CAB A2+ Quick guide

PRODUCT MARKING AND BARCODE IDENTIFICATION
Barcode/Label Printer
Configuration Instructions
Edition 5/06

2 Configuration Instructions Edition 5/06
A2+/A4+/A6+/A8+
copyright by cab / 90085XX / Q24 / 1
Information on the scope of delivery, appearance, performance, dimensions and weight reflect our
knowledge at the time of printing. We reserve the right to make modifications.
All rights, including those regarding the translation, are reserved.
No part of this document may be reproduced in any form (print, photocopy or any other method) or
edited, copied or distributed electronically without written permission from cab Produkttechnik GmbH &
Co KG Karlsruhe.
Trademarks
Centronics®is a registered trademark of the Centronics Data Computer Corporation.
Microsoft®is a registered trademark of the Microsoft Corporation.
Windows®, Windows 95®, Windows 98®, Windows 2000®, Windows NT® and Windows XP® are
registered trademarks of the Microsoft Corporation.
True TypeTM is a registered trademark of Apple Computer, Inc.
Approval
cab label printers comply with the following safety guidelines:
CE EC Low-Voltage Directive (73/23/EEC)
EC Machine Directive (98/37/EC)
EC Electromagnetic Compatibility Directive (89/336/EEC)
FCC Conditions from Part 15 of the FCC Regulations for Class A computing devices.
Operation of these devices may cause radio or television interference under unfavorable
conditions, which would need to be remedied by the operator using countermeasures.
Gesellschaft für
Computer- und Automations-Bausteine mbH & Co KG
cab-Produkttechnik GmbH & Co KG
Postfach 1904 D-76007 Karlsruhe, Germany
Wilhelm-Schickard-Str. 14 D-76131 Karlsruhe, Germany
Phone: +49(0)721 / 66 26-0
Fax: +49(0)721 / 66 26-249
E-mail: [e-mail]
http://www.cabgmbh.com

A2+/A4+/A6+/A8+
Edition 5/06 Configuration Instructions 3
Table of contents
1 Product description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
1.1 Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
1.2 Device types . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
1.3 Technical data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
1.4 Parts of the printer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
1.5 Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
1.6 Print media . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
1.7 Software . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
2 Connecting label printer to computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
2.1 Connecting label printer via serial RS-232 interface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
2.2 Connecting label printer via Ethernet interface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
2.3 Connecting label printer via USB interface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
3 Offline menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
3.1 Structure of the offline menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
3.2 Navigating the offline menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
3.3 Service key . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
4 Configuration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
4.1 Configuration via the operating panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
4.2 Configuration via the printer website . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
5 Test functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
5.1 Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
5.2 Short status . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
5.3 Status print . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
5.4 Font list . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
5.5 Device list . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
5.6 Printhead profile . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
5.7 ASCII Dump Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
5.8 Test grid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
5.9 Label profile . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
6 Service functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
6.1 Performing firmware update . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
6.2 Clearing service counter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
6.3 Adjusting label sensor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
6.4 Saving NVRAM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
6.5 Loading NVRAM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
6.6 Changing OEM name . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
6.7 Cleaning interval . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
7 FTP printer management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
7.1 FTP logon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
7.2 Directory structure of the FTP server . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
7.3 FTP firmware update . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
8 Memory cards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58
8.1 Insertion and removal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58
8.2 Formatting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
8.3 Writing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
8.4 Memory card functions in the offline menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60

4 Configuration Instructions Edition 5/06
A2+/A4+/A6+/A8+
9 External keyboard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63
9.1 Connecting external keyboard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63
9.2 Special key functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63
9.3 Key assignment and special characters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63
Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66

