Printronix Printer T5000R User Manual

Online Data Validator Users Manual  
SL5000r and T5000r  
RFID Smart Label and Thermal Printers  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
r
r
SL5000 and T5000  
RFID Smart Label and Thermal Printers  
Online Data Validator User’s Manual  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Software License Agreement  
CAREFULLY READ THE FOLLOWING TERMS AND CONDITIONS BEFORE USING THIS PRINTER.  
USING THIS PRINTER INDICATES YOUR ACCEPTANCE OF THESE TERMS AND CONDITIONS. IF YOU  
DO NOT AGREE TO THESE TERMS AND CONDITIONS, PROMPTLY RETURN THE PRINTER AND ALL  
ACCOMPANYING HARDWARE AND WRITTEN MATERIALS TO THE PLACE YOU OBTAINED THEM, AND  
YOUR MONEY WILL BE REFUNDED.  
Definitions.  
“Software” shall mean the digitally encoded, machine-readable data and program. The term “Software  
Product” includes the Software resident in the printer and its documentation. The Software Product is licensed  
(not sold) to you, and Printronix, Inc. either owns or licenses from other vendors who own, all copyright, trade  
secret, patent and other proprietary rights in the Software Product.  
License.  
1. Authorized Use. You agree to accept a non-exclusive license to use the Software resident in the printer  
solely for your own customary business or personal purposes.  
2.  
Restrictions.  
a. To protect the proprietary rights of Printronix, Inc., you agree to maintain the Software Product and  
other proprietary information concerning the typefaces in strict confidence.  
b. You agree not to duplicate or copy the Software Product.  
c. You shall not sublicense, sell, lease, or otherwise transfer all or any portion of the Software Product  
separate from the printer, without the prior written consent of Printronix, Inc.  
d. You may not modify or prepare derivative works of the Software Product.  
e. You may not transmit the Software Product over a network, by telephone, or electronically using any  
means; or reverse engineer, decompile or disassemble the Software.  
f.  
You agree to keep confidential and use your best efforts to prevent and protect the contents of the  
Software Product from unauthorized disclosure or use.  
3. Transfer. You may transfer the Software Product with the printer, but only if the recipient agrees to accept  
the terms and conditions of this Agreement. Your license is automatically terminated if you transfer the  
Software Product and printer.  
Limited Software Product Warranty  
Printronix, Inc. warrants that for ninety (90) days after delivery, the Software will perform in accordance with  
specifications published by Printronix, Inc. Printronix, Inc. does not warrant that the Software is free from all  
bugs, errors and omissions.  
Remedy  
Your exclusive remedy and the sole liability of Printronix, Inc. in connection with the Software is replacement  
of defective software with a copy of the same version and revision level.  
Disclaimer of Warranties and Limitation of Remedies  
1. THE PARTIES AGREE THAT ALL OTHER WARRANTIES, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING  
WARRANTIES OF FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE AND MERCHANTABILITY ARE  
EXCLUDED.  
Printronix, Inc. does not warrant that the functions contained in the Software will meet your requirements  
or that the operation of the Software will be uninterrupted or error free.  
Printronix, Inc. reserves the right to make changes and/or improvements in the Software without notice at  
any time.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
2. IN NO EVENT WILL PRINTRONIX, INC. BE LIABLE FOR LOST PROFITS, LOST DATA, BUSINESS  
INTERRUPTIONS, OR ANY OTHER DIRECT, INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL  
DAMAGES ARISING OUT OF THE USE OF OR INABILITY TO USE THIS PRODUCT, EVEN IF  
PRINTRONIX, INC. HAS BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES, OR ANY  
DAMAGES CAUSED BY THE ABUSE OR MANIPULATION OF THE SOFTWARE. SOME STATES DO  
NOT ALLOW THE EXCLUSION OR LIMITATION OF LIABILITY FOR CONSEQUENTIAL OR  
INCIDENTAL DAMAGES, SO THE ABOVE LIMITATION MAY NOT APPLY TO YOU.  
3. Printronix, Inc. will not be liable for any loss or damage caused by delay in furnishing a Software Product  
or any other performance under this Agreement.  
4. Our entire liability and your exclusive remedies for our liability of any kind (including liability for  
negligence except liability for personal injury caused solely by our negligence) for the Software Product  
covered by this Agreement and all other performance or nonperformance by us under or related to this  
Agreement are limited to the remedies specified by this Agreement.  
5. California law governs this Agreement.  
Termination of License Agreement  
This License shall continue until terminated. This license may be terminated by agreement between you and  
Printronix, Inc. or by Printronix, Inc. if you fail to comply with the terms of this License and such failure is not  
corrected within thirty (30) days after notice. When this License is terminated, you shall return to the place you  
obtained them, the printer and all copies of the Software and documentation.  
U.S. Government Restricted Rights  
Use, duplication or disclosure by the Government is subject to restrictions as set forth in the Rights in  
Technical Data and Computer Software clause at FAR 242.227-7013, subdivision (b) (3) (ii) or subparagraph  
(c) (1) (ii), as appropriate. Further use, duplication or disclosure is subject to restrictions applicable to  
restricted rights software as set forth in FAR 52.227-19 (c) (2).  
Acknowledgement of Terms and Conditions  
YOU ACKNOWLEDGE THAT YOU HAVE READ THIS AGREEMENT, UNDERSTAND IT, AND AGREE TO  
BE BOUND BY ITS TERMS AND CONDITIONS. NEITHER PARTY SHALL BE BOUND BY ANY  
STATEMENT OR REPRESENTATION NOT CONTAINED IN THIS AGREEMENT. NO CHANGE IN THIS  
AGREEMENT IS EFFECTIVE UNLESS WRITTEN AND SIGNED BY PROPERLY AUTHORIZED  
REPRESENTATIVES OF EACH PARTY. BY USING THIS PRINTER, YOU AGREE TO ACCEPT THE  
TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF THIS AGREEMENT.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Communication Notices  
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to  
Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful  
interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency  
energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to  
radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular  
installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be  
determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by  
one or more of the following measures:  
Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.  
Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.  
Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.  
Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.  
Unauthorized changes or modifications could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.  
This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1)  
this device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received,  
including interference that may cause undesired operation.  
Any change or modification to this product voids the user’s authority to operate it per FCC Part 15 Subpart A  
Section 15.21 regulations.  
This product contains an intentional radiator with the following parameters:  
Operating Frequency: 902 to 928 MHz  
Typical RF Power: 25 to 100 milliwatts (SL5x04 MP) or 25 to 205 milliwatts (SL5x04 C1)  
Maximum RF Power: 1 Watt under abnormal conditions  
Printronix SL5000r and T5000r  
Tested To Comply  
With FCC Standards  
FOR HOME OR OFFICE USE  
Canada  
This Class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003 and RSS 210.  
Cet appareil numérique de la classe B est conforme à la norme NMB-003 du Canada.  
Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause interference, and (2) this  
device must accept any interference, including interference that may cause undesired operation of the device.  
This device has been designed to operate with the antennas listed below, and having a maximum gain of  
–18 dBi. Antennas not included in this list or having a gain greater than –18 dBi dB are strictly prohibited for  
use with this device. The required antenna impedance is 50 ohms.  
To reduce potential radio interference to other users, the antenna type and its gain should be so chosen that  
the equivalent isotropically radiated power (e.i.r.p.) is not more than that permitted for successful  
communication.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
CE Notice (European Union)  
Marking by the CE symbol indicates compliance of this Printronix system to the EMC Directive and the Low  
Voltage Directive of the European Union. Such marking is indicative that this Printronix system meets the  
following technical standards:  
EN 300 220-1 (2000), Electromagnetic Compatibility and Radio Spectrum Matters; Short Range Devices;  
Radio equipment to be used in the 25 MHz to 1000 MHz frequency range with power levels ranging up to  
500 mW.  
EN 55022 — “Limits and Methods of Measurement of Radio Interference Characteristics of Information  
Technology Equipment.”  
EN 50082-1: 1992 — “Electromagnetic compatibility—Generic immunity standard Part 1: Residential,  
commercial, and light industry.”  
EN 60950 — “Safety of Information Technology Equipment.”  
This printer is a Class B product for use in a typical Class B domestic environment.  
CE Symbol  
Taiwan  
Lithium Battery Warning  
The controller board contains a lithium battery sealed inside the real-time clock chip. Do not disassemble the  
chip to replace the battery. Do not dispose of the chip by incineration. Failure to comply may cause the battery  
to explode. Contact your local waste agency for the correct disposal procedure.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Printronix makes no representations or warranties of any kind regarding this material, including, but not limited  
to, implied warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose. Printronix shall not be held  
responsible for errors contained herein or any omissions from this material or for any damages, whether  
direct, indirect, incidental or consequential, in connection with the furnishing, distribution, performance or use  
of this material. The information in this manual is subject to change without notice.  
This document contains proprietary information protected by copyright. No part of this document may be  
reproduced, copied, translated or incorporated in any other material in any form or by any means, whether  
manual, graphic, electronic, mechanical or otherwise, without the prior written consent of Printronix.  
COPYRIGHT © 2005, 2006 PRINTRONIX, INC. All rights reserved.  
Trademark Acknowledgements  
Printronix, LinePrinter Plus, IGP, and PGL are registered trademarks of Printronix, Inc.  
Code V is a trademark of Quality Micro Systems, Inc.  
IPDS is a trademark of International Business Machines Corporation.  
SL5000r and T5000r are trademarks of Printronix, Inc.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Table of Contents  
9
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
1
Installation  
Instructions  
Overview  
The online data validator (validator) is an external bar code  
scanning device attached above the paper exit of the printer. When  
activated, it scans the printed output looking for bar codes. When it  
finds a bar code, it determines what type of bar code it is and  
monitors the bar code quality as it passes through the scan area.  
After the entire bar code has passed under the scanning beam, the  
validator grades the bar code and sends a report to the printer. How  
the printer responds is determined by the validator settings,  
Operational Parameters  
The design parameters of the validator are as follows:  
The validator can track the performance of up to four horizontal  
bar codes at one time.  
The validator requires a minimum distance of 1/2 inch or 20  
times the minimum element width (x-dimension), whichever is  
greater, between bar codes.  
The validator recognizes the following linear, picket fence bar  
codes: Codabar, Code 39, Code 93, Code 128, Interleaved 2 of  
5, and UPC/EAN.  
11  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
       
Chapter 1 Overview  
The validator can also evaluate PDF 417 bar codes. For PDF  
417 Limited, the validator works best with security level 5 or  
higher, using the current default printer settings for Defects  
Percentage, Percent Decode, and Decodeability. For lower  
security levels, lower the Defects Percentage to 5% to enable  
checking for bar code damage.  
Stacked, 2D, and vertical (ladder) bar codes are not supported.  
Bar codes must have a minimum x-dimension of 10 mil  
(0.010 inch) to be recognized by the full width of the scanning  
beam. The validator can recognize bar x-dimension as narrow  
as 6.6 mil (0.0066 inch) for 300 dpi printers, and 10 mil  
(0.010 inch) for 203 dpi printers. The validator cannot recognize  
x-dimensions smaller than 6.6 mil (0.0066 inch) or larger than  
40 mil (0.040 inch).  
Refer to Table 1 for the minimum x-dimension requirements for  
each printer size of a 300 dpi printer.  
Table 1: Minimum X-Dimension and Beam Width for  
a 300 dpi Printer  
Minimum  
X-Dimension  
Printer Size  
Beam Width  
4 inch  
6 inch  
8 inch  
4.5 inches  
6.5 inches  
8.5 inches  
6.6 mil  
10 mil  
13 mil  
12  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Tools And Materials You Will Need  
SL5000r/T5000r User’s Manual  
Static wrist strap*  
2.5 mm hex key*  
Parts List  
3 mm hex key  
Validator/Upper bracket  
Lower bracket  
Grounding wire  
Overlays  
Bar code calibration card  
Ferrite*  
Cable assembly*  
Wire saddle*  
Grommet*  
* Only for a field installation  
13  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Chapter 1 Safety Notices  
Safety Notices  
The validator is a Class 2 laser product. The following notices apply  
at all times when the printer is powered on and the validator is  
active:  
WARNING  
WARNING  
Class 2 laser light. Do not stare into the laser beam or a  
reflected image of the laser beam.  
Using controls, making adjustments, or performing  
procedures other than those specified herein may result in  
hazardous radiation exposure.  
Note: This is the laser exit window.  
Figure 1. Safety Warnings  
14  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Prepare The Printer  
Installation and Removal  
This section describes how to install the validator. To remove the  
validator, reverse the steps of this procedure.  
Prepare The Printer  
1. Set the printer power switch to O (Off).  
WARNING  
Always unplug the printer power cord from the printer or  
power outlet before doing any installation procedure. Failure  
to remove power could result in injury to you and damage the  
equipment. You will be instructed when to apply power.  
2. Unplug the printer power cord from the printer or the AC power  
source.  
Factory Installation  
If your printer has a factory installed validator, the ferrite, cable, wire  
saddle, and grommet have already been installed. Go to “Install  
Field Installation  
If you are doing a field installation, you must install the ferrite, cable,  
wire saddle, and grommet. Go to “Install The Ferrite” on page 16.  
15  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
       
