ABLE Systems Ap863 User manual
USER GUIDE
to the
Ap863
Thermal Printer
(Including Operator Guide)
Revision: “3.1”
Filename: “ap863usg31.doc”
Date: “07 Aug. 2002”
ABLE Systems Limited
DENTON DRIVE, NORTHWICH, CHESHIRE, CW9 7TU, ENGLAND
Tel: +44 (0)1606 48621 Fax:+44 (0)1606 44903
Ap863 Users’ Guide Page 2of 18
1TABLE OF CONTENTS
1Table Of Contents...............................................................................................................2
2Introduction ........................................................................................................................3
2.1 Notes on Printer Firmware Revisions (Including Flash).......................................................3
2.2 Copyright Notice And Disclaimer.......................................................................................3
2.3 Documentation Revision History .......................................................................................3
2.4 Accessories and Options..................................................................................................4
3Modes Of Operation............................................................................................................5
3.1 Idle Mode........................................................................................................................5
3.2 Sleep Mode.....................................................................................................................5
3.3 Spooling Mode ................................................................................................................5
3.4 Continuous Operation......................................................................................................6
4Battery Packs and Power Supplies.......................................................................................7
4.1 Overview Of Power Pack Options .....................................................................................7
4.2 Removing And Replacing The Power Pack .......................................................................7
4.3 Battery Pack Handling Precautions ...................................................................................8
4.4 Battery Pack Environmental Concerns ..............................................................................8
4.5 Battery Pack Types And Capacity.....................................................................................8
4.6 Battery Pack Recharging..................................................................................................8
4.7 Vehicle Adaptor Power Pack............................................................................................9
4.8 OEM 5-7.5V DC Adaptor pack..........................................................................................9
5Paper............................................................................................................................... 10
5.1 Loading Paper............................................................................................................... 10
5.2 Paper Out and Paper Low Sensors................................................................................. 10
5.3 Removing Paper or Clearing a Jam................................................................................. 11
6Led Indications ................................................................................................................. 12
7Printer Operation and Programming................................................................................... 13
7.1 Data Buffer.................................................................................................................... 13
7.2 Spooling Mode .............................................................................................................. 13
7.3 Serial Interface (Standard RS-232 Version)..................................................................... 13
7.4 Serial Interface (TTL Version)......................................................................................... 13
7.5 Character Printing.......................................................................................................... 14
7.6 Graphics Printing........................................................................................................... 14
8Connections and EMC Precautions.................................................................................... 15
8.1 Connector Details.......................................................................................................... 15
8.2 Combined Data/Charger Adaptor Cables ........................................................................ 15
8.3 Battery Charger Details.................................................................................................. 16
8.4 EMC Statement ............................................................................................................. 16
8.5 EMC Caution................................................................................................................. 16
9Getting Started................................................................................................................. 17
9.1 Connecting to a PC – A Checklist................................................................................... 17
9.2 Windows™ Printer Drivers ............................................................................................. 18
9.3 Your Application Program............................................................................................... 18
9.4 On-Line Information....................................................................................................... 18
9.5 If All Else Fails............................................................................................................... 18
Ap863 Users’ Guide Page 3of 18
2INTRODUCTION
This document is a User Guide, written for the person connecting and using the Able Systems Ap863
thermal printer. Please read this Guide carefully before making any connection. Appended to this
document is an Operator Guide, which is suitable for copying and presenting to end-users.
A separate Programmer Guide provides details of the control codes, and describes the internal
operation of this product.
The Ap863 is part of the Ap800 Series of electronic printers and shares many features of the range.
2.1 NOTES ON PRINTER FIRMWARE REVISIONS (INCLUDING FLASH)
Able Systems reserves the right to modify and improve the firmware in its printer products at any time.
Whilst every effort is made to ensure backward compatibility, no guarantee in this respect is given or
implied.
During 2002 the Ap863-F will be improved to include a flash-reprogramable microcontroller. This will
give the added benefit of allowing firmware upgrades under customer control. Refer to the factory for
more information.
2.2 COPYRIGHT NOTICE AND DISCLAIMER
Copyright subsists in all Able Systems intellectual property, including controller firmware (embedded
software) and circuit diagrams, pin connection lists and application data. No warranty in respect of
patent rights of Able Systems Limited or of third parties is given. Unauthorised reproduction or
amendment of controller firmware may result in prosecution.
Design Registration of the Ap863 printer has been applied for.
EPSON is a registered mark of its owner Seiko Epson Corporation. References to this or other
owners' marks in this document are for illustrative purposes only.
Able Systems do not assume responsibility for interchangeable functionality of other parties'
command sets.