A2+/A4+/A6+/A8+
Product description
Edition 5/06 Configuration Instructions 5
1 Product description
1.1 Overview
The A2+, A4+, A6+and A8+Label Printers are available as thermal direct printers or transfer printers.
With thermal printing, heat from the printhead results in printing to a heat-sensitive print medium.
With thermal transfer printing, heat from the printhead causes the color layer of a transfer ribbon to be
transferred to the print medium.
The label printers are equipped with every common interface to ensure trouble-free connection to com-
puters and networks.
When using a memory card, the label printers can also operate in standalone mode. By connecting a
keyboard, variable data can also be entered conveniently in standalone mode.
The label printers can be connected to AC mains networks from 100 V to 240 V without any kind of
adapter.
The large graphic LCD display and the context-controlled navigator pad allow the label printers to be
monitored and operated efficiently.
A variety of accessories allows the label printers to be adapted to different product requirements.
1.2 Device types
The label printers are available in a variety of models with different features.
1.2.1 Standard version
The standard version is used for printing labels or endless media on rolls or fanfolds.
In Tear-off mode, labels are removed by hand. Because there is no internal rewinder, automatic peeling
off of the labels from the liner (peel-off mode) and internal rewinding are not possible.
The labels can be cut off automatically with the ‘cutter’ accessory. For details, see documentation of the
cutter.
The labels can be wound up with the ‘external rewinder’ accessory. For details, see documentation of
the external rewinder.
1.2.2 Peel-off version
The peel-off version is prepared for peel-off mode and thus has an internal rewinder and a pulling system
comprised of a rewind assist roller and a locking system. Printing on labels or endless media from rolls
or fanfolds is possible.
Operation in Tear-off mode and with the ‘cutter’ or ‘external rewinder’ accessory is possible by installing
the tear-off plate (see
“Operating Instructions“ ), as it is with the standard version.
In peel-off mode, the label is peeled off the liner after printing. The label can be removed by hand with
the peel-off sensor (accessory). Label removal can also occur automatically via the applicator (acces-
sory). The liner is rolled up via the internal rewinder.
For use in Internal Rewind mode, remove the locking system and replace the dispense plate with a
rewind guide plate. See
“Operating Instructions“ .

6 Configuration Instructions Edition 5/06
Product description
A2+/A4+/A6+/A8+
1.2.3 Thermal direct printer
The label printer is only equipped for printing heat-sensitive print media. Thermal transfer printing is not
possible.
1.2.4 Transfer printer
For printing various media from paper to plastic using thermal transfer printing. The transfer printer can
also be used for thermal direct printing.
1.2.5 Overview of types
Tab. 1:Overview of A2+, A4+, A6+and A8+label printer types
Characteristics A2+A4+A4.3+A6+A8+
Max. medium width in [mm] 65 120 180 235
Print resolution [dpi] 300 203 300 600 203 300 300 300
Printing width in [mm] 54.2 104 105.6 105.6 104 108.4 162.5 216
Max. print speed in [mm/s] 150 250 250 100 250 100 200 150
Standard version transfer printer • • • • • • • •
Peel-off version transfer printer • • • • • • • -
Standard version thermal direct printer •---• • • •
Peel-off version thermal direct printer •---• • • -

A2+/A4+/A6+/A8+
Product description
Edition 5/06 Configuration Instructions 7
1.3 Technical data
Tab. 2:Technical data of the A2+, A4+, A6+and A8+label printers
These technical data specifications reflect the knowledge available at the time of printing. We reserve
the right to make modifications.
1. Printhead A2+A4+A6+A8+
A4.3+
Printing method Thermal transfer        
Thermal direct ---   
Print resolution dpi 300 203 300 600 203 300 300 300
Print speed up to mm/s 150 250 250 100 200 150 200 150
Print width up to mm 54.2 104 105.6 105.6 104 108.4 162.6 216
2. Labels
Material: Labels, endless rolls or Leporello, thermal and standard paper, cardboard, textil, plastic foils PE, PP, PVC, PA, PI
Material thickness mm / weight g/m20.07 - 0.35 / 60 - 250
Media roll: Total diameter up to mm 210
Core diameter mm 38 - 100
Winding direction inside or outside
Material width mm with a thickness 0.07 - 0.35 mm 25 - 65 25 - 120 50 - 180 50 - 235
with a thickness 0.25 - 0.35 mm 10 - 25 10 - 120 - -
Label width mm 4 - 60 4 - 116 50 - 176 50 - 220
Label width when dispensing1) min. mm 25 50 -
Label height min. mm 5 6 10
Label height when dispensing1) min. mm 12 25 -
Label height max. mm 2000 2000 2000 1000 2000 2000 2000 1000
3. Ribbon
Ink inside or outside
Roll diameter up to mm 80
Core diameter mm 25
Ribbon length variabel up to m 500
Width up to mm 56 114 165 220
4. Internal re-winder labels
Total diameter up to mm 145
Core diameter mm 38.1
Winding direction only outside
5. Dimensions printer
Hight x Dept mm 274 x 446
Width mm 190 242 302 352
Weight kg 8,5 9 13 15
6. Label sensor
See through/Reflective sensor from below, adjustable mm 5 - 53
7. Electronics
Prozessor high speed 32 Bit ColdFire/Taktrate MHz 266
RAM MB 64
ROM MB Flash 8
Slot for memory CompactFlash-card Type I up to 1 GB 
Slot for memory card Cardbus / PC-Card Type II 
Real time clock, Print out of time and date 
8. Operation panel
Buttons illuminated, depening on mode of operation Pause, Feed, Cancel, Menu, Enter, 4 x Cursor
LCD graphic display Width x Height in mm 60 x 40
lines/characters 4 / about 20
9. Interfaces
Parallel Centronics bi-direktional acc. IEEE 1284 
Serial RS 232 C 1200 up to 230400 Baud/8 Bit 
USB 2.0 High Speed Slave for PC-connection 
Ethernet 10/100 Base T, LPD, RawIP-Printing, 
DHCP, HTTP, FTP, SMTP, SNMP, NTP
RS 422, RS 485 1200 up to 230400 Baud/8 Bit 
Peripherical connection 
WLAN card 802.11b/g 
USB Master for keyboard and scanner 2x 
Twinax/Coax-Converter 
Standard Optio
n
1) Depending on label size, material and adhesive limitations are possible. Critical material or applications have to be testet and cleared.

