Novexx Solutions ALX 73 Series User manual

03/12 Rev. 5.08-01 OPERATNG MANUAL
ALX 73x
Product description
Overview ....................................................... 2
Designs of the ALX 73x ............................. 2
Configurations of the ALX 73x ................... 3
Functionality .............................................. 3
Operating components .............................. 5
Control panels ........................................... 8
Connections ............................................ 10
Options ........................................................ 12
External control panels ............................ 12
Fixed dispensing edge ............................ 12
Swivelling dispensing edge ..................... 12
Spring-loaded dispensing edge ............... 12
Pneumatic dispensing edge .................... 13
V-shape dispensing edge ........................ 13
Adjustable dispensing edge holders ....... 13
Adjustable head joint ............................... 14
Roll diameter sensor ............................... 14
Cable kit for internal roll diameter
monitoring ............................................... 14
Additional material guiding disc ............... 15
Capacitive label sensor ........................... 15
Applicator interface ................................. 15
Blow-on applicator LA-BO ....................... 16
Tamp-on applictor LA-TO ........................ 16
Twin deflection roller ............................... 16
Operating modes of the dispenser .............. 18
Overview ................................................. 18
Online mode ............................................ 19
Offline mode ............................................ 22
Printer operating modes .............................. 25
Overview ................................................. 25
Online mode ............................................ 26
Offline mode ............................................ 28
Standalone mode .................................... 31
Dispenser parameter menu .........................32
Overview of parameter menu ..................32
Information about the parameter
description ...............................................34
Tips for data entry in the parameter
menu ........................................................34
LABEL SETUP menu ...............................34
MACHINE SETUP menu .........................36
Printer parameter menu ..............................38
Overview of parameter menu ..................38
Information about the parameter
description ...............................................38
PRINT PARAMETERS menu ..................39
SYSTEM PARAMETER menu .................40
SPECIAL FUNCTION menu ....................41
SERVICE FUNCTIONS menu .................43

Operating manual ALX 73x | file version 03 | 03/2012 Overview | 2
P RODUCT DESCRIPTION
ALX
73x
GB
Overview
Designs of the ALX 73x
ALX 734/735 The ALX 73x is available in versions ALX 734, ALX 735 and ALX 736. These two ver-
sions differ in the width of the printhead:
• ALX 734: 4" print width (106 mm)
• ALX 735: 5" print width (127 mm)
• ALX 736: 6“ print width (160 mm)
ALX 73x RH/LH Each machine of series ALX 73x is available as a right-hand (RH) or left-hand (LH)
version [1]:
• ALX 73x RH: The label exits the machine on the right
1
.
• ALX 73x LH: The label exits the machine on the left.
[1] ALX 73x RH and LH.
1) As seen by the operator
RH LH

3| Overview Operating manual ALX 73x | file version 03 | 03/2012
P RODUCT DESCRIPTION
ALX
73x
Configurations of the ALX 73x
The ALX 73x can be adjusted in many ways to meet customer requirements:
Operation of the ALX 73x is described in this manual based on a machine with the fol-
lowing configuration:
•RH
• Horizontal installation position for labelling from above
• 1 Unwinder top left
For additional configuration illustrations see section Threading diagrams on
page 5.
Functionality
The main function of the ALX 73x is printing and dispensing self-adhesive labels. This
function is performed by a printing [2C] and a dispensing [2B] module that will be re-
ferred to below by the shortened form printer and dispenser.
The printer and dispenser work largely independently of each other. The only informa-
tion exchanged between the units relates to ready for operation status and error states
that occur. These units have their own control unit, firmware and control panel. To be
able to operate the machine, the two units must be set up separately from each other.
In some cases the same settings will have to be made twice (for example entering the
label length).
The labels are not dispensed immediately after printing. Instead they are buffered in
a loop where they are kept under tension by the dancer unit [2D].
Feature Adjustment
Direction in which products move Selection of design: LH / RH
Assembly position of the machine Horizontal / vertical (for labelling from above or
from the side)
Machine fastening Below / in the rear
Number of unwinders 1 / 2
Fastening of unwinders Above (to the right / left)
On the side (right / left)
[tab. 1] Options for configuring the ALX 73x.

