Nisca PR5300 User manual

D
Di ir re ec ct t C Ca ar rd d P Pr ri in nt te er r
U
Us se er r’ ’s s G Gu ui id de e
For Nisca Model PR5300
TEAMNisca, A Division of Kanematsu USA, Inc. 400 Cottontail Lane, Somerset, NJ 08873
Copyright © 2004, Kanematsu USA. All rights reserved.
TEAMNisca® and the TEAMNisca® logo are a registered trademark of Kanematsu USA, Inc. Microsoft® and
Windows® are U.S. trademarks of Microsoft Corporation. Names of products mentioned herein are used for
identification purposes only and may be trademarks and/or trademarks of their respective companies.

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Table of Contents
Chapter 1: Introduction
Welcome! ..................................................................................................................................1
About This User’s Guide .........................................................................................................1
General Site Requirements .......................................................................................................2
Important Safety Instructions ....................................................................................................2
Electrical Requirements .....................................................................................................3
Physical Requirements .......................................................................................................3
Environmental Requirements .............................................................................................3
Chapter 2: Getting Started
Printer Features..........................................................................................................................4
Front of the Printer .............................................................................................................4
Rear of the Printer ..............................................................................................................5
Printer LCD Panel ..............................................................................................................5
LCD Operation ...................................................................................................................6
Front Access Panel .............................................................................................................6
Unpacking the Printer ...............................................................................................................7
Loading the Ink Ribbon ............................................................................................................8
Connecting the Printer ............................................................................................................10
SCSI Connection ..............................................................................................................10
Parallel Connection ..........................................................................................................11
USB Connection................................................................................................................12
Loading Cards .........................................................................................................................13
Card Size Adjustment .............................................................................................................14
Turning On the Printer ............................................................................................................15
Printer Driver Installation........................................................................................................15
Installing the Windows® 2000/XP Print Driver Parallel .................................................15
Installing the Windows® 2000/XP Print Driver SCSI......................................................18
Print a Test Card ...............................................................................................................21
Chapter 3: Using the Printer
Configuring Printer Preferences .............................................................................................23
Printer Option Tab ..................................................................................................................24
LCD Modes of Operation .......................................................................................................25
Normal Mode Information ...............................................................................................25
User Mode Information ....................................................................................................26
Chapter 4: Maintenance
Basic Automated Cleaning .....................................................................................................27
Manual Cleaning .....................................................................................................................28
Cleaning the Takeup Roller ....................................................................................................28
Cleaning the Input Rollers ......................................................................................................29
Cleaning the Flip/Turn Transport Rollers ...............................................................................30
Cleaning the Print Unit Rollers ...............................................................................................31
Cleaning the Print Head ..........................................................................................................32
Updating the Firmware ...........................................................................................................34
Chapter 5: Troubleshooting
Interpreting LCD Display Messages .......................................................................................36

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Interpreting LCD Jam Messages .............................................................................................37
Card Appearance Issues ..........................................................................................................39
General Troubleshooting Suggestions ....................................................................................40
Where to Get Additional Help ................................................................................................40
Block Diagram ........................................................................................................................41
Appendix A: Printer specifications ........................................................................... 42
Appendix B: Printer Configuration ........................................................................... 44
Appendix C: User Mode Menu Map ........................................................................... 46
Appendix D: Parts Replacement ................................................................................ 48
Replacing the Input Rollers ....................................................................................................48
Replacing the Print Head ........................................................................................................49

1
CHAPTER
1.
Introduction
Welcome!
Congratulations on your purchase of the Nisca PR5300 Direct Card Printer. The printer gives
you brilliant images using these features:
 Full color edge to edge
 300 dpi dye sublimation printing technology
 Industry leading 24-bit continuous tone printing
 103 cards per hour printing speed
 Dual sided printing
 Dual sided lamination with alternating patch options
 Micro SCSI II, Parallel, and USB connectivity
 Full Windows®-based application compatibility
This printer produces cards ideal for driver’s licenses, printing bureaus, access control badges,
and standard corporate identification.
About This User’s Guide
This User’s Guide contains important safety information, along with detailed instructions on how
to install, use, and maintain the printer and the printer driver.
This guide uses the following conventions:
Warning This warning symbol means danger. You are in a situation that could cause
bodily injury. Information presented must be followed carefully to avoid
harm.
Caution This caution symbol means reader be careful. In this situation, the user might do
something that could result in equipment damage.

