Postek I Series User manual

I Series Barcode Label Printer

I 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 instruction 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 will be required, at own expense, to
correct the interference using whatever means necessary.
Trademarks
ARM is a registered trademark ofAdvanced RISC Machines Ltd.
Microsoft, Windows are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation.
POSTEK is a registered trademark of Postek Electronics Co., Ltd.
Copyright
© 2008-2012 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.
I Series Label Printer User’s Manual
4th edition August 2012
Disclaimer
This manual has been validated and reviewed for accuracy. The instructions and descriptions it contains are accurate for the
Postek I 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.

I Series User’s Manual
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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 I Series printer. Observe proper electrostatic safety precautions when handling.

I Series User’s Manual
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Table of Contents
Preface ...............................................................................................................................................................1
Important Notice, Read Me First....................................................................................................................1
Chapter 1: Introduction...................................................................................................................................2
Printer Specifications..........................................................................................................................................................2
Contents of Box..................................................................................................................................................................3
Packing List................................................................................................................................................................3
Chapter 2: Setup and Use................................................................................................................................4
Setting up the Printer ..........................................................................................................................................................4
Main Parts and Structures...........................................................................................................................................4
Connecting the Printer................................................................................................................................................7
Interface Connection...................................................................................................................................................7
Loading the Ribbon ............................................................................................................................................................8
Loading the Media..............................................................................................................................................................9
Standard Mode............................................................................................................................................................9
Peel-off Mode:..........................................................................................................................................................10
Cutting Mode:...........................................................................................................................................................10
Adjusting the Position of Media Sensor...........................................................................................................................10
Chapter 3: Operations and Settings..............................................................................................................12
Basic Operations...............................................................................................................................................................12
Power Switch............................................................................................................................................................12
The Front Panel.........................................................................................................................................................12
LCD Display.............................................................................................................................................................13
LCD Panel Operation................................................................................................................................................14
Tear-Off.....................................................................................................................................................................16
Manual Peel-Off .......................................................................................................................................................17
Cutting Mode............................................................................................................................................................18
Adjusting the Pressure of the Printhead............................................................................................................................20
Windows Driver and Label Software................................................................................................................................20
Chapter 4: Maintenance ................................................................................................................................21
Cleaning the Printhead......................................................................................................................................................21
Cleaning the Platen Roller................................................................................................................................................21
Cleaning the Printer Interior .............................................................................................................................................22
Chapter 5: Troubleshooting...........................................................................................................................23
Error Indications...............................................................................................................................................................23
Miscellaneous...................................................................................................................................................................24
Vertical Blank Lines Appear.....................................................................................................................................24
Printer Timeout Error Message.................................................................................................................................24
Data Sent but Not Printing........................................................................................................................................24
Poor Printing Quality................................................................................................................................................25
Recovery...................................................................................................................................................................25
Appendix A: Interface Specifications ...........................................................................................................26
Appendix B: ASCII Table..............................................................................................................................27

ISeriesUser’sManual Preface,ImportantNotice
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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 Series printer 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.
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 TPH is also easily damaged by static electricity, which may be generated by poor quality ribbons.
7. Always inspect consumables for high quality before purchasing.

I Series User’s Manual Chapter 1: Introduction
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Chapter 1: Introduction
Printer Specifications
Mode I200 I300
Printing method Direct Thermal & Thermal Transfer
Printing resolution 203 dpi (8 dots/mm) 300 dpi (11.8 dots/mm)
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 315″(8000 mm) 157″(4000 mm)
CPU/Memory 32-bit ARM Processor, 4MB FLASH,16MB SDRAM
Media Width: 4.56″(116 mm) max, 0.79" (20 mm) min.
Total thickness (including liner, if any): 0.0024″(0.06 mm) ~ 0.0098″(0.25 mm).
Supply roll: OD 8″(203.2 mm) max., ID 1.5″(38 mm) min.
Ribbon Max width: 4.65″(118 mm), Max length: 1968′(600 m).
Ink side: both In and Out.
Ribbon roll: OD 3.3″(84 mm) max., ID 1″(25.4 mm) min.
Media sensor Reflective (Adjustable) / Transmissive (Adjustable)
Fonts Five built-inASCII 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.
Interfaces RS-232 Serial, USB
LCD Display 3 line graphical
Power rating 110/220VAC ± 10%, 50/60 Hz.
Weight 33.07lbs (15 kgs.)
Dimensions W 11.3″(286 mm) x D 17.6″(448 mm) x H 11.0″(280 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 External Rewinder, Rotary Cutter

