TE Connectivity T3212 User manual

Operator's Manual
T3212 / T3224 PRINTER

2 2
Type
T3212-PRINTER (300DPI)
T3224-PRINTER (600DPI)
Doc. # 412-121035 revision 1
Copyright
This documentation as well as translation hereof are property
of TE Connectivity.
The replication, conversion, duplication or divulgement of the
whole manual or parts of it for other intentions than its original
intended purpose demand the previous written authorization
by TE Connectivity.
Trademark
Windows is a registered trademark of the Microsoft
Corporation.
Editor
Regarding questions or comments please contact TE
Connectivity.
Topicality
Due to the constant further development of our products
discrepancies between documentation and products can
occur.
Please check with your local TE Connectivity Representative
for the latest update.
Operator's Manual
for the following products
For technical support please download TE document 411-121057. Alternatively: Technical Support

3
1 Introduction ............................................................................................................................................ 4
1.1 Instructions............................................................................................................................................... 4
1.2 Intended Use............................................................................................................................................ 4
1.3 Safety Instructions.................................................................................................................................... 5
1.4 Environment ............................................................................................................................................. 5
2 Installation .............................................................................................................................................. 6
2.1 Device Overview ...................................................................................................................................... 6
2.2 Unpacking and Setting-up the Printer ...................................................................................................... 8
2.3 Installing the Wi-Fi Stick........................................................................................................................... 8
2.4 Connecting the Device ............................................................................................................................. 9
2.4.1 Connecting the Power Supply ............................................................................................................ 9
2.4.2 Connecting to a Computer or Network ............................................................................................... 9
2.5 Switching on the Device........................................................................................................................... 9
3 Touchscreen ......................................................................................................................................... 10
3.1 Start Screen ........................................................................................................................................... 10
3.2 Navigating the Menu .............................................................................................................................. 12
4 Loading Material................................................................................................................................... 13
4.1 Loading Media from the Roll .................................................................................................................. 13
4.1.1 Inserting the Media Roll.................................................................................................................... 13
4.1.2 Inserting the Media into the Printhead.............................................................................................. 14
4.1.3 Setting the Label Sensor .................................................................................................................. 14
4.2 Loading Fanfold Media........................................................................................................................... 15
4.3 Setting the Head Locking System .......................................................................................................... 16
4.4 Loading Transfer Ribbon........................................................................................................................ 17
4.5 Setting the Feed Path of the Transfer Ribbon........................................................................................ 18
5 Printing Operation................................................................................................................................ 19
5.1 Synchronization of the Paper Feed........................................................................................................ 19
5.2 Tear-off Mode ......................................................................................................................................... 19
6 Cleaning ................................................................................................................................................ 20
6.1 Cleaning Information .............................................................................................................................. 20
6.2 Cleaning the Print Roller ........................................................................................................................ 20
6.3 Cleaning the Printhead........................................................................................................................... 20
6.4 Cleaning the Label Sensor..................................................................................................................... 21
7 Fault Correction ................................................................................................................................... 22
7.1 Error Messages...................................................................................................................................... 22
7.2 Error Messages and Fault Correction .................................................................................................... 22
8 Licences................................................................................................................................................ 24
8.1 Reference to the EU Declaration of Conformity ..................................................................................... 24
8.2 FCC........................................................................................................................................................ 24
9 Index...................................................................................................................................................... 25
Table of Contents

4 4
1 Introduction
1.1 Instructions
Important information and instructions in this documentation are designated as follows:
Danger!
Draws attention to an exceptionally grave, imminent danger to your health or life due to hazardous
voltages.
!
Danger!
Draws attention to a danger with high risk which, if not avoided, may result in death or serious injury.
!
Caution!
Draws attention to a danger with low risk which, if not avoided, may result in minor or moderate injury.
!
Attention!
Draws attention to potential risks of property damage or loss of quality.
i
Note!
Advices to make work routine easier or on important steps to be carried out.
°
°
°
Environment!
Gives you tips on protecting the environment.
XHandling instruction
ZReference to section, position, illustration number or document.
¿2SWLRQDFFHVVRULHVSHULSKHUDOHTXLSPHQWVSHFLDO¿WWLQJV
Time Information in the display.
1.2 Intended Use
• The device is manufactured in accordance with the current technological status and the recognized safety rules.
However, danger to the life and limb of the user or third parties and/or damage to the device and other tangible
assets can arise during use.
• The device may only be used for its intended purpose and if it is in perfect working order, and it must be used with
regard to safety and dangers as stated in the operating manual.
• The device printer is intended exclusively for printing suitable materials that have been approved by the manufac-
turer. Any other use or use going beyond this shall be regarded as improper use. The manufacturer/supplier shall
not be liable for damage resulting from unauthorized use; the user shall bear the risk alone.
• Usage for the intended purpose also includes complying with the operating manual, including the manufacturer‘s
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i
Note!
Further documentation are included on the DVD enclosed in the printer box, and can be found on
ZZZWHFRPLGHQWL¿FDWLRQ.