8 Configuration Instructions Edition 5/06
Product description
A2+/A4+/A6+/A8+
Tab. 3:Technical data of the A2+, A4+, A6+and A8+label printers (continuation)
10. Settings
Country specific (Arabisch, CZ, D, DK, E,
F, GB/USA, H, I, IL, N, NL, P, PL, RUS,
S, SF, TR), Geräteeinstellungen, Druck-
parameter, Schnittstellen, Sicherheit.
11. Monitoring
Stop printing if End of ribbon
End of labels
Printhead open
12. Test routines
System diagnosis of memory and print
head when switched on, Short status,
status print, font list, device list, profile
of print head, profile of label, test grid,
monitor mode.
Status reports Extensive status print with information
about instrument setting, for example
print length counter, runtime counter.
Request of the machine status via
software command. Detailed status
messages on the display, for example
network error-no link, barcode error etc
.
13. Fonts
Font types 5 Bitmap fonts incl. OCR-A, OCR-B and
3 Vector fonts Swiss 721, Swiss 721 Bold
and Monospace 821 available internally,
loadable TrueType fonts.
Character sets Windows 1250 up to 1257, DOS 437,
737, 775, 850, 852, 857, 862, 864, 866,
869, EBCDIC 500, ISO 8859-1 up to -10
and -13 up to -16, WinOEM 720, UTF-8,
Macintosh Roman, DEC MCS, K0I8-R. All
West and East European latin, cyrillic,
greek, hebrew and arabic caracters are
supported.
Optional chinese (simplified chinese)
Bitmap fonts Size of width and height 1 - 3 mm
zoom 2-10
Orientation 0°, 90°, 180°, 270°
Vector-/TrueType fonts Size of width and height 0.9 - 128 mm
variable zoom ,
Orientation 360° in steps of 1°,
Font formats Bold, italic, underlined, outline, negative,
grey, vertical, depending on character
fonts
Font width Variable
Standard Option
14. Graphics
Graphic elements Line, arrow, box, circle, ellipse,
filled and filled with fading
Graphic formats PCX, IMG, BMP, TIF, MAC, GIF, PNG
15. Codes
Linear Barcodes Code 39, Code 93 Interleaved 2/5
Code 39 Full ASCII Ident- and lead
Code 128 A, B, C code of german
Post AG
Codabar JAN 8, 13
EAN 8, 13 MSI
EAN/UCC 128 Plessey
EAN/UPC Appendix 2 Postnet
EAN/UPC Appendix 5 RSS 14
FIM UPC A, E, E0
HIBC
2D-Codes Aztec, Codablock F, Data Matrix, PDF 417,
Micro PDF 417, UPS Maxicode, QR-Code,
RSS 14
All codes variable in height, module width
and ratio. Orientation 0°, 90°, 180°, 270°.
Optionally with check digit, printed cha-
racters and Start/Stop code, depending
on code type.
16. Software
Programming J-Script direct programing 
abc-Basic Compiler 
Database Connector 
System diagnosis/ cab-printer monitoring 
Administration cab-Network Manager 
cab-Card Manager 
cab Label software cablabel R2 Lite 
cablabel R2 Pro 
More Easylabel, Codesoft, Nicelabel, 
Label software Bartender, Label Matrix, Labelview
Windows driver 98, ME, 2000, 2003, XP 
Windows NT from version 4.0
Mac driver OS X printer driver from version 10.3 
Linux driver Testet with Suse 9.0, 
CUPS based
17. Operation data
Power supply 100 - 240 V ~ 50/60 Hz,PFC
Energy consumption max. 250 W
Operation termperat. 10 - 35°C
Humidity 30 - 85%
not condensing
Safety regulations CE, FCC class A, CB, CCC