2.3 DOCUMENTATION REVISION HISTORY
Title (and Revision Number) Issue Date Comments
User Guide to the Ap863 09 Aug 2001 Original release
User Guide to the Ap863 (Rev 2) 15 Oct 2001 Corrected images of power packs in section 4.1
User Guide to the Ap863 (Rev 3.0) 01 May 2002 Added this Revision History
Added flash firmware information in section 2
Added Accessory summary information in section 2
Added OEM power pack in section 4
User Guide to the Ap863 (Rev 3.1) 09 July 2002 Added TTL interface version in section 7
Other minor layout changes
Ap863 Users’ Guide Page 4of 18
2.4 ACCESSORIES AND OPTIONS
The following table details full Able Systems part codes for products related to the Ap863 printer:
ASL Product Code Description
07-AP863 Standard RS-232 serial printer
07-AP863-TTL As above, with TTL serial interface
Printers
04-A05848TPR1 Thermal Paper Roll (48 mm dia, 25 m long approx)
04-A05860TPR1 Thermal Paper Roll (60 mm dia, 45 m long approx)
Paper
07-AP800BP-01 Battery Pack (950 mAH NiCd)
07-AP800-MHBP Battery Pack (1300 mAH NiMH)
07-AP800-PSA Universal mains PSU adaptor
07-AP800DC-DC 12V Vehicle PSU adaptor
07-AP800-OEMPSA Unterminated OEM 5-7.5V DC adaptor pack
Power
Packs
07-BC801B UK plug style charger (for use with battery pack only)
07-BC801E Euro plug style charger (for use with battery pack only)
07-BC801A USA plug style charger (for use with battery pack only)
Chargers
07-AP800-BOC Unterminated OEM cable for data and charger input
07-AP800-BDC Combined data and charger cable with D-25 for direct PC connection
07-AP800-9W-BDC Combined data and charger cable with D-9 for direct PC connection
Parallel data convertor cable for direct PC connection
Cables and
Adaptors
IrDA convertor cable for direct PC connection
Ap863 Users’ Guide Page 5of 18
3MODES OF OPERATION
The Ap863 has three operating modes, when not actually printing:
Ÿ"Idle Mode": ready to accept data, but no data are in the buffer awaiting printing, and the
printer motor is not running;
Ÿ“Sleep Mode": effectively switched off and awaiting either a press on the paper feed button,
connection of the external charger, or some external data to exit sleep mode and enter idle
mode;
Ÿ"Spooling Mode": active, but storing data for later printing.
Modes are indicated by different colour combinations on the front-panel LED (see section 6).
No light is emitted in sleep mode.
No hardware power switch is fitted, as power control is either automatic or by command from the host
computer. To save power, the printer enters sleep mode after a period of inactivity, factory-set to 30
seconds, but programmable from the host. It can also be programmed to stay idle indefinitely or to go
to sleep on command.
3.1 IDLE MODE
In idle mode, the printer is ready to receive data, which will be printed as soon as complete lines or
graphics patterns are decoded. It responds to the paper feed button in the normal way, and can also
produce a demonstration print (see below). Power consumption is such that a fully-charged battery
pack would last up to 10 hours, but the printer will normally switch from idle mode into sleep mode
when there is no activity, extending battery life.
3.2 SLEEP MODE
In sleep mode, power consumption is negligible, but data stored in the buffer are lost. Special
routines allow for data to be printed out automatically before going to sleep. User programmable
settings such as Baud rate and operational preferences are, however, retained during sleep mode or
battery replacement. The system designer can maximise battery life by arranging that the printer is
generally in sleep mode, except when printing or sending status data.
The printer enters sleep mode as follows:
Ÿby command from the host;
Ÿat the end of the (programmable) period of inactivity.
But, the Ap863 will never enter sleep mode when:
Ÿa charger is connected;
Ÿin spooling mode (see below);
The printer is woken up from sleep mode as follows:
Ÿby a data stream from the host: a certain period of logical '0' bits is required, typically a
string of 50 NUL characters at 9,600 Baud. These data will be lost. There is a delay of up
to 100 ms before the serial output lines are established and the printer is ready to accept
data;
Ÿby pressing and releasing the paper feed button;
Ÿby connecting the external battery charger.
When the Ap863 is used with either the direct mains powered PSU or the direct vehicle adaptor, no
external charger is required. However, making a connection from a PC handshaking output (DTR or
CSR) to the ‘Charger’ input may be used to force the Ap863 to wake and sleep under PC control.
3.3 SPOOLING MODE
In spooling mode, data is received and stored, but not printed. This is useful when printing needs to
be suppressed during data transfer (for example in mobile radio systems); or when the paper needs
to be changed, or a jam cleared, and the buffer contains data.
The buffer will automatically enter spooling mode by a paper low condition (this is selectable); it can
also enter spooling mode by a command from the host.
