Postek C168 User manual

C168 Series User’s Manual
i
FCC Notice
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device
may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that
may cause undesired operation.
This equipment may generate, use and/or radiate radio frequency energy. If not installed and used in full accordance with
this User’s Manual, interference to radio communications may occur. This equipment complies with the limits for a Class A
Information Technology Equipment pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules, which are designed to provide reasonable
protection against such interference when operated in a commercial environment. Operation of this equipment in a
residential area may also cause interference. In such case the user, at his/her expense, will be required to correct the
interference using whatever means necessary.
Trademarks
POSTEK is a registered trademark by POSTEK Electronics Co., Ltd.
ARM is a registered trademark ofAdvanced RISC Machines Ltd.
Microsoft, Windows are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation.
Copyright
© 2006-2015 by Postek Electronics Co., Ltd. All rights reserved. Under the copyright laws, this manual cannot be
reproduced in any form without the prior written permission of Postek. No patent liability is assumed, with respect to the use
of the information contained herein.
POSTEK C168 Series Label Printer User’s Manual
9th edition January 2015
Disclaimer
This manual has been validated and reviewed for accuracy. The instructions and descriptions it contains are accurate for the
Postek C168 Series label printer at the time of this manual’s distribution. However, succeeding printers and manuals are
subject to change without notice. Postek assumes no liability for damages incurred directly or indirectly from errors,
omissions or discrepancies between the printer and this manual.
Although this manual describes and details many issues which could possibly occur, the manufacturer cannot warrant against
unpredictable conditions during the printing process. For problems such as the printer not working, lost or unclear print
content, etc., the manufacturer and resellers are responsible for correcting these issues (according to Postek Printer Warranty
Clauses). In no event shall the manufacturer or the resellers involved be liable for any damages whatsoever (including,
without limitation, damages for loss of business profits, business interruption, loss of business information, or other
pecuniary loss) arising from the use of, the results of use or inability to use this product, even if the manufacturer has been
advised of the possibility of such damages.

C168 Series User’s Manual
Important Safety Instructions
♦Only qualified and trained service technicians should attempt to repair the printer.
♦Do not place the printer on or near a heat source.
♦Be sure that the output of the power adapter is 24VDC and your power source matches the rating listed on the power
adapter. Be certain your power source is grounded.
♦To avoid getting an electric shock, do not use a worn or damaged power cord. If the power cord becomes damaged or
frayed, replace it immediately.
♦Do not insert anything into the ventilation slots or openings on the printer.
♦The printer and power adapter should never be operated in a location where either one can get wet. Personal injury may
result.
♦The printhead becomes hot while printing. To protect from damaging the printhead and risk of personal injury, avoid
touching the printhead.
♦To get increased printhead longevity and higher quality printouts, always use approved labels, tags and thermal transfer
ribbons. Approved supplies can be ordered from your Postek authorized reseller.
♦Static electricity that accumulates on the surface of the human body or other surfaces can damage or destroy the
printhead or electronic components in this device. DO NOT touch the printhead or the electronic components with bare
hands.
♦Place the printer on a flat, firm, solid surface.
♦Never operate in a high temperature environment.
♦Turn off the power when not in use for extended periods.
♦Follow all recommendations and setup instructions included in this manual.
Warnings:
This is a Class A product. In a domestic environment this product may cause radio interference in which case the user may
be required to take adequate measures (see FCC Notice).
Static electricity that accumulates on the surface of the human body or other objects can damage the print head or electronic
components in the C168 Series printer. Observe proper electrostatic safety precautions when handling.

