Microplex SOLID T8 User manual

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SOLID T8
SOLID T6
SOLID T5
SOLID T4
Operator’s Manual
Edition 2.0M

2
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Contents 3
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MICROPLEX Operator’s Manual SOLID T4 / T5 / T6 / T8 Edition 2.0
Table of Contents
Chapter Page
1. Introduction 7
1.1. General Description 7
1.2. Conventions 9
1.3. CE - Conformity 10
1.4. General Safety Regulations 10
2. Installation 13
2.1. Check List 13
2.2. Printer Unpacking 14
2.3. Printer Installation 16
2.4. Printer Components 17
3. Basic Operation Sequences 18
3.1. Overview 18
4. Handling of Consumables 20
4.1. Winding Diagram 20
4.2. Roll-Fed Media Handling 21
4.2.1. Tear-Off Media Loading 21
4.2.2. Media Removal 25
4.3. Handling of Ribbon (Foil) 26
4.3.1. Ribbon Loading 26
4.3.2. Setting the Ribbon Tautness 29
4.3.3. Ribbon Removal 31
4.4. Setting the Photoelectric Switch 32
4.5. Printhead Pressure Adjusting 35
4.6. Printhead Position Adjustment 37

4 Contents
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MICROPLEX Operator’s Manual SOLID T4 / T5 / T6 / T8 Edition 2.0
Chapter Page
5. Control Panel 39
5.1. Attaching the Printer to a Computer 39
5.2. Turning on the Printer 39
5.3. Control Panel View 40
5.4. Function of the Control Panel Elements 40
5.5. Configuration via the Control Panel 42
5.6. Menu Structure 43
5.7. Syntax of Diagrams 46
6. Panel Functions 47
6.1. Print Process Selecting 47
6.2. Media Setting (Material; Label or Continuous) 49
6.3. Page Length Adjustment 50
6.4. Material Width Adjustment (Paper Width) 51
6.5. Configuration of Text Margins 52
6.6. Printing the Status Sheet 53
6.7. Printing the Font List 55
6.8. Hexdump-Mode Activation 56
6.9. Normal Print Mode Activation (incl. FORM FEED) 57
6.10. Clearing the Input Buffer (Cancel Job) 58
6.11. Printing the Menu Page 59
6.12. Generating Test Prints (Sliding Pattern) 60
6.13. Data - Interface Selection 61
6.14. Emulation Selection 62
6.15. Display Language Selection 64
6.16. Transparent Code Adjustment 65
6.17. Selection of Memory Distribution (Input Buffer) 66
6.18. Setting to Factory Default 67
6.19. Font Selection 68
6.20. Text Orientation Selection 71

Contents 5
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MICROPLEX Operator’s Manual SOLID T4 / T5 / T6 / T8 Edition 2.0
Chapter Page
6.21. Symbol Code Selection 72
6.22. Paper Change and manual Material Transport (Paper Move) 73
6.23. Print Speed Adjustment 74
6.24. Contrast (Density) Setting 75
6.25. Setting the Zero Position of the Material Feed (Sync Sensor Offset) 76
6.26. Setting the Sync Sensor Mode 78
6.27. Setting the Sync Sensor Level 79
6.28. Setting the Sync Sensor Sensitivity 80
6.29. Selecting the Light Sensor Type 81
6.30. Selecting the Cut Mode 82
6.31. Adjusting the Cutting Position 86
6.32. Configuration of Network Parameters (f.e. IP Address) 87
7. Operator Maintenance 89
7.1. Printer Cleaning 89
7.1.1. Printer Cabinet Cleaning 90
7.1.2. Printhead Cleaning 91
7.1.3. Sensor Cleaning 92
7.1.4. Transport Roller Cleaning 92
7.2. Printhead Exchange 93
7.2.1. Printhead Removal and Installation 94
7.2.2. Head Resistance Value Setting 97
7.3. Adjusting the Right Pressure Value 100
8. Troubleshooting 102
8.1. Error Messages 102
8.2. Reduced Print Quality 103
8.3. Incorrect Media Transport 105
8.4. Print Repetition after an Error 106
9. Specifications 107
10. Index 111