Chapter 1 Installation and Removal  
Install The Ferrite  
1. Loosen the two captive screws securing the top of the frame  
side cover. (Figure 2.)  
2. Tilt the frame side cover back from the top and lift it until the  
tabs along the lower edge disengage from the slots in the  
printer frame.  
Captive Screw (2)  
Frame Side Cover  
Figure 2. Removing the Frame Side Cover  
16  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
   
Install The Ferrite  
Power/DataCable  
Second Wrap  
Ferrite  
RJ-11 Connector  
(to validator)  
20.0 ± 0.5  
inches  
Wide P10 Connector  
(to controller board)  
Power/DataCable  
First Wrap  
Figure 3. Wrapping the Power/Data Cable Around the Ferrite  
3. Using the RJ-11 connector end of the power/data cable, insert  
the cable through the ferrite. (Figure 3.)  
4. Wrap the power/data cable around the ferrite twice.  
5. Adjust the position of the ferrite so that the length from the  
ferrite to the RJ-11 connector is 20 ± 0.5 inches.  
17  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Chapter 1 Installation and Removal  
Frame Boss  
Wire Saddle  
Figure 4. Inserting the Wire Saddle Into the Frame Boss  
6. Insert the wire saddle into the frame boss. (Figure 4.)  
18  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Install The Ferrite  
Wire Saddle  
RJ-11 Connector  
(to validator)  
Ferrite  
Frame  
Opening  
Figure 5. Inserting the Power/Data Cable Through the Hole in the Frame Wall  
7. Raise the media cover and remove the solid grommet from the  
frame opening.  
8. On the electronics side of the printer, push the RJ-11 connector  
end of the power/data cable through the frame opening.  
9. Route the power/data cable through the wire saddle.  
19  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Chapter 1 Installation and Removal  
Split  
Grommet  
RJ-11  
Connector  
InsertedSplit  
Grommet  
(media side)  
Power/Data Cable  
(approximately  
17 inches exposed)  
Figure 6. Adding the Grommet to the Power/Data Cable  
10. On the media side of the printer, slide the split grommet onto  
the power/data cable and insert it into the frame opening.  
11. Inspect the power/data cable to ensure approximately  
17 inches of cable is exposed from the grommet to connect it to  
the validator.  
NOTE: You will plug the power/data cable into the validator later.  
20  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Install The Ferrite  
J10  
Power/Data Cable  
Wire Saddle  
Ferrite  
Upper  
DC Motor  
Figure 7. Position the Ferrite  
12. On the electronics side of the printer, position the ferrite on top  
of the upper DC motor. (Figure 7.)  
13. Route the power/data cable through the wire saddle as shown  
14. Plug the wide P10 connector end of the power/data cable into  
the J10 receptacle on the controller board.  
21  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Chapter 1 Installation and Removal  
Install The Brackets  
Lower  
Bracket  
M4x10mm  
Screw (3)  
Figure 8. Installing the Lower Bracket  
1. Using three of the four M4x10mm screws, install the lower  
bracket as shown in Figure 8.  
NOTE: You will use the fourth screw later in this procedure.  
22  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
   
Install The Brackets  
A
Hash  
Marks  
A
Validator  
(Rear View)  
Alignment  
Screw  
4 in. 6 in. 8 in.  
Printer  
Lower  
Bracket  
Validator  
(Front View)  
Upper  
Bracket  
Inside  
Adjustment  
Screw  
Outside  
Adjustment  
Screw  
Figure 9. Installing the Validator/Upper Bracket Unit onto the Lower Bracket  
2. Face the front of the printer while installing the validator/upper  
bracket unit.  
3. Loosen the outside adjustment screw and remove the inside  
adjustment screw on the bottom of the validator.  
4. Slide the validator/upper bracket unit onto the lower bracket and  
align the hash marks with the alignment screw accordingly.  
NOTE: Refer to Figure 9, Detail A for location of the validator hash  
mark for each printer model size. The printer model size is  
also inscribed on the lower bracket.  
5. When the unit is positioned correctly, tighten the outside  
adjustment screw on the validator to lock the unit into place.  
23  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Chapter 1 Installation and Removal  
Attach The Grounding Wire And Power/Data Cable  
Power/Data Cable  
(Long Connector)  
UpperBracket  
Screw (3)  
Cable  
Channel  
Bracket Tab  
A
Grommet  
Grounding  
Wire  
Validator  
(Front View)  
A
Bracket Mounting Screw  
GroundingWire  
Slack  
Inside  
Adjustment  
Screw  
Figure 10. Attaching the Grounding Wire and Power/Data Cable  
1. Attach one end of the grounding wire to the validator using the  
inside adjustment screw as shown in Figure 10.  
2. Attach the other end of the grounding wire to the lower bracket  
using the fourth bracket mounting screw as shown in Figure 10.  
3. Push any excess grounding wire slack through the grommet.  
24  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
   
Attach The Grounding Wire And Power/Data Cable  
4. Loosen the three upper bracket screws and route the  
power/data cable through the cable channel in the upper  
bracket, as shown in Figure 10.  
5. Plug the RJ-11 connector end of the power/data cable into the  
validator.  
6. Route the power/data cable behind the bracket tab as shown in  
NOTE: If necessary, loosen the bracket mounting screws enough  
to slip the power/data cable behind the bracket tab, then  
retighten the bracket mounting screws.  
7. Pull the cable to minimize the slack behind the lower bracket.  
Push any excess slack through the grommet.  
8. Tighten the three upper bracket screws.  
Restore The Printer To Operation  
1. Lower the media cover.  
2. Engage the tabs on the bottom of the frame side cover in the  
slots in the printer frame.  
3. Rotate the cover into position.  
4. Tighten the two captive screws. (Figure 2.)  
5. Plug the AC power cord into the printer and the power source.  
6. Set the printer power switch to | (On).  
25  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Chapter 1 Enable The Validator  
Enable The Validator  
NOTE: If you make any changes to the default configuration menu  
items, you will be prompted to save the configuration.  
See “Auto Save Configuration” in the Quick Setup Guide.  
Software can automatically detect an installed validator when the  
printer is powered up. If the printer is powered up with Power-Up  
Config. set to Factory, the VALIDATOR menu will be available and  
Validator Funct. is set to Enable in the QUICK SETUP and  
VALIDATOR menus.  
If Power-Up Config. is not set to Factory, the VALIDATOR menu  
appears, but Validator Funct. is set to Disable. Enable Validator  
Funct. by completing the following steps. (This is a one-time setting  
once you save the configuration.)  
.
.
1. Press  
to take the printer offline and place the printer in  
.
Menu mode.  
2. If necessary, press and at the same time to unlock the  
key. (This key combination can be changed by the user. Use  
the customer’s key combination if necessary.)  
.
.
3. If necessary, press  
until VALIDATOR displays.  
.
4. Press until Validator Funct. displays.  
5. Press + or until the Enable displays.  
6. Press to enable the validator. An asterisk (*) should appear  
after Enable. Once enabled, the printer will command the  
validator to begin scanning and reporting errors, and the  
counters will be incremented.  
7. Press and at the same time to lock the key, then press  
PAUSE to take the printer offline.  
8. Press PAUSE again to put the printer online.  
26  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
     
Continuous, Tear-Off, and Tear-Off Strip  
Adjust The Scanning Beam  
NOTE: Make sure the printer is on and the scanning beam is on. If  
the beam is off, press the RESET button for less than 2  
seconds to turn on the beam.  
Continuous, Tear-Off, and Tear-Off Strip  
When the validator is first installed, the scanning beam may need to  
be aligned with the two notches on the sides of the tear bar, as  
shown in Detail A of Figure 11. When the scanning beam is  
properly aligned it will line up with the two notches.  
A
Scanning Beam  
Notch in Tear Bar  
A
Figure 11. Aligning the Scanning Beam: Continuous, Tear-Off, and Tear-Off Strip  
Media Handling Modes Only  
27  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
         
Chapter 1 Adjust The Scanning Beam  
Peel-Off Media Handling Mode  
If your printer is configured for Peel-Off Media Handling mode (use  
of optional internal rewinder), you may need to align the beam  
further behind the notches (0.20 to 0.30 inches [5.08 mm to  
7.62 mm] from the front edge of the tear bar) so that the peeled  
label remains on the tear bar and the trailing edge of the last bar  
code can still pass completely under the scanning beam. See  
Aligning the scanning beam to any position other than the notches  
on the tear bar should only be done if the last printed bar code  
image does not clear the beam when the label is at the peel-off  
position after printing. In addition, the distance the beam moves  
back from the tear bar edge must correspond to a distance from the  
leading edge of the label that does not have bar code printing. For  
example, aligning the beam 0.20 inches from the front edge of the  
tear bar requires that 0.20 inches of the leading edge of the label  
must not have bar code images.  
0.30 inches  
(7.62 mm)  
Figure 12. Aligning the Scanning Beam: Peel-Off Media Handling Mode Only  
28  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
   
Cut Media Handling Mode  
Cut Media Handling Mode  
If your printer has a cutter installed and is configured for Cut Media  
Handling Mode, align the beam with the notches at each side of the  
opening on the hinged upper lid, as shown in Detail A of Figure 13.  
A
Scanning Beam  
A
Notch in Tear Bar/  
Cutter  
Figure 13. Aligning the Scanning Beam: Cutter Installed  
29  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
   
Chapter 1 Adjust The Scanning Beam  
Top Left Screw  
Bottom Left Screw  
Bottom Right Screw  
Figure 14. Scanning Beam Adjustment Screws  
Figure 14 shows the screws used to adjust the parallelism and  
position of the scanning beam. The positions of the screws assume  
that you are in front of the validator unit and facing the printer. The  
following instructions and illustrations show how to adjust the  
validator according to how the beam appears.  
1. Power the printer on and make sure the scanning beam is on. If  
the beam is off, press the RESET button for less than 2  
seconds to turn on the scanning beam.  
2. Use the Allen key provided to adjust the screws.  
NOTE: You may have to loosen all three screws and allow the  
rubber spacers to expand (relax) before making any  
adjustments.  
30  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Cut Media Handling Mode  
Correct alignment of the  
scanning beam. The beam lines  
up with the end notches and is  
parallel to the long edge of the  
tear bar.  
Tighten the top left screw to  
move the scanning beam  
downward. If the screw is  
already tight, loosen both bottom  
screws to lower the beam.  
Tighten both bottom screws to  
move the scanning beam  
upward. If they are already tight,  
loosen the top left screw to move  
the beam upward.  
Loosen the bottom right screw to  
rotate the scanning beam  
clockwise. If it is already loose,  
tighten the bottom left screw.  
Loosen the bottom left screw to  
rotate the scanning beam  
counterclockwise. If it is already  
loose, tighten the bottom right  
screw.  
31  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Chapter 1 Adjust The Scanning Beam  
Summary Of Scanning Beam Adjustment  
To Move Beam  
Down  
To Move Beam  
Up  
To Rotate Beam  
Clockwise  
To Rotate Beam  
Counterclockwise  
Tighten top left  
screw  
Tighten both bottom  
screws  
Loosen bottom  
right screw  
Loosen bottom left  
screw  
or  
or  
or  
or  
Loosen both  
bottom screws  
Loosen top left screw Tighten bottom  
left screw  
Tighten bottom  
right screw  
NOTE: If the printer does not have a tear bar with notches at the  
ends, adjust the scanning beam so that the center of the  
beam is approximately 0.06 inches (1.52 mm) from the  
lower edge as shown in Figure 15.  
0.06 inches  
(1.52 mm)  
Figure 15. Adjusting the Center of the Scanning Beam  
32  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Cut Media Handling Mode  
Shifting The Scanning Beam  
This option enables you to shift the scanning beam horizontally to  
the left or right. The left edge of the beam should be approximately  
0.13 inches (3.3 mm) past the left edge of the tear bar. After you set  
this value, save it as part of the configuration for future use.  
The value range is from –99 to 99. The default is 0. Lower values  
will move the beam to the left.  
NOTE: You must set Admin User to Enable in the PRINTER  
CONTROL menu to access the Beam Shift option.  
(Refer to the User’s Manual.)  
.
.
1. Press  
to take the printer offline and place the printer in  
.
Menu mode.  
2. If necessary, press and at the same time to unlock the  
key.  
3. If necessary, press  
.
.
until VALIDATOR displays.  
.
4. Press until Validator Funct. displays.  
5. Make sure Enable is selected.  
6. Press until Beam Shift displays.  
7. Press + or to scroll through the values: –99 to 99. The default  
is 0. Lower values will move the beam to the left. Press to  
accept the shift value.  
Keep selecting the new value until the beam width is at the  
desired position. The left edge of beam should be  
approximately 0.13 inches (3.3 mm) from the left edge of the  
tear bar.  
8. Save the configuration for future use.  
33  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
     
