Postek I Series User manual

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 ClassAInformation 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 of Advanced RISC Machines Ltd.
Microsoft, Windows are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation.
Copyright
© 2021 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.
Disclaimer
POSTEK barcode/RFID printers are developed and produced by Postek Electronics Co., Ltd
(hereinafter as “POSTEK”) with the adoption of direct thermal/thermal transfer printing and RFID
encoding techniques. For thermal transfer printing, matching ribbons and media are required.
Meanwhile, the wide variety of RFID chip and antenna designs make it difficult to guarantee RFID
tag’s 100% compatibility with POSTEK printers, to satisfy your printing needs, please consult with
the local reseller(s) to choose the matching consumables for POSTEK printers.
This manual has been validated and reviewed for accuracy. The instructions and descriptions it
contains are accurate for the POSTEK 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.
To protect your interest, and to prevent loss due to improper handling, please read the corresponding
user’s manual before operation, and don't use the printer during abnormal conditions. In no event
shall POSTEK be liable for any damage or loss caused by human misoperation, including but not
limited to loss of business profits, business interruption, loss of business information, or other
pecuniary loss.
Although this manual describes and details many issues which could possibly occur, the manufacturer
cannot warrant against unpredictable conditions during the printer’s application. For problems such
as the printer not working, missed or unclear print content, etc., POSTEK and/or its resellers are

responsible for troubleshooting (according to POSTEK Warranty Clauses). In no event shall
POSTEK or the resellers involved be liable for any direct or indirect loss, including but not limited to
loss of business profits, business interruption, loss of business information, or other pecuniary loss.
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 your power source matches the rating listed on the regulatory label on the back of the
printer. 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 should never be operated in a location where it 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.

I Series User’s Manual Contents
i
Contents
Preface ..........................................................................................................................1
Important Notes...........................................................................................................2
Chapter 1: Introduction..............................................................................................4
1.1 Specifications.........................................................................................................................4
1.2 Contents in the Box................................................................................................................5
Chapter 2: Setup and Use...........................................................................................6
2.1 Main Parts and Structures......................................................................................................6
2.1.1 Front View.....................................................................................................................6
2.1.2 Internal View.................................................................................................................7
2.1.3 Rear View......................................................................................................................9
2.1.4 Loading Path...............................................................................................................10
2.2 Setting up the Printer............................................................................................................11
2.2.1 Interface Connection...................................................................................................11
2.2.2 Connecting the Printer ................................................................................................11
2.2.3 Loading the Ribbon.....................................................................................................11
2.2.4 Loading the Media......................................................................................................15
Chapter 3: Operations and Settings ........................................................................19
3.1 Basic Operations..................................................................................................................19
3.1.1 Power Switch ..............................................................................................................19
3.1.2 The Front Panel...........................................................................................................19
3.1.3 Advanced Functions....................................................................................................21
3.1.4 Setting Menu...............................................................................................................22
3.1.5 Setting Operation Mode..............................................................................................26
3.2 Adjusting the Printhead Pressure and Balance.....................................................................29
3.3 Adjusting the Ribbon Spindle Tension.................................................................................30
3.4 Installing Windows Driver and Label Editing Software......................................................31
Chapter 4: Maintenance...........................................................................................32
4.1 Cleaning the Printhead.........................................................................................................32
4.2 Cleaning the Platen Roller ...................................................................................................32
4.3 Cleaning the Printer Interior ................................................................................................32
4.4 Cleaning the Sensors............................................................................................................33
Chapter 5: Troubleshooting......................................................................................34
5.1 LCD Error Messages............................................................................................................34
5.2 LED Error Indications..........................................................................................................35
5.3 Miscellaneous Issues............................................................................................................36
Appendix A: Interface Specifications......................................................................37
Appendix B: ASCII Table.........................................................................................38

I Series User’s Manual Preface
1
Preface
Your POSTEK I Series high performance industrial barcode label printer features innovative
state-of-the-art technology and superior quality workmanship. Boasting an all metal frame and
unique core construction, the I achieves a sturdy and durable stationary platform for smooth printing.
A powerful control system can easily handle the most complicated printing requirements, and
advanced thermal transfer/direct thermal technology offers optimum printout clarity.
This manual explains how to set up and begin using your I 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 I Series printer.
Symbol Conventions
The symbols that may be found in this document are defined as follows.
Symbol
Description
Alerts you to a medium or low risk hazard that could, if not avoided,
result in moderate or minor injury.
Alerts you to a potentially hazardous situation thatcould, if not
avoided, result in equipment damage, data loss, performance
deterioration, or unanticipated results.
Provides additional information to emphasize or supplement
important points in the main text.
Version
Version 1.2, published in August, 2021.