The spooling mode is exited by a command from the host; or, the paper feed button being double-
clicked (see below). Any stored data will then be printed out. Power consumption in spooling mode is
similar to that in idle mode.
Ap863 Users’ Guide Page 6of 18
3.4 CONTINUOUS OPERATION
The Ap863 has an intelligent regulator to control battery charging from an external +12 V DC charger.
Please see Section 8.3 for the charger specification, or Section 4 for an overview of the available
Power Pack Options.
Ap863 Users’ Guide Page 7of 18
4BATTERY PACKS AND POWER SUPPLIES
4.1 OVERVIEW OF POWER PACK OPTIONS
The options for powering the Ap863 may be summarised as follows:
A. a battery pack, (see section ‘4.5 Battery Pack Types And Capacity’), with optional external
charger (see section ‘8.3 Battery Charger Details’), and optional cable (see section ‘8.2 Combined
Data/Charger Adaptor Cables)
B. a mains powered PSU (Universal mains input with 2-pin IEC mains socket)
(ASL Product Code AP800-PSA)
C. a vehicle adaptor suitable for direct connection to a vehicle supply (see section ‘4.7 Direct Vehicle
Adaptor Power Pack’)
(ASL Product Code AP800DC-DC)
D. an OEM 5-7.5V DC adaptor pack (see section ‘4.8 OEM 5-7.5V DC Adaptor pack’)
In each case the Ap863 requires data input from a host, as illustrated in the sketches below:
(A)(B)(C & D)
All four options are housed in the same type of replaceable pack, which clips into the underside of the
printer and can be changed in a few seconds by the user. In each case, the primary power for the
printer comes from this replaceable pack.
When used with a battery pack (option A), the printer can operate with, or without, an external charger
connected. If required, the charger can be operated continuously to keep the battery fully charged,
although a high printing duty cycle may reduce the charge in the battery.
N.B. Operation from the charger alone is not possible: a battery pack must always be fitted.
Battery packs are normally supplied discharged for safety reasons.
When the Ap863 is used with the direct mains powered PSU (option B), or the direct vehicle adaptor
(option C), an external charger is not required. However, making a connection to the ‘Charger’ input
will not damage the printer, and may be used to force the Ap863 to wake and sleep as required.
4.2 REMOVING AND REPLACING THE POWER PACK
WARNING! Refer to section ‘4.3 Battery Pack Handling Precautions’.
To Remove the pack from the printer:
ŸLift the rear edge (marked by three moulded bars) and overcome the “click” detent. This may
be quite stiff with a new printer and pack.
ŸSlide the pack towards the rear of the printer, and lift it out.
Ap863 Users’ Guide Page 8of 18
To Replace the pack:
ŸThe pack will only fit one way. First insert the edge with the gold metallic contacts, and then
tilt the rear (sloping) edge downwards so that the pack enters the printer recess in a sliding
motion. Press the pack into the printer until a distinct “click” is felt.
ŸAfter replacement of the pack, the printer will be in sleep mode.
CAUTION: Take care not to damage the exposed metal contacts within the printer while changing the
power pack. Do not touch these metal contacts, or the gold contacts on the power pack, as this may
impair operation.
4.3 BATTERY PACK HANDLING PRECAUTIONS
WARNING! Battery Handling Precautions
The battery contacts are recessed, and the pack is fitted with an internal safety fuse, but the
user must take care to avoid short-circuiting the contacts, by preventing them from touching
any metallic object. For example, the battery pack should never be carried loose in a pocket where it
could rub against coins, keys or other metallic objects.
Short-circuiting the contacts of the battery pack will cause a heavy current to flow, which may lead to
excessive heating of the battery pack or any metallic objects connected to it. This could cause burns,
or start a fire.
WARNING! Do Not Try To Open The Battery Pack
The standard battery pack contains five Nickel-Cadmium Cells. Cadmium is a potentially
toxic heavy metal, and exposing the cells increases the risk of leakage or short-circuiting.
CAUTION: It is strongly recommended that the external charger is disconnected whenever the battery
pack is removed or replaced.
4.4 BATTERY PACK ENVIRONMENTAL CONCERNS
Please observe local standards for the handling, transport and disposal of Nickel-Cadmium Cells.
Regulations prohibit the disposal of Nickel-Cadmium Cells in certain countries. Complete battery
packs may be returned, at the user’s risk and expense, to Able Systems for ecological recycling.
Consult the factory for details.
4.5 BATTERY PACK TYPES AND CAPACITY
Two types of battery pack are currently available for use with the Ap863. These are:
Ÿ950 mAH NiCd (ASL Product Code AP800BP-01)
Ÿ1300 mAH NiMH (ASL Product Code AP800-MHBP)
The capacity of a fully charged NiCd pack will normally be sufficient to print normal text along about
two full rolls of paper. However, the amount of printing which can be achieved depends greatly on the
printing density, idle time and other factors such as the ambient temperature and the history of the
battery pack. The NiMH pack capacity may be found to be greater in some applications, but the
lifetime will normally be shorter.