Chapter 1 Calibration  
Calibration  
WARNING  
Class 2 laser light. Do not stare into the laser beam or a  
reflected image of the laser beam.  
WARNING  
Using controls, making adjustments, or performing  
procedures other than those specified herein may result in  
hazardous radiation exposure.  
The validator should be calibrated when it is first installed or when  
the printer displays Calibration warning. A special calibration bar  
code card is included with the validator package.  
1. Make sure the printer is on and the scanning beam is on. If the  
beam is off, press the RESET button for less than 2 seconds to  
turn on the beam.  
Table 2. RESET Button Settings  
Time RESET Button Is Depressed  
Result  
Less than 2 seconds  
Turns on the scanning beam  
More than 4 but less than 6 seconds Validator goes into calibration mode  
More than 6 seconds  
Resets validator to the last good calibration  
settings and turns off the scanning beam  
2. Raise the media cover. Open the pivoting deck by rotating the  
deck lock lever fully clockwise. The pivoting deck will swing  
upward, exposing the bottom of the printhead assembly.  
3. If the printer has the cutter option, put the cutter in the open  
(down) position.  
4. Remove the calibration bar code card from its protective sleeve  
and slide it into the open printhead and under the scanning  
5. Make sure the bar code is under the scanning beam and the  
CALIBRATION light is on.  
6. Press and hold the RESET button on the validator until the  
CALIBRATION light begins flashing.  
34  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
       
Cut Media Handling Mode  
CALIBRATION Light  
RESET Button  
DeckLock  
Lever  
Calibration Bar Code Card  
Figure 16. Calibrating the Validator  
7. The scanning beam should turn off for a few seconds then back  
on, and the CALIBRATION light should turn off. This indicates a  
successful calibration.  
NOTE: If the scanning beam does not turn back on and/or the  
calibration light is still on or flashing, the calibration has  
failed. In this case, refer to Table 2 on page 34 to repeat  
the calibration procedure or to reset the validator settings  
back to factory default.  
8. Once you have a successful calibration, remove the calibration  
bar code card.  
9. Close the pivoting deck and rotate the deck lock lever fully  
counterclockwise.  
10. Close the media cover.  
35  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Chapter 1 Calibration  
11. Power the printer off, wait a few seconds, then power the  
printer on.  
If the calibration was successful, the scanning beam is on and  
the CALIBRATION light is off.  
If the calibration was not successful, the scanning beam  
remains on and the CALIBRATION light stays lit without  
flashing. Repeat the calibration procedure. If repeated attempts  
fail, check the room for excessive ambient light, including direct  
sunlight. You may need to move the printer to a darker area of  
the room.  
NOTE: In some cases the validator can detect and indicate to the  
printer that calibration is required. See “Calibration  
warning” in Table 6, page 86.  
Bar Code Validation Demo Page  
The bar code validation demo page allows you to test or  
demonstrate the validator operation without a host computer. This  
page contains some text and two good bar code symbologies: one  
in Code 39, the other in Code 128.  
To print and validate the bar code validation demo page:  
1. Load the factory default configuration. (Refer to the User’s  
Manual.)  
2. In the VALIDATOR menu, set Validator Funct. to Enable.  
3. In the CALIBRATE CTRL menu, set Gap/Mark Sensing to Gap.  
4. Load media.  
5. In the CALIBRATE CTRL menu, run Auto Calibrate for proper  
gap sensing.  
6. The printer must be offline. If the printer is in Menu mode, press  
the PAUSE key to take the printer offline.  
7. Press the TEST PRINT key to enter the Test Print menu.  
Continue to press TEST PRINT until Barcode Demo displays.  
8. Press the key to print and validate the demo page. (If the ↵  
key is locked, unlock it by pressing and at the same time.)  
36  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
     
Bar Code Validation Demo Page  
9. The printer will print one demo page containing two good bar  
codes.  
NOTE: In the QUICK SETUP or MEDIA CONTROL menu, if Label  
Length is set between 0.5 and 1.0 inches, only one good  
bar code will print.  
If Label Length is less than 0.5 inches and Label Width is  
less than 2.0 inches, no demo page will print.  
10. To demonstrate a bad bar code reading, block the scanning  
beam with an opaque object while the bar code moves under  
the beam. When you block the beam, the validator will generate  
a reading error and will perform a default error action. The  
default setting for the Validator Action in the VALIDATOR menu  
is Retry Form.  
11. Press PAUSE to take the printer offline.  
12. Press and at the same time to lock the key, then press  
PAUSE to put the printer back online.  
37  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Chapter 1 Calibration  
38  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
2
Operation  
Basic Validator Setup  
Unit Positioning  
The validator must be positioned so that the scanning beam covers  
the entire area containing the bar codes, including the area  
required for quiet zones. The validator can be moved along the  
lower bracket and aligned with any of the inscribed hash marks,  
depending on the size of the labels printed and the positioning of  
the bar codes on those labels. In addition, the beam width can be  
moved horizontally to the left or right (see “Shifting The Scanning  
If a bar code is completely outside of the scanning area, straddles  
an edge, or does not pass completely under the scanning beam,  
the validator interprets it as a missing bar code and generates error  
conditions.  
Validator Front Panel  
The front panel of the validator has the following controls and  
indicators:  
POWER: Indicates the validator is at full power.  
CALIBRATION: Flashes when the validator is in calibration  
mode. See page 34 for calibration instructions.  
READ: Flashes when the validator is reading a bar code.  
1 and 2: Used for maintenance purposes only.  
RESET: This button is used in the calibration procedure and  
possible troubleshooting situations. Except in these specific  
circumstances, the RESET button should not be used.  
39  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
     
Chapter 2 Basic Validator Setup  
Table 3. RESET Button Settings  
Time RESET Button Is Depressed  
Result  
Less than 2 seconds  
Turns on the scanning beam  
More than 4 but less than 6 seconds Validator goes into calibration mode  
More than 6 seconds  
Resets validator to the last good calibration  
settings and turns off the scanning beam  
CAUTION  
CAUTION  
Do not lift the printer by the validator unit or by the lower  
bracket.  
The validator contains sensitive electronic equipment. Do not  
jar or drop the unit.  
40  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
VALIDATOR Menu  
VALIDATOR Menu  
VALIDATOR  
Validator Funct.  
Enable*  
Disable*  
1 second*  
Disable  
Auto Report  
Enable  
Auto Report Time  
1 to 10 seconds  
Clear Data  
1
Good Barcodes  
1
Good Forms  
Notes:  
1
Overstrike Forms  
* = Default  
Italicized items appear only when  
Admin User is set to Enable (in the  
PRINTER CONTROL menu).  
1
Average BWD  
1
Display item only  
1
Last BWD  
Telemetry Path  
Disabled*  
Network Port  
Telemetry Data  
Short Report*  
Auto*  
Full Report  
Validation Mode  
Number of Codes  
1 to 99  
Validator Action  
Retry Form*  
Stop & Retry  
Grade&Report  
Stop  
Rescan Form  
Overstrike  
Rescan&Retry  
Enable*  
Rescan&Stop  
Disable  
Quiet Zones  
(cont. on next page)  
41  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Chapter 2 Basic Validator Setup  
VALIDATOR  
(cont. from previous page)  
Min. Code Height  
0.30 inches*  
0.13 to 1.00 inches  
0.15 to 1.00 inches  
Min. Code Gap  
0.30 inches*  
Skip Labels  
Minimum*  
Maximum  
F/W Revision  
1
Version: xxxx  
Overstrike Style  
Grid*  
Grey  
Checkerboard  
Error Type Msg  
I2of5 Checksum  
Disable*  
Enable  
Num Retry  
5*  
3
4
Num Rescan  
1*  
1 to 5  
Max Retry Action  
Dump Form*  
37%*  
Keep Form  
30% to 90%  
0% to 99%  
0% to 100%  
0.0 to 4.0  
Decodeability  
Percent Decode  
60%*  
Notes:  
* = Default  
Defects  
20%*  
Italicized items appear  
only when Admin User  
is set to Enable (in the  
PRINTER CONTROL  
menu).  
Overall Grade  
0.5*  
Modulation  
1
50%*  
0% to 100%  
0% to 100%  
Display item only.  
EC Min  
15%*  
(cont. on next page)  
42  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
VALIDATOR Menu  
VALIDATOR  
(cont. from previous page)  
Rmin  
50%*  
30%*  
0% to 100%  
0% to 100%  
Symbol Contrast  
Gain  
1 to 255  
1 to 255  
70*  
Offset  
SN Threshold  
5 to 199  
Scan Report  
Scan Profile  
Profile H Mag  
1*  
1 to 4  
Print Settings  
Scanner Settings  
2
3
Default 4xx, Default 6yy, or Default 8zz*  
feature files  
Beam Width  
4
1800, 2550, or 3100*  
250 to 3100  
Beam Shift  
0*  
–99 to 99  
Notes:  
* = Default  
Italicized items appear only when Admin User is set to Enable (in the PRINTER CONTROL menu).  
2
Depends on the printer model: 4, 6, and 8 inch printers respectively. xx, yy, zz = file revision  
numbers.  
3
Appears only if feature files have been downloaded to the printer. Up to seven files can appear.  
4
Depends on the printer model: 4, 6, and 8 inch printers respectively.  
43  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Chapter 2 Configuring The Validator  
Configuring The Validator  
Setting validator options is done through the printer configuration  
menu. The validator comes equipped with a default setting for each  
configuration option, and it works without having to change any of  
these options. However, in some cases it is necessary to adjust  
these options, which are described below.  
NOTE: If you make any changes to the default configuration menu  
items, you will be prompted to save the configuration.  
See “Auto Save Configuration” in the Quick Setup Guide.  
Enabling And Disabling The Validator  
Software can automatically detect an installed validator when the  
printer is powered up. If the printer is powered up with Power-Up  
Config. set to Factory, the VALIDATOR menu will be available and  
Validator Funct. is set to Enable in the QUICK SETUP and  
VALIDATOR menus.  
If Power-Up Config. is not set to Factory, the VALIDATOR menu  
will be available, but Validator Funct. is set to Disable. Enable  
Validator Funct. by completing the following steps. (This is a one-  
time setting once you save the configuration.)  
IMPORTANT  
Do not disable or enable the validator with data in the buffer.  
.
.
1. Press  
to take the printer offline and place the printer in  
.
Menu mode.  
2. If necessary, press and at the same time to unlock the  
key.  
3. If necessary, press  
.
.
until VALIDATOR displays.  
.
4. Press until Validator Funct. displays.  
5. Press + or until Enable displays.  
6. Press to enable the validator. An asterisk (*) should appear  
after Enable. Once enabled, the printer will command the  
validator to begin scanning and reporting errors, and the  
counters will be incremented.  
44  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
             
Validator Reporting  
7. Press and at the same time to lock the key, then press  
PAUSE to take the printer offline.  
8. Press PAUSE again to put the printer online.  
NOTE: To disable the validator once it has been enabled, repeat  
steps 1 to 8 and select Disable in step 5.  
RFID Encoder  
If you have an RFID encoder but are not encoding RFID tags, make  
sure RFID Reader is set to Disable (in the RFID CONTROL menu),  
otherwise the validation process will slow down considerably as the  
RFID encoder attempts to scan for non-existent RFID tags.  
Validator Reporting  
After any completed print job, you can request a report from the  
printer which describes the validation statistics since the printer was  
turned on, or since the last data reset (for information on resetting  
data, see page 47).  
Requesting A Validator Report  
This procedure prints a summarized validator report. (This report  
also includes RFID data if the printer has an RFID encoder.)  
1. Press the PAUSE key to take the printer offline.  
2. If necessary, press and at the same time to unlock the  
key.  
3. Press TEST PRINT. Printer Tests displays.  
4. Press + until RFID/ODV Report displays.  
5. Press to print the report.  
6. Press and at the same time to lock the key, then press  
PAUSE to take the printer offline.  
7. Press PAUSE again to put the printer online.  
Setting Auto Report  
This function allows you to disable or enable an automatic validator  
report printout after a batch job. The default is Disable.  
45  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
               