6 Contents
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MICROPLEX Operator’s Manual SOLID T4 / T5 / T6 / T8 Edition 2.0

Introduction 7
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MICROPLEX Operator’s Manual SOLID T4 / T5 / T6 / T8 Edition 2.0
1. Introduction
1.1. General Description
The SOLID T4, SOLID T5, SOLID T6 and SOLID T8 are multifunctional
non-impact printers based on thermal print technology.
The devices can be used for thermal transfer printing as well as for
thermal direct printing. Because of their wide range of application,
you can use them to print all kind of information as barcodes,
alphanumerical characters and vector graphics e.g. .
Each of these devices not only knows one device-specific page
description language as standard thermal printers usually do, but
most of the languages used in the industrial field and the well-known
market standards of laserprinters, too.
The SOLID T4, SOLID T5, SOLID T6 and SOLID T8 are all provided
with a controller that is also used in SOLID laserprinters. So the
advantages of the thermal print technology are combined with the
flexibility of the „laserprinter intelligence“.
For the printers SOLID T4, SOLID T5, SOLID T6 and SOLID T8 a
software (called IP printADMIN) will be available to allow a printer
configuration via Ethernet. The controller has its integrated website
with information on the printer status and the printjob status.
Data can be sent without programming expenditure from almost
any software platform, because printer drivers are already
available for this.
The capabilities featured include the MICROPLEX page description
language IDOL. Using this language, complex tasks such as the
creation of forms can be carried out by simple software commands
(see separate IDOL manual).
The resolution is 300 dots per inch corresponding to about 12 dots
per millimeter.
The print speed is 100 to 300 mm/second.
Roll-fed media as well as continuous-media can be printed on.
The maximum processable width of media is 254 mm (SOLID T8).
213 mm of that are printable.

8 Introduction
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MICROPLEX Operator’s Manual SOLID T4 / T5 / T6 / T8 Edition 2.0
Fundamentals of Thermal Printing
The thermal print technology enables a quiet and fast print process
with a high resolution output. The printhead produces the image
by heating single elements (dots). So you need a special ribbon
(thermal transfer printing) or a special kind of paper (thermal
direct printing).
While thermal transfer printing the dots touch the thermal ribbon
so that the heating of particular dots leads to a partial melting of
the ribbon. Due to the contact with a media (future carrier of the
information, for example paper) this leads to a transfer of the
image onto the media.
While thermal direct printing the dots touch the thermal paper
directly. The dyes and developers within the paper respond to
the heat of particular dots, change their colour to black and so
the wanted image emerges.
The SOLID T4, SOLID T5, SOLID T6 and SOLID T8 can all be
used for both methods of printing.

Introduction 9
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MICROPLEX Operator’s Manual SOLID T4 / T5 / T6 / T8 Edition 2.0
1.2. Conventions
F
ON LINE ↵
blue colored text
[Menu Level 1 ]
To find the requested information more quickly and to
understand instructions more easily, the following conventions
are used:
This symbol refers to a possible source of danger. If you do not
pay attention to this information, injuries may result, the function
of the printer could be reduced or objects could be damaged.
This symbol refers to important hints and suggestions on using
the printer. Disregarding these hints might cause problems with
the printer or within the environments.
This symbol shows a key of the control panel. Such symbols will
be used in this manual whenever keys have to be pressed in
order to activate certain functions.
Link to another chapter or a different document. By clicking the
blue colored text you'll enter the concerning chapter or
document.
This symbol represents messages shown in the display (panel).

10 Introduction
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MICROPLEX Operator’s Manual SOLID T4 / T5 / T6 / T8 Edition 2.0
1.3. CE - Conformity
The manufacturer hereby declares that the device complies with
the guideline RL 89/336/EWG for information technology
devices.
The determinations of the product standard concerning high
frequency interferences of information technology devices EN
55022, class A/DIN VDE 0878 (electromagnetic interference)
are complied.
Also the generic standard EN 50082-1/DIN VDE 0839 for
interference strength is complied.
1.4. General Safety Regulations
FCC-Instructions
This device produces, employs and possibly radiates high
frequency energy. Because of this, incorrect installation can
disturb radio communications.
This device complies with the FCC-rules and regulations class B
(subject J, part 15) corresponding to high frequency
interferences.

