easycoder_pm4i USer Guide
easycoder_pm4i USer Guide
EasyCoder® PM4i
Bar Code Label Printer
(Fingerprint Version)
Version
Number Date Description of Change
-00 May 2003 Supports original Fingerprint version
(v8.00).
-01 Oct. 2003 Revised to support Fingerprint v8.10.
Information about EasyLAN Wireless
interface added.
-02 Feb. 2004 Revised to support Fingerprint v8.20 and
Intermec Shell v8.1. Information on
Intermec Readiness Indicator added. New
method for returning to factory default
added. New setup node for LSS test added.
More bar codes supported. Information on
Intermec.
-52 June 2004 Readiness Indicator added. New method for
returning to factory default added. More bar
codes supported.
-03 August 2004 Revised to support Fingerprint v8.30 and
Intermec Shell v8.2. Full support for double
optional interface boards including up to five
serial communication ports. Support for
composite bar codes.
-04 January Revised to support Fingerprint v8.70. RFID
2006 functionality and description of the Ready-
to-Work indicator has been added.
-001 January Revised to bring into Adobe Framemaker 7.2
2008 from InDesign and updated all graphics.
Contents
Before You Begin. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . xii
Safety Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . xii
Do not repair or adjust alone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . xii
First aid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . xii
Resuscitation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . xii
Energized equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . xii
Safety Icons . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . xiii
Global Services and Support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . xiii
Warranty Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . xiii
Web Support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . xiii
Telephone Support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .xiv
Who Should Read This Manual . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . xv
Related Documents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . xv
1 Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1
Safety Summary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Product Identification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
2 Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
Front View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Rear View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Media Compartment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Description. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Media Supply Roll Post . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Print Mechanism. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Computer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
RS-232 Serial Interface ("uart1:"). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
USB Interface ("usb1:") . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Optional Interface and Network Boards("uart2:", "uart3:", "uart4:",
"uart5:", "centronics:", and "net1:") . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
3 Starting Up . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Startup Files. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Memory Card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
4 Media Load . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Tear-Off (Straight-Through) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Peel-Off (Self-Strip) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
Cut-Off . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
Ribbon Load . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
Description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
Setup Mode. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
Intermec Fingerprint . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
Intermec Direct Protocol . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
Default Setup. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
Setup Parameters. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
Serial Communication . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
Baud Rate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
Character Length . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
Parity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
Stop Bits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
Flow Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
New Line . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
Receive Buffer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
Transmit Buffer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
Feedadjust . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
Start Adjust . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
Stop Adjust . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58
Recommended Feed Adjustments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58
Media . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
Media Type . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60
Paper Type. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
Contrast . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64
Paper Sensor. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64
Testfeed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64
Print Defines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64
Head Resistance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64
Testprint . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65
Print Speed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65
LSS Test. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65
LTS (Label Taken Sensor) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65
Test Labels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66
7 Setup Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74
Application Programs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74
Other Facilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74
Line Analyzer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80
9 Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84
Paper Cutter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85
Paper Sensor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85
Tear-Off Bar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85
76 mm (3-in) Adapter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86
Font Card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87
RFID Kit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87
Special Printheads . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87
Interface Boards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88
10 Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89
11 Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97
Printhead Cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98
12 Adjustments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113
Media . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 131
Media with RFID Tags/Inlays . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 131
Non-Adhesive Strip . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 131
Self-Adhesive Strip. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 133
Self-Adhesive Labels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 134
Tickets With Gaps. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 135
Tickets With Black Mark . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 136
C Interfaces . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 139
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.
AWOO Systems
102-1304 SK Ventium
522 Dangjung-dong
Gunpo-si, Gyeonggi-do Korea, South 435-776
Contact: Mr. Sinbum Kang
Telephone: +82-31-436-1191
E-mail: [email protected]
IN Information System PTD LTD
6th Floor
Daegu Venture Center Bldg 95
Shinchun 3 Dong
Donggu, Daegu City, Korea
E-mail: [email protected] or [email protected]
Who Should Read This Manual
This manual is for the person who is responsible for installing,
configuring, and maintaining the EasyCoder PM4i printer.