A2+/A4+/A6+/A8+
Product description
Edition 5/06 Configuration Instructions 9
1.4 Parts of the printer
The following illustrations show the important parts for the example using the A4+Label Printer with
internal rewinder (peel-off version). The details of other printer versions may vary. Major differences are
indicated in the following.
Fig. 1: General overview
Parts of the label printer
1Cover
2Core adapter
3Media Retainer
4Media Hub
5Transfer ribbon supply hub
(transfer printers only)
6Transfer ribbon take up hub
(transfer printers only)
7Internal rewinder
(peel-off version only)
8Print unit
9Mounting surface for accessories, incl.
peripheral connection
10 Navigator pad
11 LCD display
Fig. 2: Print unit for Tear-off mode
Print unit
1Transfer ribbon deflector
2Printhead securing screw
3Printhead mounting bracket with
printhead
4Print roller
5Lever for locking printhead
6Dispense plate
7Axis with guide ring
8Label sensor
9Allen Key (Hexagonal wrench)
10 Rewind assist roller
(peel-off version only)
11 Locking system
(peel-off version only)
1
2
3
5
6
7
8
9
10
11 4
2
3
4
6
7
8
9
1
10
11
5

10 Configuration Instructions Edition 5/06
Product description
A2+/A4+/A6+/A8+
1.5 Accessories
1.5.1 External supply hubs and rewinders
A variety of external supply hubs and rewinders are available for large print jobs.
See cab catalog
“A+Barcode/Label Printer“ .
1.5.2 Cutter
The cutter accessory cuts labels or endless media right after printing, after a certain number of labels or
after the print job. The peripheral connection of the printer is used for power supply and printer control.
See cab catalog
“A+Barcode/Label Printer“
1.5.3 Peel-off modules
Peel-off sensor PS 8 for manual removal
The sensor detects the label in peel-off position and interrupts the print job. Once the label is removed
manually, the next label is printed immediately.
Peel-off sensor PS 6 for manual removal and automatic mode
Two operating modes are possible:
•Manual mode: dispensing after removal of the label without connecting the peripherals
•Semi-automatic mode: dispensing upon request from button, footswitch or external control
Peel-off adapter PS 5 for automatic mode
Printing and dispensing the label is triggered by an external signal. The label is removed manually, by a
robot or by an applicator. The process is monitored and controlled via several input and output signals
(e.g. "label removed" or "printing started").
1.5.4 Pause adapter
Printing of the label is interrupted by an external signal.
1.5.5 Memory cards
With the following memory cards, the printer can be operated in standalone mode without being coupled
with a computer:
•CompactFlash type 1 memory card (1 GB max.)
•Type II PC card
Label formats, fonts, texts and graphics on the computer or printer are loaded for this purpose.
1.5.6 External operating panel
The external operating panel is connected to a USB master interface of the printer and provides all of
the functions of the operating panel at the printer. The external operating panel also features a slot for a
CompactFlash memory card.

A2+/A4+/A6+/A8+
Product description
Edition 5/06 Configuration Instructions 11
1.5.7 External keyboards
A compact keyboard or numerical keypad for entering alphanumerical or numerical data in standalone
mode can be connected to the printer via a USB master interface (see "9.1" on Page 63).
1.5.8 Applicator A 1000
Applicator A 1000 is used to transfer labels being printed to a product. The transfer occurs via a stamp
moved with a pneumatic cylinder between the home and labeling positions.
See cab catalog
“A+Barcode/Label Printer“ .
1.6 Print media
1.6.1 Printing methods and print media
The printers of the A+Series are available as either thermal direct printers or transfer printers.
Thermal direct printing
The label medium is coated with a thermoreactive material which responds by changing color when
heated (e.g. from white to black). The thermal printhead generates the print image via pointwise heating
of the label medium.
Thermal transfer printing
Pointwise heating by the printhead causes color particles from the color coating of a ribbon to be trans-
ferred to an uncoated label medium. The ribbon can only be used once for printing. A great variety of
media, e.g. normal paper, cardboard and polyester film, are suitable for thermal transfer printing.
The print quality essentially depends on how well the coloring from the transfer ribbon adheres to the
label medium. Ask your dealer for advice when selecting labels and transfer ribbons. Run tests if nec-
essary.

