tag
TTR Premium Board Valeron Tag
TTR High Gloss White

Polyethylene Plastics
These media have better resistance to water and many common chemi-
cals than uncoated and coated papers. They can be use outdoors and
offer good tear resistance. Most often used with HP/TMX 2500 ribbons.
Examples:
Europe North America
TTR Polyethylene Kimdura
TTR Gloss Polyethylene Syntran

Polyesters
These media give high resistance to chemicals, heat, and mechanical
abrasion with HR/TMX 3200 ribbons. Examples:
Europe North America
TTR High Gloss Polyester PET Gloss

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 Appendix D — Intermec Supplies

Transfer Ribbons
Intermec offer three ranges of thermal transfer ribbons optimized for dif-
ferent purposes:
• General Purpose (GP/TMX 1500) transfer ribbons allow high
speed printing and give a good printout, but are somewhat sensitive
to smearing. They may be the best choice for uncoated and coated
papers.
• High Performance (HP/TMX 2200, TMX 2500) transfer ribbons
allow high speed printing and give a highly readable and defined
printout on most face materials with smooth surfaces. They have good
“smear resistance” and are most suitable for intricate logotypes and
images on matte-coated papers and synthetic face materials.
• High Resistance (HR/TMX 3200) transfer ribbons give an extremely
durable printout, which is resistant to most chemical agents and high
temperatures. However, such transfer ribbons set high demands on the
receiving face material, which must be very smooth, such as polyes-
ters.
The use of HR/TMX 3200 ribbons requires the print speed and the
energy supplied by the printhead to be controlled with great accuracy
according to the receiving face material. Custom-made setup options
adapted for special applications can also be created. Consult your
Intermec distributor.

Note: Intermec thermal transfer ribbons are engineered specifi-

cally for the EasyCoder printheads.

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 Appendix D — Intermec Supplies

Bar Code Directions

In the tables on the pages that follow, different maximum print speeds
may be recommended depending on the direction of possible bar codes
in the printout. Generally, ladder style bar codes are more demanding
and may require a lower print speed, especially in connection with a
large media roll and/or negative start adjust values (see “Print Speed” in
Chapter 6). The illustration below shows how the two type of bar code
directions relate to the media feed direction.

Bar Code Directions

0ICKET &ENCE Dir 1 & 3

Dir 2 & 4
,ADDER

&EED
$IRECTION

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 Appendix D — Intermec Supplies

Recommended Paper Type Settings (Europe)

Direct Thermal Printing; 8 dots/mm (203.2 dpi)
Type/Speed Name Label Label Max Rec. Print Speed1
Constant Factor Dir 1&32 Dir 2&43
Top Coated/ Thermal Top Board4 100 40 200 100
Standard Thermal Top 77 40 150 200
Thermal IR 98 40 200 100
Non Top Coated/ Thermal Eco 69 40 200 200
Standard Thermal Eco Board4 68 40 200 150
Top Coated/High Thermal Top High Speed 85 40 225 225

Thermal Transfer Printing; 8 dots/mm (203.2 dpi)

Type/Speed Name Ribbon Ribbon Label Max Rec. Print Speed1
Constant Factor Offset Dir 1&32 Dir 2&43
GP02 TTR Uncoated 60 25 0 225 225
TTR Coated 58 25 0 225 225
TTR Premium 54 25 0 225 225
HP66 TTR Coated 76 25 0 225 225
TTR Premium 68 25 0 225 225
TTR Premium Board4 95 25 0 225 225
TTR High Gloss White 84 25 0 225 225
TTR Polyethylene 67 25 0 225 225
TTR Gloss Polyethylene 81 25 0 225 225
HP05 TTR Coated 75 25 0 225 225
TTR Premium 66 25 0 225 225
TTR Premium Board4 82 25 0 225 225
TTR High Gloss White 78 25 0 225 225
TTR Polyethylene 64 25 0 225 225
TTR Gloss Polyethylene 76 25 0 225 225
HR03 TTR High Gloss Polyester 81 25 0 175 225

1
/. Exceeding the recommended print speed may cause the printhead to wear out prema-
turely. If the ambient temperature is lower than +15°C (+59°F), decrease print speed by
50 mm/sec.
2
/. Applies to printing of text, lines, boxes, images, and picket fence bar codes.
3
/. Applies to ladder bar codes.
4
/. Requires high printhead pressure (see Chapter 12 “Adjustments, Printhead Pressure”).

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 Appendix D — Intermec Supplies

Direct Thermal Printing; 11.81 dots/mm (300 dpi)

Type/Speed Name Label Label Max Rec. Print Speed1
Constant Factor Dir 1&32 Dir 2&43
Top Coated/ Thermal Top Board4 94 40 225 150
Standard Thermal Top 81 40 225 200
Thermal IR 105 40 225 100
Non Top Coated/ Thermal Eco 74 40 225 225
Standard Thermal Eco Board4 70 40 225 200
Top Coated/High Thermal Top High Speed 85 40 225 225

Thermal Transfer Printing; 11.81 dots/mm (300 dpi)