This manual provides you with information about the features of
the EasyCoder PM4i printer, and how to install, configure,
operate, maintain, and troubleshoot it.
Before you work with the EasyCoder PM4i printer, you should
be familiar with your network and general networking terms,
such as IP address.
Related Documents
The Intermec web site at www.intermec.com contains our
documents (as PDF files) that you can download for free.
To download documents
1 Visit the Intermec web site at www.intermec.com.
2 Click Support > Manuals.
3 In the Select a Product field, choose the product whose
documentation you want to download.
To order printed versions of the Intermec manuals, contact your
local Intermec representative or distributor
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 open the front/left-hand cover. Dangerous voltage!
If you open the electronics cover, you will void the warranty
and may cause damage to the internal components. Opening
the electronics cover exposes the user to shock hazards which
may result in injury or death.
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.
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 printed labels, tickets, or tags are presented at the front of
the print mechanism, which is covered by a door.
Indicator lamps
Display window
Print button
Keyboard
Side door
Print
mechanism
Front door
Rear View
The rear plate contains the On/Off switch, the AC power cord
socket, and various interface connectors and slots.
USB interface
(”usb1:”)
AC power
cord socket
Machine
label
Intake slot for external
media supply
Media Compartment
Description
The media compartment is completely covered by a door that
can be opened 180° upwards to provide full access for media and
ribbon load and has an inspection window for checking the
media and transfer ribbon supplies.
The media can be supplied from a post or, optionally, from an
external supply of fan folds behind the printer using an internal
media guide device. There is also an optional rotating media
supply hub. Also see “Options” on page 83.
Side
Lock door
Thermal transfer (option)
mechanism
Inspection
window
Media supply
roll post with
edge guide
Keyboard
Front
door Integral liner
takeup
Slack
Print absorber
mechanism
Screw
(hidden)
Print Mechanism
The print mechanism features a high-performance thermal
printhead with quick-mount fittings to facilitate replacement.
Ribbon
rewind Ribbon
hub supply
hub
Ribbon
break
shaft
Thermal
printhead
Pressure
arm
Finisher
interface
Tear bar
(tear upwards) Edge
guide
Platen
Label stop sensor
roller
Tear bar Printhead position adjustment
(tear downwards lift lever
and peel-off )
Connections
Power
To connect the power
1 Place the printer on a level surface, near an AC outlet. You
should be able to easily access the printer to load media 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 electrical outlet (90 to 265 VAC).
Computer
The Easycoder PM4i is fitted with one 9-pin D-style
subminiature (DB9) socket for the RS-232 serial interface port
and one class B connector for the USB interface port (For help,
see “Interfaces” on page 139.).
RS-232 Serial Interface ("uart1:")
Use the serial interface with Intermec LabelShop or the Intermec
InterDriver. Also use it with the Intermec Direct Protocol or the
Intermec Fingerprint programming language because you can
receive error messagesn 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 “Setting
Up the Printer” on page 51.
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 programming 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 “Options” on page 83). Refer to
Chapter 6, Chapter 7, and Appendix C for connection and setup
instructions.
Indicator Lamps
The indicators are colored LEDs (Light Emitting Diodes) and are
used for the following purposes:
Keyboard
The keyboard is of the membrane-switch type and has 22 keys.
The keyboard is supplemented by a large Print button. Some
keys have hard-coded functions in the startup and setup
modes.In application programs created using the Intermec
Button Function
Print button Feed/Pause a print job. Repeat last printed
label.
Toggle between pause and printing when
executing a print job.
Beeper
The beeper notifies the operator when an error has occurred and
acknowledges 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!
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:
1 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.
2 In addition to Intermec Shell, the printer is also fitted with a
custom-made application program that is design to perform a
specifi c 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 permanent 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.
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 (8 MB-1 GB).
CompactFlash cards marked “CF+” will not work. You can use
the CompactFlash card to expand the printer’s storage memory
("card1:"). There are also three types of preprogrammed
CompactFlash cards:
CompactFlash
memory card
Protection plate
with screw (option)
This chapter explains how to load the printer with media, that is
labels, tickets, tag, or strips, for the following modes of operation:
• Tear-Off (straight-through)
• Peel-Off (self-strip), requires optional integral self-strip unit
with liner takeup
• Cut-Off (requires optional cutter)
• External supply (fanfolds), fanfold guide available as option
Tear-Off (Straight-Through)
The EasyCoder PM4i 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 when loading the same type of media. 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
“Options” on page 83.