I Series User’s Manual Chapter 1: Introduction
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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
I Series Quick Start Guide/Sheet 1 pc
I Series Printer 1 pc
Power Cord 1 pc
USB interface cable 1 pc
Sample Ribbon 1 pc
Sample Media Roll 1 pc
Warranty card 1 pc
*CD-ROM pack 1 pc
*Note: CD-ROM pack includes I Series printer driver, I Series User’s Manual and the Programming Manual, and label
software.
Figure 1: Printer and Accessories
Ribbon
I Series Printer
CD ROM

ISeriesUser’sManual Chapter3:OperationsandSettings
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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. MENU Button 5. Media Calibration 9. LCD
2. CANCEL Button 6. READY Indicator 10. READY Indicator
3. FEED Button 7. MEDIA Indicator 11. Media Outlet
4. PAUSE Button 8. RIBBON Indicator 12. Cover Handle
2
6
1
4
3
7
8
12
11
10
9
5

ISeriesUser’sManual Chapter3:OperationsandSettings
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Figure 3
1. Platen Roller 5. Bolt 9. ESD Brush
2. Printhead Module 6. PositioningArm – Media Roll 10. Lever
3. Ribbon Supply Spindle 7. External Media Loading Opening 11. Media Sensor Cover Plate
4. Ribbon Take-up Spindle 8. Media Spindle
4
6
5
8
10
11
1
3
7
2
9

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Figure 4
1. RS-232 Serial Port 3. PS/2 Port 5. AC In Port
2. USB Port 4. Power Switch 6. Ethernet Port
Figure 5
1. Media Sensor Handle 4. Ribbon Path 7. Media Guide Slide
2. Media Path 5. Ribbon Guide
3. Platen Roller 6. Media Guide Lever
2
3
17
6
5
4
4
3
5
1
6
2

ISeriesUser’sManual Chapter3:OperationsandSettings
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Connecting the Printer
Warnings:
(1) Do not use the printer near liquids or corrosive chemicals.
(2) Using the wrong power cord may cause damage to your printer. POSTEK assumes no liability for any damage in
such cases. The rating for the printer is 110/220 VAC ±10%, 50/60 Hz.
1. Make sure the printer is switched OFF.
2. Connect the power cord to theAC Port on the back of the printer.
3. Plug the power cord into a live wall outlet.
Interface Connection
The I Series printer supports RS-232 Serial and USB interface connections.
Note: When connecting the I 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.

ISeriesUser’sManual Chapter3:OperationsandSettings
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Loading the Ribbon
Note: Load ribbon only when using the thermal transfer printing method. Remove any ribbon that may be loaded when
using the direct thermal printing method.
To install the ribbon:
1. Lift to open the right cover of the printer.
2. Turn the handle counter clockwise to release the Printhead Module.
3. Check the ribbon label to see what side the ink is on. Unwrap the ribbon roll and separate the ribbon roll and the
core.
4. Place the roll into the Ribbon Spindle, adjusting the brackets (see Figure 6). Make sure the ribbon roll is firmly in
place.
5. Ensuring the ribbon’s ink side is facing the media, lead the ribbon under the Ribbon Guide and past the Printhead
Module (see Figure 7), following the ribbon path indicated in Figure 5.
6. Secure the leading edge of the ribbon to the core.
7. Slide the core onto the Ribbon Take-up Spindle to push it firmly to the inside edge of the Spindle.
8. Turn the Take-up Spindle until the ribbon is tightly wound.
9. Turn the Lever to the close position.
Figure 6
Figure 7
Ribbon Spindle
Shrapnel
Ribbon
7a 7b 7c

