M-84PRO
Thermal Transfer Printer
OPERATOR MANUAL
PN 9001105 Rev. A
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Section 1. Printer Overview
Introduction..................................................................................................1-1
Specifications...............................................................................................1-2
Section 2. Installation
Introduction..................................................................................................2-1
Unpacking and Parts Identification..............................................................2-2
Setting Up the Printer ..................................................................................2-3
Loading Labels and Tags.............................................................................2-5
Loading the Ribbon .....................................................................................2-8
Operators Panel............................................................................................2-10
Rear Panel....................................................................................................2-12
Sensors.........................................................................................................2-13
Section 3. CONFIGURATION
Printer Dip Switch Configuration................................................................3-1
Default Settings............................................................................................3-7
Potentiometer Adjustments..........................................................................3-8
LCD Panel Printer Configuration ................................................................3-10
Section 4. CLEANING AND MAINTENANCE
Introduction..................................................................................................4-1
Adjusting the Print Quality..........................................................................4-1
Cleaning the Print Head, Platen and Rollers................................................4-2
Cleaning the Label Edge Sensors ................................................................4-3
Replacing the Print Head .............................................................................4-4
Section 5. Troubleshooting
Initial Checklist............................................................................................5-1
Using the IEEE1284 Parallel Interface........................................................5-1
Using the RS232C Serial Interface..............................................................5-2
Using The Universal Serial Bus (USB) Interface........................................5-3
Using the Lan Ethernet Interface.................................................................5-3
Error Signals ................................................................................................5-6
SATO M-84PRO
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Table of Contents
Section 6. Interface Specifications
Introduction..................................................................................................6-1
Interface Types ............................................................................................6-1
The Receive Buffer......................................................................................6-2
IEEE1284 Parallel Interface ........................................................................6-3
RS232 Serial Interface.................................................................................6-5
Universal Serial Bus (USB) Interface..........................................................6-8
Local Area Network (LAN) Optional Interface...........................................6-8
BiDirectonal Communications ....................................................................6-8
Section 7. Optional Accessories
PCMCIA Memory Cards.............................................................................7-1
Plug-in Interface Modules ...........................................................................7-2
Cutter ...........................................................................................................7-3
Label Dispenser ...........................................................................................7-4
Label Rewinder............................................................................................7-5
Real Time Clock ..........................................................................................7-6
Flash Memory Expansion ............................................................................7-6
ii
PN 9001105 Rev. A
SATO M-84PRO
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SECTION 1.
PRINTER OVERVIEW
INTRODUCTION
The SATO M-84PRO Thermal Transfer Printers are complete, high-performance on-site labeling
systems. All printer parameters are user programmable using the front panel controls and the DIP
switches. All popular bar codes and 14 human-readable fonts, including a vector font and two ras-
ter fonts, are resident in memory providing literally thousands of type styles and sizes.
The Operator’s Manual will help you understand the basic operations of the printer such as setup,
installation, configuration, cleaning and maintenance.
The M-84PRO can print labels up to four inches wide and is available in three resolurions; 203
dpi, 305 dpi and 609 dpi. The resolution is determined by the print head that is installed in the
printer and can be changed in the field simply by installing the desired print head. The printer aut-
matically detects the resolution of the print head and loads the appropriate controlling firmware.
The M-84PRO uses the standard SATO RISC printer command codes. The only differences
between it and other RISC printers are the allowable values representing the print positions on the
label. These values are specified in “dots” and will vary depending upon the resolution of the
printer and the amount of memory available for imaging the label. The allowable range for the
various M-84PRO models is specified in a table in the “e” and PRO Printer Programming Refer-
ence.
This commonality makes it very easy to convert labels from one RISC printer to another without
having to create an entirely different command stream. There are some caveats that must be
observed though to compensate for the different resolution print heads. The effect of the different
printer resolutions are best illustrated by taking a label designed for a 203 dpi printer and sending
the command stream to the its 305 dpi counterpart. The label printed will be an exact two-thirds
scale, including the fonts, bar code dimensions and line lengths/widths. The only exception is the
PostNet bar code which has only one legal size and the printer resolution is automatically com-
pensated for by the printer. Conversely, a label designed for a 305 dpi printer and sent to its 203
dpi cousin will be one-third larger. It probably will be “truncated” if the resulting label size is
larger than the maximum allowable for the printer.
SATO M-84PRO
PN 9001105 Rev. A
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Section 1: Overview
GENERAL PRINTER SPECIFICATIONS
SPECIFICATION
PRINT
M-84PRO-2
M-84PRO-3
M-84PRO-6
Method
Direct or Thermal Transfer
Speed (User Selectable)
2 to 10 ips
50 to 250 mm/s
2 to 8 ips
50 to 200 mm/s
2 to 6 ips
50 to 150 mm/s
Print Module (Dot Size)
Resolution
.0049 in.
.125 mm
.0033 in.
.083 mm
0017 in.
.081 mm
203 dpi
8 d/mm
305 dpi
12 d/mm
609 dpi
24 d/mm
Maximum Print Width
Maximum Print Length
4.1 in.
104 mm
49.2 in.
1249 mm
32.8 in.
835 mm
14.0 in.
356 mm
MEDIA
Minimum Width
.87 in.
22 mm
Minimum Length
Continuous
Tear-Off
0.24 in. (6 mm)
0.63 in. (16 mm)
1.18 in. (30 mm)
1.18 in. (30 mm)
Cutter
Dispense
Maximum Width
5.0 in.
125 mm
Type
Roll or Fan-Fold Die Cut Labels
Thermally Sensitive
Maximum Caliper
Roll OD (max) Face-In
Core ID (min)
0.008 in.
0.21 mm
8.6 in.
220 mm
3 in
76.2 mm
SENSING
See-Thru
Movable
Movable
Reflective Eye-Mark
Continuous Form
RIBBON
Sensor Not Used
Maximum Width
Length (max)
Thickness
4.4 in. (111 mm)
1475 ft. (450 m)
4.5 micron, Wound Face-In
Page 1-2
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Section 1: Overview
SPECIFICATION
M-84PRO All Models
CONTROLS AND INDICATORS
Power
Green LED
Green LED
On-Line
Label
Red LED
Ribbon
Red LED
Error
Red LED
LCD Panel
2 Line x 16 Character
Front Panel
Front Panel
Label Feed
Power On/Off Switch
POTENTIOMETER ADJUSTMENTS
Print Darkness
Offset
Front Panel
Front Panel
Front Panel
Front Panel
Pitch
Display
(1)
INTERFACE CONNECTIONS
Parallel
Serial
IEEE1284 Standard
RS232C (9600 to 57600 bps) Standard
RS422/485 (9600 to 57600 bps) Optional
Ready/Busy or X-On/X-Off Flow Control
Bi-directional Status
Universal Serial Bus
Ethernet
USB Ver. 1.1 Standard
10/100BaseT
PROCESSING
CPU
32 Bit RISC
Flash ROM
2 MB
16 MB
SDRAM
Receive Buffer
Memory Expansion
2.95 MB
See Options and Accessories
(1) Only one interface module can be installed in a printer at a time.
SATO M-84PRO
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Section 1: Overview
CHARACTER FONTS
SPECIFICATION
M-84PRO-2
M-84PRO-3
M-84PRO-6
MATRIX FONTS
U Font
5 dots W x 9 dots H
8 dots W x 15 dots H
S Font
M Font
13 dots W x 20 dots H
XU Font
5 dots H x 9 dots H (Helvetica)
XS Font
17 dots H x 17 dots W (Univers Condensed Bold)
24 dots H x 24 dots W (Univers Condensed Bold)
XM Font
OA Font (OCR-A)
15 dots W x 22 dots H
22 dots W x 33 dots H 44 dots W x 66 dots H
OB Font (OCR-B)
30 Dots W x 36 dots H 30 Dots W x 36 dots H 60 dots W x 72 dots H
AUTO SMOOTHING FONTS
WB
18 dots W x 30 dots H
28 dots H x 52 dots H
WL
XB
48 dots H x 48 dots W (Univers Condensed Bold)
48 dots W x 48 dots H (Sans Serif)
XL
VECTOR FONT
Proportional or Fixed Spacing
Font Size 50 x 50 dots to 999 x 999 dots
Helvetica, 10 Font Variations
AGFA® RASTER FONTS
Font A
CG Times ®, 8 pt to 72 pt
Font B
CG Triumvirate®, 8 pt to 72 pt
DOWNLOADABLE FONTS
Bit Mapped TrueType® Fonts with Utility Program
CHARACTER CONTROL
Expansion to 12X in either X or Y coordinates
Character Pitch control
Line Space control
Journal Print facility
0°, 90°, 180° and 270° Rotation
Page 1-4
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Section 1: Overview
BAR CODES
BAR CODE
M-84PRO All Models
SYMBOLOGIES
Linear Bar Codes
Bookland (UPC/EAN Supplemental)
EAN-8/EAN-13
CODABAR
CODE 39
CODE 93
CODE 128
Interleaved 2 of 5 (I 2/5)
Industrial 2 of 5
Matrix 2 of 5
MSI
POSTNET
UCC/EAN-128
UPC-A/UPC-E
Data Matrix
Two Dimensional
Maxicode
PDF417
Micro PDF
Truncated PDF
QR Code
Ratios
1:2, 1:3, 2:5, User Programmable
4 to 999 dots, User Programmable
0°, 90°, 180° and 270° Rotation
Bar Height
Rotation
OTHER FEATURES
Sequential Numbering
Custom Characters
Graphics
Sequential numbering of both numerics and bar codes
RAM storage for custom designed characters
Dot addressable, SATO Hex/Binary, BMP or PCX formats
Overlay of predesigned forms in image buffer
Forms Overlay
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Section 1: Overview
PHYSICAL
SPECIFICATION
PHYSICAL
M-84PRO All Models
Wide
10.4 in. (265 mm)
17.1 in. (435 mm)
13.4 in.(341 mm)
39.7 lb. (18.0 Kg)
Deep
High
Weight
POWER
Input Voltage
Power Consumption
ENVIRONMENTAL
Operating Temperature
Storage Temperature
Storage Humidity
Operating Humidity
Electrostatic Discharge
REGULATORY APPROVALS
Safety
115/220 VAC +/-10%, 50/60 Hz +/-1%
130W Operating, 24W Idle
41° to 104°F (5° to 40°C)
23° to 140°F (-5° to 60°C)
30 to 90% RH Non-Condensing
30 to 80% RH Non-Condensing
8kV
VCCI (Class B), UL, CUL, CE, FCC Class B
FCC Class B
RFI/EMI
Page 1-6
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Section 1: Overview
OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES
ACCESSORIES AND OPTIONS
PCMCIA MEMORY
EXPANSION
One slot for PCMCIA Memory Card (up to 4 MB SRAM or 16 MB Flash
ROM). Can be used for graphic file storage, print buffer expansion, format
storage and downloaded fonts.
FLASH ROM
EXPANSION
Internal 4MB Flash ROM PCB.
REAL TIME CLOCK
An internal Date/Time clock that can be used to date/time stamp labels at
the time of printing.
LABEL DISPENSER
Internally mounted attachment allowing labels to be peeled from backing
for immediate (on demand) applications. Backing not rewound.
LABEL REWINDER
LABEL CUTTER
External Option that rewinds labels onto a roll after they are printed.
An attachment allowing labels to be cut at specified intervals. Controlled
through programming.
COAX/TWINAX
INTERFACE
Coan/Twinax Plug-In Interface module. Coax interface emmulates an IBM
3287-2 printer with a stndard Type A BNC connector. Twinax interface
emulates IBM 5224, 5225, 5226 or 4214 printers with auto-terminate/cable
through capabilities.
PARALLEL INTERFACE
SERIAL INTERFACE
USB INTERFACE
IEEE1284 Bi-Directional Plug-In Interface Module
High Speed RS232 Plug-In Interface Module
Universal Serial Bus Plug-In Interface Module
ETHERNET INTERFACE 10/100 BaseT Plug-In Interface Module
All specifications subject to change without notice.
SATO M-84PRO
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Section 1: Overview
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SECTION 2.
INSTALLATION
INTRODUCTION
This section of the manual has been written to help you install the SATO M-84PRO printers and to get
started as quickly as possible. It is recommend to read each chapter in this manual before the installation or
the use of the printers.
The following information is provided in this section:
• Unpacking and Parts Identification
• Setting Up the Printer
• Loading Labels or Tags
• Loading the Ribbon
• Operator Panel
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Section 2. Installation
UNPACKING AND PARTS IDENTIFICATION
Consider the following when unpacking the printer:
• The box should stay right-side up.
• Lift the printer out of the box carefully.
• Remove the plastic covering from the printer.
• Remove the accessory items from their protective containers.
• If the printer has been stored in a cold environment, allow it to reach room temperature before pow-
ering it on.
• Set the printer on a solid, flat surface. Inspect the shipping container and printer for any signs of
damage that may have occurred during shipping.
NOTE: The following illustrations are representative only. Your printer may not be packed exactly
as shown here, but the unpacking steps are similar.
Page 2-2
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Section 2. Installation
Verify that you have the following materials when unpacking:
•
•
•
•
Printer
Power Cord and Extra Ribbon Core
Operator’s Manual
CD-ROM
Power Cord
Printer
CD-ROM
Operator Manual
Ribbon Core
SETTING UP THE PRINTER
Consider the following when setting up the printer:
•
Locate a solid flat surface with adequate room to set the printer. Make sure there is enough
room at the top and right-hand (facing the printer) side to provide clearance for the label
access door to swing open.
•
The location should be near the host computer or terminal. The maximum distance for RS232
cables is 35 feet and six feet for IEEE1284 Parallel cables. Cables can be purchased locally,
and their configuration will depend upon the host system being used. A IEEE1284 compliant
cable must be used to realize the full throughput potential of the printers.