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Note This note symbol means reader take note. Notes contain important information
and helpful suggestions about your printer.
General Site Requirements
When choosing a site for the PR5300, consider the following recommendations:
 Select a site that is out of direct sunlight.
 Placement should be on a sturdy platform and off the floor.
 Platform should be free from vibration.
 Environment should be free from high humidity and dust.
 Environment should have a relatively stable temperature.
 Provide enough space to allow adequate ventilation.
 Place it in a location that allows easy access to all sides.
Important Safety Instructions
Before using your printer, read the following safety instructions to make sure you use the printer
safely and effectively:
 Turn off and unplug the printer before cleaning.
 Do not spill any liquids on the printer.
 Always prevent debris from entering the printer.
 Do not place any heavy objects on the printer.
 Use only a power source indicated in the electrical requirements section.
 Do not place the printer on an unstable surface or near a radiator or a heating vent.
 Do not place the printer near sources of heat or electromagnetic interference.
 Except as specifically indicated and explained in this User’s Guide, do not attempt to
service the printer yourself.
 When moving the equipment, always be sure to turn off the power prior to moving.
 Do not let the power cord become damaged or frayed.
 Do not block the air vents or fan on the printer. Do not touch any part inside the printer
except as directed by this User’s Guide.
 Do not use the printer for purposes other than its intended use.
 Unplug the printer and refer servicing to qualified service personnel in the event that any
of the conditions exist:
• The power cord or plug is damaged.
• Any liquid or solid object falls into the printer.
• The printer has been dropped or the case has been damaged.
• The printer does not operate normally or exhibits a distinct change in
performance.

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Electrical Requirements
The PR5300 requires the following electrical specifications for optimal performance:
 100-240 VAC at 50/60 Hz. The PR5300 is auto-switching to power within this range.
 Single phase, 3-wire grounded receptacle.
 If you use an extension cord with the printer, verify it’s rated for a minimum of 125
VAC, 10 Amps.
Warning Never operate the printer in a location where the operator, computer, or
printer can get wet. Personal injury could result. The printer must be
connected to a grounded electrical power supply and properly protected
against electrical surges and grounding faults.
Physical Requirements
The PR5300 requires a sturdy platform that can accommodate its weight and physical
dimensions. The printer weighs 26.6 pounds (13 kilograms). The dimensions are:
 Height: 16.57” (421 mm)
 Width: 10.66” (271 mm)
 Depth: 10.03” (331 mm)
Environmental Requirements
The PR5300 printer requires the following environmental conditions for optimal operation:
 Operating temperature range of 50° – 95°F (10° – 35° C). To ensure best performance,
temperatures should be in the range of 68° – 77° F (20° – 25° C).
 Operating relative humidity range of 35% – 80% non-condensing.

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CHAPTER
2.
Getting Started
Printer Features
Front of the Printer
A. Front Access Panel
 Opens to allow access to the inside of the printer.
B. Front Access Panel Release Button
 Button that allows the front access panel to open.
C. Card Output Stacker
 Used to store printed cards.
D. Card Input Feeder
 Used to load blank cards for printing.
E. LCD Display
 Display’s the current status of the printer.
F. Rejected Card Exit
 Used to eject a card that encounters a problem.
G. On/Off Switch
 Turns the printer power ON and OFF.
A
G
F
E
D
B
C

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Rear of the Printer
A. Circuit Breaker
 Protection device that stops current if there is a direct short or excessive heat.
B. Interface Port
 Connection SCSI II, Parallel, USB
C. Options Connector Port
 The printer supports the attachment of a optional card lamination module.
D. Power Receptacle
 Supplies power to the printer.
Printer LCD Panel
A
B C
F
G
D
E
A
B
C
D

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LCD Operation
ITEM DESCRIPTION MODE FUNCTION
A LCD Display Normal
User Displays the printer’s status. Displays the selected menu or values.
B Ready LED Green light indicates printer is ready and
will accept data.
C Error LED Indicates an error has occurred.
D Power LED Indicates the power is On.
E Ribbon Change / Menu Button Normal
User
Press this button to change the ribbon. Press
and hold this button enter User’s Mode.
Use this button for menu selections.
F Clear Button Normal
User
Used for clearing or resetting errors. It is
also used to stop continuous printing.
In some cases, it is used to set values.
G EXE Button Normal
User Not used. Used to execute the displayed item or to
change the setting.
Front Access Panel
A. Input Roller Module
 This module removes dust particles from the top and bottom of the card as it
feeds into the printer.
B. Green Retaining Lever
 This prevents the ribbon cartridge from being removed.
C. Manual Rotation Knob
 Used to manually advance the rollers.
D. Ribbon Cartridge
 Used to print sharp, colorful images onto various types of cards.
A
B
C
D