3 Pull out the edge guide as far as it goes and fold it down to a
horizontal position. Remove any empty core from the media
supply roll post.
4 Fit a new roll of media on the supply post. Fold up and adjust
the edge guide so the roll becomes flush with the center
section.
10 Close the front and side door, making sure that the media
runs through the slot in the front door.
11 Press the Feed button to advance the media and adjust the
media feed. Tear off the media by pulling it downwards.
Peel-Off (Self-Strip)
The EasyCoder PM4i 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 optional integral self-
strip unit with liner takeup. This is also known as “Self-strip”
operation.
Peel-off operation cannot be performed when an optional fanfold
guide fitted.
Use the Feed key when loading the same type of media. 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
3 Pull out the handle to collapse the takeup hub, then remove
any liner.
4 Pull out the edge guide as far as it goes and fold it down to as
far as it goes and fold it down to a horizontal position.
Remove any empty core from the media supply roll post.
5 Fit a new roll of media on the supply post. Fold up and adjust
the edge guide so the roll becomes flush with the center
section.
6 Remove labels from the first 50 cm (20 in) of the liner. Route
the liner through the print mechanism and push it inwards
towards the center section as far as it goes.
7 Route the liner around the tear bar and the liner drive roller
and back under the print mechanism and guide shafts.
8 Insert the start of the liner under the lip of the takeup hub,
then rotate the hub counterclockwise a few turns to wind up
some of the liner.
14 Press the Feed button to advance the media and adjust the
media feed.
Cut-Off
The EasyCoder PM4i 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 when loading the same type of media. 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.
3 Pull out the edge guide as far as it goes and fold it down to a
horizontal position. Remove any empty core from the media
supply roll post.
4 Fit a new roll of media on the supply post. Fold up and adjust
the edge guide so the roll becomes flush with the center
section.
9 Close the side door and the cutter while pulling the media
tight.
10 Press the Feed button to advance the media and adjust the
media feed. The labels can be collected on an optional tray.
Rotating hub
3-inch adapter
Retainer
Paper sensor
This illustration shows the various options used with the rotating media
supply hub.
This chapter explains how to load the printer with ribbon for
thermal transfer printing.
Ribbon Load
The EasyCoder PM4i 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
receiving 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 PM4i 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 “Media Load” on page 21.
Most transfer ribbons do not smear at room temperature.
5 Slide the ribbon roll onto the supply hub so the ink-coated
side faces down when the ribbon is routed through the print
mechanism.
20 cm (8 in.)
8 Slide the empty cardboard core onto the ribbon rewind hub
so the ribbon is wound up when the hub rotates
counterclockwise.
This chapter describes the various parameters that are used in the
“Setup Mode” on page 69 or in the various 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, test/service,
media, and configuration.
• Returning to factory default settings.
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/in) printhead:
1 dots = 0.125 mm = 0.0049 in (4.9 mils)
11.81 dots/mm (300 dots/in) printhead:
1 dot = 0.085 mm = 0.0033 in (3.3 mils)
Description
The setup controls the printer in regard of serial communication,
test and service operations, and specifies which types of media
and ribbon are loaded in the printer.
Check the list below to see if the printer’s default setup matches
your requirements. If not, you will have to change the setup. To
enter the Setup Mode, press the Setup key on the printer’s built-
in keyboard and follow the instructions in “Setup Mode” on
page 69.
The setup may also be changed by Intermec PrintSet,
InterDriver, and LabelShop, or thirdparty 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 documentation.
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 Command Reference Manual
(P/N 937-005-XXX).