Chapter 2 Configuring The Validator  
You can determine the end of a batch job in two ways:  
by using an Execute command, or  
by enabling the Auto Report Time (see below).  
To enable Auto Report:  
.
.
1. Press  
to take the printer offline and place the printer in  
.
Menu mode.  
2. If necessary, press and at the same time to unlock the  
key.  
3. If necessary, press  
.
.
until VALIDATOR displays.  
.
4. Press until Auto Report displays.  
5. Press + or to scroll through the choices: Enable or Disable.  
The default is Disable.  
6. When Enable displays, press to activate Auto Report.  
7. Press and at the same time to lock the key, then press  
PAUSE to take the printer offline.  
8. Press PAUSE again to put the printer online.  
Setting Auto Report Time  
This function allows you to set, in seconds, the timeout for the Auto  
Report. If the printer is idle for the set number of seconds, an Auto  
Report will be generated if Auto Report is set to Enable (see  
“Setting Auto Report” on page 45.) The default is 1 second.  
To set the Auto Report Time:  
.
.
1. Press  
to take the printer offline and place the printer in  
.
Menu mode.  
2. If necessary, press and at the same time to unlock the  
key.  
3. If necessary, press  
.
.
until VALIDATOR displays.  
.
4. Press until Auto Report Time displays.  
5. Press + or to scroll through the choices: 1 to 10 seconds. The  
default is 1 second.  
6. When the desired number of seconds displays, press to set  
the Auto Report Time.  
46  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
   
Validator Reporting  
7. Press and at the same time to lock the key, then press  
PAUSE to take the printer offline.  
8. Press PAUSE again to put the printer online.  
Resetting Validator Data  
The validator reports on all bar codes it detects since the last data  
reset. For example, you print a large batch of labels with bar codes  
and then print a validator report. Then you print another batch of  
labels with bar codes and print another report. The report will  
contain information on both batch jobs. However, if you reset the  
validator data between batch jobs, the second report will only  
contain information on the second batch job.  
To reset Validator Data:  
.
.
1. Press  
to take the printer offline and place the printer in  
.
Menu mode.  
2. If necessary, press and at the same time to unlock the  
key.  
3. If necessary, press  
.
.
until VALIDATOR displays.  
.
4. Press until Clear Data displays.  
5. Press to clear validator data.  
6. Press and at the same time to lock the key, then press  
PAUSE to take the printer offline.  
7. Press PAUSE again to put the printer online.  
Defining The Data Output Destination (Telemetry  
Path)  
You may want to send a streaming flow of validation data to an  
external device during the print job. The default is Disabled. Follow  
the procedure below to select the data output destination.  
.
.
1. Press  
to take the printer offline and place the printer in  
.
Menu mode.  
2. If necessary, press and at the same time to unlock the  
key.  
3. If necessary, press  
.
.
until VALIDATOR displays.  
.
4. Press until Telemetry Path displays.  
47  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
       
Chapter 2 Configuring The Validator  
5. Press + or to cycle through the choices:  
Disabled. Default setting. The validator does not send any  
data to an external device.  
Network Port. The printer outputs the bar code analysis  
and underlying data from the validator to a device  
connected to the network port so the validator data can be  
seen and analyzed with the optional remote management  
software.  
6. When your selection displays, press to activate it. All future  
reports are output to your selection.  
7. Press and at the same time to lock the key, then press  
PAUSE to take the printer offline.  
8. Press PAUSE again to put the printer online.  
Selecting The Type Of Report For the  
Data Output Destination (Telemetry Data)  
By default, the validator sends the Short Report to the selected data  
output destination, but there are two other report options available:  
Full Report and Validation Mode.  
.
.
1. Press  
to take the printer offline and place the printer in  
.
Menu mode.  
2. If necessary, press and at the same time to unlock the  
key.  
3. If necessary, press  
.
.
until VALIDATOR displays.  
.
4. Press until Telemetry Data displays.  
5. Press + or to cycle through the choices:  
Short Report. Default setting. Provides the encoded failure  
cause or pass indication and the bar width deviation,  
shown as a percentage.  
Full Report. Provides a completed report of all the data  
captured by the validator.  
Validation Mode. Provides the same data as the Short  
Report, but adds the actual bar code data read.  
6. When your selection displays, press to activate it.  
48  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
   
Validator Statistics  
7. Press and at the same time to lock the key, then press  
PAUSE to take the printer offline.  
8. Press PAUSE again to put the printer online.  
Validator Statistics  
The validator displays a number of statistics directly on the printer  
LCD, without having to print a report. To view any of the statistics:  
.
.
1. Press  
to take the printer offline and place the printer in  
.
Menu mode.  
2. If necessary, press and at the same time to unlock the  
key.  
3. If necessary, press  
.
.
until VALIDATOR displays.  
.
4. Press to scroll through the following statistics on the printer  
display:  
Good Barcodes: The number of bar code reports sent  
from the validator since the last Clear Data command.  
Good Forms: The number of good (non-overstruck) forms  
printed since the last Clear Data command.  
Overstrike Forms: The number of forms containing a bar  
code that fell below the minimum acceptable level since the  
last Clear Data command.  
Average BWD: The average of all Bar Width Deviations  
reported since the last Clear Data command, shown as a  
percentage.  
Last BWD: The Bar Width Deviation included in the most  
recent report received from the validator, shown as a  
percentage.  
NOTE: A bar code’s Bar Width Deviation is determined by  
comparing the bar width the validator expects to the bar  
width that is actually printed. For example, if the bar width is  
printed exactly as the validator expects, the BWD is 0%.  
However, if the bar width as printed is 25% wider or narrower  
than the validator expects it to be, it reports a BWD of 25%.  
5. Press and at the same time to lock the key, then press  
PAUSE to take the printer offline.  
6. Press PAUSE again to put the printer online.  
49  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
                         
Chapter 2 Configuring The Validator  
Defining Validator Options  
A number of validator options which define specific parameters for  
certain print jobs can be set from the printer configuration menu.  
Setting Number Of Bar Codes On A Form  
You can define how many bar codes the validator should expect on  
a form. This setting is required when bar codes are produced as a  
part of a larger bitmapped image. When set to a specific number,  
the printer checks after a form has printed and passed the validator  
and determines if it has received an analysis report for each bar  
code. If the printer does not have as many reports as it expects, it  
assumes a gross bar code failure.  
When Auto (the default) is selected, the printer only expects as  
many bar code analyses as bar codes printed using printer bar  
code commands defined by the host software.  
.
.
1. Press  
to take the printer offline and place the printer in  
.
Menu mode.  
2. If necessary, press and at the same time to unlock the  
key.  
3. If necessary, press  
.
.
until VALIDATOR displays.  
.
4. Press until Number of Codes displays.  
5. Press + or to scroll through the choices: Auto, 1 to 99. The  
default is Auto.  
6. Press to select the desired value.  
7. Press and at the same time to lock the key, then press  
PAUSE to take the printer offline.  
8. Press PAUSE again to put the printer online.  
Checking Quiet Zones  
Quiet zones are the white spaces surrounding the bar code. Each  
bar code requires a minimum quiet zone distance in order for the  
bar code to be scanned properly.  
NOTE: The validator requires a minimum distance of 1/2” or 20  
times the minimum element width (x-dimension), whichever  
is greater, between bar codes.  
50  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
             
Defining Validator Options  
When set to Enable (the default), then the bar code quiet zone is  
included as part of the pass/fail criteria.  
.
.
1. Press  
to take the printer offline and place the printer in  
.
Menu mode.  
2. If necessary, press and at the same time to unlock the  
key.  
3. If necessary, press  
.
.
until VALIDATOR displays.  
.
4. Press until Quiet Zones displays.  
5. Press + or to scroll through the choices: Enable or Disable.  
The default is Enable.  
6. Press to select the desired value.  
7. Press and at the same time to lock the key, then press  
PAUSE to take the printer offline.  
8. Press PAUSE again to put the printer online.  
NOTE: The validator does not recognize x-dimensions greater  
than 40 mil with Quiet Zones enabled.  
Checking The Firmware Revision Number  
For troubleshooting purposes, you may need to reference the  
firmware revision number.  
.
.
1. Press  
to take the printer offline and place the printer in  
.
Menu mode.  
2. If necessary, press and at the same time to unlock the  
key.  
3. If necessary, press  
.
.
until VALIDATOR displays.  
.
4. Press until F/W Revision displays. The firmware revision  
number displays.  
5. Press and at the same time to lock the key, then press  
PAUSE to take the printer offline.  
6. Press PAUSE again to put the printer online.  
51  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
     
Chapter 2 Configuring The Validator  
Setting For Skip Labels  
This option is used for skipping blank labels after bad labels have  
been marked. It is useful when you want to have extra blank labels  
in between bad and good ones. The settings are Minimum (the  
default) and Maximum. Minimum allows up to one blank label, and  
Maximum allows up to two blank labels.  
NOTE: Minimum and Maximum blank labels are only applicable for  
forms 2 inches (5.08 cm) high or more. For labels less than  
2 inches high, the minimum and maximum blank labels  
may vary.  
.
.
1. Press  
to take the printer offline and place the printer in  
.
Menu mode.  
2. If necessary, press and at the same time to unlock the  
key.  
3. If necessary, press  
.
.
until VALIDATOR displays.  
.
4. Press until Skip Labels displays.  
5. Press + or to scroll through the choices: Minimum or  
Maximum. The default is Minimum.  
6. Press to select the desired value.  
7. Press and at the same time to lock the key, then press  
PAUSE to take the printer offline.  
8. Press PAUSE again to put the printer online.  
Setting Overstrike Style  
This option is used for marking bad labels with different overstrike  
styles: Grid (the default), Grey, Checkerboard, or Error Type Msg.  
IMPORTANT  
If you are using an RFID encoder, set the validator Overstrike  
Style different than the RFID Overstrike Style (in the RFID  
CONTROL menu). This will help you differentiate between a  
validator error and an RFID error.  
.
.
1. Press  
to take the printer offline and place the printer in  
.
Menu mode.  
2. If necessary, press and at the same time to unlock the  
key.  
3. If necessary, press  
.
.
until VALIDATOR displays.  
.
52  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
       
Defining Validator Options  
4. Press until Overstrike Style displays.  
5. Press + or to scroll through the choices: Grid, Grey,  
Checkerboard, or Error Type Msg. The default is Grid.  
6. Press to select the desired value.  
7. Press and at the same time to lock the key, then press  
PAUSE to take the printer offline.  
8. Press PAUSE again to put the printer online.  
Setting I2of5 Checksum  
This option allows you to include or exclude the checksum option in  
the Interleaved 2 of 5 code as part of the grading. For example, if  
you enable this option, then any incoming bar code data without  
checksum digits will be graded as a failure, and a Checksum  
Failure error will display. The default is Disable.  
.
.
1. Press  
to take the printer offline and place the printer in  
.
Menu mode.  
2. If necessary, press and at the same time to unlock the  
key.  
3. If necessary, press  
.
.
until VALIDATOR displays.  
.
4. Press until I2of5 Checksum displays.  
5. Press + or to scroll through the options: Enable or Disable.  
The default is Disable.  
6. Press to accept the desired value.  
7. Press and at the same time to lock the key, then press  
PAUSE to take the printer offline.  
8. Press PAUSE again to put the printer online.  
53  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
   
Chapter 2 Configuring The Validator  
Num Retry  
This option allows you to set the number of times a form will be  
reprinted before the printer stops. After you clear the error  
message, the printer will print the same form or the next form,  
depending on the setting for Max Retry Action (see “Max Retry  
Action” below).  
The options are 3, 4, and 5. The default is 5.  
NOTE: This setting is utilized only when Validator Action is set to  
Retry Form, Stop & Retry, or Rescan&Retry. See “Error  
Num Rescan  
This option allows you to set the number of times a form will be  
rescanned before the printer stops. After you clear the error  
message, the printer will print the same label or the next label,  
depending on the setting for Max Retry Action (see “Max Retry  
Action” below).  
The options are 1 to 5. The default is 1.  
NOTE: This setting is utilized only when Validator Action is set to  
Rescan, Rescan&Retry, or Rescan&Stop. See “Error  
Max Retry Action  
This option determines what the printer will do with the current form  
once the Num Retry or Num Rescan counter has been exhausted  
(see “Num Retry” or “Num Rescan” above).  
If Max Retry Action is set to Dump Form, after you clear the fault  
the form will be dumped and printing will resume with the next form.  
If Max Retry Action is set to Keep Form, after you clear the fault  
printing will resume with the same form again. It will not attempt to  
print the next form until the problem form has printed correctly.  
NOTE: This setting is utilized only when Validator Action is set to  
Retry Form, Stop & Retry, Rescan Form, Rescan&Retry, or  
54  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
           