5
1 Introduction
1.3 Safety Instructions
• 7KHGHYLFHLVFRQ¿JXUHGIRUvoltages of 100 to 240 V AC. It only has to be plugged into a grounded socket.
• Only connect the device to other devices which have a protective low voltage.
• Switch off all affected devices (computer, printer, accessories) before connecting or disconnecting.
• The device may only be used in a dry environment, do not expose it to moisture (sprays of water, mists, etc.).
• Do not use the device in an explosive atmosphere.
• Do not use the device close to high-voltage power lines.
• If the device is operated with the cover open, ensure that people‘s clothing, hair, jewelry etc. does not come into
contact with the exposed rotating parts.
• The device or parts of it can become hot while printing. Do not touch during operation, and allow it to cool down
before changing material and before disassembly.
• 5LVNRIFUXVKLQJOLOPEVDQGRU¿QJHUVZKHQFORVLQJWKHFRYHU2QO\WRXFKWKHFRYHURQWKHRXWVLGH'RQRWUHDFK
into the swivel range of the cover.
• Perform only those actions described in this operating manual.
Work going beyond this may only be performed by trained personnel or service technicians.
• Unauthorized interference with electronic modules or their software can cause malfunctions.
• 2WKHUXQDXWKRUL]HGZRUNRQRUPRGL¿FDWLRQVWRWKHGHYLFHFDQDOVRHQGDQJHURSHUDWLRQDOVDIHW\
• Always have VHUYLFHZRUNGRQHE\DTXDOL¿HGZRUNVKRSZKHUHWKHSHUVRQQHOKDYHWKHWHFKQLFDONQRZOHGJHDQG
tools required to do the necessary work.
• There are various warning stickers on the device. They draw your attention to danger.
Warning stickers may therefore not be removed, because you and other people will not be made aware of
pending dangers and may be injured.
• The maximum noise level is under 0.063 Pa/70 dB(A).
Danger!
Danger to life and limb from the power supply.
XDo not open the device casing.
!
Warning!
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.
1.4 Environment
°
°
°
Obsolete devices contain valuable recyclable materials that should be sent for recycling.
XSend to suitable collection points, separately from residual waste.
The modular construction of the printer enables it to be easily disassembled into its component parts.
XSend the parts for recycling.
The electronic circuit board of the device is equipped with a lithium battery.
XTake old batteries to collection boxes in shops or public waste disposal centres.

6 6
2 Installation
2.1 Device Overview
3
5
6
7
4
1
8
2
10
9
1 Printer cover
2 Inner margin stop
3 Outer margin stop
4 Roll retainer
5 Ribbon supply hub
6 Ribbon take-up hub
7 Print unit
8 Front cover
9 Touchscreen
10 LED "Power on"
Fig. 1 Overview
12
13
18
17
15
11
14
16
19
11 5LEERQGHÀHFWLRQ
12 Printhead retainer with printhead
13 Label sensor
14 Allen key
15 Printhead locking lever
16 Print roller
17 Guide
18 Guide adjustment knob
19 Tear-off plate
Fig. 2 Print unit

7
2 Installation
20
21
24
22
23
26
25 27
20 Power switch
21 Power connection jack
22 Slot for SD card
23 Two USB master ports for keyboard,
scanner, USB memory stick, Bluetooth
adapter or service key
24 USB full-speed slave port
25 Ethernet 10/100 Base-T
26 Serial RS-232 port
27 USB master port for keyboard,
scanner, USB memory stick, Bluetooth
adapter or service key
Fig. 3 Connectors

8 8
2 Installation
2.2 Unpacking and Setting-up the Printer
XLift the printer out of the box.
XCheck printer for damage which may have occurred during transport.
XSet up the printer on a level surface.
XRemove foam transportation safeguards near the printhead.
XCheck delivery for completeness.
Contents of delivery:
• Printer
• Printer CD, containing windows driver and documentation
• Power cables
• USB cable
• Wi-Fi stick
• Operator's Manual
i
Note!
Please keep the original packaging in case the printer must be returned.
!
Attention!
The device and printing materials will be damaged by moisture and wetness.
XOnly set up printers in dry locations protected from moisture.
2.3 Installing the Wi-Fi Stick
1
2
3
4
Fig. 4 Installing the Wi-Fi stick
XRemove the cover (1) with the Allen key (2).
XConnect the Wi-Fi stick (4) to the USB interface (3) in the control panel.

