Microcom 465 User manual

MICROCOM CORPORATION
MODEL 465
DIRECT THERMAL / THERMAL TRANSFER PRINTER
OPERATOR'S MANUAL
Part Number 880011-0131
August 1995 Software Version 1.31

Operator's Manual
465 Direct Thermal/Thermal Transfer Printer
- Revised 08/16/95 MSG -
Centronics is a registered trademark of Data Computer Corporation.
HP and LaserJet II are trademarks of Hewlett-Packard Company.
Comstar and I.D. Images are trademarks of Comstar Incorporated.
FastFont is a trademark of Page Technology Marketing, Inc.
Other products, names, and brands are trademarks of their respective holders.
FastFont Typefaces are Copyright ©1993, Page Technology Marketing, Inc.
This manual is subject to change without notice.
Copyright ©1993-1994, Microcom Corporation, Westerville, Ohio - All rights reserved.
Printed in the U.S.A.

Table of Contents
List of Tables
.................................................................. vi
List of Figures ............................................................. vi
Introduction ................................................................1
CHAPTER 1: FEATURES AND SPECIFICATIONS .................................3
1.1 SPECIAL FEATURES ............................................3
1.2 BAR CODES ...................................................4
1.3 FONTS .......................................................4
1.4 PRINTING .....................................................4
1.5 INTERFACE COMMUNICATIONS ...................................4
1.6 PHYSICAL .....................................................5
1.7 ENVIRONMENT ................................................5
1.8 ELECTRICAL ...................................................5
1.9 OPTIONS .....................................................5
1.10 APPROVALS ...................................................5
CHAPTER 2: BASIC OPERATION ..............................................7
2.1 UNPACKING THE 465 PRINTER ...................................7
2.2 MOUNTING THE LABEL SUPPLY RACKS ............................7
2.3 INITIAL POWER UP .............................................7
2.4 FRONT PANEL KEYPAD AND STATUS DISPLAY ......................8
2.4.1 LABEL PRINT KEY ........................................8
2.4.2 LINE FEED KEY ..........................................8
2.4.3 ON/OFF LINE KEY ........................................9
2.5 THE STATUS LIGHTS/TONE ......................................9
2.6 LOADING PAPER ...............................................9
2.6.1 NORMAL AND TAG/TEAR MODES ..........................10
2.6.2 PEEL-AND-DISPENSE MODE ..............................10
2.7 CLEANING INSTRUCTIONS ......................................11
CHAPTER 3: COMMUNICATIONS .............................................13
3.1 CABLE PINOUT ................................................13
3.2 PRINTER CABLES .............................................14
CHAPTER 4: DESIGNING LABELS USING LDS ..................................15
4.1 CONTROL CHARACTERS .......................................15
4.2 GETTING STARTED ............................................15
4.2.1 PC CONNECTION (SERIAL) ................................15
4.2.2 PC CONNECTION (PARALLEL) .............................16
4.2.3 LEARNING LDS ..........................................17
4.3 FORMATTING LABELS: AN OVERVIEW............................17
4.4 LABEL HEADER ...............................................19
4.4.1 A SAMPLE SESSION (HEADER) ............................24
4.5 LABEL FIELDS ................................................25
4.5.1 BIT MAPPED TEXT AND BARCODE FIELDS ...................25

4.5.2 GRAPHIC IMAGE FIELDS ..................................31
4.5.3 LINES/RECTANGLES .....................................33
4.5.4 A SAMPLE SESSION (FIELDS) ..............................35
CHAPTER 5: PRINTER COMMANDS ..........................................37
5.1 SPECIAL PRINTER CONTROL CODES .............................38
5.2 PRINTER ENQUIRIES ...........................................39
5.3 SENDING ^D PRINTER COMMANDS ...............................40
5.3.1 SOFTWARE SWITCHES/BATTERY BACKED COMMANDS .......40
5.3.2 PRINTING COMMANDS ...................................47
5.3.3 AUTOSIZING AND VALID GAP COMMANDS ...................48
5.3.4 REAL-TIME CLOCK ......................................50
5.3.5 SERIAL NUMBER COMMANDS .............................51
5.3.6 LABEL HEADER COMMANDS ..............................54
5.3.7 SAVED FORMAT FILE COMMANDS .........................55
5.3.8 LABEL PRESENCE SENSOR CONTROL ......................57
5.3.9 TEXT STRINGS COMMANDS ...............................58
5.3.10 MISCELLANEOUS PRINTER COMMANDS ....................61
CHAPTER 6: GRAPHIC IMAGES ..............................................63
6.1 PROCEDURE FOR USING MICROCOM PCX2465 SOFTWARE ..........63
6.2 FORMAT OF GRAPHICS FILES ...................................64
6.3 GRAPHIC IMAGE COMMAND SUMMARY ...........................66
CHAPTER 7: SPECIAL DESIGNS .............................................67
7.1 DESIGNING WITH BARCODES ...................................67
7.1.1 HUMAN READABLES .....................................68
7.2 REVERSE VIDEO ..............................................69
CHAPTER 8: SOFT FONTS ..................................................71
CHAPTER 9: OPTIONS .....................................................73
9.1 MICROCOM GRAPHICS CONVERSION UTILITIES ....................73
9.2 MICROCOM SOFT FONT UTILITY .................................73
9.3 ADDITIONAL SOFT FONTS ......................................73
9.4 WYSIWYG SOFTWARE PACKAGES ...............................73
9.5 CLEANING KIT ................................................74
APPENDIX A: WARRANTY AND REPAIR PROCEDURES ..........................75
APPENDIX B: MORE LABEL SAMPLES ........................................76
POSTNET ..........................................................76
BARCODES ........................................................76
FONTS 465 .........................................................79
APPENDIX C: SAMPLE BASIC PROGRAM ......................................82
APPENDIX D: QUICK REFERENCE COMMAND SUMMARY ........................83
APPENDIX E: HARDWARE DIP SWITCHES .....................................95
Index ....................................................................96