Introduction 11
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MICROPLEX Operator’s Manual SOLID T4 / T5 / T6 / T8 Edition 2.0
This MICROPLEX product and its consumables are designed
and tested according to strict safety standards.
Heeding the following instructions ensures secure operation:
- Please make sure your electricity source is appropriately
grounded.
- Install the device on solid and level ground.
- Only trained staff are authorized to transport the equipment.
- Only use consumables which are specially developed for this
device.
- Using unsuitable consumables may cause a reduction of outpu
t
quality or damages to the device.
- Ensure no liquids get on or into the device.
- Do not remove any cover or safety device fastened by screws.
- Do not remove or bridge over any safety device.
- Do not push anything into the ventilation apertures.
- Never carry out installations, cleanings or maintenance
operations which are not described in this manual. This should
only be done by MICROPLEX authorized service personnel.

12 Introduction
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MICROPLEX Operator’s Manual SOLID T4 / T5 / T6 / T8 Edition 2.0
- Be careful when operating equipment with opened cover
hoods (setting-up work or service). Rotating parts can cause
injury , and it is also possible for hair, clothing, jewellery,
etc. to be caught in the machinery.
Ribbon and material should only be inserted and changed by
specially instructed personnel.
- Optional device components may only be installed by
authorized personnel, and in accordance with the
appropriate assembly and usage regulations.
- The cutter may only be installed by trained personnel.
- Only attach or remove the printhead when the device is
switched off.
After switching off the device, wait at least 3 minutes before
removing the printhead.
- Only plug in or remove interface connectors when the device
is switched off.
In order to disconnect the printer quickly from the main power
in case of emergency please note the following:
- For connected printers with plugs, the power-outlet should
be installed near the printer and easily within reach.
- For permanently connected printers, an easily accessible
emergency power-off switch should be installed close to the
printer.
- Please do not conceal any disconnect devices with the
printer or other objects.
- After switching off the device, wait at least 15 seconds
before the device is switched on again.
- Please follow all the information and hints directly attached
to the device and/or described in this manual.

Installation 13
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MICROPLEX Operator’s Manual SOLID T4 / T5 / T6 / T8 Edition 2.0
2. Installation
2.1. Check List
First of all place the printer and the accessories onto a level
surface until the definitive location is chosen.
Please make sure that all items are included and that there are
no defects.
Immediately inform your supplier of any damage.
Open the cardboard box carefully and check the contents:
1. Printer SOLID T4, T5, T6 or T8
2. Power cord
3. 1 Ribbon (Foil)
4. CD containing:
•Operator’s Manual for SOLID T4 / T5 / T6 / T8
•Print drivers
•IDOL Programming Manual

14 Installation
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MICROPLEX Operator’s Manual SOLID T4 / T5 / T6 / T8 Edition 2.0
2.2. Printer Unpacking
1. Open the box and remove the parts lying on top.
2. Remove the foam covering.
3. Take hold of the SOLID printer from the bottom and lift it out
the box carefully. (Get somebody to hold the box when
removing the printer).
Do not use other parts of the printer (e.g. the cutter or the
magazine ...) to lift the device!
Fig. 2.2.a Lifting the printer out of the box
4. Set the device down.
Fig. 2.2.b Setting the printer down

Installation 15
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MICROPLEX Operator’s Manual SOLID T4 / T5 / T6 / T8 Edition 2.0
5. Turn the device to the position in which it is to be used.
Fig. 2.2.c Printer turned to the right position
6. Place the printer onto a suitable base (see chapter 2.3).
Please retain the original packing materials in case the printer
has to be transported in the future.