I Series User’s Manual Important Notes
2
Important Notes
Please read the following passages thoroughly before proceeding.
Printhead
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:
•DO NOT scrape or use tools that might damage the printhead surface.
•To protect from corroding the printhead, DO NOT touch the printhead with bare hands.
•DO NOT use thermal paper or thermal transfer ribbons which contain Na, K or Cl elements.
•Keep printhead from any form of liquid or dampness.
•Only use a cotton swab dipped in anhydrous isopropyl alcohol to clean the printhead.
•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.
•Always inspect consumables for high quality before purchasing.
The I Series printer functions under Direct Thermal or Thermal Transfer print modes. 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.
Cutter (Optional)
The printer equipped with a cutter can automatically cut the label after printing. However, automatic
cutters pose a safety hazard since the blades are very sharp. To prevent injuries and cutter failures
while using one of the many types of automatic cutters, please follow the safety and maintenance
rules listed below:
•Before using the cutter, be sure you have been trained by a qualified individual. A written
procedure covering the cutter's use is recommended.
•It is very important to choose the right cutter model for the application to ensure personal safety
and prevent damage to the cutter caused by cutting wrong types of media.
•Keep loose items such as long hair, clothing, jewelry, away from the cutter.
•Don't put anything except print media inside the cutter.
•Turn off power of printer if you notice abnormality with the cutting process and alert a qualified
technician to resolve the issue.
•Never cut a print media which exceeds the maximum operating conditions of the cutter.

I Series User’s Manual Important Notes
3
•Not every cutter model is designed to be able to cut through adhesive. Use only the dedicated
cutters to cut through adhesive materials. Even so, regular cleaning is required to remove the
adhesive built up on the blades over time to prevent cutter jam.
•Routine inspection and maintenance are required to be performed by a qualified technician to
keep the cutter in good working conditions.

I Series User’s Manual Chapter 1: Introduction
4
Chapter 1: Introduction
1.1 Specifications
Model by Resolution
203DPI
300DPI
Printing Method
Direct Thermal and Thermal Transfer
Max Printing Speed
6 ips (152.4 mm/s)
6 ips (152.4 mm/s)
Max Printing Width
4.25″ (108 mm)
4.17″ (106 mm)
Max Printing Length
236″ (6000 mm)
157″ (4000 mm)
HEATTM Level
I
I
Memory
64 MB FLASH ROM, 16 MB SDRAM
Media
Width: 4.56″ (116 mm) max, 0.39" (10 mm) min.
OD: 7.3″ (186 mm) max.
ID: 3" (76.2mm) min, as standard; 1.5 (38 mm) min., is factory dependent
Media Thickness
0.0024″ ~ 0.0098″ (0.06 ~ 0.25 mm), including liner
Ribbon
Width: 4.56″ (116 mm) max.
Length: 1968' (600 m) max.
OD: 3.3″ (84 mm) max.
ID: 1″ (25.4 mm) min.
Ink side: both In and Out
Media sensor
Upper&Lower Reflective (Adjustable) / Transmissive (Adjustable)
Fonts
Five built-in dot matrix ASCII fonts, user-downloadable TrueType Fonts
Barcode Types
1D Barcode: Code 39, Code 93, Code 128/subset A,B,C, Codabar,
Interleave 2 of 5, UPCA/E 2 and 5 add-on, EAN-13/8/128, UCC-128, etc.
2D Barcode: MaxiCode, PDF417, Data Matrix, QR Code, etc.
Interfaces
RS-232 Serial, 10/100 M Adaptive Ethernet, USB DEVICE 2.0, USB
HOST, Centronics Parallel
LCD display
Graphic Dot Matrix
Power Source
100 ~ 240 V, 50/60 Hz, 3.5 A
Weight
33.06 lbs (15 kgs)
Dimensions
W 11.3″ (286 mm) x D 17.6″ (448 mm) x H 10.7″ (271 mm)
Operating
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
Rotary Cutter, External Label Rewinder

I Series User’s Manual Chapter 1: Introduction
5
HEATTM, or Heating Equilibrium Adaptive Tuning, is a POSTEK designed and developed
cutting-edge technology that sets the benchmark for heat management in thermal printing. Printers
equipped with HEATTM have significant improvements in their printout clarity and print speed. The
HEATTM level represents the fineness of the heating uniformity with level I being the finest.
1.2 Contents in the 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.