ISeriesUser’sManual Chapter3:OperationsandSettings
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Loading the Media
I Series printers can be operated in three different modes: Standard mode, Peel-off mode, and 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 manually.
-In Cutting mode, the printer automatically cuts the label after it is printed.
Standard Mode
To load media into the I Series printer while using Standard Mode:
1. Lift to open the right cover.
2. Lift the Positioning Arm of the Media Roll, and insert a media roll onto the Media Spindle, pushing it firmly to
the inside edge.
3. Adjust the Positioning Arm by pushing it down and align it to the outside edge of the media roll. Tighten the
Bolt to lock it in place.
4. Turn the Lever counter clockwise to release the Printhead Module.
5. Referring to Figure 5, lead the media under the Media Guide Lever, and in-between the Media Sensor.
6. Pull the media passed and under the Printhead Module (see Figure 7).
7. Move the Media Sensor to the appropriate position (see Figure 8). Adjust the Media Sensor to ensure that its
position is aligned above the media’s separation identifier (e.g. gap, black line, perforation, hole, etc.)
8. Move the Media Guide Slide to the edge of the media, making sure not to pinch or squeeze the media; keep the
media flat and smooth.
9. Turn the lever clockwise to close the Printhead Module;
10. Close the cover and turn on the printer, or press the “FEED” button if the printer is already on.
Figure 8
Media Guide Slide Handle
Sensor position

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Peel-off Mode:
To load media into the I Series printer while using Peel-off Mode, follow the Standard Mode procedures.
Cutting Mode:
Using the I Series in Cutting Mode requires an optional rotary cutter. See an authorized Postek Reseller for additional
information. With the optional rotary cutter, the media loading instructions are provided.
Adjusting the Position of Media Sensor
The I-Series printer has two types of media sensors: the reflective media sensor and the transmissive media sensor. The
two media sensors are fixed together.
To adjust the position of the media sensors:
1. Lift the Right Cover.
2. Twist the Handle counterclockwise to release the Printhead Module.
3. Lift the Printhead Module to expose the Media Sensor Pointer. See Figure 9.

ISeriesUser’sManual Chapter3:OperationsandSettings
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Figure 9
4. Slide the Media Sensor Handle to adjust the position of the Media Sensor Pointer (white arrow), making sure it is
pointing to the label (not anywhere outside of the label).
Turn the Handle clockwise to close the Printhead Module.
Media Sensor Handle
Media Sensor Pointer
Handle

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Chapter 3: Operations and Settings
Basic Operations
Power Switch
The power switch is on the back panel of the printer. The symbols on the switch are defined as follows:
━—ON
〇—OFF
The Front Panel
The Front Panel of the I SERIES printer consists of:
-Three Indicator Lamps: MEDIA, READY and RIBBON
-Three multi function buttons: PAUSE, FEED and CANCEL
Indicator Lamps
The three lamps indicate the status of the printer (please refer to Chapter 4: Troubleshooting, for error indicators).
- Solid: Indicates the printer is in the normal state;
- Blinking: Indicates the printer is in the ‘PAUSE’ state.
-Solid: Indicates the printer is in the normal state;
- Blinking simultaneously with READY: Running out of media;
- Solid: Indicates thermal transfer printing;
- Off: Direct thermal printing (no ribbon installed);
- Blinking simultaneously with READY: Running out of ribbon.
READY
MEDIA
RIBBON

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Panel Buttons
The five buttons have different functions based on the mode of the operation is performed.
Mode Function
FEED Feed one label
PAUSE - Press once to pause current print job
- Press a second time to resume printing
CANCEL - Cancel current batch of labels
- Forces the printer to continue working after an error has been corrected
MEDIA CALIBRATION Performs media sensor calibration
MENU Enter/exit setup menu
LCD Display
Athree line graphic LCD display is affixed to the front panel. Data in the form of characters, letters and numbers are shown
on the LCD display. Please see below “LCD Panel Operation”.