• For information on interfacing the printer to a host system, see Section 5: Interface Specifications.
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Section 2. Installation
Ribbon Rewind
Spindle
Ribbon Supply
Spindle
Top Access
Door
Side Access
Door
LCD
Display
DIP Switch
Cover
Power Switch
Label Hold Down
Label Roll Retainer
Label Supply Spindle
Label Guide
Print Head
Head Latch
Platen
Page 2-4
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Section 2. Installation
Top Access Door
LOADING LABELS AND TAGS
1. Open the Top Access Door by swinging it up and to
the left. Open the Side Access Door by swinging it
to the rear of the printer.
Side Access
Door
2. Open the Print Head Assembly by pushing the Head
Latch toward the rear of the printer. The Print Head
Assembly is spring-loaded and will automatically
open as soon as the Head Latch is disengaged.
3. Loosen the Label Edge Guide and push it to the
outside of the printer to give the maximum label
width.
Label Roll Retainer
4. Remove the Label Roll Retainer
Print Head
Head Latch
Label Hold Down
Sensor Assembly
Label
Guide
Label Edge Guide
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Section 2. Installation
5. If using roll labels (or tags), load the roll onto the
Label Supply Spindle so that the printing side of the
labels faces upwards as it unwinds from the roll.
The labels should be wound face-in. Push the roll
all the way to the inside of the printer and push the
Label Roll Retainer snugly against the outside of
the label roll.
6. If using fanfold labels (or tags) set them on a flat
surface behind the printer. Pass the labels (printing
side up) through the slot in the rear of the printer.
7. Make sure the labels are routed under the Label
Guide and through the Sensor Assembly.
Label Roll
Label Roll Retainer
8. Open the Label Hold-Down by squeezing the green
tab and the release tab together. The Label Hold
Down is spring loaded and will open automatically
when the latch is disengaged. Feed the labels under
the Label Guide, under the Label Hold Down,
through the Sensor Assembly and out the front of
the printer.
9. Inspect the label routing and verify that the path
matches that illustrated in the Label Loading
diagram. Set the Adjustable Label Guide to keep
the labels against the inside of the printer.
10. Close the Label Hold-Down by pushing downward
on the green tab until it latches closed.
NOTE: If the Label Dispenser option has been
purchased, see Appendix A, for proper
label routing instructions.
Print
Head
Label
Guide
Page 2-6
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Section 2. Installation
Inside Label Edge Guides
Label Hold Down
Route Labels
Under Guide
Sensor
Assembly
Sensor
Positioning
11. Adjust the outside Label Edge Guide until it
touches the outside edge of the label and tighten the
thumb screw. Make sure the labels are also touching
the inside edge guides.
CAUTION: Using media narrower than the
maximum print width may cause excess
head wear due to the label edge. See page
2-9 for precautions.
Head
Latch
12. If the ribbon is already loaded, close the Print Head
by rotating the black Head Latch toward the front of
the printer until it latches closed.
13. If the ribbon is not loaded, see the following
description for loading instructions.
14. Close both the Access Doors.
SATO M-84PRO
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Section 2. Installation
LOADING THE RIBBON
Ribbon Roll
Ribbon Path
Ribbon Rewind
Spindle
Head Latch
Dispensed
Label
Sensor
Assembly
Label Path
Label Hold
Down
Label Backing
1. Open the Top Access Door by swinging it
up and to the left and the Side Access Door
by swinging it toward the rear of the
printer.
Top Access Door
Side Access Door
2. Open the Print Head by rotating the Head
Latch toward the rear of the printer. The
Print Head is spring-loaded and will
automatically open as soon as the Head
Latch is disengaged.
3. Locate the extra ribbon core supplied with
the printer. Place the core on the Ribbon
Rewind Spindle, pushing it all the way to
the inside of the spindle. Note that the new
empty core of each subsequent roll becomes
the next rewind core.
4. Load the ribbon onto the Ribbon Supply Spindle, also pushing it all the way to the inside of the
spindle. The dull side of the ribbon should be facing down as it travels through the Print Head
Assembly.
5. Feed the leader portion of the ribbon through the Print Head Assembly and up to the Ribbon Rewind
Spindle following the routing shown in the diagram.
6. Load the ribbon behind and over the top of the Ribbon Rewind Spindle and tape it to the Extra Ribbon
Core. Make sure it matches the ribbon path shown in the diagram.
7. Manually turn the Rewind Spindle to wrap the ribbon onto the core one to two turns to secure it.
Page 2-8
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Section 2. Installation
Tape
8. If the labels or tags are already loaded,
close the Print Head Assembly by pushing
downward on the green tab until it latches
closed.
9. Run a test print to ensure that the labels and
ribbons were loaded correctly.
Ribbon
Core
CAUTION: If your labels are less than the full width of the print head, the outside edge will
eventually wear out a small portion of the print head, resulting in an area that will not print.
Special care must be taken if you plan to use multiple widths of labels, since the damaged
portion of the print head caused from edge wear on a more narrow label may affect the
printing on a wider label. We suggest you plan your print formats carefully to avoid using
the area of possible damage on the print head when using a wider label. The small area
of damage will have no effect on printing with the undamaged part of the print head.
Damage from a label edge is physical damage and is unavoidable. It is not covered by
warranty. It is possible to delay such damage by always ensuring that the ribbon used is
wider than the label stock. This will help to protect the print head from label edge damage.
SATO M-84PRO
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Section 2. Installation
OPERATOR PANEL
The M-84PRO Operator Panel consists of five LED indicators, two momentary contact switches, three DIP
switches, four adjustment potentiometers and one LCD Display. All of these are accessible from the front
of the printer. They are used to set the printer operating parameters and to indicate the status of the printer
to the operator. After you power on the printer, familiarize yourself with the keys and indicators as it will
help you understand the configuration process.
PRINT
Potentiometer to adjust print darkness (fine tuning)
OFFSET
Potentiometer to adjust amount of back/forward feed for dispenser/cutter/tear-
off position (+/- 3.75 mm)
PITCH
Potentiometer to adjust home position of the label (+/- 3.75 mm). Affects stop
position of label feed, print position and dispense position.
DISPLAY
POWER
LABEL
Potentiometer to adjust the contrast of the LCD display.
LED, illuminated when the power is on.
LED, illuminated when the label supply is not detected.
RIBBON
LED, illuminated when the ribbon motion sensor does not detect any ribbon
motion (ribbout out condition).
ERROR
LED, illuminated when there is a system fault such as an open print head.
Page 2-10
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Section 2. Installation
ON LINE
LINE
LED, illuminated when printer is ready to receive data. Toggled on/off with LINE
key.
Momentary switch. Pressing this key toggles the printer between the on-
line and off-line mode. When the printer is on-line, it is ready to receive data
from the host. This key acts as a pause during a print job by taking the printer
off-line. It can also be used as a Pause function key to stop the printer during
the printing process.
FEED
Momentary switch. Pressing this key feeds one blank label when the printer is
Off-Line. When the printer is On-Line, another copy of the last label will be
printed (Reprint W/Feed must be enabled in the LCD panel Service Mode).
DSW
LCD
DIP switch array to set operational parameters of the printer.
2 Line x 16 Character LCD display. Used for setting operational parameters of
the printer and displaying error conditions.
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Section 2. Installation
REAR PANEL
AC INPUT
Input 115VAC, 50/60 Hz connector. Use cable provided.
Input power protection. 3A/250V rating.
AC FUSE
INTERFACE SLOT
MEMORY CARD SLOT
EXT
Connector for Plug-In Interface Module.
Connector for optional PCMCIA Memory Card.
External signal connector, AMP 57-60140.
Plug-In Interface
Module
Fan-Fold
Access Panel
EXT Port
Connector
PCMCIA
Card Cover
Fuse
AC Connector
Page 2-12
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Section 2. Installation
SENSORS
The M-84PRO printers contain three sensing units; a Ribbon End motion sensor, a Head Open micro-
switch and a Label Indexing Sensor.
RIBBON END SENSOR
Detect motion of the Ribbon Supply Spindle and signals the printer
when it is turning.
HEAD OPEN SENSOR
A micro-switch that is activated when the head is unlatched.
LABEL INDEXING SENSOR The sensing assembly contains two types of sensors, one for label gap
and one for eye-mark sensing. The sensors are adjustable over a
limited range.
Label Gap Sensor
Reflective Sensor
Eye-Mark on
bottom of
liner.
14 mm
min
Reflective
7 mm to 54 mm
Label Gap
The range of sensor adjustment can be increased to allow
the Gap sensor to be positioned as close as 3 mm from the
inside label edge. Contact SATO for information on how to
make this modification.
Maximum number of
print head dots is
dependent upon the
model.
SATO M-84PRO
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Section 2. Installation
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SECTION 3.
CONFIGURATION
PRINTER DIP SWITCH CONFIGURATION
DIP SWITCH PANELS
There are two DIP switches (DSW2 and DSW3) located on the front panel under a protective
cover. In addition, a third DIP switch is located on the RS232C Serial Adapter card and is used
to set the RS232C transmit/receive parameters. These switches can be used to set:
• Thermal transfer or direct thermal mode
• Label sensor enable/disable
• Head check mode
• Hex dump mode
• Single Job or Multi-Job Receive buffer
• Operation mode
Each switch is an eight section toggle switch. The ON position is always up. To set the
switches, first power the unit Off, then position the DIP switches. Finally, after placing the
switches in the desired positions, power the printer back on. The switch settings are read by
the printer electronics during the power up sequence. They will not become effective until the
power is cycled.
RS232 TRANSMIT/RECEIVE SETTING
Data Bit Selection (DSW1-1). This switch sets the printer to receive either 7 or 8 bit data bits
for each byte transmitted.
DSW1
DSW1-1
Off
SETTING
8 Data Bits
7 Data Bits
ON
OFF
On
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
Parity Selection (DSW1-2, DSW1-3. These switches select the type of parity used for error
detection.
DSW1
ON
DSW1-1
Off
DSW1-3
Off
SETTING
No Parity
Even
Off
On
OFF
On
Off
Odd
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
On
On
Not Used
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Section 3. Configuration
Stop Bit Selection (DSW1-4). Selects the number of stop bits to end each byte transmission.
DSW1
ON
DSW1-4
Off
SETTING
1 Stop Bit
2 Stop Bits
OFF
On
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
Baud Rate Selection (DSW1-5, DSW1-6). Selects the data rate (bps) for the RS232 port.
DSW1
ON
DSW1-5
Off
DSW1-6
Off
SETTING
9600
OFF
Off
On
19200
38400
57600
On
Off
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
On
On
Protocol Selection (DSW1-7, DSW1-8). Selects the flow control and status reporting
protocols. See Section 6: Interface Specifications for more information. (* Will select the
Status 2 protocol if DSW2-8 is ON).
DSW1
ON
DSW1-7
Off
DSW1-8
Off
SETTING
Rdy/Bsy
Xon/Xoff
Bi-Com 3
Bi-Com 4
OFF
Off
On
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
On
Off
On
On
PRINTER SET UP
Print Mode Selection (DSW2-1). Selects between direct thermal printing on thermally
sensitive paper and thermal transfer printing using a ribbon.
DSW2
ON
DSW2-1
Off
SETTING
Therm Xfr
Direct Therm
OFF
On
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
Page 3-2
PN 9001105 Rev. A
SATO M-84PRO
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Section 3. Configuration
Sensor Type Selection (DSW2-2). Selects between the use of a label gap or a reflective Eye-
Mark detector.
DSW2
ON
DSW2-2
Off
SETTING
Gap
OFF
On
Eye-Mark
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
Head Check Selection (DSW2-3). When selected, the printer will check for head elements
that are electrically malfunctioning.
DSW2
ON
DSW2-3
Off
SETTING
Disabled
Enabled
OFF
On
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
Hex Dump Selection (DSW2-4). Selects Hex Dump mode (see page 3-21).
DSW2
ON
DSW2-4
Off
SETTING
Disabled
Enabled
OFF
On
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
Receive Buffer Selection(DSW2-5). Selects the operating mode of the receive buffer. See
Section 6.Interface Specifications for more information.
DSW2
ON
DSW2-5
Off
SETTING
Single Job
Multi Job
On
OFF
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
If a 10/100BaseT LAN card is installed, DS2-5 has the following definitions:
DSW2-5
Off
SETTING
ENQ Response
Periodic Response
On
SATO M-84PRO
PN 9001105 Rev. A
Page 3-3
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Section 3. Configuration
Firmware Download (DSW2-6). Places the printer in the Firmware Download mode for
downloading new firmware into flash ROM.
DSW2
ON
DSW2-6
Off
SETTING
Disabled
Enabled
OFF
On
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
Protocol Code Selection (DSW2-7). Selects the command codes used for protocol control.
Refer to page E-1 for more information.
DSW2
ON
DSW2-7
Off
SETTING
Standard
Non-Std
OFF
On
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
Status Select(DSW2-8). For emulating earlier series software commands. Should be used
only if problems are encountered when using existing software. This switch will also affect the
settings selected by DSW1-7 and DSW1-8.
DSW2
DSW2-8
Off
SETTING
ON
Status 3 & 4 Enabled
Status 2 & 3 Enabled
OFF
On
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
Backfeed Sequence (DSW3-1, DSW3-2). Backfeed is used to correctly position the label for
application and then retract the next label to the proper print position. This operation can be
performed immediately after a label is printed and used, or immediately prior to the printing of
the next label.
DSW3
ON
DSW3-1
Off
SETTING
Continuous
Tear-Off
Off
On
Off
On
Off
OFF
On
Cutter*
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
On
Not Used
* Defaults to Continuous if cutter not
installed
Page 3-4
PN 9001105 Rev. A
SATO M-84PRO
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Section 3. Configuration
Label Sensor Selection (DSW3-3). Enables or disables the Label Sensor. If the Sensor is
enabled, it will detect the edge of the label and position it automatically. If it is disabled, the
positioning must be under software control using Line Feed commands.