Type/Speed Name Ribbon Ribbon Label Max Rec. Print Speed1
Constant Factor Offset Dir 1&32 Dir 2&43
GP02 TTR Uncoated 63 25 0 225 225
TTR Coated 64 25 0 225 225
TTR Premium 56 25 0 225 225
HP66 TTR Coated 84 25 0 225 225
TTR Premium 71 25 0 225 225
TTR Premium Board4 99 25 0 225 225
TTR High Gloss White 86 25 0 225 225
TTR Polyethylene 71 25 0 225 225
TTR Gloss Polyethylene 82 25 0 225 225
HP05 TTR Coated 79 25 0 225 225
TTR Premium 72 25 0 225 225
TTR Premium Board4 85 25 0 225 225
TTR High Gloss White 81 25 0 225 225
TTR Polyethylene 70 25 0 225 225
TTR Gloss Polyethylene 79 25 0 225 225
HR03 TTR High Gloss Polyester 81 25 0 175 225
1
/. Exceeding the recommended print speed may cause the printhead to wear out prema-
turely. If the ambient temperature is lower than +15°C (+59°F), decrease print speed by
50 mm/sec.
2
/. Applies to printing of text, lines, boxes, images, and picket fence bar codes.
3
/. Applies to ladder bar codes.
4
/. Requires high printhead pressure (see Chapter 12 “Adjustments, Printhead Pressure”).

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 Appendix D — Intermec Supplies

Recommended Paper Type Settings

(North America)
Direct Thermal Printing; 8 dots/mm (203.2 dpi)
Type/Speed Name Label Label Max Rec. Print Speed1
Constant Factor Dir 1&32 Dir 2&43
Top Coated/ Duratherm II 95 40 200 200
Duratherm II-2 85 40 200 200
Standard Duratherm II Tag4 75 40 200 200
Top Coated/ Duratherm Lightning 63 40 200 200
High Duratherm Lightning Plus 72 40 200 200
Duratherm Lightning IR 62 40 150 200
Duratherm Lightn. IR Tag 107 40 100 200

Thermal Transfer Printing; 8 dots/mm (203.2 dpi)

Type/Speed Name Ribbon Ribbon Label Max Rec. Print Speed1
Constant Factor Offset Dir 1&32 Dir 2&43
TMX 1500 Duratran II Label 52 25 0 175 175
Duratran II Syntran 51 25 0 175 175
Duratran Kimdura 56 25 0 175 175
Duratran S 52 25 0 175 175
Duratran II Tag 56 25 0 175 175
TMX 2200 Duratran II Labels 59 25 0 175 175
Duratran II Syntran 60 25 0 175 175
Duratran Kimdura 66 25 0 175 175
Duratran Valeron 77 25 0 175 175
Duratran S 59 25 0 175 175
Duratran II Tag 66 25 0 175 175
TMX 3200 Duratran II Gloss Polyester 85 25 0 200 150

1
/. Exceeding the recommended print speed may cause the printhead to wear out prema-
turely. If the ambient temperature is lower than +15°C (+59°F), decrease print speed by
50 mm/sec.
2
/. Applies to printing of text, lines, boxes, images, and picket fence bar codes.
3
/. Applies to ladder bar codes.
4
/. Requires high printhead pressure (see Chapter 12 “Adjustments, Printhead Pressure”).

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 Appendix D — Intermec Supplies

Direct Thermal Printing; 11.81 dots/mm (300 dpi)

Type/Speed Name Label Label Max Rec. Print Speed1
Constant Factor Dir 1&32 Dir 2&43
Top Coated/ Duratherm II 94 40 225 225
Standard Duratherm II-2 90 40 225 200
Duratherm II Tag4 74 40 225 200
Top Coated/ Duratherm Lightning 69 40 225 225
High Duratherm Lightning Plus 80 40 225 225
Duratherm Lightn. IR Tag 113 40 225 100

Thermal Transfer Printing; 11.81 dots/mm (300 dpi)

Type/Speed Name Ribbon Ribbon Label Max Rec. Print Speed1
Constant Factor Offset Dir 1&32 Dir 2&43
TMX 1500 Duratran II Label 53 25 0 175 175
Duratran II Syntran 52 25 0 175 175
Duratran Kimdura 56 25 0 175 175
Duratran S 53 25 0 175 175
Duratran II Tag 58 25 0 175 175
TMX 2200 Duratran II Labels 63 25 0 175 175
Duratran II Syntran 64 25 0 175 175
Duratran Kimdura 71 25 0 175 175
Duratran Valeron 82 25 0 175 175
Duratran S 62 25 0 175 175
Duratran II Tag 71 25 0 175 175
TMX 3200 Duratran II Gloss Polyester 83 25 0 200 200
1
/. Exceeding the recommended print speed may cause the printhead to wear out prema-
turely. If the ambient temperature is lower than +15°C (+59°F), decrease print speed by
50 mm/sec.
2
/. Applies to printing of text, lines, boxes, images, and picket fence bar codes.
3
/. Applies to ladder bar codes.
4
/. Requires high printhead pressure (see Chapter 12 “Adjustments, Printhead Pressure”).

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 Appendix D — Intermec Supplies

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 Intermec Technologies Corporation
Corporate Headquarters
6001 36th Avenue West
Everett, WA 98203
U.S.A.
tel 425.348.2600
fax 425.355.9551
www.intermec.com

EasyCoder PX6i User’s Guide (Fingerprint version)

*1-960622-01*
*1-960622-01*

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