List of Tables
Status Light ................................................................9
Serial Port Configuration .....................................................13
Parallel Port Configuration ...................................................14
Print Speed ...............................................................22
Bitmapped Font Descriptions .................................................27
Barcode Symbologies .......................................................28
Character Starting Positions ..................................................29
Enquiry Responses .........................................................39
Clock Field Parameters ......................................................50
List of Figures
Front View .................................................................6
Rear View .................................................................6
Printer Parts ...............................................................7
Keypad Layout .............................................................8
Printer Feed Mechanism .....................................................10
Microcom Label ............................................................18
Label Header Parameters of a 4" X 3" Label ......................................20
Lines ....................................................................34
Status Label ..............................................................61
Four Graphic Images .......................................................63
Barcode Rotations .........................................................67
Barcode Human Readables ..................................................68
Reverse Video ............................................................69

Introduction
The Microcom 465 is a Direct Thermal or Thermal Transfer label printer with a high resolution (832
dots or 8 dots/mm), 4.09 inch wide print head. The printer has the ability to handle a wide variety of
labeling tasks - even the most demanding applications.
The resident Label Design Software (LDS) is a powerful and easy-to-use package that allows you
to create personalized label formats. It can be driven from a PC, mini-computer, mainframe, and
most special purpose computers.
Among many other features, LDS supports graphics functions and multiple serial numbering. It
offers virtually unlimited text font sizes and all popular barcode symbologies. Graphic images can
be printed or stored in the printer's memory for future use. Bitmapped Fonts, barcodes, and graphic
images can be multiplied in size and printed in 0,90,180,270 degree rotations. Once the labels are
designed, they can be stored in the 465's memory for high speed printer access.
The 465 is capable of printing on most types of label stock or fax paper. It offers operation in a
tag/tear, peel-and-dispense, batch mode, and user-defined advance mode. It can handle blow-
hole, black-line, label gap, and continuous stock.
Many printer applications use the same label format, but change the data on every label. This is not
a problem for the Microcom 465 printer. Data may be changed without down-loading the same
fixed format, or fixed data fields, time after time. This, along with a greatly increased
communication speed, increases data access time and productivity.
Microcom also offers a complete line of software packages which allow quick and easy on-screen
label designing, along with complete database capabilities.

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CHAPTER 1: FEATURES AND SPECIFICATIONS
The Microcom 465 Direct Thermal/Thermal Transfer printer is designed with many standard
features that are unique when compared to other printers. The 465 is built to meet the demands of
complicated applications and rigorous use. A guarantee of excellence in engineering is provided by
fulfilling the requirements for approval by UL, CSA and the FCC.
1.1 SPECIAL FEATURES
!Both Direct Thermal and Thermal Transfer modes
!Operates as tag or ticket feed
!Resolution of 8 dots/mm (.0049" per dot) and a print width of 832 dots (4.09")
!WYSIWYG software compatible
!Print speed up to 6.0 inches per second
!Large media supply rack allows roll size up to 10 inches OD
!Prints on die-cut, continuous, fax, or preprinted labels
!Prints on tag stock up to 9.0 mil thickness
!Software-controlled contrast adjustment
!Standard memory of 512Kbytes ROM and 512Kbytes SRAM
!Internal date and time keeping
!Easy to load label path to prevent label jams or misfeeds
!Detects label gap, black line, or blow-hole stock
!Internal statistical counter for inches and labels printed
!Graphics and Soft Font capability
!Incrementing and decrementing fields
!Machine state enquiries for security and maintenance