Default Setup
The printer’s default setup is listed below (assuming no options
installed):
Ser-Com "uart1:"
Baud rate 9600
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
X-start (11.81 dots/mm = 300 dpi) 36 dots
Width (8 dots/mm = 203.2 dpi) 832 dots
Width (11.81 dots/mm = 300 dpi) 1248 dots
Length (8 dots/mm = 203.2 dpi) 1200 dots
Length (11.81 dots/mm = 300 dpi) 1800 dots
Media:
Media type Label (w Gaps)
Paper type Thermal transfer
Ribbon constant 90
Ribbon factor 25
Label offset 0
Low diameter (ribbon) 0 dots
Contrast ±0%
Print Defines
Print speed 100 mm/sec.
Setup Parameters
Serial Communication
The serial communication parameters control the
communication between the printer and the connected computer
or other devices on the 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 communication setup menus
depending on type of communication (refer to Chapter 7, “Setup
Mode” and the overviews depicted in Appendix E).
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 currents through separate lines in the cable being set either to
high or low. This option is disabled by default.
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 Terminal, 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 transmits
ENQ at regular intervals. If the response ACK is not received, the
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 character.
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.
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 available 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 identical 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.”
Length PRINT
WINDOW
Origin
Dot-line
on printhead
X-start Width (1-832)
FEED Dot #831
Dot #0 DIRECTION
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 (±0)
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 optional media low 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).
Print Defines
Head Resistance
The printhead resistance is measured automatically at startup
(read-only information).
Testprint
If the printer is equipped with an RFID kit and loaded with
RFID media, executing the “RFID Test Label” command will
cause the printer to print the tag type name on the label. 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 electronic 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 i key to find out what is wrong, for example
“printhead lifted” or “outofpaper”.
Print Speed
The print speed is variable between 100 and 200 mm/sec. for
printers fitted with an 8 dots/mm (203.2 dpi) printhead and
between 100 and 150 mm/sec. for printers with an optional
11.81 dots/mm (300 dpi) printhead. 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 100 mm/sec. (approx. 4 in/sec.).
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.”
Test Labels
Diamonds
Chess
Bar Codes #1
Setup Info
Ram 8192 (k) PRINT CONFIG
Flash 0+4096 (k) STARTADJ 0
CompactFlash 0 (k) STOPADJ 0
Bar Codes #2
XSTART 24
Hardware Info
c: 4023296 bytes free WIDTH 808
tmp: 3702056 bytes free LENGTH 1200
Odometer 0 (m) MEDIA TYPE LABEL (w GAPS)
PAPER TYPE TRANSFER
LABEL CONSTANT 85
LABEL FACTOR 40
RIBBON CONSTANT 90
RIBBON FACTOR 25
LABEL OFFSET 0
RIBBON SENSOR 14
LOW DIAMETER 36
CONTRAST +0%
TESTFEED 170 202 2 5
HEAD RESIST 702
PRINT SPEED 100
LTS VALUE 8
IP SELECTION DHCP+BOOTP
IP ADDRESS 192.168.235.104
NETMASK 255.255.254.0
DEFAULT ROUTER 192.168.234.1
NAMESERVER 192.169.234.20
FIRMWARE
Fingerprint (version number)
MCS (number, date, time, and processor family)
Buttons Functions
Move one menu to the left on the same level or
scroll back in a stack of options.1
1 “Left”, “right”, “up”, and “down” refer to the overviews later in this
chapter.
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
Legend:
Dotted boxes and lines indicate options.
Thick boxes indicates default options.
Values inside brackets indicate default settings.
Introduction
Intermec Shell is a startup program, which 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 application 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
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
ENTER=SHELL
SEL. APPLICATION
4 sec. v.8.2 Note: Dotted channels are only shown if
Fingerprint 8.60 the corresponding optional interface pcb
is fitted.
ENTER=SHELL STD I/O CHANNEL
SEL. APPLICATION
3 sec. v.8.2 auto
Direct Protocol
SHELL
PRINT SETUP
Prints a list of current setup values (test label “Setup Info”).
SHELL Prints test labels “Diamonds”, “Chess”, “Bar Codes #1”, and “Bar Codes #2” in a loop.
TEST LABEL Press Enter for each new label.
TRANSFER
COMPLETED
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
specifi ed 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 “Ready” control lamp
blinks. There is a 0.5 second timeout. That is, if no more
characters have been received after 0.5 second, the program
considers the transmission terminated and prints out a label.