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P RODUCT DESCRIPTION
ALX
73x
GB
[2] Left: Functional elements of the ALX 73x. Right: Flow of material.
AUnwinder
BDispenser (LMA)
CPrinter (PMA)
DDancer unit (DU)
EDispensing edge holder
FDispensing edge (optional)
Sequence of print dispensing:
• A print job is transferred to the printer (via database interface or memory card).
• The printer starts. When it does the dancer lever of the dancer unit moves up. The
printer stops as soon as the dancer lever has reached approximately the position
shown here [2 right].
• The dispenser dispenses a label as soon as there are enough printed labels in the
buffer loop and a start signal is received. This draws the dancer lever down, which
in turn causes the printer to print as long as there are still more labels to print until
the dancer lever has reached the upper end position.
A
B
C
D
E
F

5| Overview Operating manual ALX 73x | file version 03 | 03/2012
P RODUCT DESCRIPTION
ALX
73x
Operating components
[3] Operating components of the ALX 73x RH.
AUnwinder
The unwinding mandrel receives the material roll.
BDancer lever
Holds the label material evenly under tension. Brakes the rotation of the material
roll if the material tension drops.
CCore diameter adapter
To adjust the diameter of the dispenser mandrel to the core diameter of the label
roll.
DAdjusting knob
Turn clockwise to fasten the label roll in place on the dispenser.
EDancer lever
Controls the rewinding speed.
C
B
A
D
A
F
G
E
K
H
I
J
L
M
N
O
P
Q

Operating manual ALX 73x | file version 03 | 03/2012 Overview | 6
P RODUCT DESCRIPTION
ALX
73x
GB
FRewinder
Winds up the empty carrier material.
GUnlocking button
Pressing the button reduces the diameter of the rewinding core. This makes it pos-
sible to remove wound carrier material easily.
HDispenser control panel (dispensing module "LMA")
To enter commands on the dispensing section of the machine and display operat-
ing states and error messages.
IPressure mechanism
Presses the pressure roller against the drive roller. Prevents the carrier material
from slipping. Is automatically unlocked if the carrier material is drawn around the
drive roller.
JPrinter control panel (print module "PMA")
To enter commands on the printing section of the machine and display operating
states and error messages.
KDispensing edge
Shown here: fixed L-shape dispensing edge. The following options are available:
swivelling L-shape dispensing edge, spring-loaded L-shape dispensing edge,
pneumatic L-shape dispensing edge
LLabel sensor
Stops the label feed after dispensing a label.
MPressure roller
Presses the label after dispensing onto the product.
NDispensing edge holder
Holds L-shape dispensing edges in position. Not required for V-shape dispensing
edge.
ODancer lever
Holds the buffer loop under tension.
PAdjusting knob
For setting the spring tension of the dancer lever.
QFeed roller

7| Overview Operating manual ALX 73x | file version 03 | 03/2012
P RODUCT DESCRIPTION
ALX
73x
[4] Operating components of the printer in a ALX 73x RH.
APrinter control panel (print module „PMA“)
To enter commands on the printing section of the machine and display operating
states and error messages.
BFront cover
Held open by gas pressure spring.
CRibbon unwinding mandrel
Holds the ribbon roll.
DRibbon winding mandrel
Winds up the used ribbon.
EMaterial guides
The material end sensor is located inside the material guide.
FPrinthead
GPressure lever
HAdjustment wheel for label sensor
IAdjustment knob for printhead pressure
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
EI

Operating manual ALX 73x | file version 03 | 03/2012 Overview | 8
P RODUCT DESCRIPTION
ALX
73x
GB
Control panels
Control panel language Different languages are available for texts that appear on screen. Instructions for se-
lecting the language:
• Dispenser: see Setting parameters on page 23.
• Printer: see Setting parameters on page 30.
Printer control panel
[5] Printer control panel.
AOn/Off switch
Switches the printer on and off. To do this, press this button for longer than 2 sec-
onds. Requirement: The mains power switch is turned on (position “I”, see ).
BOperating LED
Lights up green when the printer is turned on.
CError LED
Lights up red when an error has occurred.
DScreen
Display of operating states, parameters, setting values and error messages. The
displays depend on the operating state of the printer. They are described in sec-
tion Printer operating modes on page 25.
EKeys
The functions of the keys depend on the operating state of the printer. They are
described in section Printer operating modes on page 25.
PROGFEEDONLINE
APPLY
ON
ERROR
A
B
C
D
E

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P RODUCT DESCRIPTION
ALX
73x
Dispenser control panel
[6] Dispenser control panel.
AOperating LED
Lights up green when the dispenser is turned on.
BError LED
Lights up red when an error has occurred.
CScreen
Display of operating states, parameters, setting values and error messages. The
displays depend on the operating state of the dispenser. They are described in
section Operating modes of the dispenser on page 18.
DKeys
The functions of the keys depend on the operating state of the dispenser. They are
described in section Operating modes of the dispenser on page 18.
A
B
C
D