DSW3
ON
DSW3-3
Off
SETTING
Not Used
OFF
On
Sensor Used
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
Back-Feed Selection (DSW3-4). When Back-Feed is enabled, the printer will position the
last printed label for dispensing and retract it before printing the next label. The amount of
backfeed offset is adjustable.
DSW3
ON
DSW3-4
Off
SETTING
Disabled
Enabled
OFF
On
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
External Signal Interface. See Section 6: Interface Specifications for information on the
External Signals.
EXT Print Start Signal Selection (DSW3-5). Allows an external device to initiate a label
print for synchronization with the applicator. When DSW3-5 is On, the unit is in the
Continuous print mode, Backfeed is disabled and External Signals are ignored.
DSW3
DSW3-5
Off
SETTING
Enabled
ON
OFF
On
Disabled
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
SATO M-84PRO
PN 9001105 Rev. A
Page 3-5
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Section 3. Configuration
External Signal Type Selection (DSW3-6, DSW3-7). Both the polarity and signal type (level
or pulse) of the external print synchronizing signal can be selected.
DSW1
ON
DSW3-6
Off
DSW3-7
Off
SETTING
Type 4
Type 3
Type 2
Type 1
OFF
Off
On
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
On
Off
On
On
Repeat Print via External Signal (DSW3-8). Allows the applicator to reprint the current
label in the print buffer.
DSW3
ON
DSW3-8
Off
SETTING
Enabled
Disabled
OFF
On
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
Page 3-6
PN 9001105 Rev. A
SATO M-84PRO
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Section 3. Configuration
DEFAULT SETTINGS
SWITCH SELECTIONS
All switches are placed in the Off default position for shipping. This will result in the
following operating configuration:
Communications:
8 data bits, no parity, 1 Stop bit, 9600 Baud
Protocol:
Ready/Busy
Gap Sensor
Multi Job
Sensor:
Receive Buffer:
Mode:
Batch/continuous
Sensor Used
Enabled
Label Sensor:
Backfeed:
External Signals:
Enabled
SOFTWARE DEFAULT SETTINGS
The printer stores the software settings upon receipt and uses them until they are again
changed by receipt of a command containing a new setting. These settings are stored in non-
volatile memory and are not affected by powering the printer off. The printer may be reset to
use the default software settings by depressing the LINE and FEED keys simultaneously while
powering the printer on. This will result in the following default configuration:
M-84PRO
Print Darkness
Print Speed
Print Reference
Zero
3
6 ips (3 ips for M-84PRO-6)
Vertical = 0000, Horizontal = 0000
No Slash
+0
Print Offset
Ignore CR/LF
Character Pitch
Ignore CAN/DLE
Auto On Line
Feed on Error
Feed Reprint
Priority
Disabled
Proportional
Disabled
Enabled
Enabled
Disabled
Command
English
Language
CC1 Mem Select
Eurocode
Card
D5
H
Once the default operation is completed, a DEFAULT COMPLETED message will be
displayed on the LCD panel. The printer should be powered off while this message is being
displayed (or after the beep is heard. This saves the default settings in the non-volatile memory
where they will be automatically loaded the next time the printer is powered on.
DEFAULT COMPLETED
SATO M-84PRO
PN 9001105 Rev. A
Page 3-7
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Section 3. Configuration
POTENTIOMETER ADJUSTMENTS
PITCH
After the pitch has been set with the LCD Control Panel, it is sometimes desirable to make
minor adjustments. This can be done using the PITCH potentiometer on the top panel. This
potentiometer is set at the factory so that it has a range of +/- 3.75 mm. The midpoint setting
should have no effect on the pitch. Turning the potentiometer all the way clockwise should
move the print position 3.75 mm up towards the top edge of the label. Turning it all the way
counterclockwise should move the print position down 3.75 mm.
1. While depressing the FEED key on the front panel, power the printer on.
2. When you hear one beep from the printer, release the FEED key and the printer will
display on the LCD panel a message asking what type of Test Label you want to print.
3. Use the Cursor keys to step to the Configuration selection and press the ENTER key to
accept the selection.
4. Use the Cursor keys to select the Test Label Size. After the size is selected, press the
ENTER key to accept the selection and the printer will begin to print test labels
continuously.
5. Adjust the PITCH potentiometer on the front panel until the first print position is at the
desired location on the label. If the potentiometer does not have enough range, then you
will have to change the pitch setting using the front panel display.
6. Press the FEED key to stop the printer.
7. To exit the Test Label mode, power the printer off and then back on.
Adjusting the PITCH potentiometer will affect the stop position of the label.
BACKFEED OFFSET
When a label is printed it must be correctly positioned for dispensing and application. The
Backfeed adjustment is used to position the label so that it is fully dispensed and ready for
application. It may then be necessary to reposition the next label before printing. The
Backfeed (repositioning of the label) operation is enabled if DSW3-4 is in the Off position. If
Backfeed is enabled, placing DSW3-1 is in the Off position will cause the backfeed operation
to be performed immediately before each label is printed. If DSW3-1 is in the On position, the
backfeed operation is performed as soon as the dispensed label has been printed and taken
from the printer.
The amount of backfeed is controlled by the OFFSET potentiometer on the DIP Switch Panel
inside the cover. When turned all the way counterclockwise, the amount of backfeed is +3.75
mm, and -3.75 mm when turned all the way counterclockwise.
1. Turn the printer on.
2. Press the LINE key to place the printer in the Off Line status.
3. Press the FEED key to feed out a blank label.
4. Adjust the position using the OFFSET potentiometer on the front control panel and feed
another label by depressing the FEED key. Repeat this procedure until the label is fully
released from the liner.
Page 3-8
PN 9001105 Rev. A
SATO M-84PRO
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Section 3. Configuration
DISPLAY
This potentiometer is used to adjust the contrast of the LCD display for optimum viewing
under various lighting conditions.
PRINT
The PRINT potentiometer is used to adjust the amount of heat (i.e., power) applied to the head
for printing. It provides a continuous range of adjustment. Maximum print darkness is
obtained by turning the potentiometer all the way clockwise and a maximum counterclockwise
setting will give the lightest print.
NOTE: The PRINT potentiometer adjustment will affect the darkness in all of the
command code speed and darkness ranges.
SATO M-84PRO
PN 9001105 Rev. A
Page 3-9
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Section 3. Configuration
LCD PANEL PRINTER CONFIGURATION
The LCD Panel is used by the operator in conjunction with the LINE and FEED switches to
manually enter printer configuration settings. Many of these settings can also be controlled via
software commands and in the case of conflict between software and control panel settings,
the printer will always use the last valid setting. If you load a label job that includes software
settings and then enter a new setting via the LCD panel, the manually set values will be used
by the printer. If you set the values manually and then download a job with software settings,
the software settings will be used.
There are seven modes of operation. To enter the desired mode, the KEY SEQUENCE
combination listed in the table below must be performed. The initial LCD display message is
shown for each mode.
MODE
KEY SEQUENCE
INITIAL DISPLAY
PAGE
Normal
POWER
ONLINE
3-10
QTY:000000
Advanced
Test Print
LINE + POWER
FEED + POWER
ADVANCED MODE
3-13
3-25
TEST PRINT MODE
CONFIGURATION
Default Setting
LINE + FEED + POWER
DEFAULT SETTING
YES NO
3-26
3-27
3-27
3-28
Clear Non-Standard
Protocol
DSW2-7 ON + LINE +
FEED+ POWER
ALT. PROTOCOL
Protocol Code
Download
DSW2-7 ON + POWER +
LINE
USER DOWNLOAD
Hex Dump
DSW2-4 ON + POWER
ONLINE
QTY:000000
NORMAL MODE
The printer initially powers on in the ONLINE mode. The user can access the User Settings
using the following procedures.
V 05.00.03.00
INITIALIZING
Displays the firmware during the initialization.
ONLINE
The LCD will display the ONLINE status on the top line and the
bottom line will contain the label quantity (QTY) status. The
messsge will be changed to OFFLINE whenever the printer is
switched offline by pressing the LINE key. As soon a print job is
received, the quantily line will indicate the number of labels to be
printed. As soon as the label job begins to print, the display will
indicate the number of labels in the print job that remains to be
printed.
QTY:000000
Page 3-10
PN 9001105 Rev. A
SATO M-84PRO
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Section 3. Configuration
OFFLINE
000000
Press the LINE key once. When the display changes to
OFFLINE, press the FEED and LINE keys simultaneously for
more than one second. Release the keys.
PRINT DARKNESS
The LCD now displays the Print Darkness selections. The
current setting is indicated by a cursor over one of the range
settings. There are 5 possible selections. The lowest setting
represents the lightest print and the highest setting the darkest
print.
1
2
3
4
5
1. Press the Cursor keys to step the cursor to the desired
setting.
2. Once the correct setting is underlined, press the ENTER key
to accept the selection and step the display to the next
adjustment.
PRINT SPEED
The print speed selections are dependent upon the printer
model. The current setting is indicated by the cursor.
2
4
6
8
10
1. Use the Cursor keys to step the cursor to the desired
setting.
2. Once the correct setting is selected, press the ENTER key
to accept the selection and step the display to the next
adjustment.
SATO M-84PRO
PN 9001105 Rev. A
Page 3-11
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Section 3. Configuration
PITCH OFFSET
+ 00mm
The label Pitch is the distance from the leading edge (the edge
that comes out of the printer first) of a label and the leading edge
of the next label. The leading edge position of the label can be
adjusted relative to the print head +/- 49mm in increments of
1mm. Once the position is set, it can be fine adjusted +/-
3.75mm using the PITCH potentometer on the Adjustment
Panel.
1. The cursor will initially be positioned over the Pitch Direction
setting. Use the LINE key to step to the positive (+) or
negative (-) selection. A positive selection moves the
leading edge of the label forward (away from the print head)
while a negative selection moves the leading edge of the
label back into the mechanism.
2. Once the correct direction is selected, pressing the LINE
key will accept the setting and advance the cursor to the
Offset selection.
3. Use the LINE key to step the first digit of the counter to the
desired setting. The display will increment one step each
time the Cursor keys are pressed. The maximum setting is
4.
4. Press the FEED key to accept the setting and advance the
cursor to the second digit. Again use the LINE key to step to
the desired setting. Once it is correct, pressing the FEED
key will step to the next adjustment.
5. You may wish to print a test label after completing the
adjustments to ensure they are correct.
Page 3-12
PN 9001105 Rev. A
SATO M-84PRO
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Section 3. Configuration
CANCEL PRINT JOB
YES NO
If the printer has a print job(s) in memory, selecting YES will
cause the job(s) to be cleared. The default selection is NO. Be
sure you want to cancel the print job(s) before selecting yes as
the job(s) cannot be recovered and will have to be retransmitted
to the printer.
1. Use the Cursor keys to step the cursor to either the YES or
NO selection.
2. Once the correct setting is selected, pressing the ENTER
key will accept the setting.
CANCEL PRINT JOB
COMPLETED
3. After the print job(s) have been cleared from memory, the
printer will beep 3 times and display a COMPLETED
message for 3 seconds and then return to the initial ONLINE
Normal Mode.
4. If you wish to change any of the settings, you must enter the
User Settings mode again by taking the printer OFFLINE
and pressing the LINE and FEED keys.
ADVANCED MODE
An Advanced Mode is provided to make adjustments that require only occasional changes.
Since they affect the basic operation of the printer, the procedure for entering this mode is
designed to prevent someone from accidently changing the settings.
V 05.00.03.00
INITIALIZING
Displays the firmware during the initialization.
ADVANCED MODE
The Advance Mode is entered by pressing the LINE key while
simultaneously turning power on. The printer will emit one long
beep after which the LINE key is released. Press FEED.
ZERO SLASH
This setting determines if a zero is printed with a slash or without
a slash. This setting can also be controlled via software
commands. When YES is selected, the printer internal fonts will
have a slash through the center of the zero character.
YES
NO
1. Use the LINE key to step the cusor to either the YES or NO
selection.
2. Once the correct setting is selected, pressing the FEED key
will accept the setting and advance the display to the Auto
Online display.
AUTO ONLINE
YES NO
This setting determines the mode in which the printer powers up.
If the YES selection is made, the printer powers up in the ON
LINE mode and is ready to print. If NO is selected, the printer
powers up in the OFF LINE mode and must be manually placed
in the ON LINE mode by pressing the LINE key before it is ready
to print.
1. Use the LINE key to step the cursor to either the YES or NO
selection.
2. Once the correct setting is selected, pressing the FEED key
will accept the setting and advance the display to the Print
Offset display.
SATO M-84PRO
PN 9001105 Rev. A
Page 3-13
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Section 3. Configuration
PRINT OFFSET
V:+0000 H:+0000
Vertical Offset is the distance down from the leading edge (the
edge of the label that comes out of the printer first) to the first
vertical print position. A positive setting moves the label edge
out of the printer while making it negative moves it bsack into
the printer. Horizontal Offset is distance that the label image is
shifted either to the right or left on the label. The image is shifted
to the left (towards the inside edge of the label) for a positive
setting and it is shifted to the right (towards the outside edge of
the label) for a negative setting. This setting changes the base
reference point for all subsequent label jobs. It’s effect is
identical to the <ESC>A3 Base Reference point command.
Since the printer moves the label in discrete steps equal to the
size of the print dot, the units of measure for Vertical and
Horizontal Offset distance is dots. The maximum values that can
be set is dependent up[on the print head resolution. If you
exceed the allowable limit, the printer will not accept the setting.