As long as a continuous string of characters is being received, the
program 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:"
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
Introduction
The EasyCoder PM4i provides a high degree of flexibility
because it has a modular design. By adding options to the basic
printer, the EasyCoder PM4i can be adapted for a variety of
applications. Most options should be installed by an authorized
service technician or are only available as factory-installed
options.
Side door
with keylock
Interface boards
(various types)
Cover
Paper
Label sensor
taken
sensor 1.5-inch
rotating
supply hub
Paper
cutter
3-inch
adapter
Fan-fold
guide Media roll
Cutter Special retainer
tray printheads Liner takeup
unit with
guide shaft
Paper Cutter
The paper cutter is designed to cut off continuous paper-based
stock or liner between labels. The cut-off labels, tickets, or tags
can be collected on an optional tray.The paper cutter can be
controlled using the instructions CUT, CUT ON, and CUT
OFF in Intermec Fingerprint and the Direct Protocol. For more
information, see Chapter 4, “Media Load.”
Paper Sensor
The paper sensor is fitted inside a plastic cover in the center
section below the media supply hub. It can only be used with a
rotating media supply hub and detects when the remaining
media supply has reached a preset minimum diameter, as
specified in the Setup Mode.
Tear-Off Bar
The adjustable tear-off bar is particularly useful when delicate
media is used in peel-off operation.
76 mm (3-in) Adapter
The 76 mm (3-in) adapter is used with a rotating media supply
hub and makes it possible to use media rolls with 76 mm (3-in)
inner diameter cores. The adapter is pressed onto the hub and
secured by a screw. Not used with a media supply roll post.
Installed by the operator.
Font Card
This is a CompactFlash memory card loaded with fonts. With a
Font Card installed, the user gets access to double-byte font sets
including Kanji, Korean and Chinese.
RFID Kit
The EasyCoder PM4i can be equipped with the capability to read
and write data to labels fitted with RFID (Radio Frequency
IDentification) inlays. RFID Kits come either factory installed or
as a field-installable option.
Special Printheads
As standard, the printer is fitted with an 8 dots/mm (203.2 dots/
in) thermal printhead. There are also a number of optional
printheads for special applications. The printhead can easily be
replaced or exchanged by the operator as described in Chapter
11.
8 dots/mm (203.2 dots per inch)
Media Thickness Standard/Option
Max 175 μm (7 mils) Standard
170-220 μm (6.6-8.7 mils) Option
170-220 μm (6.6-8.7 mils) Option
3 mm offset
Interface Boards
A number of interface boards are available for use with the
EasyCoder PM4i printer. The interface boards are either factory-
fitted or can easily be fitted by an authorized service technician.
The EasyCoder PM4i can accommodate one EasyLAN interface
board plus one IEEE 1284 Parallel Interface Board.
EasyLAN boards:
• EasyLAN Ethernet Interface
EasyLAN Wireless InterfaceOther communication boards:
• Parallel Interface Board (IEEE 1284)
• Double Serial Interface Board
• Serial/Industrial Interface Board
• RFID/Serial Interface Board
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 media guides
• Printhead replacement
• Media jams
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.
4 Open the cleaning card envelope and pull out the cleaning
card. Read the warning text.
6 Pull out the cleaning card (1) and raise the printhead (2).
9 Pull out the cleaning card. If necessary, repeat the process with
a fresh cleaning card.
10 Allow the cleaned parts to dry before loading any media (and
ribbon).
External Cleaning
1 Always remove the power cord before cleaning!
4 Never use any sharp tools for removing stuck labels. The
printhead and rollers are delicate.
Both parts of the label stop sensor, which controls the media feed,
are covered by plastic guides. The guides are transparent to allow
the light to pass between the two parts of the label stop sensor.
These areas must be kept clean from dust, stuck labels, and
adhesive residue.
If the printer starts to feed our labels in an unexpected way, pull
out the upper guide as described below and check for any object
that may block the beam of light (dust, stuck labels, adhesive
residue, etc.). If necessary, clean the guides using a cleaning card
or a soft cloth soaked with isopropyl alcohol. Do not use any
other type of chemical. Be careful not to scratch the guides.