16 Installation
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MICROPLEX Operator’s Manual SOLID T4 / T5 / T6 / T8 Edition 2.0
2.3. Printer Installation
- The chosen location should be well-ventilated, clean and dry.
- Damaging environmental factors such as metal vapors, oil mist,
corroding lixivum or the like must not come into contact with
the printer.
- Position the printer on solid and level ground.
- Do not exposure the printer to shocks or vibrations.
- The printer and socket have to be easily accessible.
- The printer should not be located near volatile or combustible
materials (e.g. a curtain).
- The printer must be connected to an appropriate AC power
source 120V AC/60 Hz (North America) or 230V/50 Hz
(Europe, United Kingdom e.g.). The power source must be
properly grounded. The socket and power cords must not be
damaged.
- Use the printer only within the allowed fluctuation range of
±10%.
- The voltage support must not be impaired by interference.
- In order to run the printer reliably, please maintain the
following environmental conditions:
Temperature: +5°C to +35°C (operating)
-20°C to +70°C (storage temperature)
Relative atmospheric humidity: 45% to 75% (without
condensation)
- Do not expose the printer to abrupt temperature changes
(heating, window or air condition).
- The printer should not be exposed to direct sunlight.

Installation 17
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MICROPLEX Operator’s Manual SOLID T4 / T5 / T6 / T8 Edition 2.0
2.4. Printer Components
Main view:
hood
panel
display
Fig. 2.4.a Main view of the printer
Rear view:
power switch
input power
connector
serial interface
Centronics interface
USB interface
Ethernet interface
Fig. 2.4.b Rear view of the printer

18 Basic Operation Sequences
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MICROPLEX Operator’s Manual SOLID T4 / T5 / T6 / T8 Edition 2.0
3. Basic Operation Sequences
3.1. Overview
print process selecting
th e rm a l d ire c t th e rm a l tra n sfe r
rib b o n rem o va l ribbon loading
media loading
media setting
label continuous
pagelength/formatgap m easuring
margin setting
see chapter 5
see chapter 4 see chapter 4
see chapter 4
see chapter 6
see chapter 6
see chapter 6
start
printhead position and pressure adjusting
see chapter 4

Basic Operation Sequences 19
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MICROPLEX Operator’s Manual SOLID T4 / T5 / T6 / T8 Edition 2.0
FIf the panel settings above shall be effective permanently (that
means they do not have to be put in again after a printer
OFF/ON) the setting values can be saved permanently by
operating the ON LINE ↵key three times.
The output of the actual setting values can be effected by
activating the panel function "Printing the Status Sheet " (see
chapter 6.6).
Detailed information on the operations above and to further
functions of the printers SOLID T4, T5, T6 and T8 can be found in
the following chapters.

20 Handling of Consumables
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MICROPLEX Operator’s Manual SOLID T4 / T5 / T6 / T8 Edition 2.0
4. Handling of Consumables
For thermal direct printing it is not allowed to load a ribbon to
avoid damaging the printhead. Make sure your settings using
the control panel and display respectively via interface (see
chapter 5 and 6) fit to the printer implementation (ribbon
inserted /not inserted).
4.1. Winding Diagram
The diagram above shows the usual winding directions of material and ribbon.
Always follow this diagram when inserting/changing material and ribbon.
Also pay attention to the instructions located on the inside of the device hood.
Ribbon and material should only be inserted/changed by specially instructed
personnel.
Designation of the parts
1 Setting screw, printhead contact
2 Setting — thin/narrow material
3 Setting — medium material
4 Setting — thick/wide material
5 Ribbon transport roller
6 Ribbon roll-up mandrel (ribbon mandrel left)
7 Setting — roll-up speed
8 Setting — unwind speed
9 Ribbon unwinder with ribbon
10 Material unwinder with material
11 Outer guide disc
12 Ribbon
13 Head mounting
14 Printhead (thermal bar)
15 Print roller
16 Sensor setting gap detection
17 Feed roller
18 Pressure rollers
19 Ribbon guide mandrel
20 Fan lever for contact rollers
21 Material end photoelectric switch
22 Material guide
23 Material thickness
24 Material
25 Bouncer arm (not with SOLID T4)