With the printer awake but idle, a fully charged battery would last for up to 10 hours, but the built-in
sleep mode shuts down the printer completely, reducing energy consumption to a negligible rate.
In the event of the battery becoming exhausted, the printer will automatically protect its own control
circuitry by entering sleep mode if the instantaneous battery voltage drops below a threshold (e.g.
during a particularly heavy section of print). In this case data stored in the buffer is lost.
4.6 BATTERY PACK RECHARGING
The battery pack can be recharged while installed in the Ap863. A flat battery can normally be
completely recharged in about 15 hours at the normal rate. (See section ‘8.3 Battery Charger
Details’). If it is not convenient to recharge the pack within the printer, it may be exchanged for a fully-
charged pack (see section ‘4.2 Removing and Replacing the Power Pack’). The discharged pack can
then be recharged in the printer at another time. A separate charging unit will be available, so that
multiple packs can be recharged while the printer remains in use.
The battery pack should be capable of between 500 and 1000 complete charge and discharge cycles,
though this may be reduced in very repetitive applications. If a particular battery pack appears not to
Ap863 Users’ Guide Page 9of 18
be holding charge as well as expected, it may be worn out and should be replaced by a new one.
Please consult the factory for further details and recommended battery treatment.
During battery charging, the printer may become quite warm. This can crease the paper within the
mechanism. The system designer may wish to feed out some paper before printing begins, either
controlled from the host, or by the user pressing the paper feed button.
4.7 VEHICLE ADAPTOR POWER PACK
The Direct Vehicle Adaptor Power Pack is designed to be operated from a standard +12V ( Negative
Earth) vehicle power source. It must be connected on a cable loom which is capable of supplying
10A and have a 10A in-line fuse in the positive connection.
Electrical Specification
Input Voltage Range: +11v to +18v (with over-voltage spike protection)
Supply Current Requirement: 2mA ( Printer in Sleep Mode )
( typical ) 100mA ( Printer in Idle Mode )
3A average ( Printer Printing )
10A peak ( Printer Printing )
N.B. The average and peak current requirements can be adjusted by firmware control codes.
See the Programmer Guide or contact Able Systems for details.
Printer Side Connector: Molex Mini-Fit Junior Series 2 way
Part Number: 39-01-2021
Fitted with Molex Crimp Terminal
Part Number 39-00-0041
User Side Connector: Molex Mini-Fit Junior Series 2way
Part Number: 39-01-2020
Recommended Molex Crimp Terminal (for the above connector)
Part Number: 39-00-0039 (2 off required)
4.8 OEM 5-7.5V DC ADAPTOR PACK
The Direct ‘Raw DC’ Input Power Pack is designed to be operated from a 5V to 7.5V voltage source
which is capable of supplying the primary power for the printer. It must be connected on a cable loom
which is capable of supplying 10A and have a 10A in-line fuse in the positive connection.
Electrical Specification
Input Voltage Range: +5.0V to +7.5V (without any over-voltage or reversal protection)
Supply Current Requirement: 2mA ( Printer in Sleep Mode )
( typical ) 100mA ( Printer in Idle Mode )
3A average ( Printer Printing )
10A peak ( Printer Printing )
N.B. The average and peak current requirements can be adjusted by firmware control codes.
See the Programmer Guide or contact Able Systems for details.
Printer Side Connector: This product has a cable with pre-stripped and tinned ends ready for
connection to the host PSU.
Ap863 Users’ Guide Page 10of 18
5PAPER
Pressing the paper feed button when the printer is idle advances paper at up to 50 mm per second,
depending on the battery voltage. However, the feed button has several additional functions:
A single press and release of the button:
Ÿin idle or spooling mode, advances paper (in steps of 1/16 mm);
Ÿin sleep mode, wakes up the printer into idle mode;
"Double-clicking*" the button:
Ÿin idle mode, prints a demo/test message including the firmware version, encoded
calibration data, and the full character set;
Ÿin spooling mode, or having been out of paper, prints any stored data and enters idle mode.
* Double-clicking means pressing and releasing twice in quick succession. The double-click period is like that of a PC mouse.
Some of the functions of the paper feed button can be invoked or disabled under control of the host.
5.1 LOADING PAPER
The paper roll is normally supplied separately to avoid unrolling or damage in transit.
Paper rolls must be 57.5 ± 0.5 mm wide, 60 mm maximum diameter and have the thermally sensitive
coating on the outside.
