Postek TX SERIES User manual

TX 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, includinginterference 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 of Advanced RISC Machines Ltd.
Centronics is a registered trademark of Centronics Data Computer Corporation.
Microsoft, Windows are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation.
POSTEK is a registered trademark of Postek Electronics Co., Ltd.
Copyright
© byPostek 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.
TX Series Label Printer User’s Manual
7th edition September 2016
Disclaimer
This manual has been validated and reviewed for accuracy. The instructions and descriptions it contains are accurate for
the Postek TX 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.

TX 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 TX printer. Observe proper electrostatic safety precautions when handling.

TX 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
Loading Path...............................................................................................................................................................8
Connecting the Printer................................................................................................................................................9
Interface Connection...................................................................................................................................................9
Loading the Ribbon ..........................................................................................................................................................10
Loading the Media............................................................................................................................................................13
Standard Mode..........................................................................................................................................................13
Peel-off and Tear-off Mode:......................................................................................................................................17
Cutting Mode:...........................................................................................................................................................17
Chapter 3: Operations and Settings......................................................................................................................................18
Basic Operations...............................................................................................................................................................18
Power Switch............................................................................................................................................................18
The Front Panel.........................................................................................................................................................18
LCD Display.............................................................................................................................................................19
Tear-off .....................................................................................................................................................................23
Manual Peel-off ........................................................................................................................................................23
Cutting Mode............................................................................................................................................................24
Adjusting the Pressure of the Printhead............................................................................................................................26
Windows Driver and Label Software................................................................................................................................27
Chapter 4: Maintenance.........................................................................................................................................................28
Cleaning the Printhead......................................................................................................................................................28
Cleaning the Platen Roller................................................................................................................................................29
Cleaning the Printer Interior .............................................................................................................................................29
Chapter 5: Troubleshooting...................................................................................................................................................30
Error Indications...............................................................................................................................................................30
Miscellaneous...................................................................................................................................................................31
Vertical Blank Lines Appear.....................................................................................................................................31
Printer Timeout Error Message.................................................................................................................................31
Data Sent but Not Printing........................................................................................................................................31
Poor Printing Quality................................................................................................................................................31
Recovery...................................................................................................................................................................31
Appendix A: Interface Specifications....................................................................................................................................32
Appendix B:ASCII Table ......................................................................................................................................................27

TX Series User’s Manual Preface, Important Notice
1
Preface
Your POSTEK TX 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 TX
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 TX 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 TX 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.
Note: The TX Series printerfunctions under Direct Thermal orThermal 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 orservice 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.

TX Series User’s Manual Chapter 1: Introduction
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Chapter 1: Introduction
Printer Specifications
Mode
TX2
TX3
TX6
Printing method
Thermal Transfer
Printing resolution
203 dpi (8 dots/mm)
300 dpi (11.8 dots/mm)
600 dpi (23.6 dots/mm)
Max printing speed
10 ips (254.0 mm/s)
8 ips (203.2 mm/s)
4 ips (101.6 mm/s)
Max printing width
4.09″ (104 mm)
4.17″ (106 mm)
4.16″ (105.6 mm)
Max printing length
157″ (4000 mm)
79″ (2000 mm)
19.6″ (500 mm)
CPU/Memory
8 MB FLASH ROM, 16 MB SDRAM
Media
Width: 4.56″ (116 mm) max, 0.39" (10
mm) min.
Total thickness (including liner, if any):
0.0024″ (0.06 mm) ~ 0.012″ (0.305 mm).
Supply roll: OD 8″ (203.2 mm) max. ID
1.5″(38 mm) min.
Width: 4.56″ (116 mm) max, 0.98" (25mm) or
0.39" (10 mm) (supporting clip removed) min.
Total thickness (including liner, if any): 0.0024″
(0.06 mm) ~ 0.012″ (0.305 mm).
Supply roll: OD 8″ (203.2 mm) max. ID 3"
(76.2mm) or 1.5″(38 mm) (supporting clip
removed) 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
UP&Down 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, etc.
Interfaces
RS-232 Serial, USB Device 2.0, Centronics Parallel, USB Host, 100/10 Mb Ethernet.
LCD display
Graphic Dot Matrix
Power rating
110/220 VAC ±10%, 50/60 Hz.
Weight
33.06 lbs (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.

TX 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
TX Series Printer
1 pc
Power Cord
1 pc
USB interface cable
1 pc
Sample Ribbon
1 pc
TX Quick Start Guide/Sheet
1 pc
*CD-ROM
1 pc
*Note: CD-ROM pack includes TX printer driver, label design software, TX Series User’s Manual and the
Programming Manual.
Figure 1: Printer and Accessories
Ribbon
CD ROM
CD-Rom
TX Series Printer
Power Cord
Quick Start Guide
USB Cable

TX Series User’s Manual Chapter 2: Setup and Use
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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
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
Note: The structure of TX3 and TX6 (see figure 3-b) is not exactly same with TX2 (see figure 3-a), the main
differences are in the media compartment, the improved media supporting module in TX3 and TX6 reduces the
minimum allowed label height to only 4mm.
2
6
1
4
3
7
8
12
11
10
9
5

TX Series User’s Manual Chapter 2: Setup and Use
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Figure 2-2(a)
1. Platen Roller
5. Bolt
9. ESD Brush
2. Printhead Module
6. Positioning Arm –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
Note: Figure 2-2(a) shows the detailed structure of TX2.
4
6
5
8
10
11
1
3
7
2
9