1. Use the LINE key to step the counter to the desired setting.
The display will increment one step for each time the FEED
key is pressed.
2. Once the setting is correct, pressing the ENTER key will
accept the setting and advance to the next display.
Note: This setting can be overriden by the Base Reference Point
Command.
SET CALENDAR
YES NO
The Calendar is a optional feature in the M10e printer allowing
the date and time to be set manually using the LCD Display or
via the <ESC>WT Calendar Set command. This screen will not
be displayed if the Calendar Option is not installed. The last
setting, set either manually via software command, received by
the printer will be the value used. The format of the display is
YY/MM/DD hh:mm (Year/Month/Day/hours:minutes).The date
format is fixed and cannot be changed. This display will only
appear if the Calendar Option is installed in the printer.
To enable the Calendar feature, press the LINE key until the
cursor is over the YES. If the Calendar feature is to be disabled,
press the LINE key until the cursor is over the NO selection.
When the desired setting is selected, press the FEED key.
Page 3-14
PN 9001105 Rev. A
SATO M-84PRO
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Section 3. Configuration
CALENDAR
00/00/00
1. Year - The first display shown will have the cursor over the
two digit year selection. You can scroll through the dates by
pressing the LINE/FEED keys. The year number will
increase by one each time the LINE key is pressed until it
reaches its maximum legal value (i.e., “99” for the year
digits). Pressing the FEED key will decrease the year
number.
00:00
2. Month - After you have set the correct year, pressing the
ENTER key will advance the cursor to the two digit Month
position. You can scroll through the numbers corresponding
to the month by pressing the LINE key. The month number
will increase by one each time the LINE key is pressed until
it reaches a value of “12”. Pressing the FEED key will
decrease the month number.
3. Day - After you have set the correct month, pressing the
ENTER key will advance the cursor to the two digit Day
position. You can scroll through the numbers corresponding
to the month date by pressing the LINE and FEED keys.
The date number will increase by one each time the LINE
key is pressed until it reaches a value of “31”. Pressing the
FEED key will decrease the day number.
4. Hour - After you have set the correct date, pressing the
LINE key will advance the cursor to the two digit Hour
position. You can scroll through the numbers corresponding
to the hour (using a 24 hour clock) by pressing the LINE and
FEED keys. The hour number will increase by one each
time the LINE key is pressed until it reaches a value of “24”
.Pressing the FEED key will decrease the hour number.
5. Minute- After you have set the correct hour, pressing the
ENTER key will advance the cursor to the two digit Minute
position. You can scroll through the numbers corresponding
to the hour by pressing the LINE and FEED keys. The
minute number will increase by one each time the LINE key
is pressed until it reaches a value of “60”. Pressing the
FEED key will decrease the minute number.
6. After you have set the minutes, pressing the FEED key will
accept the setting and advance to the Ignore CR/LF
selection.
IGNORE CR/LF
This selection tells the printer to strip out all carriage return/line
feed pairs (CR/LF ) from the data stream, including graphics and
2D bar codes. It is used primrily to maintain compatibility with
earlier models of SATO printers.
YES
NO
1. Use the LINE key to step the underline cusor to either the
YES or NO selection.
2. Once the correct setting is underlined, pressing the FEED
key will accept the setting and advance the display to the
Character Pitch display.
SATO M-84PRO
PN 9001105 Rev. A
Page 3-15
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Section 3. Configuration
CHARACTER PITCH
PROP FIXED
This selection allows you to set the default character pitch to
either fixed character spacing or proportional character spacing.
1. Use the LINE key to step the cursor to the desired setting.
2. Once the correct setting is selected, pressing the FEED key
will accept the setting and the display will return to the
Advanced Mode display.
ADVANCED MODE
CARD MODE
To exit the Advanced mode, power the printer off and then back
on.
The Card Mode allows the operator to manage the Expanded Memory (PCMCIA Card or
Internal Expanded Flash ROM).
V 05.00.03.00
INITIALIZING
Displays the firmware during the initialization.
ADVANCED MODE
CARD MODE
The Card Mode is entered from the Advanced Mode display by
pressing the LINE key once.
The Card Mode display indicates that the printer is in the Card
Mode. To advance to the first selection, press the FEED key.
MEM SELECT (CC1)
CARD MEMORY
This selection determines which type of optional expanded
memory will be addressed as “CC1" in the command
streams.The CARD selection specifies the optional PCMCIA
card as CC1 and the optional Expanded Flash ROM as CC2.
The Memory selection specifies the optional Expanded Flash
ROM as CC1 and the optional PCMCIA card as CC2.
1. Step the cursor to the desired selection using the LINE key.
2. Once the cursor is positioned over the desired selection,
press the FEED key to accept the selection and advance the
display.
CARD->MEMORYCOPY
TRUETYPEFONT Y/N
This selection allows you to copy TrueType fonts from the
PCMCIA Memory card installed in the Memory Card slot on the
rear of the printer to the optional Flash ROM.
1. Use the LINE key to step the cursor to desired setting. If Yes
is selected, the printer will enter the Card Copy mode. If No
is selected, the display will advance to the Card to Memory
SATO Font Copy mode.
COPY START
YES
2. Confirm your selection by stepping the cursor to the Yes
selection. If you select No, the display will return to the
previous selection.
NO
TRUETYPEFONTCOPY
COPYING
3. Press the FEED key to accept the selection. If Yes was
selected the copy process will start.
Page 3-16
PN 9001105 Rev. A
SATO M-84PRO
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Section 3. Configuration
TRUETYPE
FONTCOPY
COMPLETED
4. Once the copy process is completed, press the FEED key to
step the display.
CARD COPY/FORMAT
XXXXXXX ERROR
5. If an error is encountered in the copy process, one of the
following messages will be displayed on the second line:
R/W Error
Indicates a Read/Write error occured
No Card Error Indicates no card was recognized
Mem Full Error Indicates that there is insufficient memory
available.
CARD->MEMORYCOPY
This selection allows you to copy SATO fonts from the PCMCIA
Memory card installed in the Memory Card slot on the rear of the
printer to the optional Flash ROM.
SATOFONT
Y/N
1. Use the LINE key to step the cursor to desired setting. If Yes
is selected, the printer will enter the Card Copy mode. If No
is selected, the display will advance to the Card to Memory
Copy All mode.
COPY START
YES
2. Confirm your selection by stepping the cursor to the Yes
selection. If you select No, the display will return to the
previous selection.
NO
SATO FONT COPY
COPYING
3. Press the FEED key to accept the selection. If Yes was
selected the copy process will start
SATO FONT COPY
COMPLETED
4. Once the copy process is completed, press the FEED key to
step the display.
CARD COPY/FORMAT
XXXXXXX ERROR
5. If an error is encountered in the copy process, one of the
following messages will be displayed on the second line:
R/W Error
Indicates a Read/Write error occured
No Card Error Indicates no card was recognized
Mem Full Error Indicates that there is insufficient memory
available.
MEMORY->CARDCOPY
This selection allows you to copy the entire contents from the
PCMCIA Memory card installed in the Memory Card slot on the
rear of the printer to the optional internal Expanded Memory.
ALL
<0MB> Y/N
1. Use the LINE key to step the cursor to desired setting. If Yes
is selected, the printer will enter the Card Copy mode. If No
is selected, the display will advance to the Card to Memory
Copy All mode.
COPY START
YES
2. Confirm your selection by stepping the cursor to the Yes
selection. If you select No, the display will return to the
previous selection.
NO
SATO M-84PRO
PN 9001105 Rev. A
Page 3-17
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Section 3. Configuration
CARD->MEMORY
COPY COPYING
3. Press the FEED key to accept the selection. If Yes was
selected the copy process will start
CARD->MEMORYCOPY
COMPLETED
4. Once the copy process is completed, press the FEED key to
step the display.
CARD COPY/FORMAT
XXXXXXX ERROR
5. If an error is encountered in the copy process, one of the
following messages will be displayed on the second line:
R/W Error
Indicates a Read/Write error occured
No Card Error Indicates no card was recognized
Mem Full Error Indicates that there is insufficient memory
available.
MEMORY->CARDCOPY
This selection allows you to copy the entire contents of the
optional Expanded Memory to the PCMCIA Memory card
installed in the Memory Card slot on the rear of the printer.
ALL
<0MB>
Y/N
1. Use the LINE key to step the cursor to desired setting. If Yes
is selected, the printer will enter the Card Copy mode. If No
is selected, the display will advance to the Card to Memory
Copy All mode.
COPY START
YES
2. Confirm your selection by stepping the cursor to the Yes
selection. If you select No, the display will return to the
previous selection.
NO
MEMORY->CARDCOPY
COPYING
3. Press the FEED key to accept the selection. If Yes was
selected the copy process will start
MEMORY->CARDCOPY
COMPLETED
4. Once the copy process is completed, press the FEED key to
step the display.
CARD COPY/FORMAT
XXXXXXX ERROR
5. If an error is encountered in the copy process, one of the
following messages will be displayed on the second line:
R/W Error
Indicates a Read/Write error occured
No Card Error Indicates no card was recognized
Mem Full Error Indicates that there is insufficient memory
available.
CARD->MEMORYCOPY
This selection allows the user to copy printer firmware from the
PCMCIA Memory Card to the printer.
PROGRAM
Y/N
1. Use the LINE key to step the cursor to desired setting. If Yes
is selected, the printer will enter the Card Copy mode. If No
is selected, the display will advance to the mode display.
COPY START
YES
2. Confirm your selection by stepping the cursor to the Yes
selection. If you select No, the display will return to the
previous selection.
NO
Page 3-18
PN 9001105 Rev. A
SATO M-84PRO
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Section 3. Configuration
CARD->MEMORY
COPY COPYING
3. Press the FEED key to accept the selection. If Yes was
selected the copy process will start
CARD->MEMORYCOPY
COMPLETED
4. Once the copy process is completed, press the FEED key to
step the display.
CARD COPY/FORMAT
XXXXXXX ERROR
5. If an error is encountered in the copy process, one of the
following messages will be displayed on the second line:
R/W Error
Indicates a Read/Write error occured
No Card Error Indicates no card was recognized
Mem Full Error Indicates that there is insufficient memory
available.
MEMORY->CARDCOPY
This selection allows the user to copy the current firmware
installed in the printer to a PCMCIA Memory Card.
PROGRAM
Y/N
1. Use the LINE key to step the cursor to desired setting. If Yes
is selected, the printer will enter the Card Copy mode. If No
is selected, the display will advance to the mode display.
COPY START
YES
2. Press the FEED key to accept the selection. If Yes was
selected the copy process will start. If you select No, the
display will return to the previous selection.
NO
MEMORY->CARDCOPY
COMPLETED
3. Once the copy process is completed, press the FEED key to
step the display.
CARD COPY/FORMAT
XXXXXXX ERROR
4. If an error is encountered in the copy process, one of the
following messages will be displayed on the second line:
R/W Error
Indicates a Read/Write error occured
No Card Error Indicates no card was recognized
Mem Full Error Indicates that there is insufficient memory
available.
CARD FORMAT
Before a PCMCIA card can be used, it must be formatted.
YES
NO
Note: Formatting a card destroys all data currently stored
on the card.
1. Use the LINE key to step the cursor to desired setting. If Yes
is selected, the printer will enter the Card Format mode. If
No is selected, the display will advance to the mode display.
MEMORY FORMAT
YES NO
Before the internal Expanded Memory can be used, it must be
formatted.
Note: Formatting the Memory will destroy any stored data.
1. Use the LINE key to step the cursor to desired setting. If Yes
is selected, the printer will enter the Memory Format mode.
If No is selected, the display will advance to the mode
display.
SATO M-84PRO
PN 9001105 Rev. A
Page 3-19
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Section 3. Configuration
CARD MODE
To exit the Card Mode, power the printer off and then back on.
SERVICE MODE
The Service Mode allows the operator to set up the basic operation parameters of the printer.
V 05.00.03.00
INITIALIZING
Displays the firmware during the initialization.
ADVANCED MODE
SERVICE MODE
The Service Mode is entered from the Advanced Mode display
by pressing the LINE key twice.
The Service Mode display indicates that the printer is in the Card
Mode. To advance to the first selection, press the FEED key.
GAP
INPUT
[X.XXV]
[X.XV]
The M-84PRO printers determine the location of the leading
edge of the label by measuring the difference between light
levels when it sees either a label edge or a black “EYE” mark.
This adjustment allows you to manually set the threshold voltage
level, between the maximum and minimum light levels. DIP
switch DSW2-2 selects the sensor type. If DSW2-2 is in the OFF
position, the setting will be for a See-Thru (or Gap) sensor and
the LCD will display “GAP” on the top line along with the current
setting. If DSW2-2 is in the ON position, the LCD will display
“EYE” on the top line with its current setting. If the value entered
for the bottom line setting is “0.0V”, then the printer will
automatically calculate the setting when the first label is fed after
the printer is powered on or the head is closed. There are some
instances where the automatically calculated value must be
adjusted to ensure reliable label feeding, such as when the
backing opacity or the reflectance of the EYE mark varies
significantly within a roll of labels or between label rolls. In these
instances the value should be set using the following
procedures.
Page 3-20
PN 9001105 Rev. A
SATO M-84PRO
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Section 3. Configuration
GAP
INPUT
[X.XXV]
[X.XV]
GAP - When setting the “gap” threshold, the voltage shown on
the top line of the display must be measured with nothing but the
backing in the sensor and then again with a label still attached to
the backing. The formula to be used for setting the threshold is:
(High Voltage Level + Low Voltage Level) x 0.5 = Start Value
1. Insert a label still attached to the backing into the sensor
and close the Label Hold-Down. Record the voltage shown
on the top line of the LCD panel. This line should have the
message “GAP” on the top line (DIP switch DSW2-2 =
OFF). Make sure the label is all the way under the sensor.