C168 Series User’s Manual
Table of Contents
Preface ...............................................................................................................................................................1
Important Notice, Read Me First....................................................................................................................1
Chapter 1: Introduction...................................................................................................................................2
Printer Specifications..........................................................................................................................................................2
Specifications for Power Adapter .......................................................................................................................................2
Contents of Box..................................................................................................................................................................3
Packing List ................................................................................................................................................................3
Chapter 2: Setup and Use................................................................................................................................ 5
Setting up the Printer .......................................................................................................................................................... 5
Main Parts and Structures...........................................................................................................................................5
Connecting the Printer................................................................................................................................................7
Interface Connection...................................................................................................................................................8
Loading the Ribbon ............................................................................................................................................................8
Loading the Media............................................................................................................................................................14
Standard Mode..........................................................................................................................................................14
Peel-off Mode ...........................................................................................................................................................19
Cutting Mode............................................................................................................................................................22
Using the External Media Stand....................................................................................................................................... 23
Install the Media Stand .............................................................................................................................................23
Load Media Using External Media Stand.................................................................................................................24
Adjusting the Position of Media Sensor ...........................................................................................................................26
Chapter 3: Operations and Settings..............................................................................................................28
Basic Operations...............................................................................................................................................................28
Power Switch............................................................................................................................................................28
The Front Panel.........................................................................................................................................................28
Advanced Functions .................................................................................................................................................29
Windows Driver................................................................................................................................................................ 31
Label Software..................................................................................................................................................................31
Chapter 4: Maintenance ................................................................................................................................ 32
Cleaning the Printhead......................................................................................................................................................32
Cleaning the Platen Roller................................................................................................................................................ 33
Cleaning the Printer Interior .............................................................................................................................................33
Chapter 5: Troubleshooting...........................................................................................................................34
Error Indications...............................................................................................................................................................34
Miscellaneous...................................................................................................................................................................35
Vertical Blank Lines Appear.....................................................................................................................................35
Printer Timeout Error Message.................................................................................................................................35
Data Sent but Not Printing........................................................................................................................................35
Poor Printing Quality................................................................................................................................................36
Recovery...................................................................................................................................................................36
Appendix A: Interface Specifications ...........................................................................................................37

C168 Series User’s Manual
Appendix B:ASCII Table.............................................................................................................................. 39

Preface, Important Notice C168 Series User’s Manual
1
Preface
Your POSTEK C168 Series compact barcode label printer features innovative technology and superior quality workmanship.
Boasting a rigid structure, a highly reliable motor and transmission system, and a large ribbon capacity of 360M, users enjoy
minimal downtime and low service cost. With intuitive operations, the C168 is ideal for a wide range of applications.
This manual explains how to set up and begin using your C168 Series printer. It also provides detailed information on
configuring your printer, basic operations, care and troubleshooting.
Please read this manual carefully before using the POSTEK C168 Series printer.
Important Notice, Read Me First
The thermal printhead can be easily damaged due to its precision construction. A printhead damaged by misuse is not
covered under the terms of the warranty. To ensure longevity of the printhead, please note the following:
1. DO NOT scrape or use tools that might damage the printhead surface.
2. To protect from corroding the printhead, DO NOT touch the printhead with bare hands.
3. DO NOT use thermal paper or thermal transfer ribbons which contain Na, K or Cl.
4. Keep printhead from any form of liquid or dampness.
5. Only use a cotton swab dipped in anhydrous isopropyl alcohol to clean the printhead.
6. Always use high-quality consumables:
•When the printhead module is closed, pressure is placed directly onto the printhead; dirt such as paper scraps, sand,
dust and glue can scrape or damage the printhead.
•The printhead is also easily damaged by static electricity, which may be generated by poor quality ribbons.
7. Always inspect consumables for high quality before purchasing.
Note: The C168 Series printer functions under Direct Thermal or Thermal Transfer print methods. Thermal Transfer
is set as the factory default (requires ribbon for printing). However, if you need to print on Direct Thermal materials
(ribbon is not required), please contact your printer supplier or service provider to reduce the printhead pressure. This
can protect your printhead from early performance deterioration due to direct contact with the thermal media. Any
physical printhead damage caused by direct thermal printing is not covered under warranty.