12 Configuration Instructions Edition 5/06
Product description
A2+/A4+/A6+/A8+
1.6.2 Label formats
Before ordering label media, note the following permissible dimensions:
Fig. 3: Label dimensions
Tab. 4:Permissible label dimensions
A
BC
D
E
F
G
H
I
K
L
M
Dim. Designation, all dimensions in [mm] A2+A4+A6+A8+
A Label width
Label width in peel-off mode
4–60
25–60
4–116
25–116
50–176
50–176
50–220
—
B Width of liner or endless medium
With a medium thickness of E = 0.07 – 0.25
With a medium thickness of E = 0.25 – 0.35
25–65
10–25
20–120
10–120
50–180
—
50–235
—
C Label height
Minimum label height
Minimum label height in peel-off mode
Maximum label height with printhead 203 dpi
Maximum label height with printhead 300 dpi
Maximum label height with printhead 600 dpi
5
12
—
2000
—
5
12
2000
2000
1000
6
25
—
2000
—
10
—
—
1000
—
D Label gap 2–1000 2–1000 2–1000 2–1000
E Label thickness 0.07–0.35 0.07–0.35 0.07–0.35 0.07–0.35
F Liner thickness 0.07–0.35 0.07–0.35 0.07–0.35 0.07–0.35
G Distance from 1st heating point to edge of liner 2 2 2 2.5
H Distance from label sensor to edge of liner 5–53 5–53 5–53 5–53
I Width of perforation mark >5 >5 >5 >5
K Height of perforation mark 2–10 2–10 2–10 2–10
L Width of reflex mark >5 >5 >5 >5
M Height of reflex mark 2–10 2–10 2–10 2–10

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Product description
Edition 5/06 Configuration Instructions 13
1.6.3 Transfer ribbons
Select transfer ribbons which are only a little wider than the labels:
•If a ribbon is too narrow, the printhead comes into contact with the labels wear
•If a ribbon is too wide, there is a risk of wrinkling print image errors
Detection of the transfer ribbon occurs via checking the rotation of the transfer ribbon supply hub. To
print all labels up to the end of the transfer ribbon cleanly, the trailer tape may not be longer than 60 mm.
It must be possible to easily remove the end of the transfer ribbon from the cardboard core.
1.7 Software
You can use several methods to control the printer and create label layouts.
1.7.1 Direct programming
The printer has an extensive command set for creating label layouts. With a text editor, the printer com-
mands can be combined in a file. This label programming can then be sent to the printer via a data inter-
face (e.g. via the DOS command COPY). The description of direct programming is found in the
“Programming Instructions for cab Transfer Printers“ .
1.7.2 Windows printer driver
You can obtain cab printer drives for various versions of Windows from your dealer or the internet. The
internet address is found in the current cab brochures. Using the cab printer driver, you can control the
label printer from almost any Windows application.
Functionality depends on the selected application. Use of the printer driver is explained in the online
help.
1.7.3 Label software
A variety of label programs which are adapted to the specific requirements of label printing are offered
for convenient label layout designs. Many programs use the cab printer driver. Some programs already
have their own driver for label printers of the cab A+series. These programs offer the greatest possible
convenience when creating and printing labels.
Low-quality transfer ribbons can lead to premature wear of the printhead and poor print image. cab rec-
ommends using only transfer ribbons from well-known manufacturers.