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Unpacking the Printer
Follow these steps to unpack the printer. Be sure to select a location that meets the general
requirements as stated above.
Caution IMPORTANT! The printer must be placed on a level surface, in a dust free
environment. It is essential to be able to access the printer from all sides for its
installation. It is also recommended that you have one or more persons to assist
with unpacking the printer.
1. Place the shipping carton on a firm level surface. While unpacking, inspect the carton to
ensure no damage occurred during shipping.
2. Remove the printer and carton components from the packing box.
3. Open the accessory box and verify the following items are included:
User’s Guide
Power Supply Cord
Empty Bobbin for Ink Ribbon
Card Weight
Eject Card Box
YMCKO Ink Ribbon
Ribbon Cartridge
Printer Driver CD ROM
Warranty Registration Card
If any items are missing, please contact your authorized reseller.
Note Keep all packing material in case you need to move or re-ship the printer.
4. Remove all packing tape.

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5. Open the front access panel by depressing the release button and lift the green retaining
lever. Gently remove the ribbon cartridge by sliding it toward the front of the printer.
6. Remove the print head packing material from the ribbon cartridge.
Loading The Ink Ribbon
Caution IMPORTANT! To prevent damage to the print head, you must press the Ribbon
Change button BEFORE removing the ribbon cartridge.
Initially, the print head has been retracted at the factory for shipment so you do not have to press
the Ribbon Change button for initial setup. To load the ink ribbon, follow these steps:

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1. Open the ribbon cartridge by sliding the release lever to the left.
2. Remove new ribbon from its packaging and place on the supply side of the ribbon
cartridge.
3. Locate the empty ribbon bobbin packaged with the printer accessories and place on the
take up side of the ribbon cartridge.
4. Remove the tape and pull the released ribbon towards the take up bobbin. Attach the tape
to the bobbin making sure the ribbon is centered on the bobbin.
Supply SideTake up Side

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5. Advance the take up bobbin 2-3 turns to verify that the ribbon is properly seated on the
bobbin and all slack has been removed from the ribbon.
6. Close the ribbon cartridge and slide the release lever to the right ensuring the cartridge is
securely locked.
7. Slide the ribbon back into the printer and lower the green retaining lever to lock the
ribbon cartridge in place.
8. Close front access panel.
Connecting The Printer
This section describes how to connect the printer to a power source and to a PC that runs the
printer driver. Depending on the model you purchased, it can be connected either by SCSI,
Parallel, or USB:
To connect the printer to your computer, follow the instructions based on your connectivity.
SCSI Connection
If you are connecting your printer via a SCSI connection, obtain the appropriate interface cable.
Note Use only an external DB25 to 50-pin high density, half pitched Amphenol
connector. TEAMNisca recommends an Adaptec ACK-D2H-1M-ICE.
SCSI Parallel USB

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1. Make sure the computer and printer are turned off.
2. Each SCSI device to be connected in the SCSI chain must be identified with an
individual ID number. There are 7 potential SCSI ID numbers to specify and each SCSI
device must be assigned its own unique ID number. The default SCSI ID number for the
printer is 4.
3. You can set the ID number in the printer by accessing the User Mode Menu. Press and
hold the Menu button on the LCD until it displays “User Mode”.
4. Press the EXE button several times until the SCSI ID sub menu is displayed. Press the
Menu button to enter this menu and select the appropriate ID number using the EXE
button. The numbers can be between 0-7.
5. Select “Return to Normal Mode” with the MENU button and press the EXE button to
return to the “Ready to Print” display.
6. Depending on where your printer exists on the SCSI chain will determine the selection of
the termination switch. If the printer is in the middle of the chain, then the terminating
switch should be in the “OFF” position. If the printer is at the end of the chain, then the
terminating switch should be set to “ON”.
7. Insert the power cord into the power receptacle on the rear of the printer. Plug the other
end into an available wall outlet.
Note The SCSI ID cannot be the same for any other device in your system. SCSI ID 0
is reserved for boot devices and is therefore not recommended to use. The SCSI
interface allows for very high-speed data transmissions. To ensure error free data
transmissions, use the shortest cable possible.
Parallel Connection
To connect the printer to your computer, obtain the appropriate interface cable. A printer to PC
interface cable is a non standard accessory.