Suitable rolls are available as ASL Product Codes:
04-A05848TPR1 Thermal Paper Roll (48 mm dia, 25 m long approx)
04-A05860TPR1 Thermal Paper Roll (60 mm dia, 45 m long approx)
Discard a few turns in case they have been damaged or have glue on. Mount the roll between the
bosses in the paper holder area: the right-hand boss is on a sprung support. The paper must flow
from the bottom of the roll.
Auto-loading paper
In the Ap863, there should be no need to raise the
paper release lever when loading paper. Switch
on the printer by pressing the paper feed button
once. Prepare the end of the paper into a clean
edge at right-angles, and introduce it into the rear
of the mechanism, between the rubber roller and
the metal strip, and press gently so that the
mechanism grips the paper and feeds it through. There is an optical sensor which “sees” the paper
and will drive the motor for a predetermined time. If the paper fails to grip and advance the paper,
withdraw the paper and try again. When it reappears above the rubber, press the paper feed button,
and allow enough to feed through for good alignment, thread the paper through the exit slot and close
the lid.
Check that the paper still advances properly, and tear off any excess by pulling the paper sharply
towards you across the serrated edges. In the event of a jam or other paper loading problem, raise
the paper release lever (as shown in the diagram) and carefully withdraw the paper, checking that no
scraps have been left in the mechanism. Discard any damaged paper from the end of the roll, lower
the paper release lever, and try again.
If for some reason the auto-loading feature fails to operate, either press the paper feed button while
introducing the paper to the mechanism, or (for example, if the paper must be changed when the
battery is flat) raise the paper release lever, and feed the paper through the mechanism by hand.
5.2 PAPER OUT AND PAPER LOW SENSORS
A reflective optical paper sensor within the mechanism of the Ap863 printer detects the presence of
paper, and is used to enable auto-loading as above. It can also be used to identify an out-of-paper
(as opposed to paper low) condition, and/or to sense black marks to register with pre-printed forms.
Paper roll
Printer
mechanism
Metal
Grey plastic
Paper loading path
Paper release
lever (up)
strip
Ap863 Users’ Guide Page 11of 18
A mechanical/optical paper sensor acts on the left-hand face of the paper roll, and switches when a
few metres of paper remain. To avoid spurious 'paper low' reports, ensure that the roll is correctly
located on the bosses, and that the right-hand paper support has returned to the vertical position. A
foam pad is fitted behind the right-hand support on some models to maintain the correct pressure.
Either or both of these paper sensors may be set up under software control to report these conditions
by serial data to the host or changes in the LED colour patterns. Please refer to the Programmers’
Guide for details of how to set up the Ap863 for these functions.
The Ap863 can be programmed to enter spooling mode if the paper runs low (see Section 7.2 of this
Guide). To exit the spooling mode and print out any stored data, double-click the paper feed button
(see above). Please refer to the Programmers’ Guide for details of how to set up the Ap863 for these
functions.
5.3 REMOVING PAPER OR CLEARING A JAM
If some paper remains in the printer when a new roll is required or a paper jam has occurred, you
need to take special care not to pull the paper out of the printer in a reverse direction.
CAUTION: Always raise the paper release lever (a bright green lever at the right hand side of
the mechanism) before removing paper. Do not pull the paper in either direction
without first raising the lever, or you may cause permanent damage.
When it is necessary to remove the paper from the mechanism, for example when replacing the paper
before the end of a roll, or to clear a paper jam, proceed as follows:
ŸTear off any paper coming out of the paper exit slot
ŸOpen the printer cover, and lift the bright green paper release lever
ŸCarefully pull the paper back out of the mechanism
ŸLoad a new roll of paper as described above
ŸDouble-clicking the paper feed button will print out any stored data, if the printer was in
spooling mode. Refer to Section 7.2.
Ap863 Users’ Guide Page 12of 18
6LED INDICATIONS
The LED indicator at the front of the Ap863 has a number of colour combinations, which repeat in up
to a 4-phase pattern to provide status information (see tables below).
Generally, if the LED is flashing on and off, it indicates that the Ap863 is running from its battery pack;
steady illumination means that the battery is charging. Green confirms that all is normal; orange
advises that the paper is low or the printer is in spooling mode; red warns of a low battery.
For USA/Medical applications, the red indication is inappropriate, and a modified LED pattern is
implemented. This does not distinguish the spooling mode, and has fewer colour combinations.
No light indicates that the unit is in sleep mode, has a flat battery, or has no battery fitted.
LED Pattern Table, European/Standard Version
Pattern Battery Paper Buffer Mode
Green Charging OK Normal
Green Orange Green Orange Charging Low Normal
Orange Charging *Spooling
Green Off Green Off Running OK Normal
Green Off Orange Off Running Low Normal
Orange Off Orange Off Running *Spooling
Red Off Red Off Low OK Normal
Red Off Orange Off Low Low, or Spooling
No light Flat, or in sleep mode
* (Spooling may have resulted from paper becoming low. Refer to Section 7.2)
Although this table may seem complicated, few applications will actually produce many of the
combinations.