Advanced Validator Options  
Advanced Validator Options  
The following items are considered advanced items and are only  
visible if Admin User is set to Enable (in the PRINTER CONTROL  
menu). Refer to the configuration section of your User’s Manual for  
more information.  
Decodeability  
NOTE: This parameter factors into the Overall Grade (page 57).  
You can determine how strict the validator grades the wide/narrow  
bars and spaces which compose the bar code by setting the  
Decodeability parameter to a percentage value from 30% to 90%.  
The higher the percentage value chosen, the stricter the validator  
grades. The default is 37%.  
For example, if the Decodeability value is set to 37%, the validator  
gives the bar code a failing grade if the decodeability of the bar  
code is at or below 37%.  
.
.
1. Press  
to take the printer offline and place the printer in  
.
Menu mode.  
2. If necessary, press and at the same time to unlock the  
key.  
3. If necessary, press  
.
.
until VALIDATOR displays.  
.
4. Press until Decodeability displays.  
5. Press + or to scroll through the percentage values: 30% to  
90%. The default is 37%.  
6. Press to select the desired value.  
7. Press and at the same time to lock the key, then press  
PAUSE to take the printer offline.  
8. Press PAUSE again to put the printer online.  
55  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
       
Chapter 2 Configuring The Validator  
Percent Decode  
NOTE: This parameter factors into the Overall Grade (page 57).  
You can set how strict the validator grades each bar code. For  
example, the Percent Decode default is 60%. This means that 60%  
of the scanned bar code must be readable for the validator to give  
the bar code a passing grade. You can set the Percent Decode  
parameter to a percentage value from 0% to 99%. The higher the  
percentage value chosen, the stricter the validator grades.  
.
.
1. Press  
to take the printer offline and place the printer in  
.
Menu mode.  
2. If necessary, press and at the same time to unlock the  
key.  
3. If necessary, press  
.
.
until VALIDATOR displays.  
.
4. Press until Percent Decode displays.  
5. Press + or to scroll through the percentage values: 0% to  
90%. The default is 60%.  
6. Press to select the desired value.  
7. Press and at the same time to lock the key, then press  
PAUSE to take the printer offline.  
8. Press PAUSE again to put the printer online.  
Defects  
NOTE: This parameter factors into the Overall Grade (page 57).  
You can set how strict the validator grades the irregularities such as  
voids and spots found within elements and quiet zones for each bar  
code. For example, the Defects default is 20%. This means that if  
the bar code and quiet zone defects exceed 20%, the validator  
gives the bar code a failing grade. You can set the Defects  
parameter to a percentage value from 0% to 100%. The lower the  
percentage value chosen, the stricter the validator grades.  
.
.
1. Press  
to take the printer offline and place the printer in  
.
Menu mode.  
2. If necessary, press and at the same time to unlock the  
key.  
3. If necessary, press  
.
.
until VALIDATOR displays.  
.
56  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
       
Advanced Validator Options  
4. Press until Defects displays.  
5. Press + or to scroll through the percentage values: 0% to  
100%. The default is 20%.  
6. Press to select the desired value.  
7. Press and at the same time to lock the key, then press  
PAUSE to take the printer offline.  
8. Press PAUSE again to put the printer online.  
Overall Grade  
This menu item sets the value used by the validator for pass/fail  
threshold during the analysis of bar codes. Instead of a letter grade,  
numbers are used to allow for more resolution. The numbers can  
be translated to letter grades according to the 4.0 grade table  
below.  
Table 4. Grading Scale for Overall Grade  
Letter Grade Grade Numerical Range  
A
B
C
D
F
3.5 to 4.0  
2.5 to 3.4  
1.5 to 2.4  
0.5 to 1.4  
0.0 to 0.4  
Any bar code with a grade below this threshold value will cause the  
printer to display the Overall Grade Fail error message (see “Error  
Messages” on page 86) and take the appropriate error action.  
Higher values create a stricter pass criterion.  
The Overall Grade is determined by taking the lowest grade  
obtained for any of these bar code quality parameters:  
Decodeability, Percent Decode, Defects, Modulation, EC Min,  
Rmin, and Symbol Contrast.  
You can set the Overall Grade parameter to a value from 0.5 to 4.0.  
The default is 0.5.  
57  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
   
Chapter 2 Configuring The Validator  
Overall Grade Calculations  
The validator follows the specified algorithm defined in the ANSI  
X3.182 specification for determining the Overall Grade based on an  
average. Although it is not defined, the validator truncates the result  
of all analysis parameters averages for a slightly stricter grading.  
A side effect of the ANSI specified algorithm is that the Overall  
Grade may be lower than any of the averaged analysis parameters.  
This occurs because the Overall Grade is based on the lowest  
grade on any scan converted to a single digit grade (A to F, 4 to 0)  
which is then averaged. This usually occurs when a single analysis  
parameter has a value just above or just below the Overall Grade.  
Example  
The Decodeability value of 51 displays as B, but the Overall Grade  
displays as C.  
The bar code was scanned five times: three scans had values of  
0.49 (grade C) and two scans had values of 0.54 (grade B).  
The Decodeability grading calculation is:  
(3 x 0.49) + (2 x 0.54) = 2.55  
2.55 ÷ 5 = 0.51 (grade B)  
The Overall Grade calculation is:  
(3 x 2.0) + (2 x 3.0) = 12  
12 ÷ 5 = 2.4 (grade C)  
Also, with certain combinations of multiple analysis parameters and  
possibly the truncation used on the analysis parameter’s average,  
the Overall Grade may be higher than an individual analysis  
parameter grade.  
Example  
The Decodeability value of 48 displays as C, but the Overall Grade  
displays as B.  
The bar code was scanned five times: four scans had values of  
0.51 (grade B) and one scan had a value of 0.40 (grade C).  
The Decodeability grading calculation is:  
(4 x 0.51) + (1 x 0.40) = 2.44  
2.44 ÷ 5 = 48.8 (grade C)  
The Overall Grade calculation is:  
(4 x 3.0) + (1 x 2.0) = 14  
14 ÷ 5 = 2.8 (grade B)  
58  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Advanced Validator Options  
Modulation  
NOTE: This parameter factors into the Overall Grade (page 57).  
Modulation measures how well the scan laser sees the wide  
elements (bars or spaces) relative to the narrow elements. In  
general, scanning lasers see bars better than spaces and wide  
elements better than the narrow elements. This menu item sets the  
value used by the validator for pass/fail threshold during the  
analysis of bar codes. Higher values create a stricter criterion for  
passing.  
You can set the Modulation parameter to a percentage value from  
0% to 100%. The default is 50%.  
.
.
1. Press  
to take the printer offline and place the printer in  
.
Menu mode.  
2. If necessary, press and at the same time to unlock the  
key.  
3. If necessary, press  
.
.
until VALIDATOR displays.  
.
4. Press until Modulation displays.  
5. Press + or to scroll through the percentage values: 0% to  
100%. The default is 50%.  
6. Press to select the desired value.  
7. Press and at the same time to lock the key, then press  
PAUSE to take the printer offline.  
8. Press PAUSE again to put the printer online.  
EC Min  
NOTE: This parameter factors into the Overall Grade (page 57).  
The higher the value, the stricter the criterion for passing.  
This menu item sets the minimum edge contrast, which is the worst  
edge transition (bar to space or space to bar) used by the validator  
for pass/fail threshold during the analysis of bar codes. Bar codes  
with an edge contrast below this threshold will fail.  
You can set the EC Min parameter to a percentage value from 0%  
to 100%. The default is 15%.  
.
.
1. Press  
to take the printer offline and place the printer in  
.
Menu mode.  
59  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
       
Chapter 2 Configuring The Validator  
2. If necessary, press and at the same time to unlock the  
key.  
3. If necessary, press  
.
.
.
until VALIDATOR displays.  
4. Press until EC Min displays.  
5. Press + or to scroll through the percentage values: 0% to  
100%. The default is 15%.  
6. Press to select the desired value.  
7. Press and at the same time to lock the key, then press  
PAUSE to take the printer offline.  
8. Press PAUSE again to put the printer online.  
Rmin  
NOTE: This parameter factors into the Overall Grade (page 57).  
This menu item sets the minimum reflectance value used by the  
validator for pass/fail threshold used during the analysis of bar  
codes. A bar code will fail if all the bar reflectance values are above  
the percentage of space reflectance set by this threshold. For  
example, an Rmin setting of 50% requires that at least one bar  
reflectance value fall under the mid point of the reflectance value  
read for the highest space reflectance.  
You can set the Rmin parameter to a percentage value from 0% to  
100%. The default is 50%.  
.
.
1. Press  
to take the printer offline and place the printer in  
.
Menu mode.  
2. If necessary, press and at the same time to unlock the  
key.  
3. If necessary, press  
.
.
until VALIDATOR displays.  
.
4. Press until Rmin displays.  
5. Press + or to scroll through the percentage values: 0% to  
100%. The default is 50%.  
6. Press to select the desired value.  
7. Press and at the same time to lock the key, then press  
PAUSE to take the printer offline.  
8. Press PAUSE again to put the printer online.  
60  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
   
Advanced Validator Options  
Symbol Contrast  
NOTE: This parameter factors into the Overall Grade (page 57).  
The higher the value, the stricter the criterion for passing.  
Symbol Contrast represents the contrast between the bars and  
spaces in the bar code used by the validator for pass/fail threshold  
used during the analysis of bar codes. The bar code must have a  
certain level of contrast to be recognized by the validator. Bar  
codes with a symbol contrast below the threshold will fail.  
You can set the Symbol Contrast parameter to a percentage value  
from 0% to 100%. The default is 30%.  
NOTE: To disable this parameter, set Symbol Contrast to 0%.  
.
.
1. Press  
to take the printer offline and place the printer in  
.
Menu mode.  
2. If necessary, press and at the same time to unlock the  
key.  
3. If necessary, press  
.
.
until VALIDATOR displays.  
.
4. Press until Symbol Contrast displays.  
5. Press + or to scroll through the percentage values: 0% to  
100%. The default is 30%.  
6. Press to select the desired value.  
7. Press and at the same time to lock the key, then press  
PAUSE to take the printer offline.  
8. Press PAUSE again to put the printer online.  
Gain  
This menu item sets the scanner gain setting. This allows you to  
adjust the amplitude (height) of the space/bar transitions as seen  
on a Scan Profile to optimize the validator hardware for applications  
where standard settings make the bar codes unreadable.  
NOTE: This menu does not have a default setting because the  
value is hardware dependent. The initial value is read from  
the validator’s flash memory.  
After the initial value has been determined, you can set the Gain  
parameter to a value from 1 to 255.  
61  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
       
Chapter 2 Configuring The Validator  
To write a new Gain value to the validator’s flash memory, save a  
configuration. See “Saving A Configuration” in the Quick Setup  
Guide.  
NOTE: This value will not be saved in the configuration. It will only  
be written to the validator’s flash memory.  
Offset  
This menu item sets the scanner offset setting. This allows you to  
adjust the vertical position of the scan profile to guarantee that the  
validator hardware is reading the bar codes within the optimal  
range. You can adjust this to place the bar code profile in the center  
of the profile scale above 10% and below 90%.  
NOTE: This menu does not have a default setting because the  
value is hardware dependent. The initial value is read from  
the validator’s flash memory.  
After the initial value has been determined, you can set the Offset  
parameter to a value from 1 to 255.  
To write a new Offset value to the validator’s flash memory, save a  
configuration. See “Saving A Configuration” in the Quick Setup  
Guide.  
NOTE: This value will not be saved in the configuration. It will only  
be written to the validator’s flash memory.  
SN Threshold  
This menu item sets the SN (signal to noise) threshold used by the  
validator to discriminate between high peak noise and actual bar  
code transitions. Any reflectance transitions that are below the  
threshold are ignored and considered noise.  
You can set the SN Threshold to a value from 5 to 199.  
The default is 70.  
.
.
1. Press  
to take the printer offline and place the printer in  
.
Menu mode.  
2. If necessary, press and at the same time to unlock the  
key.  
3. If necessary, press  
.
.
until VALIDATOR displays.  
.
4. Press until SN Threshold displays.  
62  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
         
Advanced Validator Options  
5. Press + or to scroll through the values: 5 to 199.  
The default is 70.  
6. Press to select the desired value.  
7. Press and at the same time to lock the key, then press  
PAUSE to take the printer offline.  
8. Press PAUSE again to put the printer online.  
Scan Report  
IMPORTANT  
To print a Scan Report, Telemetry Data must be set to  
Full Report.  
This executable menu item prints a diagnostic printout of bar code  
analysis parameters calculated by the validator. It allows you to  
determine which parameter may be the cause of bar code  
verification failures. The report printed is based on the last Full  
Report received from the validator. This allows you to send a bar  
code print job to the printer, have the bar code scanned by the  
validator, and view a report of the parameters as seen by the  
validator.  
For forms with multiple bar codes, only information from the last  
scanned bar code will be included in the report. To view validator  
parameters for all bar codes on a form, use the Online Data  
Validator Data Manager software.  
NOTE: If the label is not wide enough, not all of the information will  
print.  
The printed report is generated from validator reports received by  
the printer during printing. The report does not include information  
about bar codes that are placed in the validator scan beam while  
the printer is idle or from print jobs that generate an “Unscannable  
code / check media” error message.  
The number of Total Scans and Good Scans can help you  
determine if the print speed is set too high and causing borderline  
failures by not allowing for enough scans to be done by the  
validator. The Scan Report is based on the last Full Report received  
by the validator. So if the last bar code printed is positioned close to  
the last inch of the form, and on-demand printing occurs to force the  
last bar code to be fed past the laser beam, the Total Scans and  
Good Scans reported will not be the same as those reported by the  
63  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
   