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LCD Panel Operation
LCD can display printer status, printed label quantity, error messages, and can also assist in configuring the printer.
1. Examples of LCD display
Button functions:
BUTTON FUNCTION DESCRIPTION
MENU Enter/exit Enter/exit setup mode
PAUSE Item/Parameter Selection Descending Item/Parameter selection
CANCEL Item/Parameter Selection Increasing Item/Parameter selection
FEED Confirmation Confirm selection
IP Address:
199.009.100.001
00:00:00
MAIN MENU
Common Settings
00:00:00
READY [203DPI]
Total: 00000888
00:00:00
PAUSE
Total: XXXXXXXX
00
:
00
:
00
MEDIA ERROR
YYYY/XXXXXXX
00:00:00
In normal printing mode, display only
XXXXXXXX as total number of pages
printed. In copy printing mode, display
YYY/XXXXXXXX,
Ready to print
Total = number of pages printed.
Note: when the printer is powered
off, the counter reverts to 0.
00:00:00 is the RTC
Main Menu
TEAR OFFSET
XXXX
00
:
00
:
00
Parameter Setting
Network Configuration
YYYY：Number of pages not printed
XXXXXXXX：Number of pages printed.

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Items to be set and operating guide:
MAIN MENU SUB MENU DESCRIPTION
Print Method Direct Thermal, Thermal Transfer. Default: Thermal Transfer.
Tear Off
Cutter
Manual Peel Off
Options: Enable, Disable.
Default: Disable.
Media Sensor Options: Reflective, Transmissive.
Default: Reflective.
Darkness
Speed When set at ‘0’, the printer will accept the default setting or command setting, if not,
the printer will not accept the default setting or command setting.
Baud Rate Options: 9600, 19200, 38400, 57600.
Default: 9600.
Data Bit Options: 7 Bit, 8 Bit.
Default: 8 Bit.
Parity Options: None, Odd, Even
Default: None.
Media Type Options: Continuous, Uncontinuous
Default: Uncontinuous
Auto Detect Options: Enable, Disable
Default: Disable
Dump Mode Options: Enable, Disable.
Default: Disable.
Common Settings
Return Return to main menu.
Tear-off Offset
Positioning Offset
Cutting Offset
Peeling Offset
Horizontal Offset
Vertical Offset
The increment, per I Series model are as follows:
– I200 is 0.125mm
– I300 0.085 mm
Printing-
Offset Return Return to printing offset menu.
Offset settings
Return Return to main menu.
Chinese
English
Language
Selection Return Return to main menu.
Settings Clears only those settings accomplished through the front panel.
Graphics To View, or Del All, or Del 1 by 1.
Clear
Return Return to main menu.
Set Date Set system date.
Set Time Set system time
Date Format Specifies date format.
Time Format Specifies time format.
Contrast Adjust LCD Brightness
LCD Settings
Return Return to main menu.
Self Test Font list, hardware configuration and status, label parameters, firmware version, etc. will be printed.
Reset Reset the printer to the factory default settings.
Exit Exit

ISeriesUser’sManual Chapter3:OperationsandSettings
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Tear-Off
Figure 10
1. Press MENU to enter setup menu: Common Settings →Tear Off, select Enable.
2. Follow the directions shown in Figure 10 to tear off the label.
3. If the tear-off position needs to be adjusted, press MENU to enter setup menu: Offset Settings →Tear-off Offset,
input suitable offset value.
a. Grab printed label b. Tear down