LED Pattern Table, USA/Medical Version
Pattern Battery Paper
Green (continuously ‘on’) Charging OK
Green (long ‘on’ period) Off Running OK
Green Off (long ‘off’ period) Low OK
Orange (continuously ‘on’) Charging Low
Orange (long ‘on’ period) Off Running Low
Orange Off (long ‘off’ period) Low Low
No light Flat, or in sleep mode
Other LED Patterns
Other LED patterns may be programmed into the Ap863 on request or by the system designer.
Please refer to the Programmers’ Guide for details of how to set up the Ap863 for these functions.
Ap863 Users’ Guide Page 13of 18
7PRINTER OPERATION AND PROGRAMMING
The Ap863 has an EPSON M-T102 printer mechanism, with a fixed (parallel) print head with 384
horizontally-arranged thermal elements. The paper is advanced by a stepper motor, and printing
takes place in a single dot row for each step of the paper. Each printed dot is approximately 1/8 mm
square. The printing speed and dot density are controlled according to the battery voltage and the
head temperature.
Alternative printing modes, including graphics, are invoked by 'Escape' sequences. Control codes
and status report protocols are described in detail in the Programmers' Guide, available as a separate
document.
7.1 DATA BUFFER
The Ap863 has a nominal 20k byte buffer to optimise throughput: this enables data to be received into
the buffer while previous lines are being printed. Printing will be initiated on receipt of a valid logical
line of data or a complete graphics pattern.
The buffer may be cleared by data command or by a hardware reset. A partially full line will be
printed on receipt of an appropriate control code, or after a programmable timeout delay.
7.2 SPOOLING MODE
Spooling mode can be entered under command from the host. It can also be programmed to be
entered automatically when the paper runs low, or completely out. This makes it easier to change the
roll without losing data (refer to Section 5).
In spooling mode, the buffered data are stored without being printed until the mode is exited by:
Ÿa command from the host;
Ÿthe paper feed button being double-clicked.
7.3 SERIAL INTERFACE (STANDARD RS-232 VERSION)
The serial interface Baud rate is factory set to 9,600 Baud, and the data format should be 8 data bits,
1 or 2 stop bits, and no parity (see Section 8 for connection details); other baud rates can be
programmed by control codes. Serial data is expected in standard RS-232C format with -12V
meaning 'mark' or '1' and +12V a logical '0', with reference to the common ground. The serial data
output line, TxD, transmits XON/XOFF and status information to the host at the same Baud rate and
in the same format as the serial data input. The hardware busy line is true (nominal -12V) when busy.
Both serial output lines will relax to approximately 0V when the Ap863 is in sleep mode, and the user
must allow a short period after awakening before relying on the values of these signals.
Some host equipment use a constant space condition (+12V) to indicate a reset condition or wait
state. Some battery powered host equipment present the same output signal when they go to sleep.
The Ap863 can be set to ignore this condition as detailed in the Programmer’s Guide, but even then
this type of host behaviour may result in one or more spurious characters being received by the
Ap863, or the Ap863 may be prevented from going to sleep.
7.4 SERIAL INTERFACE (TTL VERSION)
As an option the Ap863 may be ordered with a TTL serial interface. In this version, the data format is
identical to the RS-232 version described above. However, the voltage levels are different.
Serial data is expected on RxD in TTL format with +5V meaning 'mark' or logical '1', and 0V meaning
‘space’ or logical '0', with reference to the common ground. The serial data output line, TxD, transmits
XON/XOFF and status information to the host at the same baud rate and format as the serial data
input. The hardware busy line, Busy, is true (nominally +5V) when busy. Both serial output lines will
relax to approximately 0V when the Ap863-TTL is in sleep mode, and the user must allow a short
period after awakening before relying on the values of these signals.
Some host equipment use a constant space condition (0V) to indicate a reset condition or wait state.
Some battery powered host equipment present the same output signal when they go to sleep. The
Ap863-TTL can be set to ignore this condition as detailed in the Programmer’s Guide, but even then
this type of host behaviour may result in one or more spurious characters being received by the
Ap863-TTL.
Ap863 Users’ Guide Page 14of 18
The idle condition of the TTL RxD signal is +5V. This condition also causes the Ap863-TTL to wake
up and prevents it from going to sleep. If the Ap863-TTL is required to go to sleep then the host
equipment must be configured to output 0V.