TX Series User’s Manual Chapter 2: Setup and Use
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Figure 2-2(b)
1. Platen Roller
5. Media Roll Guide (out)
9. ESD Brush
2. Printhead Module
6. Bolt
10. Handle
3. Ribbon Supply Spindle
7. External Media Loading
Opening
11. Media Sensor Cover Plate
4. Ribbon Take-up Spindle
8. Media Spindle
Note: Figure 2-2(b) shows the detailed structure of TX3 and TX6.
4
6
5
8
10
11
1
3
7
2
9

TX Series User’s Manual Chapter 2: Setup and Use
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The Postek TX-Series printer is equipped with multiple interfaces, and the Ethernet Interface is optional. See Figure
2-3.
Figure 2-3
1. Centronics Port
4. RS-232 Serial Port
7. Power Switch
2. USB Host
5. AC In Port
3. Ethernet Port
6. USB Device 2.0
4
3
5
1
6
2
7

TX Series User’s Manual Chapter 2: Setup and Use
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Loading Path
See figure 2-4(a) shows the loading path in TX2.
Figure 2-4(a)
1. Media Sensor Handle
4. Ribbon Path
7. Media Guide Slide
2. Media Path
5. Ribbon Guide
3. Platen Roller
6. Media Guide Lever
Figure 2-4(b) shows the loading path in TX3 and TX6.
Figure 2-4(b)
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
1
7
6
5
4
2
3
1
7
6
5
4

TX Series User’s Manual Chapter 2: Setup and Use
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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 TX supports RS-232 Serial, USB, Centronics Parallel, Ethernet and USB Host interface connections.
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.

TX Series User’s Manual Chapter 2: Setup and Use
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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 Lever counter clockwise to release the Printhead Module.
Figure 2-5
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
Ribbon
Label
Lever
Printhead Module

TX Series User’s Manual Chapter 2: Setup and Use
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4. Unwrap the ribbon roll and separate the ribbon roll and the core. Place the roll into the Ribbon Spindle,
adjusting the brackets (see Figure 2-7). Make sure the ribbon roll is firmly in place.
Figure 2-7
5. Adjust the shrapnel of the ribbon spindle to ensure adequate pressure between the ribbon roll and the ribbon
spindle. See Figure 2-8. Loosen the screws on the Ribbon Core Insert. Moving the Ribbon Core Insert outward or
inward can increase or decrease the friction between the Ribbon Supply Spindle and the Ribbon Core. Tighten
the screws after adjusting the shrapnel to the appropriate position.
Figure 2-8
6. Follow the ribbon path indicated in Figure 2-9(a), lead the ribbon under the Ribbon Guide and passthe Printhead
Module, ensuring the ribbon’s ink side is facing the media. See Figure 2-9(b).
(a)
Ribbon Core
Ribbon Core Insert
Ribbon Take-up
Ribbon Supply
Ribbon Path
Ribbon Guide
Printhead Module

TX Series User’s Manual Chapter 2: Setup and Use
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(b)
Figure 2-9
7. Secure the leading edge of the ribbon to the core. See Figure 2-10(a).
8. Slide the core onto the Ribbon Take-up Spindle to push it firmly to the inside edge of the Spindle. Turn the
Take-up Spindle until the ribbon is tightly wound. See Figure 2-10(b).
9. Turn the Lever to the close position. See Figure 2-10(c).
(c)
Figure 2-10
Ribbon
(a)
(b)
Ribbon Take-up
Lever

TX Series User’s Manual Chapter 2: Setup and Use
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Loading the Media
TX Series printers can be operated in four different modes: Standard mode, Tear-off mode, Peel-off mode and
Cutting mode.
-In Standard mode, each printed label remains on the backing liner.
-In Tear-off mode, each printed label’s gap is stopped at the media outlet and tore off manually.
-In Peel-off mode, each printed label is peeled away from the backing liner manually.
-In Cutting mode, the printer and cutter automatically cuts the label after it is printed.
Standard Mode
To load media into TX Series while using Standard Mode:
1. Lift to open the right cover.
2. Lift the Positioning Arm of the Media Roll for TX2 or take the Media Roll Guide out for TX3 and TX6, and
insert a media roll onto the Media Spindle, pushing it firmly to the inside edge, see figure 2-11(a) and 2-11(b).
Figure 2-11(a)
Figure 2-11(a) shows the media loading of TX2.
Positioning Arm
Media Spindle
Lever
Media Roll

TX Series User’s Manual Chapter 2: Setup and Use
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Figure 2-11(b)
Figure 2-11(b) shows the media loading of TX3 and TX6.
3. Adjust the Positioning Arm by pushing it down and align it to the outside edge of the media roll (see figure
2-12(a)), or slide the media roll guide onto the media spindle until it’s snug against the media roll (see figure
2-13(b)), then tighten the Bolt to lock it in place.
Figure 2-12 (a)
Figure 2-12(a) shows the media loading of TX2.
Media Roll
Guide (out)
Media Roll
Media Spindle
Lever
Bolt

TX Series User’s Manual Chapter 2: Setup and Use
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Figure 2-12 (b)
Figure 2-12(b) shows the media loading of TX3 and TX6.
4. Turn the Lever counter clockwise to release the Printhead Module. Referring to Figure 2-4(a) or 2-4(b), lead the
media that follows the media guide to place the media under the Media Guide Lever, and in-between the Media
Sensor.
5. Pull the media pass and under the Printhead Module, see figure 2-13(a) and 2-13(b)
Figure 2-13 (a)
Figure 2-13(a) shows the media loading of TX2.
Bolt

TX Series User’s Manual Chapter 2: Setup and Use
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Figure 2-13 (b)
Figure 2-13(b) shows the media loading of TX3 and TX6.
6. Move the Media Sensor to the appropriate position (see Figure 2-14). 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.)
7. 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, see figure 2-14.
Figure 2-14
Media Sensor Pointer
Media Sensor Handle
Media Guide
Media Sensor