Chapter 1: Introduction C168 Series User’s Manual
2
Chapter 1: Introduction
Printer Specifications
Mode
C168/200s
C168/300s
Printing method Thermal Transfer
Printing resolution 203 dpi (8 dots/mm) 300 dpi (11.8 dots/mm)
Max printing speed 4 ips (101.6 mm) 3 ips (76.2 mm/s)
Max printing width 4.25″(108 mm) 4.17″(106 mm)
Max printing length 157″(4000 mm) 79″(2000 mm)
Memory 8 MB FLASH ROM, 16 MB SDRAM
Media
Roll-feed, die-cut, continuous, fan-fold, tags, tickets in plain paper or thermal paper
Width：4.33“ (110 mm) max., 0.98” (25 mm) min.
Supply roll: OD 4″(102 mm) max., ID 1″(25.4 mm) min.
Thickness: 0.003″
～
0.007″(0.08
～
0.18 mm), including liner
Ribbon
Wax, Wax/Resin, Resin
Ribbon roll: OD 3″ (76.2 mm) max., ID 1″ (25.4 mm) core
Max width: 4.33” (110 mm); Max length: 984’ (300 M)
Fonts Five built-in dot matrix ASCII fonts, user-downloadable TrueType Fonts
Bar Code Types
1D Barcode: Code 39, Code 93, Code 128/subset A,B,C, Codabar, Interleave 2 of 5, UPC A/E 2 and 5 add-on,
EAN-13/8/128, UCC-128.
2D Barcode: MaxiCode, PDF417, Data Matrix, QR Code.
Media sensor Reflective (Adjustable)/Transmissive
Interfaces RS-232 Serial, USB 2.0
Power rating* 24 VDC, 2.5 A
Weight 6.17lbs (2.8 kgs)
Dimensions W 9.3 x D 11.4 x H 7.8 inches (W 236 x D 291 x H 199 mm)
Operation environment
Temperature: 32°F ~ +104°F (0°C ~ 40°C)
Relative humidity: 5% - 85% non condensing
Storage environment
Temperature: -40°F ~ +140°F (-40°C ~ 60°C)
Relative humidity: 5% - 85% non condensing
Optional items Centronics Parallel Interface, 10/100Mb Ethernet, Rotary Cutter, External Rewinder, and Media Guide Adaptor
Specifications for Power Adapter
Input AC 100~240 V, 50~60 Hz
Output DC 24 V, 2.5 A
Environment 0°C ~ 40°C

Chapter 1: Introduction C168 Series User’s Manual
Contents of Box
Inspect the shipping carton(s) for possible shipping damage, if damage is discovered, notify the shipping company to
report the nature and extent of the damage.
Please check the items according to the Packing List. If there are any items missing, notify your authorized reseller.
Packing List
C168 Series Printer 1 pc
External Media Stand 1pc
Power Adapter 1 pc
USB interface cable 1 pc
Media Spindle 1 pc
Media Roll Guides 2 pcs
Media Core Adapters 2 pcs
Ribbon Spindles 2 pcs
Empty Core 1 pc
Quick Start Guide 1 pc
*CD-ROM pack 1 pc
*Note: CD-ROM pack includes the printer driver, label software, C168-Series User’s Manual, “How to install” video and
Programming Manual.

Chapter 1: Introduction C168 Series User’s Manual
External Media Stand
Figure 1: Printer and Accessories
Ribbon Spindles
C168 Series Printer
Power Adapter
Media Spindle
Core Adapters
Media
Roll Guides
CD-Rom
Warranty Card
USB Cable
,Empty Core

Chapter 2: Setup and Use C168 Series User’s Manual
Chapter 2: Setup and Use
Setting up the Printer
Before setting up the printer consider the following:
1. Make sure there is adequate space around the printer for loading consumables and proper ventilation.
2. Make sure the printer is close to the host so the interface cable is easily accessible at either end.
Main Parts and Structures
Figure 2
1. READY Indicator 4. PAUSE Button 7. Media Exit
2. MEDIA Indicator 5. FEED Button 8. Cover Handle
3. RIBBON Indicator 6. CANCEL Button 9. Top Cover
3
1
2
4
5
6
8
7
9

Chapter 2: Setup and Use C168 Series User’s Manual
Figure 3
1. Printhead Module 5. Platen Roller 9. Ribbon Supply Spindle
2. Printhead Bracket 6. Printhead Release Lever 10. Media Compartment
3. Printhead
7. Media Guide
11. Guide Wheel
4. Media Sensor 8. Ribbon Loading Knob
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11

Chapter 2: Setup and Use C168 Series User’s Manual
Figure 4
1. RS232 Serial Port 3. USB Port 5. DC IN Port
2. DIP Switches 4. Ethernet 6. Power Switch
7. Parallel Port
Connecting the Printer
Warnings:
(1) Do not use the printer near liquids or corrosive chemicals.
(2) Using the wrong power adapter may cause damage to your printer. POSTEK assumes no liability for any damage in
such cases. The rating for the printer is 24VDC.
1. Make sure the printer is switched OFF.
2. Connect the power cord to the Power Adapter
3. Connect the Power Adapter’s DC output plug to the DC IN port on the back of the printer.
4. Plug the power cord into a live wall outlet.
1
2
3
5
6
4
7