2. Strip the label from the backing and insert the backing strip
under the sensor and close the Label Lid. Record the
voltage shown on the top line of the LCD panel. The voltage
ranges measured should be within the following ranges:
Backing with label = 2.0V to 3.5V
Backing without label = Less than 1.0V
If the measured values are outside this range, you may have
trouble in finding a value that will work properly under all
conditions. If this is the case, a higher quality label may be
needed to get adequate performance.
3. Calculate the starting point voltage using the formula.
4. Use the LINE and FEED keys to step the counter to the
desired setting. The reading will advance to a setting of 4.9
(the maximum voltage). If a value of “0.0” is set, the printer
will automatically set the level each time the printer is
powered on with labels loaded and the head is closed.
5. Once the setting is correct, pressing the ENTER key will
accept the setting and advance the next display.
SATO M-84PRO
PN 9001105 Rev. A
Page 3-21
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Section 3. Configuration
EYE
[X.XXV] EYE - When setting the “eye” threshold, the voltage must be
INPUT
[X.XV]
measured with nothing but the label under the sensor and then
again withthe printed “eye” mark under the sensor. The formula
for this is:
(High Voltage Level + Low Voltage Level) x 0.5 = Start Value
1. Insert a label into the sensor and close the Label Hold-
Down. Make sure the printed “eye” mark is not under the
sensor. Record the voltage shown on the top line of the LCD
panel. This line should have the message “EYE” on the top
line (DIP switch DSW2-2 = ON).
2. Now pull the label forward until the “eye” mark is positioned
under the sensor (the voltage reading should be at its
highest point). Record the voltage shown on the top line of
the LCD panel. The voltage ranges measured should be
within the following ranges:
Eye-Mark = 2.5V to 3.5V
Label Only = Less than 1.0V
If the measured values are outside this range, you may have
trouble in finding a value that will work properly under all
conditions. If this is the case, a higher quality label may be
needed to get adequate performance.
3. Calculate the starting point voltage using the formula.
4. Use the LINE and FEED keys to step the counter to the
desired setting. The reading will advance to a setting of 4.9
(the maximum voltage). If a value of “0.0” is set, the printer
will automatically set the level each time the printer is
powered on with labels loaded or the head is closed.
5. Once the setting is correct, pressing the ENTER key will
accept the setting and advance to the next display.
AUTO ONLINE FEED
YES NO
This selection specifies whether or not the printer will feed a
label when it is placed in the Online mode.
1. Use the LINE key to step the cursor to desired setting. If Yes
is selected, the printer will feed a blank label anytime it
enters the Online mode.
2. Once the setting is correct, pressing the FEED key will
accept the setting and advance to the next display.
FEED ON ERROR
YES NO
This selection specifies whether or not the printer will feed a
label when an error condition is cleared..
1. Use the LINE key to step the cursor to desired setting. If Yes
is selected, the printer will feed a blank label anytime an
error condition is cleared.
2. Once the setting is correct, pressing the FEED key will
accept the setting and advance to the next display.
Page 3-22
PN 9001105 Rev. A
SATO M-84PRO
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Section 3. Configuration
REPRINT W/FEED
YES NO
This selection specifies whether or not the printer will print the
last printed label stored in memory when the FEED key is
pressed in the Normal Online mode.
1. Use the LINE key to step the cursor to desired setting. If Yes
is selected, the printer will reprint the last label when the
FEED key is pressed when the printer is Online. If the
printer is Offline, pressing the FEED key will feed a blank
label.
2. Once the setting is correct, pressing the FEED key will
accept the setting and advance to the
FORWARD/BACKFEED
DISTANCE DEFAULT
This display will only appear Backfeed is enabled (DSW3-4 =
OFF). The maximum backfeed distance is 255 mm.
1. Use the LINE key to select either the Default or the Manual
selection.
2. Once the setting is correct, pressing the FEED key will
accept the setting and advance to the next display.
FORWARD/BACKFEED
3. If Manual setting is selected, use the Cursor keys to
advance the distance to the desired setting. Each time the
LINE key is pressed, the Distance will advance 1 mm. The
maximum distance is 255 mm.
DISTANCE
XXXmm
4. Once the desired distance is set, press the FEED key to
accept the setting and step to the next display.
EXT PIN 9 SELECT
This selection allows the user to select the conditions that cause
the signal on Pin 9 of the EXT connector to be true. If Mode1 is
selected, pin 9 will be true when the printer is ready to print, i.e. it
is Online and has a print job loaded (a quantity of labels to be
printed on the display). If Mode 2 is selected, pin 9 will be true if
the printer is Online.
MODE1
MODE2
1. Use the LINE key to step the cursor to the desired setting.
2. Once the desired setting is selected, press the FEED key to
accept the setting and step to the next display.
EURO CODE
This selection allows the user to specify the dexadecimal code
for the character which is replaced with the Euro Character. The
default is D5H.
D5
1. The cursor should be positioned over the first digit selection.
Use the LINE key to step to the desired setting.
2. Press the FEED key to advance the cursor to the second
digit of the desired hexadecimal code.
3. Press the LINE key to step to the desired setting.
4. When the setting is correct, press the FEED key to accept
the setting and step to the next display.
SATO M-84PRO
PN 9001105 Rev. A
Page 3-23
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Section 3. Configuration
SELECT LANGUAGE
This selection allows the user to select the character set used by
the printer. The selections are English, French, German,
Spanish, Italian and Portuguese.
ENGLISH
1. Press the LINE key to advance to the desired languarge
setting.
2. When the setting is correct, press the FEED key to accept
the setting and step to the next display.
IGNORE CAN/DLE
YES
If the printer is placed in the Multi-Item Buffer Mode (DSW2-5 =
OFF), the user can chose to ignore CAN (18H) and DLE (10H)
commands used in bi-directional communications (see Section
6: Interface Specifications). If the Single Item Buffer Mode is
chosen (DSW2-5 = ON), this display will be skipped.
NO
PRIORITY SETTING
This selection allows the user to assign a priority for Print
Darkenss, Print Speed and Print Offset setting methods. If LCD
is selected, the setting established via the LCD display/menu
system will be used for an incoming label job, regardless of any
different command settings. If Command is selected, any
commands in the label job will take precedence and be used for
printing the job.
COMMAND
LCD
1. Use the LINE key to step to the desired priority.
Once the desired setting is selected, press the FEED key to
accept the setting and step to the next display.
LABEL RE-DETECT
This selection allows the user to disable the feeding of a blank
label upon power up. If Enable is selected, the printer will
automatically feed a label until it detects a label enge. This will
correctly position the next printed label under the print head. If
Disable is selected, the printer will not try to detect the next label
and the operator is responsible for ensuring that the label is
correctly positioned before printing.
ENABLE
DISABLE
1. Use the LINE key to step to the desired setting.
Once the desired setting is selected, press the FEED key to
accept the setting and step to the next display.
IEEE1284
ACK SIGNAL
If the printer is placed in the Single Item Buffer Mode (DSW2-5 =
ON), this selection allows the user to set the width of the
IEEE1284 ACK pulse. In the Multi-Item Buffer Mode, this display
will be skipped.The range is 0.5 µsec to 10 µsec.
00.5
1. Use the LINE key to step the display to the desired setting.
The setting will advance in increments of 0.1 µsec each time
the LINE key is pressed until the setting reaches 10.0 µsec
when it will wrap around to the 0.5 µsec setting.
Once the desired setting is selected, press the FEED key to
accept the setting and step to the next display.
SERVICE MODE
The Service mode is exited by powering the printer off and then
back on.
Page 3-24
PN 9001105 Rev. A
SATO M-84PRO
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Section 3. Configuration
COUNTERS MODE
The Counters Mode is provided to allow the user to access the internal printer cousters.
ADVANCED MODE
COUNTERS MODE
COUNTERS
The Counter Mode is accessed from the Advanced Mode. Press
the LINE key to step to the Counter Mode.
Pressing the FEED key will advance the display to the counter
selections.
The counters are identified in the display as:
HD: Head Counter (should be reset when print head is replaced)
CUT: Cutter Counter
HD
CUT
LIFE
LIFE: Life Counter (cannot be reset)
1. Use the LINE key to step the cursor to the desired counter,
the Head (HD) counter or the LIFE counter. The default
position is the Head Counter.
HEAD COUNTER
2. Once the correct setting is selected, pressing the FEED key
will display the current value (in meters) stored in the
counter. The maximum number of digits displayed is 8.
0.5M
3. Pressing the FEED key again will advance the counter to
the Clear mode. All counters with the exception of the LIFE
counter may be cleared.
HEAD COUNT CLEAR 4. Use the LINE key to select the desired setting. If you only
YES
NO
wanted to read the counter value, select NO. If you want to
read the counter and reset it to 0.0, place the cursor over the
YES. Once the desired setting is selected, pressing the
FEEDkey will advance the return you to the Counters Mode
display.
COUNTERS MODE
5. To exit the Counters Mode, turn power to the printer off and
then back on.
TEST PRINT MODE
The Test Print Mode offers 4 different status labels for troubleshooting. If DSW3-5 is in the
OFF position, the Test Print cycle must be initiated with a Print Start signal on the EXT
connector You enter the Test Print Mode by pressing the FEED key while powering the printer
on..
V 05.00.03.00
INITIALIZING
Displays the firmware during the initialization.
SATO M-84PRO
PN 9001105 Rev. A
Page 3-25
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Section 3. Configuration
TEST PRINT MODE
CONFIGURATION
This option allows you to print a test label. It is recommended
that you print a test label after you have changed any of the
settings in the Advanced Mode. The test label allows you to
verify that you indeed did make the desired changes. To enter
the Test Print Mode, power the printer on while pressing the
FEED key. The printer will beep. Release the FEED key and the
printer will display the following message on the LCD panel:
1. Use the LINE key to step the cursor to type of test label you
wish to print. The choices are:
CONFIGURATION
BARCODE
HEADCHECK
MEMORY
FACTORY
TEST PRINT SIZE
10 CM
Note: This screen will not be displayed for the Memory
Test Label.
Once you have selected the type of test label to be printed, use
the FEED key to accept the selection and the display advances
to the Test Print Size display. This display allows you to select
the label width.
1. Use the LINE key to select the lable width. Each time the
LINE key is pressed, the label size advances 1 cm until it
reaches a maximum width of 26 cm, at which point it will
wrap to the smallest size of 13 cm.
PRESS FEED KEY TO
STOP PRINTING
2. Pressing the FEED key accepts the selection and starts
printing test labels continuously.
3. Press the FEED key to stop the printer.
4. To exit the Test Print Mode, power the printer off and then
back on.
DEFAULT SETTING MODE
Occassionally it is desirable to reset all printer configuration settings to their original default
conditions. This allows the operator to start reconfiguration of the printer starting from a know
set of conditions.
V 05.00.03.00
INITIALIZING
Displays the firmware during the initialization.
DEFAULT SETTING
You enter the Default Setting Mode by pressing the LINE and
FEED keys while simultaneously powering the printer on. The
printer will emit one long beep after which the FEED and LINE
keys should be released.
YES
NO
1. Use LINE key to select either the YES or NO.
2. Once the desired setting is selected, pressing the FEED key
will accept the selection and the printer will reset to the
original default conditions.
Page 3-26
PN 9001105 Rev. A
SATO M-84PRO
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Section 3. Configuration
DEFAULT SETTING
COMPLETED
3. When the printer has completed the reset process it will
beep 3 times and the Default Setting Completed display will
appear. At this time the printer is in the default configuration.
4. To exit the Default Setting Mode, power the printer off and
then back on.
CLEAR NON-STANDARD PROTOCOL
The standard protocol codes used by the printer can be modified to accomodate the
requirements of different host systems. However, if the printer is to be used with a system that
does not use the custom protocol codes, they can be cleared and the default protocol codes
reactivated. The default values are: STX = 7BH, ETX = 7DH, ESC = 5EH, ENQ = 40H,
NULL = 7EH, CAN = 21H and OFFLINE = 5DH.
V 05.00.03.00
INITIALIZING
Displays the firmware during the initialization.
ALT.PROTOCOL
DEFAULT COMPLETE
To Clear Non-Standard protocol codes, DSW2-7 is placed in the
On position and the printer powered on while simultaneously
pressing the LINE and FEED keys.
The printer will emit one long beep at which time the LINE and
FEED keys should be released.
When the keys are released, the printer will replace the Alternate
protocol codes with the default values.
After the default setting is complete, the printer will emit two short
beeps indicating the process is complete.
To exit the mode, power the printer off and then back on.
DOWNLOAD USER DEFINED PROTOCOL CODES
The user can define a set of custom protocol codes and download them to the printer using the
<ESC>LD command.
V 05.00.03.00
INITIALIZING
Displays the firmware during the initialization.
USER DOWNLOAD
PRESS THE LINE KEY
To enter the User Download mode, DSW2-7 is placed in the on
position and the printer is powered on while simultaneously
pressing the LINE key. The printer will emit one long beep after
which the LINE key is released.
1. Set DSW2-7 Off to replace the Standard protocol codes or
On to replace the Alternate set of protocol codes.
SATO M-84PRO
PN 9001105 Rev. A
Page 3-27
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Section 3. Configuration
USER DOWNLOAD
2. Press the LINE key. The printer is now waiting for the data to
be sent.
WAITING
3. Transmit the download data command stream to the printer.
4. After the data has been received, the printer will beep and
print a status label. If it does not beep and print a status
label, the printer did not accept the data.
5. If the printer did not beep and print a status label, turn the
printer off and check your data stream for errors and start
the download process over.
6. If the custom codes are correct, press the FEED key to
accept them and terminate the download process. If they
are incorrect, turn the printer off without pressing the
ENTER key and begin the process again.