7.5 CHARACTER PRINTING
Several character fonts are supported, the default 32-column character set being formed from a
24x10 dot matrix. The standard 224 IBM® character set (Code Page 437) includes graphics
characters, which are extended to link up in both axes where appropriate. The character set has been
modified to include the Euro symbol (‘€’) at position 80H (128 Decimal), in place of the usual capital C
with cedilla (‘Ç’).
Text can be printed in various combinations of single or double width, single or double height,
inverted, underlined, and with other attributes. Text and dot- addressable graphics can be mixed
within a line.
7.6 GRAPHICS PRINTING
Various dot-addressable graphics modes are supported, at up to 384 dots per line. Refer to the
Programmer’s Guide for full details. The Windows driver operates in the graphics mode.
Ap863 Users’ Guide Page 15of 18
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8CONNECTIONS AND EMC PRECAUTIONS
8.1 CONNECTOR DETAILS
A single socket on the rear of the printer combines all data and charger functions.
Printer side: Hosiden TCS7167 6-way Socket (mini-DIN style)
User side: Hosiden TCP7160 6-way Plug & Cable or equivalent
Pin Function AP800-BOC Colour (typical*)
1TxD Data Output Red
2BUSY Output White
3RxD Data Input Black
4No Connection Yellow
5Ground ( 0V) Blue
6Charger (+12V) Green
Screen Frame Ground Screen (separately sheathed,
may be coloured)
Connector viewed from rear of printer. * Cable colours may vary, and the user should verify by measurement.
8.2 COMBINED DATA/CHARGER ADAPTOR CABLES
Various cables with the Hosiden plug pre-fitted at one end are available. The other end of each type
of cable has the following termination:
Ÿunterminated OEM cable (ASL Product Code AP800-BOC)
ŸD-25 data socket and charger jack socket (ASL Product Code AP800-BDC)
ŸD-9 data socket and charger jack socket (ASL Product Code AP800-9W-BDC)
The AP800-BDC and AP800-9W-BDC are intended for direct connection to PC COM: ports, and
direct connection with the battery chargers detailed in section ‘8.3 Battery Charger Details‘.
Both the AP800-BDC and AP800-9W-BDC cables feature a co-axial charger socket as follows:
Pin Dimension (mm) Function Ap863 Pin
Inner Inside Ø 2.1 Positive /Charger (+12V )6
Outer Outside Ø 5.5 Negative/Common ( 0V )5
The AP800-BDC features a D-25 Female socket with the following pinout:
D-25 Pin Name Function (refers to PC) Ap863 Pin
1FGND Frame Ground Screen
2TxD Serial Data Output 3
3RxD Serial Data Input 1
5 & 6 CTS & DSR Busy Input 2
7SGND Signal Common 0V 5
The AP800-9W-BDC features a D-9 Female socket with the following pinout:
D-9 Pin Name Function (refers to PC) Ap863 Pin
Shell FGND Frame Ground Screen
3TxD Serial Data Output 3
2RxD Serial Data Input 1
6 & 8 CTS & DSR Busy Input 2
5SGND Signal Common 0V 5
Ap863 Users’ Guide Page 16of 18
8.3 BATTERY CHARGER DETAILS
The following mains powered battery chargers are available:
ŸUK plug style (ASL Product Code BC801B)
ŸEuro plug style (ASL Product Code BC801E)
ŸUSA plug style (ASL Product Code BC801A)
These chargers are intended for use with the AP800-BDC or AP800-9W-BDC combined adaptor
cables (see section ‘8.2 Combined Data/Charger Adaptor Cables‘).
Alternatively, the user may make their own charger arrangements. The recommended battery
charger supply voltage is +12 V DC to +15 V DC, at between 100 mA and 400mA. An external supply
must have an output voltage which remains within this range between these current extremes.
Lower or higher input voltages will reduce the battery recharging rate:
Ÿbelow about 11 V, the battery may not recharge at all;
Ÿabove about 16 V, heat dissipated in the regulator may switch off the higher recharge rate
and even prevent recharging altogether.
The charge current is internally regulated by the Ap863 so that a battery pack will completely charge
in about 15 hours, but may be continuously ‘trickle-charged’ if required.
So that the printer can be continuously powered from the host equipment, the higher charge rate is
disabled by default, but can be enabled by a command from the host computer. The user must take
care to avoid overcharging the battery pack in this case.
N.B. The Ap863, when used with a battery pack, is not designed to be charged directly from a
vehicle starter battery.
8.4 EMC STATEMENT
The Ap863 is fully EMC (Electro-Magnetic Compatibility) compliant and is CE marked accordingly. A
Declaration of Conformity, in accordance with the EMC Directive 89/336/EEC (and as amended) is
available from Able Systems on request.
8.5 EMC Caution
System EMC compliance remains the responsibility of the system designer. It is recommended that
screened cables are used; earthing arrangements will depend on the application. Further advice is
available from Able Systems on request.