Chapter 2 Configuring The Validator  
validator when printing at the set Print Speed (in the QUICK SETUP  
and MEDIA CONTROL menus). This is because the on-demand  
printing portion is done at a fixed print speed which may be higher  
or lower than the set Print Speed. For example, a bar code printed  
at 7 ips may yield eight Total Scans, but if printed in an on-demand  
printing mode it may yield 18 Total Scans.  
Scan Report Information  
1. “ERROR:” followed by highest priority failure message (if an  
error other than “Unscannable Code” occurred) or “None” if no  
error occurred  
2. Printout of characters read from the bar code  
3. Symbology Type Read (e.g. Code 39, Code 128, etc.)  
4. Overall Grade (letter grade and calculated/number value)  
5. X dimension (mils)  
6. Decodeability (%)  
7. Modulation (%)  
8. Symbol Contrast (%)  
9. EC (Average Edge Contrast) (%)  
10. Defects (%)  
11. Rmin/Rmax (reflectance min/max)  
12. PCS (Print Contrast Signal)  
13. Percent Decode (%)  
14. Bar Deviation Avg (%)  
15. Min. Bar Deviation (%)  
16. Max. Bar Deviation (%)  
17. Ratio  
18. Good Scans  
19. Total Scans  
64  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Advanced Validator Options  
The following is a sample scan report of a Code 39, 10 mil bar code  
containing "*RJS8702*" with a quiet zone violation:  
Scan Profile  
This is an executable menu that prints the scan reflectance profile  
of a bar code placed in the validator scan beam.  
NOTE: You will need a minimum installed label width of 2 inches  
to support the Scan Profile printout.  
.
.
1. Press  
to take the printer offline and place the printer in  
.
Menu mode.  
2. If necessary, press and at the same time to unlock the  
key.  
3. If necessary, press  
.
.
until VALIDATOR displays.  
.
4. Press until Scan Profile displays.  
5. Place a bar code in the scan beam path.  
6. Press to scan the bar code.  
7. When prompted on the control panel, remove the scanned bar  
code.  
8. Press to print the scan profile.  
65  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
     
Chapter 2 Configuring The Validator  
9. Press and at the same time to lock the key, then press  
PAUSE to take the printer offline.  
10. Press PAUSE again to put the printer online.  
The length of the scan profile printed is proportional to the Beam  
Width setting (page 71) and depends on the Profile H Mag setting  
(page 67).  
The scan profile will print either a 1.5 inch wide or a 3 inch wide  
graph depending on the Label Width setting (in the MEDIA  
CONTROL menu). (Label widths less than 4 inches print the  
smaller 1.5 inch wide profile.)  
Printing is done in continuous mode without taking into account  
media gap/marks.  
NOTE: Use continuous media or else the scan profile may distort  
at the media gap/marks.  
The following figure shows a sample scan profile graph. It only  
shows the profile of actual bar code data. The dashed lines  
represent the 90% and 10% marks. You can use these to help set  
the gain and offset (if necessary).  
Figure 17. Sample Scan Profile  
66  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Advanced Validator Options  
Profile H Mag  
This menu item selects the horizontal magnification for printing the  
scan profile. This allows you to zoom in on the profile. Magnification  
values are multiples of the scan profile length printed for a given  
Beam Width setting. For example, if the Beam Width setting of  
1800 prints a 4 inch scan profile, a Profile H Mag setting of 2 prints  
an 8 inch scan profile.  
You can set the Profile H Mag parameter to a value from 1 to 4.  
The default is 1.  
.
.
1. Press  
to take the printer offline and place the printer in  
.
Menu mode.  
2. If necessary, press and at the same time to unlock the  
key.  
3. If necessary, press  
.
.
until VALIDATOR displays.  
.
4. Press until Profile H Mag displays.  
5. Press or to scroll through the values: 1 to 4. The default is 1.  
+
6. Press to select the desired value.  
7. Press and at the same time to lock the key, then press  
PAUSE to take the printer offline.  
8. Press PAUSE again to put the printer online.  
Figure 18 shows a Profile H Mag setting of 2 for the same scan  
profile shown in Figure 17, page 66 (Profile H Mag setting of 1).  
Figure 18. Sample Scan Profile: Profile H Mag = 2  
67  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
       
Chapter 2 Configuring The Validator  
Print Settings  
This is an executable menu item that reads and prints the settings  
used by the validator.  
The response received from the validator after sending the ~DV  
(retrieves version), ~HT (retrieves hardware settings), and ~PT8  
(retrieves parameter settings) commands are printed. Use the  
printout to view all the active settings the validator is using and to  
determine if there is any invalid setting which may be causing  
problems.  
The following is a sample printout:  
68  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
   
Advanced Validator Options  
69  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Chapter 2 Configuring The Validator  
Scanner Settings  
This option has two purposes:  
Allows the validator to upload an optimized setting for a  
particular printer size at power up. This will use the full scanner  
beam width and improve the performance and efficiency of the  
validator.  
Allows you to customize a special scanner setting for a specific  
application. The feature file can then be downloaded to the  
printer by using normal printer download procedures and must  
be saved as part of the power up configuration. For more  
information, contact the Printronix Customer Support Center.  
To set this option when a feature file has been downloaded:  
.
.
1. Press  
to take the printer offline and place the printer in  
.
Menu mode.  
2. If necessary, press and at the same time to unlock the  
key.  
3. If necessary, press  
.
.
until VALIDATOR displays.  
.
4. Press until Scanner Settings displays.  
5. Press + or to scroll through the options: Default or feature  
file 1, feature file 2, etc. (up to seven feature files). The default  
is Default 4xx, Default 6yy, or Default 8zz (4, 6, and 8 inch  
printers respectively; xx, yy, and zz are file revision numbers).  
6. Press to accept the desired value.  
7. Save this configuration and set it as the Power-Up  
configuration in the CONFIG CTRL menu.  
8. Cycle power for the new setting to take effect.  
9. The beam may need to be moved horizontally. See “Beam  
70  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
   
Advanced Validator Options  
Beam Width  
This menu item allows you to adjust the width of the scan beam to  
focus on specific areas where bar codes are expected. This will  
reduce the amount of data the validator must process. Use this to  
read bar codes near text or graphics that may interfere with the  
validator if the text or graphics are scanned.  
Reducing the beam width and focusing it to specific areas also  
reduces light reflection interference to the validator from the media,  
ribbon, tear bar, or other shiny surfaces.  
You can set the Beam Width parameter to a value of 250 to 3100.  
The default is 1800, 2550, or 3100 (4, 6, or 8 inch printers).  
The higher the value, the wider the beam width.  
NOTE: The Beam Width menu item will change the width of the  
scan beam but it is assumed that users will use the Beam  
Shift menu item to move the beam to the correct horizontal  
focus point.  
.
.
1. Press  
to take the printer offline and place the printer in  
.
Menu mode.  
2. If necessary, press and at the same time to unlock the  
key.  
3. If necessary, press  
.
.
until VALIDATOR displays.  
.
4. Press until Beam Width displays.  
5. Press + or to scroll through the values: 250 to 3100.  
The default is 1800, 2550, or 3100 (4, 6, or 8 inch printer).  
6. Press to accept the desired value.  
7. Save this configuration and set it as the Power-Up  
configuration in the CONFIG CTRL menu.  
8. Cycle power for the new setting to take effect.  
9. The beam may need to be moved horizontally. See “Beam  
71  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
   
Chapter 2 Configuring The Validator  
Beam Shift  
This option enables you to shift the scanning beam horizontally to  
the left or right. The left edge of the beam should be approximately  
0.13 inches (3.3 mm) from the left edge of the tear bar. After you  
set this value, save it as part of the configuration for future use.  
The value range is from –99 to 99. The default is 0. Lower values  
will move the beam to the left.  
.
.
1. Press  
to take the printer offline and place the printer in  
.
Menu mode.  
2. If necessary, press and at the same time to unlock the  
key.  
3. If necessary, press  
.
.
until VALIDATOR displays.  
.
4. Press until Beam Shift displays.  
5. Press + or to scroll through the values: –99 to 99. The default  
is 0. Lower values will move the beam to the left. Press to  
accept the shift value.  
Keep selecting the new value until the beam width is at the  
desired position. The left edge of beam should be  
approximately 0.13 inches (3.3 mm) from the left edge of the  
tear bar.  
6. Save the configuration for future use.  
72  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
   
General Process For Barcode Analysis  
General Process For Barcode Analysis  
The following flow chart is an overview of how the validator  
performs the barcode analysis.  
Edge Determination  
Reflectance Minimum <=  
Threshold percentage of Reflectance  
Maximum  
Min. Edge Contrast (worst pair) >=  
Min. Edge Contrast Threshold  
Symbol Contrast >= Symbol Contrast  
Threshold  
Modulation >= Modulation Threshold  
Grading Scale:  
A: >= 70 %  
B: >= 60 %  
C: >= 50 %  
D: >= 40 %  
F: < 40 %  
Grading Scale:  
A: >= 70 %  
B: >= 55 %  
C: >= 40 %  
D: >= 20 %  
F: < 20 %  
Decodeability >= Decodeability  
Threshold  
Defects <= Defects Threshold  
Grading Scale:  
A: <= 15 %  
B: <= 20 %  
C: <= 25 %  
D: <= 30 %  
F: > 30 %  
Grading Scale:  
A: >= 62 %  
B: >= 50 %  
C: >= 37 %  
D: >= 25 %  
F: < 25 %  
Overall Grade >= Overall Grade  
Threshold  
Grading Scale:  
A: 3.5 to 4.0  
B: 2.5 to 3.4  
C: 1.5 to 2.4  
D: 0.5 to 1.4  
F: 0.0 to 0.4  
Percent Decode >= Percent Decode  
Threshold  
Figure 19. Barcode Analysis Flowchart  
73  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Chapter 2 Operation  
Operation  
There are a number of factors which contribute to successful bar  
code validation, including printer speed, on-demand print settings,  
calibration, and ambient light. The following sections describe how  
to ensure your bar code validator is scanning and reporting  
properly.  
Print Speed Limits  
Two factors in the validation process affect the printer’s speed limit:  
minimum code height (bar code height) and minimum code gap.  
The printer automatically examines the Min. Code Height and Min.  
Code Gap values and sets the defined maximum slew (vertical  
paper movement) and print speeds to insure proper operation. If  
the current Print Speed and/or Slew Speed values in the MEDIA  
CONTROL menu are higher than the newly defined maximum, the  
values are changed to equal the maximum. If the current values are  
lower than the newly defined maximum, no change in speed  
occurs.  
Min. Code Height (Bar Code Height)  
The validator cannot function at the highest speed possible by the  
printer. It requires a minimum number of scans per bar code to  
make a reliable assessment, so the speed of the printer is limited  
by the height of the bar code. If the bar code is very short, printing  
needs to be slowed down to allow sufficient scans to occur. If the  
print speed exceeds this limit, the message Speed Exceeds  
Validator Limit will display. Print speed will be lowered automatically  
if required, but will not automatically reset to a higher speed.  
The printer cannot predict how high all the bar codes in a given job  
will be, so it cannot automatically limit or adjust the print speed to  
insure the code height/speed requirement is being met. When the  
bar code is too short for the selected speed, the printer produces a  
missing bar code error condition. Therefore, printer speed must be  
set manually to compensate for bar code height.  
74  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
         