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1.2 BAR CODES
!Code 39, Interleaved 2 of 5, CODABAR, Code 128, Code 93, Plessey, Modified Plessey,
UPC-A, UPC-E, EAN-8, EAN-13, Postnet, MAXICODE, and selectable ratios for producing
HIBC, AIAG, and Logmars
!Barcodes may be printed in 0, 90, 180, and 270 degree rotations
1.3 FONTS
!Downloadable HP LaserJet II™ soft font compatibility and 16 resident bit mapped font
styles, including OCR-A.
!All Bit Mapped fonts expandable in height and width up to 8 times
!Fonts and Barcodes can be printed in 0, 90, 180, and 270 degree rotations
1.4 PRINTING
!Peel function strips label off of backing
!Tag/tear mode advances label to the tear bar
!Batch mode printing
!User defined label advancement for special stock or application
!Label-presence sensor allows printer to dispense at the operator's pace
!Label back-up prevents wasted media in tag/tear and peel modes
1.5 INTERFACE COMMUNICATIONS
!Serial: RS-232C, 25-pin female D-Sub connector (DCE) and 2Kbytes buffer
-Flow control: XON/XOFF, CTS
-Baud rate: 300 to 38400, user-selectable
-Parity: odd, even or none
-Data bits: 7 or 8
!Parallel (Optional): 36-pin female Centronics® connector and 2Kbytes buffer

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1.6 PHYSICAL
!Construction: Rigid painted steel with high impact molded front panel
!Height: 11.00" (279.4mm)
!Width: 10.125" (257.2mm)
!Depth: 10.10" (256.5mm)
!Weight: 35 LBS (15.89 K/g)
1.7 ENVIRONMENT
!Temperature: 0"C to 40"C operating
!Humidity: 10-90% non-condensing
1.8 ELECTRICAL
!Voltage: Switchable 100,110,120,220,240VAC nom., 50-60 Hz.
!Current: 3 Amps maximum (100VAC)
1.9 OPTIONS
!Cleaning Kit
!Assorted Printer Cables
!On-screen label design PC software packages
!PCX to printer graphics conversion PC software
!PCX to downloadable bitmap PC software
!Downloadable soft fonts
1.10 APPROVALS
!UL, CSA, Complies with FCC, Class A

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PAPER SUPPLY
PAPER SUPPLY HOLDER
PAPER SUPPLY RACK
LEFT SIDE COVER
RIGHT SIDE COVER
LEFT SIDE FRONT PANEL
RIGHT SIDE FRONT PANEL
BACKING PAPER SLOT
PAPER SLOT
KEYPAD
DISPLAY
RIBBON VIEW WINDOW
RIGHT PAPER SUPPLY RACK
RACK THUMB SCREW
LEFT PAPER SUPPLY RACK
PAPER SUPPLY HOLDER
PAPER LINE GUIDE
POWER CORD
POWER ENTRY MODULE
POWER SWITCH
SERIAL PORT
RIGHT SIDE COVER
LEFT SIDE COVER
Microcom 465 Printer
Front View
Figure 1
Microcom 465 Printer
Rear View
Figure 2

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CHAPTER 2: BASIC OPERATION
2.1 UNPACKING THE 465 PRINTER
While unpacking the printer, please check all packing materials closely to avoid misplacing any
necessary parts. After the printer is removed from the box, verify that all parts are present and in
good condition (see Figure 3). All packaging material should be kept and used if the printer is to be
shipped. The printer must be returned in the original container to insure proper warranty coverage.
Printer Parts
Figure 3
2.2 MOUNTING THE LABEL SUPPLY RACKS
Position the printer so that the rear is assessable. Refer to Figure 2 and note the mounting
positions of each rack. Notice that the bent flanges point inward. Using the thumbscrews provided,
attach the racks to the printer.
2.3 INITIAL POWER UP
Before connecting the printer to a power source, verify that the voltage selector, located on the rear
of the printer, is set correctly. If not, open the selection door and rotate the cylinder until the correct
voltage is shown.
Plug the printer in and turn the power switch on. The green power indicator should light. The
motors will then adjust tension and a tone will be heard. If this does not occur, check the power
source and if necessary call your service organization.