I Series User’s Manual Chapter 2: Setup and Use
6
Chapter 2: Setup and Use
2.1 Main Parts and Structures
2.1.1 Front View
Figure 2-1 shows the front view of the I Series printer.
Figure 2-1 Front View
Table 2-1 Front View Description
Number
Description
1
LCD Screen
2
[RIBBON]Indicator
3
[MEDIA]Indicator
4
[READY]Indicator
5
[MEDIA CALIBRATION] Button
6
[PAUSE]Button
7
[FEED]Button
8
[MENU] Button
9
[CANCEL]Button
10
Tear-off Bar
11
Right Cover

I Series User’s Manual Chapter 2: Setup and Use
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2.1.2 Internal View
Figure 2-2 (a) and (b) show the internal views of two I printers with different media supply
mechanism. In(a), all media rolls with media core diameter greater than 1.5″ (38 mm) can be fitted in;
whereas in (b), only 3" (76.2mm) media core diameter is acceptable. In (b), a damping torque is
applied to the Media Spindle to provide tension to the media when feeding.
(a) Media Roll Baffle Arm Mechanism
(b) Media Core Supporting Blade Mechanism
Figure 2-2 Internal View

I Series User’s Manual Chapter 2: Setup and Use
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Table 2-2 Internal View Description
(a) Media Roll Baffle Arm Mechanism
Number
Description
1
Stop Plate_Ribbon Take-up
2
Ribbon Take-up Spindle
3
Stop Plate_Ribbon supply
4
Printhead Assembly
5
Media Spindle
6
Lever
7
Ribbon Supply Spindle
8
Media Roll Guide
9
External Media Loading Slot
10
Stop Plate_Media supply
11
Media Roll Baffle Arm
12
Bolt
(b) Media Core Supporting Blade Mechanism
Number
Description
1
Stop Plate_Ribbon Take-up
2
Ribbon Take-up Spindle
3
Stop Plate_Ribbon supply
4
Printhead Assembly
5
Media Spindle
6
Lever
7
Ribbon Supply Spindle
8
Media Roll Guide
9
External Media Loading Slot
10
Media Core Supporting Blade
11
Stop Plate_Media supply

I Series User’s Manual Chapter 2: Setup and Use
9
2.1.3 Rear View
The I Series printer is equipped with multiple interfaces. See Figure 2-3.
Figure 2-3 Rear View
Table 2-3 Rear View Description
Number
Description
1
RS-232 Serial Port
2
Centronics Parallel Port
3
USB Device
4
USB Host
5
Ethernet Port
6
Power Switch
7
AC In Port

I Series User’s Manual Chapter 2: Setup and Use
10
2.1.4 Loading Path
Figure 2-4 (a) and (b) show the consumables’loading paths in the I series printer.
(a) Loading Paths, Media Roll BaffleArm Mechanism
(b) Loading Path, Media Core Supporting Blade Mechanism
Figure 2-4 Loading Paths
Table 2-4 Loading Path Description
Number
Description
1
Platen Roller
2
Ribbon End Sensor
3
Ribbon Guide Rod
4
Media Guide Slide
5
Ribbon Path (Ribbon-ink side in)
6
Ribbon Path (Ribbon-ink side out)
7
Media Guide Rod
8
Media Path