Clean here
Upper label
stop sensor
Shaft
Edge
guide
Printhead Replacement
The printhead is subject to wear both from the direct thermal
media or 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.
Note: Check that the density and dot alignment of the new
printhead matches the printhead you are replacing. However, you
can switch between alignments and densities at will, but be
advised that the printout will be affected accordingly.
8 Put back the printhead in reverse order and check that the
printhead cables run freely.
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, carefully 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
damaged beyond repair.
This chapter describes how the operator can adjust the printer.
The chapter covers the following topics:
• Narrow media adjustment
• Label stop sensor position adjustment
• Printhead pressure adjustment
• Ribbon break shaft adjustment
• Label taken sensor adjustment
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 position of the pressure arm so it becomes centered
with 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:
• Loosen the knurled nut 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.
While moving the arm, push at the part where the screw 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 nut.
• Remember to adjust all edge guides too.
Upper label
stop sensor
Pressure arm
Center of media
Edge guide
Adjustment
screw
In the Print Defines part of the Setup Mode, you can test the
label stop sensor if you have a detection problem; LSS Auto and
LSS Manual.
The menu only provides indications from the label stop sensor
unit. The testing menu 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 obtained 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 primarily 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→Gap,
Mark, or Continuous.
• Lift and lower the printhead, then press the Feed/Pause
button.
• 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 (For help, see “Setup Mode” on
page 69.) and go to Setup Mode→Test/Service→LSS
Test→LSS Auto.
• The menu should look like this with the cursor placed in the
center:
LSS Auto
• 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 T/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? For help, see “Thermal Transfer
Printing” on page 43.
• Are the LSS guides clean and free from stuck labels or
other objects that will interfere with the light that goes
from one part of the LSS to the other? If not, clean as
described in Chapter 10.
• Does the media have some kind of preprint that can
disturb the detection?
• Is there too little difference between the black marks and
the surrounding areas?
• Does the liner have too little transparency?
Printhead Pressure
The pressure of the thermal printhead against the direct thermal
media is factory-adjusted. However, the use of thicker or thinner
media than normal could require the printhead pressure to be
readjusted.
Using a straight-slot screwdriver, turn the adjustment screw
clockwise for more pressure (+) or counterclockwise for less
pressure (-). Print a few labels, preferably test labels (see “Setting
Up the Printer” on page 51) and check the printout. Increased
pressure generally gives a darker printout and vice versa. Repeat
until the desired result is obtained.
To return to the factory setting, tighten the screw (+) as far as it
goes and then loosen it (-) four full turns.
Adjustment
screw
Adjustment
screw
Ribbon
break
shaft
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.
Printing
Print Technique Direct and Thermal
Transfer
Printhead Resolution 8 dots/mm (203.2 Option 300 dpi
dpi)
Print Speed (variable) 100 to 200 mm/sec. 8 dots/mm
(4 to 8 in/sec.) 300 dpi
100 to 150 mm/sec.
(4 to 6 in/sec.)
Print Width (max) 104 mm (4.095 in) 8 dots/mm
105.7 mm (4.161 in) 300 dpi
Print Length (max) 32767 dots = 409.5
cm (161.25 in)
Media Width (min/ 25 to 114.3 mm (1 to
max) 4.5 in)
Media Roll Diameter 213 mm (8.38 in)
(max)
Media Roll Core 38 to 40 mm (1.5 in)
Diameter or 76 mm (3 in)
Ribbon Width (min/ 25 to 110 mm (1 to
max) 4.33 in)
Ribbon Roll 82 mm (3.2 in) 450 m (1475 ft) of
Diameter (outer), ribbon
max.
