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
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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
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ISeriesUser’sManual Chapter3:OperationsandSettings
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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
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