HEX DUMP MODE
In addition to the Test Print Labels, the printer can print the contents of the receive buffer in a
hexadecimal format to allow the data stream to be examined for errors and troubleshooting.
V 05.00.03.00
INITIALIZING
Displays the firmware during the initialization.
ONLINE
The Hex Dump Mode is entered by placing DSW2-4 in the on
position and powering the printer on.
QTY:000000
1. The printer is now ready to receive data.
2. Send the data stream to the printer.
3. The received data will be printed in a hexadecimal format4.
To return the printer to normal operation, place DSW2-4 in
the off position and power the printer off and then back on.
Page 3-28
PN 9001105 Rev. A
SATO M-84PRO
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SECTION 4.
CLEANING AND MAINTENANCE
INTRODUCTION
The following information is presented in this section:
• Adjusting the Print Quality
• Cleaning the Print Head, Platen and Rollers
• Replacing the Print Head
• Replacing the Fuse
ADJUSTING THE PRINT QUALITY
One of the nice features of the SATO printers are their high print quality. They are equipped
with two different methods of adjusting the quality of the print; print darkness and speed.
When adjusting for optimum print quality, a bar code verifier system should be used. The
human eye is a poor judge of the relative widths of the bars in a symbol, a characteristic that is
extremely important for good bar code quality.
PRINT (DARKNESS)
This adjustment allows the user to control (within a specified range) the amount of power that
is used to activate the individual print head heat elements. It is important to find a proper print
darkness level based on your particular label and ribbon combination. The printed images
should not be too light nor should the ink from the ribbon “bleed.” The edges of each image
should be crisp and well defined.
The Print Darkness can be set using the front panel LCD panel or by downloading the setting
using the Print Darkeness software command. Once the range has been selected, the PRINT
Potentiometer on the front panel can be used to make finer adjustments.
The primary adjustment for Print Darkness is the PRINT potentiometer on the Front panel. It
provides a continuous range of adjustment, allowing you to make precise changes. Use a small
cross-point screwdriver, turning clockwise for darker print and counterclockwise for lighter
print.
SATO M-84PRO
PN 9001105 Rev. A
Page 4-1
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Section 4. Cleaning and Maintenance
NOTE: The PRINT potentiometer adjustment will affect the darkness in all of the
command code speed ranges, i.e. if the PRINT potentiometer is adjusted for
lighter print, the darkness will be lighter in all speed ranges selected by the
command code.
PRINT SPEED
The other method of controlling print quality is by controlling the speed at which the label is
printed. This adjustment is made only on an individual label basis using the Print Speed
command code. For more details on this command, see the “e” and PRO 3Printer
Programming Reference. Changing the print speed allows the user to control the amount of
time allowed for print element cooling before the media is stepped to the next print position. It
is especially critical when printing “ladder” bar codes (bar codes printed with the bars parallel
to the print line). When printing a “ladder” bar code, it is important to allow the head to cool
sufficiently before stepping to the next position. If it does not have sufficient time to cool, the
bar will be “smeared” on the trailing edge.
The Print Speed can be set using the LCD panel or with the Print Speed software command.
The software command will override the any setting entered using the LCD panel.The other
method of controlling print quality is by controlling the speed at which the label is printed.
This adjustment is made only on an individual label basis using the Print Speed command
code. For more details on this command, see the “e” and PRO Printer Programming
Reference.
CLEANING THE PRINT HEAD, PLATEN AND ROLLERS
Supplies needed:
SATO SA070 Cleaning Kit
Cleaning the Print Head
1. Turn the printer off and remove the
power cable.
2. Open the Top and Side Access Door.
3. Open the Print Head Assembly by
rotating the Head Latch toward the
back of the printer. The Print Head
Assembly is spring-loaded and will
automatically open as soon as the
Head Latch is disengaged.
4. Remove the ribbon.
5. Apply SATO Thermal Print Head
Cleaner to a cotton swab.
6. The Print Head faces downward
along the front edge of the assembly.
Pass the end of the dampened swab along the epoxy ridge that runs the entire width of the
Print Head.
7. Check for any black coloring or adhesive on the swab after cleaning.
8. Repeat if necessary until the swab is clean after it is passed over the head.
Page 4-2
PN 9001105 Rev. A
SATO M-84PRO
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Section 4. Cleaning and Maintenance
9. The head should be cleaned at least every time the ribbon is changed and more often in
dusty environments.
Cleaning the Platen and Rollers
1. Turn the printer off and remove the
power cable.
2. Open Top and Side Access doors.
3. Open the Print Head Assembly by
rotating the Head Latch toward the
rear of the printer. The Print Head
Assembly is spring-loaded and will
automatically open as soon as the
Head Latch is disengaged.
4. Unlatch the Label Hold-Down by
lifting up on the latch lever
(immediately below the green PUSH tab.
5. Apply SATO Thermal Print Head Cleaner to one of the cotton swabs.
6. The Platen is the rubber roller directly below the Print Head. It should be cleaned of any
ribbon or label residue.
7. A pair of Label Feed Rollers are used to assist in label feeding at high print speeds. One
located in the bottom of the Label Hold-Down and the other directly underneath it in the
label feed path. They should be cleaned of any label residue or foreign material.
8. Repeat if necessary. The platen and rollers should be cleaned whenever foreign matter
such as dust or adhesive is present.
9. Close the Label Hold-Down until it latches in place.
10. Close the Print Head by rotating the Head Latch Lever down and towards the front until it
latches in place.
CLEANING THE LABEL EDGE SENSORS
There are two sensors that are used to control the positioning of the label. One is a
transmissive see-thru sensor that detects the edge of the label by looking through the backing
paper which is translucent and detecting the presence of the opaque backing. The other is a
reflective sensor that detects the light reflected from the bottom of the label liner. When a
printed black Eye-Mark passes through the beam, the light is no longer reflected back to the
sensor detector, indicating to the printer that it should use this position as the start of a new
label. When dust, dirt or other foreign matter interferes with the light path of either of these
sensors, the results is erratic label positioning. These sensors should be cleaned regularly, at
least every two rolls of labels. They are both located on an adjustable assembly in the throat of
the printer between the Label Hold Down and the Print Head.
Supplies Needed:
SATO SA070 Cleaning Kit
1. Turn the printer off and remove the power cable.
2. Open the Top and Side Access doors.
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Section 4. Cleaning and Maintenance
3. Open the Print Head by pushing the Head Latch toward the rear of the printer. The Print
Head is spring-loaded and will automatically open as the Head Latch is disengaged.
4. Remove the ribbon.
5. Apply SATO Thermal Print Head Cleaner to a cotton swab.
6. Carefully insert the swab between the top and bottom portions of the Sensor Assembly.
The location of the sensors is identified by two marks on the assembly.
7. Move the swab back and forth to clean any residue from the sensors.
REPLACING THE PRINT HEAD
The print head on the M-84PRO printers is a user-replaceable item. If it becomes damaged for
any reason, it can be easily removed and replaced. Contact your local SATO representative for
information on obtaining a new print head. The M-84PRO is available with three different
print heads with 203, 305 or 609 dpi.Make sure you have the correct replacement head as the
printer will automatically detect the pring head resolution and load the operating parameters
for that head.
Supplies needed:
Flat blade screwdriver
Replacement Print Head
1. Turn the printer off and remove the power cable.
2. Open the Top and Side Access doors.
3. Open the Print Head by pushing the Head Latch toward the rear of the printer. The Print
Head is spring-loaded and will automatically open as soon as the Head Latch is
disengaged.
4. Remove the ribbon from the Ribbon Rewind Spindle if necessary.
5. View the Print Head from the front of the printer. Locate the center mounting thumb screw
on the top of the assembly. Unscrew this screw. It remains captive and will not come out
of the top attachment plate.
6. The Print Head should now be loosened from the top of the assembly by grasping either
side and carefully pulling it down.
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Section 4. Cleaning and Maintenance
7. Disconnect the signal and power cables
from the print head connectors and set
the Print Head aside. There are two
connectors on the signal cable. The
smaller connector is used for the 203
and 305 dpi print heads, the larger one
for the 609 dpi print head. Note which
connector was connected to the print
head.
Loosen thumb screw
Rotate to
Print Head
open head
DO NOT remove the two outside
screws (painted red) on either
side of the center mounting
Signal Connector. Use
correct size.
screw. The Print Head is pre-
aligned and if these screws are
lossened, it will have to be re-
aligned for proper print quality.
Print Head Connector
8. Carefully attach the new print head to the connectors, using caution to make sure the
connector keys are correctly positioned and that the correct cable connector is used. The
connector on the print head should be the same size as the one you are replacing.
NOTE: Be careful not to scratch the printing surface of the print head while installing
it. Scratching the surface will cause permanent and irreparable damage and is
not covered by the warranty!
9. Align the thumb screw with the tapped hole in the new print head.
10. 11. Re-secure the print head by tightening the screw.
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SECTION 5.
TROUBLESHOOTING
This section has been devised to help you if you are unable to produce output on the M-84PRO
printers. Use this section to make sure the basics have been checked before deciding you are
unable to proceed any further. The section is divided into five parts:
• Initial Checklist
• IEEE1284 Parallel Interface
• RS232C Serial Interface
• Universal Serial Bus Interface
• LAN Ethernet Interface
INITIAL CHECKLIST
1. Is the printer powered up and ON-LINE?
2. Is the ERROR light on the front panel off? Is this light is on, it may mean the Print Head
Assembly or the Label Hold-Down is not closed and latched in position.
3. Are the LABEL and RIBBON lights on the front panel off? If these lights are on, the
labels or ribbons may be incorrectly loaded.
USING THE IEEE1284 PARALLEL INTERFACE
1. Is the IEEE1284 printer cable connected securely to your parallel port (DB-25S Female)
on the PC and to the Parallel Interface connector on the printer?
WARNING: Never connect or disconnect interface cables (or use a switch box) with
power applied to either the printer or the host. This may cause damage to the
interface circuitry and is not covered by warranty.
2. Does the Parallel interface cable used meet IEEE1284 specifications? If it does not and
you are connected to an IEEE1284 or ECP parallel port on the computer, the printer may
not be able to communicate correctly.
3. Is there more than one parallel interface port on your PC (LPT1, LPT2, etc.)? If so, make
sure you are sending data out the correct port.
4. Is the IEEE1284 Interface Module installed in the printer? Older versions of the Parallel
Interface module will not work correctly in the M-84PRO printers.
5. When you send the print job to the printer, and it does not respond, do you get an error
message on your PC that says “Device Fault” or something similar?
This may mean that the computer doesn’t know the printer is there. Verify that:
a. Both ends of the cable are securely inserted into their respective connectors.
b. The printer is ONLINE.
c. The cable is not defective. There are other things that can cause this error message on
your computer, but at this stage, a defective cable may be one of the reasons.
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Section 5. Troubleshooting
6. When you send the print job to the printer and it does not respond, and there is no error
message on the PC:
a. Check your data stream for some of the basics. Is your job framed as follows?
<ESC>A—DATA—<ESC>Z
b. Verify that you’ve included all required parameters in the data stream.
c. Verify the following:
You have not typed a “0” (zero) for an “O” (letter) or vice-versa.
You have not missed any <ESC> characters where they’re needed.
Make sure all printer command codes are capital letters.
7. If you’ve checked all of the above and the printer still isn’t printing, you may want to try a
Buffer Hex Dump to determine what (if anything) the printer is receiving from your
computer. See Printing Hex Dump Labels in Section 3. Configuration.
The Parallel port is now listening for incoming data. Send your print job. The printer will
now print (only once) a Hexadecimal (Hex) Dump of everything it received from the host
computer. Each 2-digit hexadecimal character represents a character the printer received.
It may be tedious, but now you can analyze and troubleshoot the data stream.
8. While checking the Hex Dump printout, if you notice 0DH 0AH (Carriage Return and Line
Feed) characters throughout. The command string should be continuous and no CR or LF
characters are allowed between the Start Command (<ESC>A) and the Stop Command
(<ESC>Z). If you are using BASIC, it may be adding these characters automatically as the
line wraps. Adding a “width” statement to your program can help to suppress these extra
0DH 0AH characters by expanding the line length up to 255 characters. See the“e” and
PRO Printer Programming Reference for details on writing a program in BASIC.
If you’re not programming in BASIC, check to see if you have an equivalent statement in
the language you’re using to suppress extra carriage returns and line feeds from your data
being sent out to the printer. We want the data stream to be one complete line going to the
printer.
USING THE RS232C SERIAL INTERFACE
1. Is the RS232C Serial cable connected securely to your serial port on the PC (DB- 25S or
DB-9S Male) and to the RS232C connector on the printer?
WARNING: Never connect or disconnect interface cables (or use a switch box) with
power applied to either the printer or the host. This may cause damage to the
interface circuitry and is not covered by warranty.
2. Is the cable defective? At the very least, you should be using a “Null Modem Cable,”
which crosses pins in a specific manner. This should enable your printer to print. But we
recommend that you eventually use a cable built to specifications as described in Section
6: Interface Specifications.
3. Is the RS232 Interface Module installed in the printer? The M-84PRO printers require the
new Hi Speed Serial Interface (PN WCL40451)to take advantage of the faster data
transmission speeds. The older Serial Interface Modules will work, but at a reduced
capability.
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Section 5. Troubleshooting
4. Check for obvious errors in the data stream. Is the data properly framed with the <ESC>A
and <ESC>Z commands? See the “e” Programming Reference if necessary.
5. If after sending your job to the printer, it only “beeps” and displays an error message on
the LCD display, you may have a configuration problem. There may be some
inconsistencies with the Baud Rate, Parity, Data Bits, or Stop Bits in relation to your host
computer. If you are confused as to what the printer’s current RS232 settings are, print a
Configuration Test label (see Section 3. Configuration). It will list all of the current printer
configuration settings.