Ribbon Roll Core 25.4 mm (1.00 in)
Diameter (inner)
Print Directions 4
Modes of Operation
Tear-Off (Straight- Yes
through)
Peel-Off (Self-strip) Option
Cut-Off Option With cutter
Firmware
Operating System Intermec Fingerprint Includes Direct
v. 8.70 Protocol
Smooth Fonts TrueDoc and
TrueType fonts
Resident scaleable 15 Unicode fonts
fonts
Resident bar codes 59
Startup Program (std) Intermec Shell v8.2
Physical Measures
Dimensions (W × L × H) 298 × 543 × 261 mm
(11.7 × 21.4 × 10.3 in)
13.5 kg (30 pounds)
+5°C to +40°C (+41°F to +104°F)
20 to 80% noncondensing
Weight (excluding media)
Ambient Operating Temperature
Humidity
Electronics
Microprocessor 32 bit RISC
On-board Flash 2 sockets for 4 MB or Std. 1 x 4 MB
SIMMs 8 MB each
On-board SDRAM 1 socket for 8 MB or Std. 8 MB
SIMM 16 MB
Power Supply
AC Voltage 90 to 265 VAC, 45 to 65 Hz
PFC Regulation IEC 61000-3-2
Power Consumption Standby 15W; Peak 300W
Sensors
Label Gap/Black Yes Variable position
Mark/
Out of Media
Printhead Lifted Yes
Ribbon End/Ribbon Yes
Low
Paper sensor Option
Controls
Control Lamps 3
Display 2 × 16 character LCD Background light
Keyboard 22 keys membrane-
switch type
Feed/Pause button 1
Beeper Yes
Data Interfaces
Serial 1 × RS-232 + 1 ×
USB
Bar Code Wand Yes
Connection for 1+2 1 for EasyLAN
Optional Interface 2 for other boards
Boards
Finisher Interface 1 For cutter etc.
Memory Card 1 Compact Flash cards
Adapter
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.
Core Millimeters/Inches
Diameter (A), standard: 38-40 mm (1.5 in)
Diameter (A), with adapter: 76.2 mm (3 in)
Width: Must not protrude outside the media.
Roll Millimeters/Inches
Max. diameter (B): 213 mm (8.38 in)
Max. width (C): 114.3 mm (4.50 in)
Min. width, standard (C): 25 mm (1.00 in)
Min. width, fanfold guides (C): 40 mm (1.57 in)
Media
Media with RFID Tags/Inlays
When printing on RFID media, special consideration must be
taken to the position and shape of the tag. Specific
recommendations for different kinds of Intermec-approved
RFID media can be found on the Intermec website. Additional
information is provided in the documentation that came with
your RFID kit.
Non-Adhesive Strip
⇐ a ⇒ Media Width
Maximum: 114.3 mm (4.50 in)
Minimum: 25.0 mm (1.00 in)
Self-Adhesive Strip
⇐ a ⇒ Media Width (including liner)
Maximum: 114.3 mm (4.50 in)
Minimum: 25.0 mm (1.00 in)
⇐ b ⇒ Liner
The liner must not extend more than a total of 1.6 mm (0.06 in)
outside the face material and should protrude equally on both
sides.
⇐ c ⇒ Media Width (excluding liner)
Maximum: 112.7 mm (4.43 in)
Minimum: 23.8 mm (0.94 in)
Self-Adhesive Labels
⇐ a ⇒ Media Width (including liner)
Maximum: 114.3 mm (4.50 in)
Minimum: 25.0 mm (1.00 in)
⇐ b ⇒ Liner
The backing paper must not extend more than a total of 1.6 mm
(0.06 in) outside the labels and should protrude equally on both
side. Recommended minimum transparency: 40% (DIN 53147).
⇐ c ⇒ Label Width (excluding liner)
Maximum: 112.7 mm (2.30 in)
Minimum: 23.8 mm (0.94 in)
⇐ d ⇒ Label Length
Maximum: depends on SDRAM size
Minimum: 8.0 mm (0.32 in)
The Label Stop Sensor must be able to detect the extreme front
edges of the labels.