I Series User’s Manual Chapter 2: Setup and Use
11
2.2 Setting up the Printer
2.2.1 Interface Connection
The I series printer supports RS-232 Serial, Centronics Parallel, USB DEVICE and 10/100M
Adaptive Ethernet interface connections.
To connect:
•Make sure the printer is powered OFF.
•The printer will identify the communication port automatically.
•The default values of printer port can be obtained from the self-test report. (See 3.1.3 Advanced
Functions/Obtaining Printer Configuration Information)
•Cable configurations for Serial (RS-232C) interface can be found in Appendix A: Interface
Specifications of this guide.
•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.
2.2.2 Connecting the Printer
⚫Do not use the printer near liquids or corrosive chemicals.
⚫Connecting to a wrong power source may cause damage to your printer. POSTEK assumes no
liability for any damage in such cases. The rating for the printer is 110/240 VAC ±10%, 50/60
Hz.
1. Make sure the printer is switched OFF.
2. Connect the power cord to the AC In Port on the back of the printer.
3. Plug the power cord into a live wall outlet.
2.2.3 Loading the Ribbon
Load ribbon only when using the thermal transfer printing mode. Remove any ribbon that may be
loaded when using the direct thermal printing mode.
To load ribbon, refer to Figure 2-5 through Figure 2-10 (only Media Core Supporting Blade
mechanism is illustrated), and follow the steps below:
1. Lift to open the right cover of the printer.
2. Turn the Lever counter clockwise to open the Printhead. See Figure 2-5.

I Series User’s Manual Chapter 2: Setup and Use
12
Figure 2-5 Open the Printhead
3. Stick a label to the outside/ inside of the ribbon to check which side the ink is on. See Figure 2-6.
Figure 2-6 Check Ink Side
4. Place the ribbon roll on the Ribbon Supply Spindle, see Figure 2-7. Make sure that the ribbon roll
is firmly pushed against the Stop Plate.
Ribbon
Label

I Series User’s Manual Chapter 2: Setup and Use
13
Figure 2-7 Load Ribbon Roll
5. Follow the ribbon path indicated in Figure 2-4, thread the ribbon under the Ribbon Guide Rod
and pass the Printhead Assembly, make sure that the ribbon’s ink side is facing the media. See
Figure 2-8.
Figure 2-8 Thread Ribbon Through Printhead Assembly
6. Wrap the ribbon around a spare ribbon core to form a Ribbon Take-up Roll. See Figure 2-9.
Stop plate

I Series User’s Manual Chapter 2: Setup and Use
14
Figure 2-9 Ribbon Take-up Roll
7. Slide the Ribbon Take-up Roll on the Ribbon Take-up Spindle and push it firmly against the Stop
Plate. Turn the Take-up Spindle until the ribbon is tightly wound. See Figure 2-10.
Figure 2-10 Ribbon Loaded
To make sure the Ribbon End Sensor works properly, please use ribbon rolls which end with
reflective materials or transparent materials with good reflective performance.
Stop plate

I Series User’s Manual Chapter 2: Setup and Use
15
2.2.4 Loading the Media
I Series printers can be operated under four different modes: Standard Mode, Tear-off Mode, Cutter
Mode, and Peeler Mode.
•In Standard Mode, the printer stops and goes into standby as soon as the print job is complete.
•In Tear-off Mode, after the print job is finished, the printer will feed the label until the edge of it
aligns with the edge of the Tear-off Bar allowing easy tear off for the user.
•In Cutter Mode, the printer stops and cuts the printed label(s) (Only available on models with
cutter installed).
•In Peeler Mode, printer stops and waits for the printed and peeled off label to be taken away
before resuming the print job (Only available on models with peeler installed).
Standard Mode
To load media into the I series printers while under Standard Mode, follow the steps below:
1. Lift to open the right cover.
2. In the case of using the media roll Baffle Arm mechanism, as shown in Figure 2-11(a). Loosen
the Bolt, then lift the Baffle Arm, load a media roll onto the Media Spindle. Adjust the Baffle
Arm by pushing it slightly against the outside edge of the media roll, make sure the Stop Plate
and Baffle Arm touch, but do not restrict, the inside and outside edges of the media roll
respectively. Tighten the Bolt to lock the Baffle Arm in place.
In the case of the media core Supporting Blade mechanism, as shown in Figure 2-11(b). Place the
media roll on the Media Spindle, pushing it firmly against the Stop Plate.
(a) Roll Media Loading with Baffle Arm Mechanism
Bolt
Baffle Arm
Stop plate
Media Spindle
Media Roll

I Series User’s Manual Chapter 2: Setup and Use
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(b) Roll Media Loading with Media Core Supporting Blade Mechanism
Figure 2-11 Roll Media Loading
3. Thread the media along the Media Path as shown in Figure 2-4 (a) and (b), Loaded media is
shown in Figure 2-12 (a) and (b).
(a) Media Loaded, Baffle Arm Mechanism
Media Roll
Media Spindle
Stop plate