Ap863 Users’ Guide Page 17of 18
9GETTING STARTED
You may find that you can connect up the printer to your Personal Computer (PC), and everything
works perfectly first time. However, there are many variables, and the following guide may help if you
find you need some assistance. These are only suggestions, and may not work with all PC’s.
9.1 CONNECTING TO A PC – A CHECKLIST
ŸFirst, you need to GET THE PRINTER GOING
Make sure that a Power Pack is fitted and switched on. If using a Battery Pack and Charger
remember that operation from the charger alone is not possible: a battery pack must always be fitted.
Also remember that battery packs are normally supplied discharged, and should be charged
for at least 15 hours before use.
Wake the printer up by pressing the paper feed button (the green button on the front of the printer)
once and releasing it. The LED indicator should light; if it does not, the battery may be flat (or not
fitted correctly): connect up the charger, and the light will come on. Other LED colours are discussed
in Section 6, for example when the printer is out of paper.
When the printer is awake, press the feed button to check that paper feeds. Press the paper feed
button again twice in quick succession (like double-clicking a PC mouse) and the printer should print a
self-test message. This will show that the printer is operational, and also reports the way in which the
printer’s serial data interface is configured.
ŸNext, you need to make some HARDWARE CONNECTIONS
The back panel of a PC normally includes three D-type (keystone-shaped) connectors, typically as
follows:
D-9 Plug (male): COM1: Serial port for mouse, serial printer, etc
D-25 Plug (male): COM2: Serial port for modem, serial printer, etc
D-25 Socket (female): LPT: Parallel (‘Centronics’) port for parallel printer, etc
You can use either of the two serial ports for the Ap863, whichever is free. COM2: is assumed in
what follows, as most likely to be available.
You will need a suitable cable. Use either a standard cable from Able Systems (see Section ‘8.2
Combined Data/Charger Adaptor Cables‘), or make up your own using the information in the same
section.
ŸNow you will need to SET UP YOUR COMPUTER’S SERIAL PORT to match the printer (it is also
possible to change the printer’s settings, but not until you have established communication with
the computer).
Your proposed application program may have a way of doing this, or you can get to the DOS prompt
[eg C:\>] and type the following command line (assuming you have connected the printer to COM2:):
MODE COM2:9600,N,8,2 [RETURN]
This will set up the port (COM2:) to 9600 baud, No parity, 8data bits, and 2stop bits which is the
default setting for the Ap863.
ŸNow, SEND SOME DATA TO THE PRINTER from your computer. An easy way to do this from
the DOS prompt is to type:
DIR >COM2: [RETURN]
This should send a directory listing to the printer. The lines will probably overflow, but it will at least
show that the communication between the computer and the printer is working.
You can also send data from QBASIC:
OPEN “COM2:9600,N,8,2” FOR RANDOM AS #1
PRINT#1, “Hello”
Alternatively, in Windows, use the TERMINAL program to send some text to the printer.
Ap863 Users’ Guide Page 18of 18
Or, you can use the special Able Systems set-up software AP860.EXEwhich we can supply on a
floppy disc, or by e-mail on request: this will allow the printer settings to be changed and includes
some diagnostic routines.
9.2 WINDOWS™PRINTER DRIVERS
A Windows driver specifically written for the Ap863 is available from Able Systems, and can be
downloaded, at the user’s risk, from our World Wide Web site (see below). It may be necessary to
adjust some settings in your Application to produce the desired result.
It is important to recognise that other Windows printer drivers, even for ESCPOS compatible printers,
may not work with the Ap863, as they format everything as dot graphics patterns, in a way which is
unique to each kind of printer. The Windows “Generic Text Only” printer driver should, however, work
in a limited manner.
9.3 YOUR APPLICATION PROGRAM
Once communications between your computer and the printer have been established, you can try
driving the printer from your application program. As referred to in the Programmers Guide, the
Ap863 has a control code set based on the EPSON ESCPOS protocol. Many of the commands are
as closely compatible as they can be, given the mechanical differences between printers, but if the
application program was originally written for another printer, it may need to be modified.
9.4 ON-LINE INFORMATION
Able Systems maintains a site on the World Wide Web. This includes application data updates,
product announcements, and e-mail facilities for customer support.
The Windows Driver can be downloaded from this site: please note that this is a third-party product,
and Able Systems do not accept responsibility for the installation or use of this program. Further
details are given on the web site.
The URL of our web site is: http://www.able-systems.com
9.5 IF ALL ELSE FAILS...
You are always welcome to contact Able Systems or your local supplier for specific assistance.
We would also appreciate reports of any errors in our documentation, or suggested improvements.
Copyright © Able Systems Limited 2002. All Rights Reserved
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