Media Type Setup
• Label (w gaps)
b b
⇐ b ⇒ Copy Length
Max. length between slots: depends on SDRAM size
Min. length between slots: 8.0 mm (0.32 in)
⇐ b ⇒ Copy Length
Minimum: 20.0 mm (0.8 in)
Maximum: depends on SDRAM size
RS-232 Interface
Protocol
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
RS-232
(”uart1:”)
Interface Cable
Computer end: Depends on computer model
Printer end: DB-9 pin plug
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 B connector. Connect to USB receptacle on the printer’s rear plate
USB
(”usb1:”)
Optional Interfaces
The printer can optionally be fitted with an 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)
• RFID Option Board (available as spare part only, as part of
RFID kit)
Regardless of if any Interface Board is installed, the printer can
also be fitted with one of the following EasyLAN interface boards
for connection to a Local Area Network (LAN):
• EasyLAN Ethernet Interface
• EasyLAN Wireless Interface
“uart3:”
RS-232
RS-422 non isolated,
or 20 mA current loop
“uart2:”
RS-232
RS-422 non isolated,
RA-422 isolated,
or RS-485
Industrial interface
8 digital In ports
8 digital Out ports
4 relay ports
“uart2:”
RS-232
RS-422 non isolated,
RA-422 isolated,
or RS-485
“centronics:”
“uart2:”
(DB-9pin socket)
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:"
“net1:”
“net1:”
RFID Media
Intermec offers a wide variety of RFID media suitable for
different applications. Visit the Intermec website or contact your
Intermec representative to find the RFID media best suited to
your needs.
Transfer Ribbons
Intermec offer three ranges of thermal transfer ribbons optimized
for different purposes:
• General Purpose (GP/TMX 1500) transfer ribbons allow
highspeed printing and give a good printout, but are
somewhat sensitive to smearing. They may be the best choice
for uncoated and coatedpapers.
• 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 polyesters.
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
specifically for the EasyCoder printheads.
Picket Fence
Dir 2 & 4
Ladder
Feed
Direction
80
HP03 TTR High Gloss 100 30 0 150 150
White Polyester
1 Exceeding the recommended print speed may cause the printhead to wear out prematurely. 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”).
BAUDRATE; CHAR LENGTH PARITY: STOP BITS: FLOW CONTROL: FLOW CONTROL:
9600
BAUDRATE; 8 CHAR LENGTH NONE
PARITY: 1 STOP BITS: RTS/CTS ENQ/ACK
19200
BAUDRATE; 7 EVEN
PARITY: 2
38400
BAUDRATE; ODD
PARITY:
57500
BAUDRATE; Scroll forward RTS/CTS: ENQ-ACK:
MARK
PARITY: Scroll back
115200
BAUDRATE; SPACE DISABLE
ENQ/ACK: DISABLE
ENQ/ACK:
300
BAUDRATE; ENABLE ENABLE
600
BAUDRATE; Scroll forward
1200
BAUDRATE; Scroll back Scroll forward Scroll forward
2400
BAUDRATE; Scroll back Scroll back
4800
Scroll forward
Scroll back
Legend:
Dotted boxes and lines indicate options.
Thick boxes indicates default options.
Values inside brackets indicate default settings.
FEEDADJ: FEEDADJ:
STARTADJ STOPADJ:
STARTADJ: STOPADJ:
[0]: [0]:
MEDIA: MEDIA:
MEDIA SIZE MEDIA TYPE
MEDIA:
PAPER TYPE
PAPER TYPE:
TRANSFER
RIBBON CONSTANT: RIBBON FACTOR: LABEL OFFSET: RIBBON SENSOR: LOW DIAMETER:
[90]: [25]: [0]: [14]: [0]:
MEDIA: MEDIA:
CONTRAST PAPER
SENSITIVITY 10
OUT OF 9-10
SER-COM, UART2:
BAUDRATE
BAUDRATE;
9600
BAUDRATE;
19200
BAUDRATE;
38400
BAUDRATE;
57500
BAUDRATE;
115200
BAUDRATE;
300
BAUDRATE;
600
BAUDRATE;
1200
BAUDRATE;
2400
BAUDRATE;
4800
SER-COM, UART2:
BAUDRATE
BAUDRATE;
9600
BAUDRATE;
19200
BAUDRATE;
38400
BAUDRATE;
57500
BAUDRATE;
115200
BAUDRATE;
300
BAUDRATE;
600
BAUDRATE;
1200
BAUDRATE;
2400
BAUDRATE;
4800
RFID: RFID:
TAGADJUST FIELDSTRENGTH
TAGADJUST: FIELDSTRENGTH:
[0]: [100]:
EasyCoder PM4i Bar Code Label Printer User's Guide (Fingerprint Version)
*934-022-001*
P/N 934-022-001