14 Configuration Instructions Edition 5/06
Connecting label printer to computer
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2 Connecting label printer to computer
You can choose from the following options for connecting a computer to the label printer:
•Direct connection to the serial RS-232 interface (8) (see "2.1" on Page 14).
•Direct connection to the Ethernet interface (5) (see "2.2" on Page 15).
•Connection via a computer network to the Ethernet interface (5) (see "2.2" on Page 15).
•Direct connection to a high-speed USB slave interface (7) (see "2.3" on Page 17).
•Connection via an optional interface adapter (IEEE 1284, RS 422/485) to a USB master
interface (7).
2.1 Connecting label printer via serial RS-232 interface
2.1.1 Connecting label printer
The RS-232 interface is operated via an RS-232 cable.
1. Connect computer and label printer with a suitable cable.
2. Secure cable connections with the screws found at the plugs.
3. Configure the RS-232 interface of the printer to match the settings of the connected computer (see
"4.1.4" on Page 25).
If problems occur, contact the computer manufacturer for interface assignments and note the pin assign-
ment of the SUB-D jack described in Table 5 on Page 15.
Fig. 4: Power and computer connections
1Power switch
2Power connection jack
3Slot for type II PC card
4Slot for a CompactFlash memory card
5Ethernet 10/100 Base-T
6Two USB master interfaces for keyboard,
scanner or service key
7Two high-speed USB slave interfaces
8Serial RS-232 C interface
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
Insufficient or missing grounding can cause faults during operation.
Ensure that all computers and connection cables connected to the label printer are grounded.

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Connecting label printer to computer
Edition 5/06 Configuration Instructions 15
2.1.2 Pin assignment of connection jack of the RS-232 interface
On the back of the printer there is a 9-pin SUB-D jack for the serial RS-232 interface.
Tab. 5:Pin assignment of the 9-pin SUB-D jack
2.2 Connecting label printer via Ethernet interface
To connect the label printer to a network jack, you will require a patch cable with an RJ45 plug for
10 Base T or 100 Base T. For direct connection of the printer to the Ethernet card of a local computer,
you will need an appropriate crossover cable.
1. Connect computer and label printer with a suitable cable.
2. Make basic settings for operation of the Ethernet interface (see "4.1.4" on Page 25).
3. Call up the printer website (see "4.2.1" on Page 28).
4. Open the "Setup" tab on the printer website.
5. Set the parameters described in Table 14 on Page 32 in the path
Setup >Interfaces >Ethernet.
6. Click Set on the "Setup" tab.
7. Enter PIN and click Confirm (see "4.1.6" on Page 27).
8. Set up print service if necessary (see "2.2.1" on Page 16).
9. Adjust Windows printer setting (see "2.2.2" on Page 16).
Pin Designation Function
1 CD Carrier Detect
2 TxD Transmit Data
3 RxD Receive Data
4 DTR Data Terminal Ready (not connected)
5 GND Ground
6 DSR Data Set Ready (not connected)
7 RTS Request To Send
8CTS ClearToSend
9 RI Ring Indication (not connected)
A shielded cable must be used to connect the printer to the network.
Do not change the settings of the "IP" and "Gateway" on the printer website, as otherwise the connec-
tion to the printer may be lost.

16 Configuration Instructions Edition 5/06
Connecting label printer to computer
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2.2.1 Print services Raw-IP and LPD in MS Windows
The print services Raw-IP and LPD are not available in all operating systems. In general, special tools
are required to set up print services. Information on this can be obtained from your dealer.
Tab. 6:Availability of print services Raw-IP and LPD in Windows
Windows 2000 offers the port monitor SPM (Standard Port Monitor) which is installed automatically
when setting up the TCP/IP protocol. The SPM can be configured for Raw-IP or LPD.
Information on installation can be obtained from the Windows documentation.
During the installation of both print services, additional connections for print output are set up:
⇒Raw-IP: Enter the same port address in the printer which you have selected during installation.
⇒LPD: "lp" (line printer) must be entered as the name of the printer on the computer (queue name).
2.2.2 Adjusting Windows printer setting
If the printer driver valid for your Windows version is installed on your computer, you can use the Win-
dows standard applications to edit the label contents and to start the print jobs. To use the Raw-IP or
LPD print services, you must adjust the Windows printersettings:
1. Open the folder containing the printers via Start > Settings > Printers.
2. Right-click the icon of the label printer.
A pop-up menu appears.
3. Select "Properties" in the pop-up menu.
4. Open the "Details" or "Connections" tab.
This tab contains, among other things, the connections which were also set up when the print ser-
vices were installed. The names of these connections depend on the installation tool used.
5. Select the Raw-IP or LPD connection.
6. Click OK.
Print service Windows 98/ME Windows 2000 Windows NT 4.0 Windows XP
Raw-IP Not available Not available Not available Available
LPD Not available Available, but not
installed
Available, but not
installed
Available