Operating manual ALX 73x | file version 03 | 03/2012 Overview | 10
P RODUCT DESCRIPTION
ALX
73x
GB
Connections
[7] Connections on an ALX 73x RH. Left: printer connections, right: dispenser connections.
A(Printer) network connection (Ethernet 10/100); used to transfer print jobs from a
host (for example a PC); read service data; transfer firmware; operation via web
server
B(Printer) Serial interface (RS232); used to transfer print jobs from a host (for ex-
ample a PC); read service data; transfer firmware
C(Printer) USB device interfaces (2x); used to connect devices, for example key-
board or scanner
D(Printer) USB interface type A (host); used to transfer print jobs from a host (for
example a PC); read service data; transfer firmware
E(Printer) card slot for CompactFlash cards; used to store/load print jobs, service
data or firmware
F(Printer) card slot for SD cards; used to store/load print jobs, service data or
firmware
G(Printer) connection for a remote control panel (see External control panels 
on page 12)
WARNING!
Danger of electrocution.
Only connect the printer to devices that fulfil the SELV (safety extra-low voltage)
circuit requirements in accordance with EN 60950.
CAUTION!
Danger of damage to the machine due to faulty accessories.
Only connect original accessories.
A
B
C
D
E
F
H
IJK
T
RS
U
V
W
X
Y
Z
GMP
Q
M
N
L
O

11 | Overview Operating manual ALX 73x | file version 03 | 03/2012
P RODUCT DESCRIPTION
ALX
73x
HConnection to the mains power supply
ILabel sensor
JProduct (start) sensor (available as accessory)
KRotary encoder (available as accessory); used for operation with automatic speed
adaptation
LAlternative label sensor (see Capacitive label sensor on page 15)
MPosition sensor of the linear dancer lever
NOD
1
sensor for external OD monitoring (see Roll diameter sensor on page 14)
O(Dispenser) signal inputs (connection only to ALX 73x in the "complete") design;
used to exchange signals with other machines or control an applicator
P(Dispenser) signal outputs (connection only to ALX 73x in the "complete") design
QOD sensor 1 (for internal OD monitoring on dispenser 1, see Cable kit for internal
roll diameter monitoring on page 14)
ROD sensor 1
SOD
1
sensor 2 (for internal OD monitoring on dispenser 2)
TOD sensor 2
U(Dispenser) PLC signal interface/applicator interface (switchable); used to ex-
change signals with other machines or control an applicator
V(Dispenser) USB interface type A (host); used to transfer print jobs from a host (for
example a PC); read service data; transfer firmware
W(Dispenser) card slot for CompactFlash cards; used to store/load service data or
firmware
X(Dispenser) connection for remote control panel
(see External control panels on page 12)
Y(Dispenser) Serial interface (RS 232); used to read service data; transfer firmware
Z(Dispenser) network connection (Ethernet 10/100); used to read service data;
transfer firmware; operate via web server
1) OD = outer roll diameter

Operating manual ALX 73x | file version 01 | 03/2012 Options | 12
P RODUCT DESCRIPTION
ALX
73x
GB
Options
External control panels
In addition to the permanently installed control panel,
external control panels can also be connected.
External control panels are advantageous if the in-
stalled control panels are difficult to access due to the
installation position of the machine.
Fixed dispensing edge
The dispensing edge is rigidly connected with the hold-
ing bars.
The vertical position can be adjusted by raising or low-
ering the entire machine.
To adjust the inclination, rotate the holding bars (for fur-
ther details see the Service manual).
Swivelling dispensing edge
The vertical position of the dispensing edge is adjusta-
ble.
The machine does not need to be moved to adjust the
dispensing edge and the machine suspension does not
need to be loosened.
Spring-loaded dispensing edge
The dispensing edge can be rotated in its bearing. A
torsion spring in the dispensing head presses the dis-
pensing edge down onto the surface of the product.
This makes it possible to compensate for differences in
height between products or on the surface of the
product.
[8] External dispenser control panel
[9] Standard dispensing edge
[10] Swivelling dispensing edge
[11] Spring-loaded dispensing edge

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ALX
73x
Pneumatic dispensing edge
The dispensing edge can be rotated in the dispensing
head. Compressed air presses the dispensing edge
onto the surface of the product.
This makes it possible to compensate for differences in
height between products or on the surface of the
product.
V-shape dispensing edge
The length-adjustable V-shape dispensing edge [13]
offers an additional opportunity to adapt the machine to
the application.
Adjustable dispensing edge holders
L-shape dispensing edges can be mounted with the
fixed (standard) dispensing edge holder, or with one of
the two optionally available adustable holders.
• The finely adjustable dispensing edge holder [14A]
can be adjusted by means of an adjusting spindle
in steps of 0.2 mm.
• The „normally“ adjustable dispensing edge holder
[14B] offers a larger setting range, which can be fur-
ther extended by installing longer rods into the hold-
er.
[12] Pneumatic dispensing edge
[13] V-shape dispensing edge.
[14] Adjustable dispensing edge holder.
AB