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Note Use only a shielded, Type C, IEEE 1284 parallel port cable, up to a maximum of
6.5 feet long.
1. Make sure the printer and computer are turned off.
2. Connect the micro centronics connector to the printer’s parallel port, and snap the
fastening clips into place.
3. Connect the other side of the cable to the parallel connector on the back of the computer.
4. Insert the power cord into the power receptacle on the rear of the printer. Plug the other
end into an available wall outlet.
USB Connection
To connect the printer to your computer, obtain the appropriate USB 2.0 cable.
1. Make sure the printer and computer are turned off.

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2. Connect the square end of the USB 2.0 cable into the printer USB connector.
3. Connect the other end into an available USB 2.0 port on the back of the computer.
4. Insert the power cord into the power receptacle on the rear of the printer. Plug the other
end into an available wall outlet.
Loading Cards
Before you begin printing, you must load blank cards into the printer’s card feeder. You may
load cards while the printer power is either on or off. You may also load cards while the printer
is printing. The printer is factory configured to feed and print standard size CR-80 at 30 mil. To
adjust the card thickness, see the next section. To load cards, following these steps:
1. Lift the card feeder door and remove the card weight.
2. Remove a new stack of cards from the card packaging. Fan cards but be cautious not to
touch the printing surface of the card as dirt from your hands could impair the print quality.
3. Hold the stack of cards by the edges only. Set the stack of cards onto the card feeder
between the guides.
4. Always load cards with the primary print side facing up. If inserting cards with a magnetic
stripe, ensure the magnetic stripe is positioned downward and towards the back.

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5. Once the cards are loaded, place the card weight on the top card with the raised bevel
handle facing away from the printer. This card weight increases feeding reliability
primarily when only a few cards are in the card feeder.
6. Close the card feeder door. The cards will automatically feed off the bottom first.
Note Stack the cards evenly to prevent the printer from reporting a “pick up error”.
Card Size Adjustments
When loading cards that vary from the standard size, it is necessary to make a simple adjustment
to the printer. To adjust the card size, follow these steps:
1. Open the card feeder door and remove cards.
2. Loosen the two phillips head screws on the adjustable gate.
3. Insert a card into the card feeder just under the gate.
4. Lower the gate until it slightly touches the card.
5. Raise the gate one half the thickness of the card and tighten the screws.
6. Test the new adjustment by attempting to slide two cards under the gate. If two cards
slide under the gate, the gap width is incorrect and return to step 3. You should not be
able to slide two cards into the gap.

15
Turning on the Printer
Before installing the printer driver and before using the printer, follow these steps to power on the
printer. The PC that the printer is connected should be powered down.
1. Make sure cards and printer ribbon have been loaded.
2. Make sure the power cord and printer interface cable is connected.
3. Once the power cord is connected, press the power switch located on the right side of the
printer. The switch will read ‘|’ and not ‘O’.
4. Power up the PC.
Printer Driver Installation
Note Close all applications before installing the driver. To install the driver under
Windows® 2000 and Windows® XP, you must have Administrator privileges.
The PR5300 printer comes with different printer drivers for the Microsoft operating systems. The
printer driver is located on the installation CD that was included with your printer. Insert the CD
into your computer’s CD drive. The CD will automatically open and prompt you to install the
driver. If for any reason the CD does not automatically run, follow these steps:
Windows® 2000 / Windows® XP Parallel Port Installation
1. Insert the Nisca installation CD in your computer’s CD drive.
2. On the Start menu, click Run.
3. Type d:\setup, where dis the letter assigned to your CD drive.
4. Click OK.
The printer driver Setup starts and guides you through printer driver installation.

16
1. Click Next.
2. Read the license agreement and click Yes if you accept the terms of the license
agreement. If you decline, you cannot install the driver.
3. Click Next.
4. Verify the printer port and name.
5. Click on the Detect ECP button and review the message that is displayed. Most new
computers have the parallel port set to ECP (enhanced capability port). If the message is
“Your computer is configured to support ECP printing”, continue on with the installation.
If you receive any other message, you should verify your computer’s parallel port is
configured for ECP communication by reviewing the settings in your computer’s BIOS
menu. The printer driver can still be installed even though your computer may not
support ECP mode. Refer to Setting your Parallel Port to ECP mode in the
Troubleshooting chapter.