6. If you still are unable to get printer output, try the Hex Dump as described in Step 5 under
the Parallel Interface troubleshooting. In this case, the printer monitors the RS232C
interface for incoming data.
7. From the Hex Dump, if you are seeing extra 0DH 0AH (CR and LF) characters, and are
using BASIC, refer to “e” and PRO Printer Programming Reference. It provides hints for
writing a SATO program in BASIC.
USING THE UNIVERSAL SERIAL BUS (USB) INTERFACE
If nothing prints when doing a test print you will need to verify that the device drivers have
been successfully installed by doing the following:
1. Click on Start, then Settings and then Control Panel.
2. Within the new Window you should have an Icon listed as System. Double Click on this.
3. Click on the Device Manager tab.
4. Make sure that the View Device by type is checked. Scroll down until you get to SATO-
USB device.
5. Verify that it does not have any errors next to it. If it shows an error, remove the device and
then reinstall it.
6. Reboot the PC and the Printer.
7. Consult the WindowsTroubleshooting guide or contact technical support for further
assistance.
USING THE LAN ETHERNET INTERFACE
Printer Does Not Come Up Ready
If you cannot print to the print server after you install it, check the following:
1. Make sure that the printer is powered on, that all cables are securely plugged in, and that
the printer is on-line.
2. If possible, connect a terminal to the serial port. If you see the boot prompt, the print
server firmware has not been loaded properly. If reloading does not fix the problem, try
setting switch 1 to ON (factory defaults) and powering the print server off and then on
again; if the problem persists, the product may be defective.
Installation Problems (Printer Comes up Ready but You Cannot Print)
• If the printer starts up OK but you cannot print, the problem could one of the following:
• There is a problem with the interface between the print server and the printer
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Section 5. Troubleshooting
• There is a problem with the network connection or cabling.
• There is a queue setup problem, a print server setup problem, or other protocol-related
problem.
Checking the Interface between the Print Server and the Printer
First make sure that the cable between the print server and the printer is securely plugged in at
both sides. Then:
1. Wait about two minutes after the printer is powered on and then run a printer self-test (see
Secton 3:Configuration for information on how to run the self-test).
If the self-test does not print, then there is possibly a hardware problem. Double check the
connections.
In some rare instances, disabling NBUF with the command SET PORT P1 NBUF DIS-
ABLED will solve port compatibility issues.
Checking the Network Connection and Cabling
If the self-test page prints but you cannot print documents, first check the network connection
and cabling.
1. If you are connecting to a 10baseT network, verify that the OK LED is on. If the
appropriate LEDs are not on, there is probably a bad 10BaseT or 100BaseTX cable or the
hub port is bad. If possible, try a different cable and hub port, or try connecting a different
device (such as a PC) to the cable.
2. If you are using a repeater or hub, make sure that SQE (heartbeat) is turned off at the hub
(this is the default setting for most hubs). Also, if you have a hub or multiport repeater,
verify that the hub or repeater port is good by trying the print server on a different port.
3. If you have a bridge or router located between the print server and the host computer,
make sure that the device is set up to allow the print server to send and receive data from
the host. For example, a bridge can be set up to only allow certain types of Ethernet
addresses to pass through (a process known as filtering); therefore, such a bridge must be
configured to allow print server addresses. Likewise, a router can be set up to pass only
certain protocols, so be sure that the desired protocol can be passed through to the print
server. In the case of routers, also make sure that the protocol is routable (LAT, NetBEUI,
and DLC/LLC are not routable).
4. Make sure that you are not trying to perform an illegal operation, such as attempting to
print a label larger than the printer can handle.
5. Check the individual protocol troubleshooting sections in provided with the Ethernet
Interface Module for additional causes of intermittent printer problems.
Intermittent Problems
If the print server and the printer start up OK, but you intermittently have problems printing,
check the following:
1. Excessive NetWare polling can be a big cause of intermittent problems. Make sure that
you have only enabled the NetWare file servers that you need for printing (do a SHOW
NETWARE command from the print server console to see the enabled file servers). If you
have V3.21 or earlier firmware, make sure that NetWare polling is disabled by using the
console command SET NETWARE RANGE 0. If you are not using NetWare, you can
disable NetWare entirely with the command SET NETWARE DISABLED.
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Section 5. Troubleshooting
2. Check the individual protocol troubleshooting sections provided with the Ethernet Plug-In
Interface Module for additional causes of intermittent printer problems.
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Section 5. Troubleshooting
ERROR SIGNALS
The LCD Display, Front Panel LED Indicators and Buzzer provide a visual/audio indication of
the type of error encountered.
LED
LCD MESSAGE AUDIBLE
BEEP
ERROR
CONDITION
POSSIBLE CAUSES
1. Defective Board
Error On
Error On
Machine Error
EEPROM Error
1 Long
1 Long
Machine Error
EEPROM Read/ 1. EEPROM not installed correctly.
Write
2. Overwriting EEPROM.
Error On
Error On
Head Error
1 Long
3 Short
Head
1. Electrical head malfunction
Sensor Error
Sensor
1. Paper jam.
2. Sensor DSW setting.
3. Sensor level adjustment.
Error Blinks
Card R/W Error
1 Long
1 Long
Memory Card
Read/Write
1. Card not formatted
2. No card recognized.
Error Blinks Card Low Battery
Memory Card
Battery Low
1. Card battery needs replacement.
Error Blinks
Error Blinks
Card No Battery
Head Open
1 Long
3 Short
No Battery in Card 1. Card needs battery installed.
Head Open
1. Head not latched.
2. Head latch switch bad.
Error Blinks
Cutter Error
Parity Error
Overrun Error
Framing Error
Buffer Over
Paper End
3 Short
3 Short
3 Short
3 Short
3 Short
3 Short
3 Short
3 Short
Cutter
1. Cutter jam.
2. Cutter sensor dirty.
Error On
Line Blinks
RS232 Parity Error 1. RS232 parameter mismatch.
Error On
Line Blinks
RS232 Overrun
Error
1. RS232 parameter mismatch
1. RS232 parameter mismatch
Error On
Line Blinks
RS232 Framing
Error
Error On
Line Blinks
Buffer Overflow
1. Command stream exceeds buffer
size.
Error Blinks
Media End
1. No paper.
2. Paper incorrectly loaded.
Error Blinks
Ribbon End
Ribbon End
1. Needs new ribbon roll.
2. Ribbon sensor needs adustment.
Download Error
R/W Error
Mem Full Error
Download Error
1. Read/Write error.
2. Corrupted download file.
3. Download file too large.
CopyCard/Format
R/W Error
No Card Error
Mem Full Error
3 Short
Card Copy or
Format Error
1. R/W error during copying.
2. Card not installed properly.
3. File too large.
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SECTION 6.
INTERFACE SPECIFICATIONS
INTRODUCTION
The M-84PRO printer utilize a Plug-In Interface Module for maximum printer configuration
flexibility. This section presents the interface specifications for the M-84PRO printers. These
specifications include detailed information on how to properly interface your printer with your
host system.
The following information is presented in this section:
• Interface Types
• Using the Receive Buffer
• IEEE1284 Parallel Interface
• Universal Serial Bus (USB) Interface
• Local Area Network (LAN) Interface
• RS232C Serial Interface
• Bi-Comm Communications Protocol
• Status Response
INTERFACE TYPES
The parallel interface for the M-84PRO printer is a high speed, bi-directional interface that
conforms to the IEEE1284 specification (ECP mode on some computers). The interface is also
compatible with the older Centronics parallel interface standard. If it does not detect the
correct IEEE1284 signals in the interface connection, it will automatically operate in the
standard Centronics mode which is much slower. To use the IEEE1284 parallel interface to its
fullest capability requires that the host also have an IEEE1284 compatible interface and that
the two be connected with a cable that meets the IEEE1284 specification. If either of these two
are not present, the data rate is severely compromised.
In order to provide flexibility in communicating with a variety of host computer systems all ìeî
printers use a Plug-In Interface Module. The IEEE1284 Interface module is shipped with the
printer unless another interface type is specified at the time of the order. The other interfaces
available are a high speed (to 57.6K bps) serial interface, an Ethernet interface or an optional
Universal Serial Bus (USB) interface.
The Parallel interface will probably be the most useful in communicating with IBM PCs and
compatibles. The RS232C Serial interface allows connectivity to a number of other hosts. The
USB interface allows the printer to be connected to a computer that supports peripherals
attached to a USB bus. Up to 127 peripherals can be connected to a single USB port. The
interfaces available are a high speed (to 57.6K bps) serial interface, an Ethernet interface or an
optional Universal Serial Bus (USB) interface.
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Section 6. Troubleshooting
WARNING: Never connect or disconnect interface cables (or use a switch box) with power
applied to either the host or the printer. This may cause damage to the interface
circuitry in the printer/host and is not covered by warranty.
THE RECEIVE BUFFER
The M-84PRO printers have the ability to receive a data stream from the host in one of two
ways. The receive buffer may be configured to accept one print job at a time or multiple print
jobs. The single job print buffer is generally used by software programs that wish to maintain
control of the job print queue so that it can move a high priority job in front of ones of lesser
importance. The multiple job buffer, on the other hand prints all jobs in the order they are
received by the printer, and the order of printing cannot be changed.
SINGLE JOB BUFFER
The printer receives and prints one job at a time. Each job must not exceed 2.95 MB.
MULTI JOB BUFFER
The printer is able to continuously receive print jobs, compiling and printing other jobs at the
same time. It acts much like a “print buffer” to maximize the performance of the host and the
printer. When using the RS232C Serial interface, the Multi Job Buffer uses either the Ready/
Busy with DTR (pin 20) or X-On/X-Off flow control protocols. See these sections for
more details. With an empty receiving buffer, the status of DTR is “high” (or an X-On
status if using X-On/X-Off), meaning the printer is ready to receive data. When the
receive buffer is holding 2.0 MB of data (1 MB from being full), DTR will go “low” (or
an X-Off is sent) indicating the printer can no longer receive data. This condition is
called “Buffer Near Full.”
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Section 6. Troubleshooting
The receiving buffer will not be able to receive more data again until a “Buffer Available”
condition occurs. This takes place when the receiving buffer has emptied so that only 1 MB
bytes of data are being held (2.0 MB bytes from being full). At this time, DTR will go “high”
or an X-On is sent to tell the host that it can again receive data.
All printer error conditions (i.e., label out, ribbon out) will cause the printer to go busy (DTR
“low” or X-Off) until the problem is corrected and the printer is placed on-line. The printer
will also be busy if taken off-line from the front panel.
IEEE1284 PARALLEL INTERFACE
The parallel interface for the M-84PRO printers is a Plug-In Interface Module that can be
installed by the user. It conforms to the IEEE1284 specification. It will automatically detect
the IEEE1284 signals and operate in the high speed mode. If it does not detect the IEEE1284
signals, it will operate in the standard Centronics mode, which is significantly slower. For this
reason, an interface cable and host interface conforming to the IEEE1284 specification must
be present to fully utilize the speed capabilities. This interface also operates bi-directionally
and can report the status of the printer back to the host.
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Section 6. Troubleshooting
ELECTRICAL SPECIFICATIONS
Printer Connector
Cable Connector
Cable
AMP 57-40360 (DDK) or equivalent
AMP 57-30360 (DDK) or equivalent
IEEE1284 Parallel, 10 ft. (3 m) or less
Signal Level
High = +2.4V to +5.0V
Low = 0V to -0.4V
DATA STREAMS
<ESC>A . . Job#1 . . <ESC>Z<ESC>A . . Job#n . . <ESC>Z
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Section 6. Troubleshooting
RS232 SERIAL INTERFACE
The High Speed Serial Interface is a Plug-In Interface Module that can be installed in the
printer by the user.
GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS
Asynchronous ASCII
Half-duplex communication
Ready/Busy Hardware Flow Control
Pin 20, DTR Control
Pin 4, RTS Error Condition
X-On/X-Off Software Flow Control
Bi-Directional Communication
Data Transmission Rate
Character Format
9600, 19200, 38400, 57600 bps
1 Start Bit (fixed)
7 or 8 data bits (selectable)
Odd, Even or No Parity (selectable)
1 or 2 Stop bits (selectable)
ELECTRICAL SPECIFICATIONS
Connector DB-25S (Female)
Cable
DB-25P (Male), 50 ft. maximum length.
For cable configuration, refer to Cable
Requirements appropriate to the RS232C
protocol chosen.
Signal Levels
High = +5V to +12V
Low = -5V to -12V
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Section 6. Troubleshooting
PIN ASSIGNMENTS
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Section 6. Troubleshooting
CABLE REQUIREMENTS
READY/BUSY FLOW CONTROL
Ready/Busy is the hardware flow control method for the serial interface on the
M-84PRO printers. By raising/lowering the voltage level on Pin 20 of the RS232C port,
the printer notifies the host when it is ready to receive data. Pin 4 (RTS) and pin 20
(DTR) are the important signals on the printer for this method of flow control. The
host must be capable of supporting this flow control method for it to function properly.
X-ON/X-OFF FLOW CONTROL
X-On/X-Off flow control is used whenever hardware (Ready/Busy) flow control is not
available or desirable. Instead of a voltage going high/low at pin 20, control characters
representing ìPrinter Readyî (X-On =11 hexadecimal) or “Printer Busy” (X-Off = 13
hexadecimal) are transmitted by the printer on pin 2 (Transmit Data) to the host. In
order for this method of flow control to function correctly, the host must be capable of
supporting it. X-On/X-Off operates in a manner similar to the function of pin 20 (DTR)
as previously explained. When the printer is first powered on it sends an X-Off when
the “Buffer Near Full” level is reached and a X-On when the data level of the buffer
drops below the “Buffer Available” mark. When the printer is taken off-line manually, it
transmits an X-Off indicating it cannot accept data. When it is placed back on line
manually, it sends an X-On, indicating it is again available for receipt of data. If an
error occurs during printing (paper out, ribbon out), the printer sends an X-Off as soon
as an error condition is detected. When the error is cleared and the printer is placed
back on-line, it transmits an X-On indicating it is again ready to accept data. Upon
power up if no error conditions are present, the printer will continually send X-On
characters at five millisecond intervals until it receives a transmission from the host.