Print Speed Limits  
Use this formula to determine printer speed in relation to bar code  
height:  
Bar Code Height In Inches  
Maximum Printer Speed In  
=
Inches Per Second  
0.030  
By changing the Min. Code Height, the printer and slew speeds will  
be changed automatically.  
To change the Min. Code Height:  
.
.
1. Press  
to take the printer offline and place the printer in  
.
Menu mode.  
2. If necessary, press and at the same time to unlock the  
key.  
3. If necessary, press  
.
.
until VALIDATOR displays.  
.
4. Press until Min. Code Height displays.  
5. Press + or to scroll through the choices: 0.13 to 1.00 inches in  
0.01 inch increments. The default is 0.30 inches.  
6. Press to select the desired value. The printing and slew  
speeds will be changed after is pressed.  
7. Press and at the same time to lock the key, then press  
PAUSE to take the printer offline.  
8. Press PAUSE again to put the printer online.  
To set the printer speed manually:  
.
.
1. Press  
to take the printer offline and place the printer in  
.
Menu mode.  
2. If necessary, press and at the same time to unlock the  
key.  
3. Press  
.
.
until MEDIA CONTROL displays.  
.
4. Press until Print Speed displays.  
5. Press + or to scroll through the choices.  
6. Press to select the desired value.  
7. Press and at the same time to lock the key, then press  
PAUSE to take the printer offline.  
8. Press PAUSE again to put the printer online.  
75  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Chapter 2 Operation  
Min. Code Gap  
Bar code  
Min. Code Gap  
Distance from the  
bottom of a bar code to the  
top of the next bar code  
Next bar code  
Minimum Code Gap represents the distance between the closest  
bar codes within a print job. The distance is measured from the  
bottom of one bar code to the top of the next bar code. The closest  
bar codes can be located on two separate labels or on the same  
label.  
This distance is important because it affects how fast the Print  
Speed can be set. If the bottom-most bar code on one label is very  
close to the top-most bar code on the next label, the printer could  
have trouble distinguishing which bar code correlates with which  
label. To avoid the risk of miscorrelation, the printer automatically  
set its Print Speed.  
The default is 0.30 inches. The range is 0.15 to 1.00 inches in 0.01  
inch increments.  
Use this formula to determine printer speed in relation to minimum  
code gap:  
Min. Code Gap In Inches  
Maximum Printer Speed In  
=
Inches Per Second  
0.050  
To change the Min. Code Gap:  
.
.
1. Press  
to take the printer offline and place the printer in  
.
Menu mode.  
2. If necessary, press and at the same time to unlock the  
key.  
3. If necessary, press  
.
.
until VALIDATOR displays.  
.
4. Press until Min. Code Gap displays.  
5. Press + or to scroll through the choices: 0.15 to 1.00 inches in  
0.01 inch increments. The default is 0.30 inches.  
6. Press to select the desired value.  
76  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
   
On-Demand Printing  
7. Press and at the same time to lock the key, then press  
PAUSE to take the printer offline.  
8. Press PAUSE again to put the printer online.  
NOTE: To avoid the risk of miscorrelation, the printer automatically  
sets its Print Speed based on the information that has been  
selected to ensure validation results are accurate.  
On-Demand Printing  
In order for each bar code to be successfully validated, the entire  
bar code must pass completely under the scanning beam, even  
when the printer is set up for on-demand printing. In cases where  
the bar code is close to the bottom of a label and the printer is in an  
on-demand printing mode, the printer automatically pushes the  
label past the scanning beam. Once the bar code is validated, the  
printer retracts the label back to be cut or torn off.  
Because the printer has to push out and then retract labels in  
on-demand printing modes, the extra movements slow the printing  
process. You can avoid this by adjusting the form so that the bar  
code appears early enough on the form so that it will pass  
completely under the scanning beam during normal printing. This  
may involve rotating the form or moving the bar code to a different  
position on the form.  
77  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
   
Chapter 2 Bar Code Failures  
Bar Code Failures  
The validator tells the printer to announce a fault condition in two  
situations:  
if the validator detects a bad bar code  
if the validator detects no bar code where it expects to find one.  
How the printer reacts to these faults is determined by the printer’s  
configuration settings, as described below.  
Bad Bar Code Error Detection  
The validator examines every bar code that passes under the  
scanning beam and sends an analysis report to the printer. If a bar  
code is reported to have failed to meet any of the acceptance  
criteria, an error condition is reported. How the printer then reacts is  
Missing Bar Code Error Detection  
A bar code may print so poorly that the validator cannot detect it,  
and the printer does not receive an analysis report for the code. To  
catch this problem, the printer tracks the position of the last label  
printed and knows when it should have completely passed the  
scanning beam. It can then compare the number of bar code  
analysis reports it expected to the number it received. If the printer  
does not receive enough bar code reports, it enters an error  
condition. How the printer then reacts is described in “Error Action”  
The number of bar codes expected is determined one of two ways:  
If Auto is selected for the Number of Codes parameter, and you  
are using LinePrinter Plus®, IGP®/PGL®, IGP Code V™, or  
IPDS™ graphics software, the printer compares the number of  
bar code commands it receives from the software to the  
number of analysis reports it receives from the validator.  
You can set the number of bar codes generated by a  
bitmapped image that the printer should expect per form by  
selecting a value in the Number of Codes parameter.  
78  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
           
Error Action  
For more information on choosing a value for the Number of Codes  
Error Action  
The printer response is the same whether the error stems from a  
bad or missing bar code. It is determined by the Validator Action  
setting in the VALIDATOR menu:  
.
.
1. Press  
to take the printer offline and place the printer in  
.
Menu mode.  
2. If necessary, press and at the same time to unlock the  
key.  
3. If necessary, press  
.
.
until VALIDATOR displays.  
.
4. Press until Validator Action displays.  
5. Press + or to scroll through the choices:  
Retry Form (default)  
Stop & Retry  
Grade&Report  
Rescan Form  
Rescan&Retry  
Rescan&Stop  
Stop  
Overstrike  
These options are described in detail below.  
6. Press to select the desired value.  
7. Press and at the same time to lock the key, then press  
PAUSE to take the printer offline.  
8. Press PAUSE again to put the printer online.  
79  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
   
Chapter 2 Bar Code Failures  
Forms Printed After an Error Detection  
Because of physical differences between the location of the  
printhead and the scanning beam, one or more forms may print after  
a bad form (a form with a bar code error that the validator detected).  
The number of forms printed after a bad form depends on the Label  
Length, Print Speed, and Slew Speed settings in the MEDIA  
CONTROL menu. Shorter forms and faster speeds tend to increase  
the number of forms printed before the validator has a chance to  
detect an error. Also, the validator may not detect an error on forms  
that have bar codes near the bottom of the form until the next form  
has already started printing.  
Forms that print after a bad form are treated differently, depending  
upon the error action mode selected (see Table 5). Modes that  
require a reprint operation may need to reprint more than just the  
bad form.  
Table 5. Actions Done to Forms That Print After A Bad Form  
Error Action  
Action  
Mode  
Stop  
Tagged as failed, even though it was never  
scanned.  
Overstrike  
Overstruck (default).  
Overstruck and reprinted.  
Reprinted.  
Retry Form  
Stop & Retry  
Grade&Report Not applicable (all forms are scanned once).  
Rescan Form  
Scanned. If error persists, it will be rescanned  
and overstruck.  
Rescan&Retry Scanned. If error persists, it will be overstruck  
and reprinted.  
Rescan&Stop  
Scanned. If error persists, it will be tagged as  
failed, even though it was never scanned.  
80  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
   
Error Action  
Stop  
If the validator detects a bar code failure, the print job stops, the  
printer status indicator lamp flashes, the alarm sounds, and the  
appropriate error message displays.  
The printer remains in a fault condition until you press the PAUSE  
key. This clears the error message and takes the printer offline. You  
must correct any condition that may have caused the fault. When  
ready, the printer can be put back online and it will resume printing  
with the form immediately following the bad form and any other  
forms printed prior to the physical stop (see “Forms Printed After an  
Overstrike  
Use Overstrike mode when you want bad labels to be marked, but  
not reprinted (i.e., when using pre-numbered labels).  
If the system detects a bar code failure, the print job stops, the  
printer status indicator lamp flashes, the alarm sounds, and the  
appropriate error message displays.  
Without pausing, the printer then automatically reverses to the top  
of the bad form. It then prints an obliterating pattern over the bad  
form and any other forms printed prior to the physical stop (see  
the obliterating pattern is a grid of fine lines which clearly marks the  
label as bad but allows you to read what was originally printed.  
In the VALIDATOR menu, the Overstrike Style options are: Grid,  
Grey, Checkerboard, or Error Type Msg.  
NOTE: Select Error Type Message to see the error message  
printed on the bad form as the Overstrike Style.  
IMPORTANT  
If you are using an RFID encoder, set the validator Overstrike  
Style different than the RFID Overstrike Style (in the RFID  
CONTROL menu). This will help you differentiate between a  
validator error and an RFID error.  
After the overstrike printing, the printer clears the error message  
and stops the alarm, then resumes normal printing at the point the  
job was stopped.  
81  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
     
Chapter 2 Bar Code Failures  
If more than one form is overstruck, only the first overstruck form is  
lost (the one with the missing or bad bar code), and a separate print  
command is required to resend it from the host, if needed. The rest  
of the overstruck forms are automatically resent.  
Retry Form  
This mode is similar to the Overstrike mode, however, instead of  
resuming printing where the printer had left off, the printer will  
attempt to reprint the bad form.  
NOTE: The number of times the printer will attempt to reprint the  
bad form is determined by the Num Retry setting. See  
The printer will stop, indicate an error, and overstrike as described  
on page 81. Then it will skip a number of blank labels, depending  
on the setting for Skip Labels (see “Setting For Skip Labels” on  
page 52). It will then slew to the next top of a blank form and reprint  
the bad form and any other overstruck forms (see “Forms Printed  
Once the Num Retry counter has been exhausted, the print job  
stops completely. After you clear the error message, the printer will  
print the same label or the next label, depending on the setting for  
Max Retry Action (see “Max Retry Action” on page 54).  
Stop & Retry  
This mode is similar to the Stop mode: the printer will stop printing  
and display the error message. After you clear the error message, it  
will then skip a number of blank labels, depending on the setting for  
Skip Labels (see “Setting For Skip Labels” on page 52). Then it will  
slew to the next top of a blank form and reprint the bad form and  
any other forms printed prior to the physical stop (see “Forms  
NOTE: The number of times the printer will attempt to reprint the  
bad form is determined by the Num Retry setting. See  
The printer will stop after the specified Num Retry attempts. After  
you clear the error message, the printer will print the same label or  
the next label, depending on the setting for Max Retry Action (see  
82  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
   
Error Action  
Grade&Report  
In this mode, the entire print job will print uninterrupted. If one or  
more errors is detected, the printer status indicator lamp flashes,  
the alarm sounds, and the error message “Bar code fails / Job has  
errors” displays.  
IMPORTANT  
The error message lets you know that at least one bad form  
printed. To determine which form(s) are bad, you must  
manually scan all of them.  
The printer remains in a fault condition until you press the PAUSE  
key. This clears the error message and takes the printer offline.  
Correct any condition that may have caused the fault, then press  
PAUSE to place the printer back online.  
Rescan Form  
This mode is similar to the Retry Form mode, however, instead of  
backing up and overstriking the form, the printer will back up and  
rescan the bad form and any other forms that have already printed  
NOTE: The number of times the printer will attempt to rescan the  
form and following forms is determined by the Num Rescan  
If the printer scans these forms correctly on any of the rescans, it  
will continue printing with the next form.  
If the printer fails to scan these forms correctly on all of the rescans,  
it will overstrike the forms, stop, and indicate an error similar to Stop  
mode. After you clear the error message, the printer will skip a  
number of blank labels, depending on the setting for Skip Labels  
It will then slew to the next top of a blank form and reprint the same  
form or go the next form, depending on the setting for Max Retry  
NOTE: The only difference between Rescan Form and  
Rescan&Stop is that when a form still fails after all the  
rescans, Rescan Form will overstrike the bad form,  
whereas Rescan&Stop will not.  
83  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
   
Chapter 2 Bar Code Failures  
Rescan&Retry  
This mode is similar to Rescan Form with one exception: after the  
printer has rescanned the form and overstruck it if there was still a  
fault, it will reprint and rescan the same form again.  
NOTE: The number of times the printer will attempt to rescan the  
form is determined by the Num Rescan setting. See “Num  
The number of times the printer will attempt to reprint the  
bad form is determined by the Num Retry setting. See  
If the printer scans these forms correctly on any of the rescans or  
reprints, it will continue printing with the next form.  
If the printer fails to scan these forms correctly on all of the rescans  
and reprints, it will overstrike the forms, stop, and indicate an error  
similar to Stop mode. After you clear the error message, the printer  
will skip a number of blank labels, depending on the setting for Skip  
It will then slew to the next top of a blank form and reprint the same  
form or go the next form, depending on the setting for Max Retry  
Rescan&Stop  
This mode is similar to the Retry Form mode, however, instead of  
backing up and overstriking the form, the printer will back up and  
rescan the bad form and any other forms that have already printed  
NOTE: The number of times the printer will attempt to rescan the  
form and following forms is determined by the Num Rescan  
If the printer scans these forms correctly on any of the rescans, it  
will continue printing with the next form.  
If the printer fails to scan these forms correctly on all of the rescans,  
it will stop and indicate an error similar to Stop mode. After you  
clear the error message, the printer will skip a number of blank  
labels, depending on the setting for Skip Labels (see “Setting For  
84  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
   