Chapter 2: Setup and Use C168 Series User’s Manual
Interface Connection
The C168 supports RS-232 Serial and USB interface connections.
Note: When connecting the C168 Series printer to a computer via the USB interface cable, make sure to utilize the same
USB port used during the driver installation process, which enables the printer to retrieve needed commands or data
from the PC. If the same USB port is not available or not known, then in the printer’s Properties Dialogue Box, under
the Ports tab, ensure the current port location is checked.
To connect:
1. Make sure the printer is powered OFF.
2. The printer will identify the communication port automatically.
3. The default values of printer port can be obtained from the self-test report. (See Chapter 2: Operation Basics/
Advanced Functions/ Self Test)
4. Cable configurations for Serial (RS-232C) interface is found in Appendix A of this guide.
5. Please take the following measures to reduce cable noise.
-Restrict the length of the interface cable to less than 6’ (1.83 M) if possible.
-Keep the interface cable separate from power cords.
Loading the Ribbon
Warnings:
(1) Load ribbon only when using the thermal transfer printing method. Remove any ribbon that may be loaded when
using the direct thermal printing method.
(2) When using a ribbon roll with a width less than 110m, please place the ribbon roll in the middle of the Ribbon
Spindle corresponding to the symmetry symbol (→|←).
(3) No need to load the ribbon when printing direct thermal media.
To install the ribbon:
1. Lift the top cover and push down the Printhead Release Lever to release the Printhead Module (see Figure 5-1).
2. Lift the Printhead Module to expose the ribbon supply spindle (see Figure 5-2).
3. Unwrap the ribbon pack and separate the ribbon roll and the core.
4. Slide the ribbon onto one of the Ribbon Spindles and place the core onto the other spindle (see Figure 5-3).
5. Load the Ribbon Spindle into the printer and route the ribbon through the Printhead Module (see Figure 5-4).
6. Wrap the end of the ribbon around the core (see Figure 5-5).
7. Load the core into the Ribbon rewinder (see Figure 5-6).
8. Turn the guide wheel on the left of the core to take up the loose ribbon and tighten the ribbon.
9. Close the Printhead Module and press down until it locks into place.

Chapter 2: Setup and Use C168 Series User’s Manual
Figure 5-1

Chapter 2: Setup and Use C168 Series User’s Manual
Figure 5-2
Figure 5-3

Chapter 2: Setup and Use C168 Series User’s Manual
Figure 5-4

Chapter 2: Setup and Use C168 Series User’s Manual
Figure 5-5

Chapter 2: Setup and Use C168 Series User’s Manual
Figure 5-6

Chapter 2: Setup and Use C168 Series User’s Manual
Loading the Media
C168 printers can be operated in three different modes: Standard mode, Peel-off mode, or Cutting mode.
– In Standard mode, each printed label remains on the backing liner.
– In Peel-off mode, each printed label is peeled away from the backing liner automatically.
– In Cutting mode, the printer automatically cuts the label after it is printed.
Standard Mode
To load media into the C168 while using Standard Mode:
1. Lift up the top cover to expose the media compartment (see Figure 6-1).
2. Load a roll of media (labels facing up) on the Media Spindle, then slide the two Media Roll Guides, with smooth
sides facing toward the media, onto the Media Spindle from each end until snug against the media. When placing a
roll of media with a 3″ ID core, please slide the two CoreAdapters onto the Media Spindle first (see Figure 6-2).
3. Insert the entire unit into the media compartment in the printer.
4. Position the media roll in the middle of the Spindle, using the scale for guidance.
5. Release and lift the Printhead Module.
6. Route the media as shown in Figure 6-3.
7. Slide the Media Guide to the edge of the media.
8. Close the Printhead Module and press down until it locks into place (see Figure 6-4).
9. Close the cover and press the “Feed” button to feed the media and ensure proper tracking. If the printer does not
correctly sense each label, it may be necessary to perform the Media Calibration procedure (found in the Operation
Basics section.)

Chapter 2: Setup and Use C168 Series User’s Manual
Figure 6-1