DATA STREAMS
The data streams for X-On/X-Off and Ready/Busy flow control are constructed in the
same way as they are for Ready/Busy flow control.
<ESC>A . . Job#1 . . <ESC>Z<ESC>A . . Job#n . . <ESC>Z
Example: <ESC>A . . Job#1 . . <ESC>Z
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Section 6. Troubleshooting
NOTE: All characters are in ASCII.
UNIVERSAL SERIAL BUS (USB) INTERFACE
The Universal Serial Bus (USB) interface is a Plug-In Interface Module that can be installed
by the user. It requires a driver (shipped with each printer that has the interface installed) that
must be loaded on your PC and the PC must be configured to support USB peripherals using
Windows 98 or above. Details for loading the USB driver are contained in the USB Interface
Manual that is shipped with each printer with a USB Optional interface installed. Up to 127
devices may be connected to a USB port using powered hubs.
GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS
Connector:
Cable:
USB Type B Plug
10 ft (3 m) max
Host:
Windows 98 or above with USB Port
ELECTRICAL SPECIFICATIONS
Power Supply:
BUS Power through cable
+5V@80ma
Power Consumption:
LOCAL AREA NETWORK (LAN) OPTIONAL INTERFACE
A Local Area Network (LAN) interface is a Plug-In Interface Module that can be installed by
the user. It requires a driver shipped with each printer that has the interface installed. The
driver that must be loaded on your PC and the PC must be configured to run one of the
supported network protocols using a 10/100BaseT LAN connection. Details for loading the
LAN driver are contained in the LAN Interface Manual that is shipped with each printer with a
LAN Optional interface installed.
GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS
Cable:
10/100BaseT Category 5
RJ-45 Receptical
Connector:
ELECTRICAL SPECIFICATIONS
Power Supply:
Powered from printer
BI-DIRECTIONAL COMMUNICATIONS
This is a two-way communications protocol between the host computer and the printer, thus
enabling the host to check printer status. When Bi-Com 4 communications is selected, there is
no busy signal from the printer. The host must request the complete status from the printer,
including ready/busy. The host may request status in two different ways.
Page 6-8
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Section 6. Troubleshooting
ENQUIRE/ACK/NAK
In the Bi-Com 4 mode, the host transmits an ENQ (05 hexadecimal) to the printer and
the printer will respond with its status within five milliseconds. If printing, it will respond
upon finishing the current label, then resume printing. In order for this protocol to work
properly with an RS232C Optional Interface, pin 6 (DTR) and pin 5 (CTS) must be
held high by the host. One way to ensure these pins are always in the correct state is to
tie pin 20 (DTR) to pin 6 (DSR) and pin 4 (RTS) to pin 5 (CTS) at the printer end of the
cable.
ENQUIRE (ENQ)
Upon receipt of an ENQ command, the printer responds with 25 bytes of status
information bounded by an STX/ETX pair. The Bi-Com protocol works only in the
Multi Job Buffer mode. The status information is defined as follows:
<STX>{ 2 Byte ID}{1 Status Byte}{6 Byte Label Remaining}{16 Byte Job Name}<ETX>
ID - This is a two byte number identifying the current print job ID. The print job ID is
defined using the <ESC>ID Job ID command transmitted with the print job (see Job ID
Store in the command listing for more information on how to use this command). The
range is from 00 to 99.
Status - A single byte defining the current status of the printer (see the Status Byte
Definition table).
Label Remaining - Six bytes defining the number of labels remaining in the current
print job. The range is from 000000 to 999999 labels.
Job Name - 16 bytes of ASCII characters identifying the name assigned to the job by
the <ESC>WK Job Name command. If the Job Name is less than 16 characters, the
field will be padded with leading zeroes.
If an ENQ is received after the print job specified in the ID bytes has been completed,
or there is no data in the buffer, the printer will respond with two “space” characters
(20 hexadecimal) for the ID number, six “zero” characters (30 hexadecimal) in the
Remaining Labels bytes and the 16 byte Job Name.
CANCEL (CAN)
If a CAN (18 hexadecimal) command is received , it will stop the print job and clear all
data from the receive and print buffers. A delay of five milliseconds or more is required
before any new data can be downloaded. The CAN command is effective immediately
upon receipt, even if the printer is off-line or in an error condition. The printer will
return an ACK (06 hexadecimal) if there is no printer error condition and a NAK (15
hexadecimal) if an error condition exists.
PRINT JOB
Upon receipt of a valid print job (<ESC>A . . . <ESC>Z), an ACK (06 hexadecimal) will
be returned by the printer if there are no errors and a NAK (16 hexadecimal) if a
printer error exists.
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Section 6. Troubleshooting
PRINT STOP (DLE)
If a DLE (10 hexadecimal) is received by the printer, the print process is stopped and
an ACK (06 hexadecimal) is returned if there are no errors and a NAK (16
hexadecimal) if a printer error exists.
PRINT START (DC1)
If the printer has been stopped by receipt of a DLE (10 hexadecimal) command, it can
be restarted by sending a DC1 (hexadecimal 11) command. Upon receipt of this
command an ACK (06 hexadecimal) is returned if there are no errors and a NAK (16
hexadecimal) if a printer error exists.
Note:To provide compatibility with older SATO printers, the RS232C interface can be
configured to use an earlier Bi-Com 3 ENQ/ACK/NAK protocol selected via DSW2-8
and DSW1-7/8 (on the RS232 Interface module).The earlier protocol did not have
provisions for the Job Name and did not respond to the DLE or DCI commands. Also,
there are additional Response Codes in the Status Byte Definition. It is recommended
that you use the current protocol rather than the earlier version unless it is necessary
for compatibility with existing software.
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SECTION 7.
OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES
This section contains instructions for using the following features:
• PCMCIA Memory Cards
• Plug-In Interface Modules
• Cutter
• Dispenser
• Label Rewinder
• Real Time Clock
• Flash Memory Expansion
PCMCIA MEMORY CARDS
DESCRIPTION
The Memory Card Option provides the connectors and interface board for one PCMCIA memory cards
slots. The printer memory can be expanded up to 16MB.
Type
SRAM or Flash-ROM
Applicable Specifications
Size
PCMCIA Version 2.1 (JEIDA Version 4.1)
Up to 4 MB SRAM or 16MB Flash ROM
Connector Pins
Battery
68
Two years for SRAM type (approximately)
Write Protect
Low Battery Detect
Yes
Yes (SRAM only)
INSTALLATION
Instructions for installing the Memory Card Option are included with the installation kit.
ERROR HANDLING
Memory Card error conditions are indicated to the operator using a combination of the LCD panel, the
ERROR LED on the front panel and the audible indicator.
SATO M-84PRO
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Section 7. Optional Accessories
ERROR DESCRIPTION
INDICATION
REMEDY
Low Battery - Low battery ERROR LED: Blinking
Depress LINE key to print
Card Status.
condition is detected
when printer is powered
on.
Audible Beep: 1 long
Display: Card Low
Battery
Replace Memory Card
battery. Note that all data
will be lost when the
battery is removed.
Card R/W Error
ERROR LED: On
Audible Beep: 1 long
1 Insert card into selected
slot.
1 No card is inserted.
2 Card is write protected. Display:
3 Invalid store/recall
number.
4 Card has not been
initialized.
Card R/W Error 2 Remove write protect
tab.
3 Correct program
4 Initialize card with BJF
command.
Printer must be powered off to
reset.
Warning
Audible Beep: 1 short
Display: None
1 Correct program.
2 Correct program.
3 Use card with more
capacity.
1 Duplicate number.
2 Data not in print area.
3 Data overflows card
memory.
Printer will ignore invalid
commands.
PLUG-IN INTERFACE MODULES
The Series “e” and PRO printers have user changable Plug-In Interface Modules. The Interface Module is
accessible from the Rear Panel and is retained by two screws. Use the following procedure to replace an
interface molule.
1. Turn power off both the printer and the host and remove the power and interface cables.
WARNING: Never connect or disconnect interface cables (or use a switch box) with power
applied to either the host or the printer. This may cause damage to the interface
circuitry and is not covered by warranty.
2. Remove the two Interface Module Retaining Screws.
3. Grasp the Interface Module and pull it out of the connector.
4. Place the new Interface Module in the slot and press inward firmly until it is properly seated.
5. Replace the two Interface Card Retaining Screws.
6. If the new Interface Module is for a serial interface, set DSW1 for the proper operation.
7. Connect the interface cable to the connector
Page 7-2
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Section 7. Optional Accessories
CUTTER
The label cutter consists of an internal mechanism that will cut labels or tags as they exit from the printer.
The cutter can be used to print labels of various lengths using continuous form label/tag stock or to easily
separate labels when there is no perforation at the label gap.
OPERATOR SETUP
The following steps should be taken to set up the label cutter.
1. Install the label cutter, following the instructions provided with the unit.
2. Power the printer ON.
3. The printer must be configured to use the Label Cutter option. Switches DSW3-1 and DSW3-2 on the
front panel are used to configure the printer. To enable the cutter, DSW3-1 should be in the ON
position and DSW3-2 should bein the OFF position.
4. Open the Print Head Assembly and feed the edge of the labels/tags into the cutter assembly and out
between the label cutters.
NOTE: Although the cutting blade is fairly well protected, be careful as you feed labels into the
cutter area. You may want to have the printer powered OFF at this point.
5. Close the Print Head Assembly and place the printer on-line.
6. The Label Cutter is ready for use.
7. Adjust the cut position using the backfeed adjustment procedures outlined in Section 2. Installation.
GENERAL OPERATION
The data stream to be sent to the printer may need to be altered to add the Cutter Command. If this
command is not used, the cutter will default to cut after every label assuming it has been enabled in the
printer configuration. For more details, see the “e” and PRO Printer Programming Reference. As the
labels are printed, they will be cut based on the the data supplied using the cutter command.
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Section 7. Optional Accessories
LABEL DISPENSE OPTION
The M-84PRO Label Dispense Option is an external mechanism that provides the ability to print
labels in the “demand” mode. It is attached to front of the printer. When the label dispenser is installed and
configured for operation, the printer dispenses one label at a time, peeling the backing from the label,
which allows for immediate application to the product by the operator.
OPERATOR SETUP
The following steps should be taken to set up the Label Dispense Option.
1. Install the option using the instructions provided with the unit. The installation time is approximately
30 minutes.
2. Power the printer ON.
3. The printer must be configured to used the label dispenser option. Switches DSW3-1 and DSW3-2 on
the front panel are used to configure the printer. To enable the dispenser, both DSW3-1 and DSW3-
2 should be in the ON position.
4. Remove enough labels from the backing paper to provide 12 inches of backing free from labels.
5. Open the Print Head assembly and feed the backing paper through the print area in the normal
manner.
6. At the label exit area, feed the backing paper down and behind the Knurled Roller, then back
down and around the Backing Roller.
7. Close the Print Head and place the printer on-line.
8. The Label Dispense Option is ready for use.
GENERAL OPERATION
Send your data stream in the normal manner to the printer. Labels should print one at a time, even if your
print quantity command requests more than one label. As the labels are printed and presented for the
operator to remove, the backing paper will be rewound on the spindle. The next label will only print after
removing the current label from the label exit path.
Note: The label dispenser will function only if it has been enabled using the front panel switches
(DSW3-1 and DSW3-2 in the ON positions).
The Label Taken Sensor is adjusted at the factory for the optimal setting for most label material.
However, the use of labels with a substantially different opacity may require that the threshold be adjusted.
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Section 7. Optional Accessories
LABEL REWINDER
The rewinder is an external unit that allows for labels and tags to be rewound in rolls up to 8.5 inches in
diameter. It derives its power directly from the printerÌs EXT connector using a built-in cable. The
rewinder provides the ability to rewind tags/labels from the printer and subsequently be unwound for later
use with applicators.
INSTALLATION
1. Position the Rewinder at the front of the printer and align it with the label slot. (The Rewind
Wheel/Spindle should be positioned away from the printer.)
2. Connect the built-in cable from the Rewinder to the EXT connector at the rear of the printer.
3. On the Rewinder, remove the metal clamp from the Rewind Spindle.
4. Feed the lead end of the label stock under the first spindle and onto the Rewind Spindle. Feed
the stock around the spindle once, then replace the metal clamp over the label stock. Wind
another revolution to ensure the labels are secure on the spindle.
5. Select the REWIND option on the rewinder, then set the power switch to ON. (The printer must be
powered ON for the rewinder to function.)
REMOVING AND UNWINDING THE ROLL
As labels are printed, tension from the rewinder should keep the label stock taut as it wraps itself on the
spindle.
To remove the roll from the spindle, first set the power switch to OFF. Remove the metal clamp, then
remove the rewound roll of labels.
To unwind for using with an applicator, first set the power switch OFF. Attach the lead edge of the labels
from the rewind spindle to the applicator entry point. Select the WIND option on the rewinder, and when
ready to begin, set the power switch to ON.
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Section 7. Optional Accessories
REAL TIME CLOCK
The Real Time ClockOption allows the date and time to be maintained in the local printer rat er
than using the system clock. It consists of a special clock chip that replaces the EPROM on the
main pcb assembly. A qualified technician should perform the upgrade as it requires modifications
to the main PCB assembly. Please call SATO Technical Support if you need to add this option to an
existing printer in the field.
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