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2.4 FRONT PANEL KEYPAD AND STATUS DISPLAY
The front panel contains a three button keypad and a three LED status display.
Keypad Layout
Figure 4
2.4.1 LABEL PRINT KEY
The front panel keypad (see figure 4) contains a 'LABEL PRINT' key. If this key is pressed the unit
will print the currently loaded label format or the default label if no format has been loaded. If the
printer is in the process of printing a predetermined quantity of labels (see ^D73, section 5.3),
pressing the 'LABEL PRINT' key will pause the printer. Pressing the key again will allow the printer
to continue the batch.
If the 'LABEL PRINT' key is depressed when the power is turned on, the printer is put into test
mode and a statistics and test label will be printed (see ^D29 chapter 5.3.10). This test mode is
also useful to temporarily set all software dip switches to default.
2.4.2 LINE FEED KEY
Pressing and holding the 'LINE FEED' key will cause the printer to advance until released. This key
can be use to load and align paper stock.

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2.4.3 ON/OFF LINE KEY
Pressing the 'ON/OFF LINE' key causes the printer to suspend the processing of characters
through the communication ports. If a character is sent to the printer when communicating serially,
the printer will accept the character and send another XOFF (assuming X-OFF has been enabled).
The printer will allow up to 9 characters to violate the flow control, at which time any further
characters will cause the printer to issue the buffer overflow error (show on the table below). The
Clear to Send signal is always low when OFF-LINE.
2.5 THE STATUS LIGHTS/TONE
The meaning of the status lights is shown on Table 1.
Status Light
Light
Color/Tone Mode Meaning
Steady GREEN All Power is ON
Steady ORANGE All Printer is ON-LINE
Steady RED All Printer error: Caused by a paper-out condition or a hardware
failure. If paper is out, follow instructions in section 2.3,
otherwise turn printer off and back on. If condition persists,
contact your service representative.
FlashingREDand
ORANGE All Spike or low voltage on the AC line. The unit will remain in this mode until the condition is removed and the printer is powered
off.
Fast pulsing tone Peel
Mode Label present. Label is ready to be removed from the printer mouth
Fast pulsing tone Batch Printer has been paused and is waiting for the print button to be
pressed.
Flashing
YELLOWAfter Paper-
Out
Printer is waiting to continue processing. The label button must
be pushed twice to clear yellow after loading.
Steady RED with
rapid wobble tone All A serial port buffer over flow has occurred. Check the host flow control for problems. (Note: the serial buffer will only accept 9
characters after the printer drops the clear to send signal or
optionally sends the XOFF character.)
Table 1
2.6 LOADING PAPER

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Part of the 465's versatility is in the different ways it processes labels. The following two sections
explain the dispensing modes and printing methods. Refer to figures 2 and 5 for the printer
components.
2.6.1 NORMAL AND TAG/TEAR MODES
Place the label supply shaft and stock onto the wire rack. Raise the print head with the lift lever and
insert the paper with the thermally sensitive side up. Follow the loading diagram and thread the
paper through the printer and under the print head. Lower the head lift lever and you are ready to
print.
2.6.2 PEEL-AND-DISPENSE MODE
Follow the paper loading in the normal and tag mode directions. Pull out several inches of paper
and remove the labels. Be sure the leading edge of the stock is flat and square. Rotate the pinch
roller release knob and insert the paper between the black drive roller and the white pinch roller.
Remove the slack and release the pressure on the pinch roller by turning the release knob.
Printer Feed Mechanism
Figure 5

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2.7 CLEANING INSTRUCTIONS
The Microcom 465 printer and printhead should be cleaned approximately every 5,000 labels or
every two weeks whichever occurs first. The printer should also be cleaned whenever you run out
of label stock. Proper cleaning assures that any adhesive that may come off the end of the
previous roll, is removed. A Microcom cleaning kit (part #040005) should be used for cleaning and
maintaining a Microcom printer product. It is important to note that optimum printhead life is
achieved by cleaning the printer and printhead.
To clean your Microcom 465 printer:
1) Turn the printer off.
2) Lift the printhead using the lift lever at the rear of the printer and remove any label stock
that remains inside the head mechanism.
3) Using the cleaning brush, sweep away all small label and adhesive particles that may be in
the area of the printhead.
4) Moisten a cleaning swab with the cleaning solution and wipe away any adhesive from the
rollers or the aluminum peel bar.
5) Dampen a swab with cleaning solution and lift the print head. Take the moistened swab and
gently wipe the underside of the printhead. Repeat if necessary (if swab is extremely dirty).
6) Moisten the felt side of a cleaning card with the cleaning solution. Raise the print head and
insert the cleaning card under print head with the felt side facing up. Lower the print head
and press the feed key to feed the card through the printer. Allow the printhead to ride on
the cleaning card. Repeat the process if needed. The cleaning card may be used once at
each end.
WARNING: DO NOT TOUCH THE PRINTHEAD WITH ANY METAL OR SHARP OBJECTS

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