Error Action  
It will then slew to the next top of a blank form and reprint the same  
form or go the next form, depending on the setting for Max Retry  
NOTE: The only difference between Rescan Form and  
Rescan&Stop is that when a form still fails after all the  
rescans, Rescan Form will overstrike the bad form,  
whereas Rescan&Stop will not.  
85  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Chapter 2 Bar Code Failures  
Error Messages  
The validator can detect a number of errors. When one of these  
errors occurs, the validator alerts the printer to perform the currently  
selected error action (see “Error Action” on page 79) and show the  
appropriate error message on the printer display. Validator error  
messages are explained in Table 6.  
Table 6. Message List  
Message  
Explanation  
Solution  
Bar code fails  
Job has errors  
This message appears when  
at least one label in a batch of  
labels has a data validation  
error.  
1. Press PAUSE to clear  
the message.  
2. Manually scan all the  
bar codes in the label  
batch, then reprint the  
bad labels.  
NOTE:  
This message appears only  
when Validator Action is set to  
Grade&Report.  
Bar Code Improper  
Data Format  
Data validation error: the bar  
code is not properly encoded. sends data in the correct  
Fix the application so it  
For example, a check sum is  
incorrect, a required number  
of characters is not met, or  
the required terminator  
characters are not included.  
This problem is almost  
always caused by incorrect  
form or host application  
design.  
bar code format.  
86  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
           
Error Messages  
Table 6. Message List  
Explanation  
Message  
Solution  
Bar code quiet  
zone too small  
Data validation error: the  
blank zone(s) left or right of  
the bar code is not big  
enough to meet the minimum  
requirement.  
1. Fix the application.  
2. Disable Quiet Zone in  
the VALIDATOR menu.  
Typically, this occurs in forms  
where bar codes are placed  
too close to other elements,  
the bar code is too close to an  
edge of the media, or the  
media’s position is shifting.  
The minimum quiet zone on  
each end of the bar code  
should be ten times the  
minimum element width or  
1/4 inch, whichever is greater.  
In addition, between bar  
codes, the validator requires  
a minimum distance of 20  
times the minimum element  
width or 1/2 inch, whichever is  
greater.  
Calibration  
warning  
The validator has detected  
that it needs calibration. This  
message is a reminder and  
does not halt printing.  
Press PAUSE to clear the  
message. Calibrate the  
validator. See “Calibration”  
Checksum Failure  
The bar code data fails the  
Verify that the checksum  
checksum check or is missing digit exists in the bar code  
the checksum digit.  
and that it is the correct  
value.  
87  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
     
Chapter 2 Bar Code Failures  
Table 6. Message List  
Message  
Explanation  
Solution  
Contrast too low  
Check media  
Data validation error: the  
contrast between bars and  
spaces is not sufficient. This  
can be caused by too little  
Increase Print Intensity or  
reduce Print Speed in the  
QUICK SETUP menu or via  
host software, change  
heat in the thermal transfer or media, or set Symbol  
by use of colored media or  
ribbons.  
Contrast = 0% (to disable it)  
in the VALIDATOR menu.  
Overall Grade  
Fail  
Overall data validation failure: 1. Press PAUSE to clear  
decodeability, percent  
decode, defects, modulation,  
EC Min, Rmin, and/or symbol  
contrast.  
the message.  
2. Adjust the parameter  
that is causing the  
failure. To see which  
parameter is failing, run  
a Scan Report  
(page 63).  
3. Lower the Overall  
Grade to a point where  
the worst parameter  
grade will be above the  
Overall Grade  
threshold.  
Poor scanning  
Check heat&head  
Data validation failure:  
1. Adjust Print Intensity  
and Print Speed in the  
QUICK SETUP menu or  
via host software.  
decodeability. The difference  
between wide and narrow  
elements is too close for the  
validator to reliably discern.  
This usually indicates an  
improperly set heat/speed/  
pressure combination or the  
loss of a printhead element.  
2. Adjust the printhead  
pressure. (Refer to the  
Quick Setup Guide or  
User’s Manual.)  
88  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
     
Error Messages  
Table 6. Message List  
Explanation  
Message  
Solution  
Poor scanning  
Check media  
Data validation failure:  
percent decode. The validator  
detected gross  
inconsistencies within the  
height of the bar code. These  
types of failures are likely  
attributed to large blemishes  
within the bar code, caused  
by ribbon wrinkle or debris on  
media.  
1. Check for a wrinkled  
ribbon or debris on  
media. Roll wrinkled  
area onto take-up  
spindle.  
2. Adjust the printhead  
pressure blocks. (Refer  
to the Quick Setup  
Guide or User’s  
Manual.)  
Poor scanning  
Inspect head  
Data validation failure:  
hardware defect. The  
validator detected  
1. Check that paper and  
ribbon are clean,  
unwrinkled, and  
unexpected dark spots in  
spaces or light spots in bars.  
This usually indicates a poor  
ribbon/media combination, a  
dirty printhead, or a burned  
pixel.  
installed correctly.  
2. Clean the printhead.  
3. If message reappears,  
replace the printhead.  
Speed Exceeds  
Validator Limit  
Print Speed is set above the  
maximum allowed for bar  
code printing by the validator  
as the Power-Up  
configuration with the  
validator option installed.  
This message only appears  
briefly, and the speed is  
automatically reduced.  
Make sure Min. Code  
Height (page 74) and Min.  
Code Gap (page 76) are set  
correctly.  
An attempt was made to set  
Print Speed above the  
maximum allowed in the  
QUICK SETUP menu or via  
host software.  
Maximum speed depends on  
Min. Code Height and Min.  
Code Gap.  
89  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
     
Chapter 2 Bar Code Failures  
Table 6. Message List  
Explanation  
Data validation error: missing 1. Check that paper and  
Message  
Solution  
Unscannable code  
check media  
bar code. An expected bar  
code is missing or was  
printed so poorly that the  
validator cannot detect it.  
ribbon are clean,  
unwrinkled, and  
installed correctly.  
2. Run a print job and  
check that the validator  
beam is not obstructed;  
remove obstructions as  
necessary.  
3. Run a print job and  
check that the READ  
LED flashes as bar  
codes exit the printer. If  
the READ LED does not  
flash, cycle power and  
run the job again. If the  
READ LED does not  
flash, inspect the cables  
and the cable  
connections. If the  
cables are undamaged  
and the connections are  
good, replace the  
validator.  
4. If using bitmapped bar  
codes, set Number of  
Codes (page 50) to the  
number of codes per  
form (not Auto).  
5. Adjust Print Intensity  
and Print Speed in the  
QUICK SETUP menu or  
via host software.  
90  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Error Messages  
Table 6. Message List  
Explanation  
Message  
Solution  
Unscannable code  
check media  
6. Press PAUSE to clear  
the message.  
(continued)  
7. In the VALIDATOR  
menu, press until  
Clear Data displays,  
then press .  
Validator not  
communicating  
1. The Validator Funct. =  
Enable in the  
1. Check that the validator  
signal cable is securely  
connected to the  
VALIDATOR menu, but  
when the printer was first  
powered up it could not  
communicate with it.  
validator unit.  
2. Select Validator Funct.  
= Disable in the  
2. The validator was  
connected to the printer  
and then later removed.  
VALIDATOR menu.  
Save this setting in the  
Power-Up configuration  
in the CONFIG CTRL  
menu and reboot the  
printer.  
91  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Chapter 2 Troubleshooting  
Troubleshooting  
If you are having problems with the validator, consult Table 7 for a  
list of symptoms and possible solutions.  
Table 7. Troubleshooting the Validator  
Symptom  
Solution  
The scanning beam does not  
come on.  
1. Make sure the power/data cable is plugged  
into the validator and the controller board on  
2. Make sure the validator has not been  
disabled in the VALIDATOR menu. See  
3. Print a bar code validation demo page  
4. Call your service representative if the  
problem persists.  
The scanning beam does not  
cover the entire width of the  
labels being printed.  
1. Adjust the validator along the length of the  
lower bracket so that the scanning beam  
covers the complete width of labels printed.  
2. Use Beam Shift to move the beam  
horizontally to cover the entire width of the  
The printer pauses after scanning If you have an RFID encoder but are not  
each label.  
encoding RFID tags, make sure RFID Reader is  
set to Disable (in the RFID CONTROL menu).  
Printing 3 mil or 5 mil x-dimension The validator does not recognize x-dimensions  
width bar codes constantly  
causes error messages.  
as small as 3 mil or 5 mil. If you have to print bar  
codes this size, disable the validator to prevent  
92  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
       
Error Messages  
Table 7. Troubleshooting the Validator  
Solution  
Symptom  
The printed labels look clean, but  
the validator is still reporting an  
error message.  
The validator glass may be dirty, distorting the  
report results. Power down the printer and clean  
the glass using a household glass cleaner and a  
dry, lint-free cloth.  
The printed bar codes are  
causing error conditions.  
There are a number of factors which could be  
causing validation errors:  
The scanning beam is not properly aligned  
with the two notches on the tear bar of the  
Make sure the entire bar code passes  
completely under the scanning beam.  
The validator and printer are not properly  
communicating. Test the validator operation  
without using a host. See “Bar Code  
Bar code width. The validator can recognize  
x-dimensions as narrow as 6.6 mil for  
300 dpi printers, and 10 mil for 203 dpi  
printers. The validator cannot recognize  
x-dimensions smaller than 6.6 mil or larger  
than 40 mil.  
Bar code size. A minimum height of 1/8 inch  
is required for validation. If problems persist,  
increase the bar code height.  
Bar code type. The validator only  
recognizes the following linear, picket fence  
bar codes: Codabar, Code 39, Code 93,  
Code 128, Interleaved 2 of 5, and  
UPC/EAN. Stacked, 2D, and vertical  
(ladder) bar codes are not supported.  
93  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Chapter 2 Maintenance  
Table 7. Troubleshooting the Validator  
Symptom  
Solution  
The printed bar codes are  
causing error conditions.  
(continued)  
Bar code spacing.The validator requires a  
minimum distance of 1/2 inch or 20 times  
the minimum element width, whichever is  
greater, between bar codes.  
page 74. If problems persist, decrease the  
Print Speed in the MEDIA CONTROL menu.  
Be sure the bar code is not printing on the  
extreme edges of the label.  
Clean the printhead. See “Cleaning” in the  
Quick Setup Guide.  
Check that paper and ribbon are clean,  
unwrinkled, and installed correctly.  
Check the number of bar codes being  
validated concurrently. The validator can  
track the performance of up to four bar  
codes at one time.  
Maintenance  
WARNING  
Class 2 laser light. Do not stare into the laser beam or a  
reflected image of the laser beam.  
WARNING  
Using controls, making adjustments, or performing  
procedures other than those specified herein may result in  
hazardous radiation exposure.  
The validator is a self-contained unit that requires only periodic  
cleaning. Every so often, power down the printer and use a  
household glass cleaner and a dry, lint-free cloth to clean the glass.  
If the problem with the printer is not fixed by one of these  
troubleshooting methods, call your authorized service  
representative or the Printronix Customer Support Center. See  
94  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
   
A
Contact Information  
Printronix Customer Support Center  
IMPORTANT  
Please have the following information available prior to calling  
the Printronix Customer Support Center:  
Model number  
Serial number (located on the back of the printer)  
Installed options (i.e., interface and host type if applicable to the  
problem)  
Configuration printout (see “Printing A Configuration” in the  
Quick Setup Guide)  
Is the problem with a new install or an existing printer?  
Description of the problem (be specific)  
Good and bad samples that clearly show the problem (faxing of  
these samples may be required)  
Americas  
Europe, Middle East, and Africa (31) 24 6489 311  
Asia Pacific (65) 6548 4114  
(714) 368-2686  
95  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
         
Chapter  
Printronix Supplies Department  
Contact the Printronix Supplies Department for genuine Printronix  
supplies.  
Americas  
(800) 733-1900  
Europe, Middle East, and Africa (33) 1 46 25 1900  
Asia Pacific  
(65) 6548 4116  
or (65) 6548 4182  
Corporate Offices  
Printronix, Inc.  
14600 Myford Road  
P.O. Box 19559  
Irvine, CA 92623-9559  
Phone: (714) 368-2300  
Fax: (714) 368-2600  
Printronix, Inc.  
Nederland BV  
P.O. Box 163, Nieuweweg 283  
NL-6600 Ad Wijchen  
The Netherlands  
Phone: (31) 24 6489489  
Fax: (31) 24 6489499  
Printronix Schweiz GmbH  
42 Changi South Street 1  
Changi South Industrial Estate  
Singapore 486763  
Phone: (65) 6542 0110  
Fax: (65) 6546 1588  
96  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
     
Index  
100  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
*179097-001*  
179097-001  
Revision D  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  

Peavey Musical Instrument Amplifier Renown User Manual
Peavey Stereo Amplifier ICS 4200 User Manual
Pentax TV Video Accessories PV A020A User Manual
PhatNoise Car Stereo System KDC MP8029 User Manual
Philips Computer Monitor E 06251 User Manual
Philips DVD Player BDP2700 User Manual
Philips VCR VR 232 User Manual
PLUS Vision Projector V 1080 User Manual
Porter Cable Pressure Washer A17914 05 10 06 User Manual
Powermate Portable Generator PMC523202 User Manual