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P RODUCT DESCRIPTION
ALX
73x
GB
Adjustable head joint
Using the adjustable head joint [15A], just one person
can tilt the label dispenser ±4° for fine dosing.
Roll diameter sensor
The roll diameter sensor (OD sensor) [16A] generates
a warning if a specific, adjustable Outer Diameter of the
roll is exceeded.
Cable kit for internal roll diameter
monitoring
The sensors integrated into the dispenser are connect-
ed to the ALX 73x controller with these cables [17]. This
makes it possible to use internal roll diameter monitor-
ing. 2 cable kits are required for 2 dispensers.
[15] Adjustable head joint (A)
A
[16] Roll diameter sensor (A)
A
[17] Cable kit for internal OD monitoring

15 | Options Operating manual ALX 73x | file version 01 | 03/2012
P RODUCT DESCRIPTION
ALX
73x
Additional material guiding disc
The additional material guiding disc [18A] improves
side guiding of the material roll. This option is especially
recommended for processing very narrow label materi-
al (< 30 mm in width).
Capacitive label sensor
Optional sensor, required for processing transparent la-
bels [19A]. The sensor is mounted on the rods of the
dispensing edge holder.
Applicator interface
Additional board [20A]; makes it possible to control al-
most all applicator types.
[18] Additional material guiding disc (A)
A
[19] Capacitive label sensor (A).
[20] Installed applicator interface (A) on an ALX 73x RH.
A
A

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P RODUCT DESCRIPTION
ALX
73x
GB
Blow-on applicator LA-BO
The LA-BO applies labels to products without touching
them. It suits especially well for labelling delicate prod-
ucts like fruits or vegetables.
Tamp-on applicator LA-TO
The LA-TO presses labels onto products by means of
a movable pressure plate, which is driven pneumatical-
ly. Pressure plates are available in different sizes.
Twin deflection roller
The twin deflection roller [23A] at the linear dancer lever
increases the loop capacity. This option recommends
especially for very long labels.
[21] Applicator LA-BO.
[22] Applicator LA-TO.
[23] Twin deflection roller (A) at the linear dancer lever.
A

17 | Options Operating manual ALX 73x | file version 01 | 03/2012
P RODUCT DESCRIPTION
ALX
73x

Operating manual ALX 73x | file version 00 | 03/2012 Operating modes of the dispenser | 18
P RODUCT DESCRIPTION
ALX
73x
GB
Operating modes of the dispenser
Overview
Operating modes of the dispenser:
• Online mode
– dispensing mode
– Active operating mode after switching on
1
– Label counter screen or
– Display/setting of dispensing speed and start delay
• Offline mode
Settings in parameter menu
[24] Dispenser control panel on the ALX 73x.
1) Requirement: Factory setting or MACHINE SETUP > Turn-on mode = "Online"

19 | Operating modes of the dispenser Operating manual ALX 73x | file version 00 | 03/2012
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ALX
73x
Online mode
[25] Dispenser control panel in online mode (292 labels dispensed)
AMeaning of keys in online mode
Activate online mode Normally
1
activated automatically after switching on.
Activate from offline mode:
Press the key 2x.
Screen:
Or:
(Product profile "xxxxxxxx" (memory slot 5) is activated).
For more detailed information see chapter Using product profiles (dispenser) on
page 31.
Stop /continue label
output
Stop label output:
Press the key.
The dispenser stops.
Screen:
or (in applicator mode)
++
–
–
ON
STATUS
Online
292
Labels
A
1) Requirement: Factory setting or MACHINE SETUP > Turn-on mode = "Online"
ONLINE
Label 0
Prof 5 xxxxxxx
Label 292
ONLINE
Stopped. - Press key.
a
a) Second = running text
ONLINE
Stopped. Remove label. - Press key.
a

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ALX
73x
GB
Continue label output:
1. (applicator mode) remove label from applicator.
2. Press the key.
Online settings
[26] Dispenser control panel in the online settings mode.
ADispensing speed display (here: 12,2 m/min constant)
BDispense label key
CStart delay display (here: 0 mm)
DMeaning of keys for online settings
EReduce dispensing speed key
FIncrease dispensing speed key
GReduce start delay key
HIncrease start delay key
The machine is in dispensing mode.
Switch to online settings:
Press the key.
Screen shows dispensing speed [26A] and start delay [26C].
The key assignments as they are represented on the keys apply.
Both settings can be increased or reduced during dispensing mode ("+" key)
("-" key) [26D].
Dispensing speed:
• Setting range: [5.0…50.0] m/min
• "Fixed" display: The dispensing speed is constant
• "Var" display: The dispensing speed automatically follows the speed of the con-
veyor mechanism (automatic speed adaptation)
Start delay:
• Setting range: [0.0…999.9] mm
• The start delay is the distance between the product sensor and the dispensing
edge.
Changing back to online mode:
Press the + keys.
ABC
++
–
–
ON
STATUS
Speed
12.2 fix
Offset
0.0
D
EFGH