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Connecting label printer to computer
Edition 5/06 Configuration Instructions 17
2.3 Connecting label printer via USB interface
The high-speed USB interface allows the label printer to be operated via a USB interface of a computer
running the operating system Windows 98, Windows ME, Windows 2000 or Windows XP.
A printer driver must be installed if a USB interface will be used for connection. The printer driver for your
unit is found on the "Printer Accessories CD A+ Series" CD-ROM which is included in the scope of deliv-
ery or on the internet (see Page 2).
1. Switch label printer off.
2. Connect computer and label printer with an A-B cable.
3. Switch computer on.
4. Place the "Printer Accessories CD A+ Series" CD-ROM in the CD-ROM drive.
5. Exit all programs currently running.
6. Switch printer on.
The Windows Installation Wizard is started automatically.
7. Follow the on-screen instructions. The source of the installation file is
"D:\WINDRV\9X2000XP", where D is the letter of the CD-ROM drive used.
8. If the "Has Not Passed Windows Logo Testing" error message appears during installation, continue
with the installation anyway.
After successful installation, an icon for the label printer appears in the Windows "Printer" system
folder.
9. Click icon in "Printer" system folder and make printer settings if necessary.
Windows 95 and Windows NT 4.0 do not support USB interfaces.

18 Configuration Instructions Edition 5/06
Offline menu
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3 Offline menu
3.1 Structure of the offline menu
The offline menu contains setting options on several levels for configuring the label printer to meet your
needs. In addition, the offline menu features test functions for supporting the configuration or checking
the function of the label printer. Using status functions, the set parameters can be displayed or printed.
Tab. 7:Menu structure
1st menu level 2nd menu level Access
Memory card Label from card Only with memory card inserted
Print directory Only with memory card inserted
Copy memory card Only with memory card inserted,
PIN protection possible
Format card Only with memory card inserted,
PIN protection possible
ASCII dump (Card) Only with memory card inserted
Short status
Test Status print
Font list
Device list
Printhead profile
ASCII Dump Mode
Test grid
Label profile
Event log Only with service key inserted
Setup Local settings PIN protection possible
Machine param.
Print param.
Interfaces
Status line
Security
Service Firmware upd. PIN protection possible
Firmw. fr. card PIN protection possible
Clr. service ctr. Only with service key inserted
Adj. gap sensor Only with service key inserted
OEM Name Only with service key inserted
Cleaning interval Only with service key inserted

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Offline menu
Edition 5/06 Configuration Instructions 19
3.2 Navigating the offline menu
You can control all settings and functions in the offline menu with the navigator pad.
Fig. 5: Navigator pad
⇒Press the menu button to switch from Ready mode to the offline menu.
⇒Press the Xor Wbutton to select menu items on a menu level or to select
values on the parameter level.
⇒Press the Wbutton on the top menu level several times, if necessary, to
switch from the offline menu to Ready mode.
⇒Press the Sor Tbutton to reach a higher or lower menu level or to set
values on the parameter level.
⇒Press the ↵button briefly to enable value selection on the parameter level,
accept a selected value or start a function.
⇒Press and hold (> 2 sec.) the ↵button to exit the parameter level without
accepting the parameter setting.
You can also make all settings in the offline menu via the Ethernet interface (see "4.2" on Page 28) or
via direct control commands (see
“Programming Manual“ ).

20 Configuration Instructions Edition 5/06
Offline menu
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3.3 Service key
A service key is required for accessing special service functions not accessible to the operator. This key
switches the printer to service mode and enables:
•Access to additional configuration parameters
•Adjustment of the label sensor
•Resetting of the service counter
•Additional information in the status print and in the device list
•Printout of an event list
•Changing of the device name
•Saving and loading of configuration settings
•Access to PIN-protected configuration parameters and functions without entering the PIN
•Access to configuration parameters for optional assemblies, even if they are not currently installed
Using the service key
Indication in this document
In this document, parameters and functions which are only accessible when the service key is inserted
are indicated using the following note:
Access only when service key is inserted!
CAUTION!
Incorrect settings and data loss via unauthorized access.
Access protection is deactivated when the service key is inserted. Operation of the printer by
unauthorized persons can lead to incorrect settings and data loss in this case.
⇒Provide the service key to authorized persons only.
⇒Remove service key after service work and store it in a secure location.
Fig. 6: Inserting the service key
⇒Insert service key into a USB master interface on the back of
the printer.
You can also insert the service key while the device is switched
on.
Contact your cab dealer for information on how to obtain the service key.