9
2 Installation
2.4 Connecting the Device
The standard available interfaces and connectors are shown in „Fig. 3 Connectors“.
2.4.1 Connecting the Power Supply
The printer is equipped with a wide area power unit. The device can be operated with a supply voltage of
230 V~/50 Hz or 115 V~/60 Hz without adjustments.
1. Check that the device is switched off.
2. Plug the power cable into the power connection jack (21). „Fig. 3 Connectors“
3. Plug the power cable into a grounded socket.
2.4.2 Connecting to a Computer or Network
!
Attention!
Inadequate or no grounding can cause malfunctions during operations.
Ensure that all computers and cables connected to the printer are grounded.
XConnect the printer to a computer or network with a suitable cable.
To connect the printer please consult the Quick start guide (TE document 411-121061) found in the cover of the
Printer CD case.
2.5 Switching on the Device
When all connections have been established:
XSwitch the printer on using the power switch (20) in „Fig. 3 Connectors“.
The printer performs a system check, and displays the system status Ready on the screen (9) in „Fig. 1 Overview“.

10 10
3 Touchscreen
The user can control the operation of the printer via the control panel, for example:
• Issuing, interrupting, continuing and canceling print jobs.
• 6HWWLQJSULQWLQJSDUDPHWHUVHJKHDWOHYHORIWKHSULQWKHDGSULQWLQJVSHHGLQWHUIDFHFRQ¿JXUDWLRQODQJXDJHDQG
date and time.
• Control stand-alone operations with a memory module.
• 8SGDWHWKH¿UPZDUH
Many functions and settings can also be controlled by software applications or by direct programming with a
computer using the printer’s own commands.
Settings made on the touchscreen display set the basic settings of the printer.
i
Note!
It is advantageous, whenever possible, to make adjustments to various print jobs in the software.
3.1 Start Screen
After switching on During printing Paused state After print job
Fig. 5 Start screen
The display is operated by touch:
• To open a menu or select a menu item lightly press on the corresponding symbol.
• 7RVFUROOLQOLVWVVOLGHD¿QJHUXSRUGRZQRQWKHGLVSOD\
Open the menu Repeat the last label print
Interrupt the print job Cancel all print jobs
Continue the print job Feed a blank label
Table 1 Symbols on the start screen
i
Note!
Inactive symbols are greyed out.

11
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Printing on demand
without a print job
Printing on demand
with a print job
Direct cut
with CU, PCU installed
Fig. 6 Optional symbols on the start screen
Initiate the printing of a single label within a
print job including cutting, perforating...
Initiate a direct cut without media feed.
Table 2 Optional buttons on the start screen
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Fig. 7 Icons of the status bar
The current data transfer is displayed in the form of a falling drop.
The Save data stream function is active
$OOUHFHLYHGGDWDLVVWRUHGLQDOEO¿OH
Warning ribbon end
The remaining ribbon is below the required amount
SD card installed
USB memory installed
Gray: Bluetooth adapter installed, white: Bluetooth connection active
WiFi connection active
The WiFi signal strength is displayed by the number of white arcs.
Ethernet connection active
USB connection active
Abc program active
Clock time
Table 3 Icons on the status bar
3 Touchscreen

12 12
3.2 Navigating the Menu
Start level Selection level Parameter/function level
Fig. 8 Menu levels
XTo open the menu select on the start screen.
XSelect a topic from the menu.
Several topics have submenus with selection options.
To return from the current level to the previous one select . To leave the menu select .
XContinue the selection until the parameter/function level is reached.
XSelect a function. The printer will carry out the function, possibly after a preparation dialogue.
- or -
Select a parameter to set. The setup possibilities are dependant on the parameter type.
Logical parameters Selection parameters Numerical parameters Date/time
Fig. 9 Examples of setting parameters
Scroll bar for rough value setting
Decreasing the value step-by-step
Increasing the value step-by-step
Return without saving the setting
Return with saving the setting
Parameter is disabled, touching enables the parameter
Parameter is enabled, touching disables the parameter
Table 4 Buttons for setting parameters
3 Touchscreen

13
4 Loading Material
i
Note!
For adjustments and simple installation work, use the enclosed Allen key located in the top section of the
print unit. No other tools are required for the work described here.
4.1 Loading Media from the Roll
4.1.1 Inserting the Media Roll
4
3
1
2
5
Fig. 10 Loading media from the roll
1. Open cover (5).
2. Turn ring (2) of the margin stop (1) counterclockwise, so that the arrow points to the symbol , unlocking the
margin stop.
3. Remove the margin stop (1) from the roll retainer (4).
4. Load the label roll (3) so that the labels can be fed into the printhead facing up. Re-mount the margin stop (1) onto
the roll retainer (4). Push the margin stop (1) against the roll (3) until the roll is clamped between the margin stops.
5. Turn ring (2) clockwise, so that the arrow (2) points to the symbol DQG¿[HVWKHPDUJLQVWRSWRWKHUROO
retainer (4).
6. Feeding label strips:
For tear-off mode: approx. 40 cm.

14 14
4.1.2 Inserting the Media into the Printhead
4
1
5
32
67
Fig. 11 Inserting the labeling material into the printhead
1. Turn lever (2) counterclockwise to lift the printhead.
2. Adjust the guides (7) with the knob (6) ensuring the media can pass between the two guides.
3. Guide the label strip through the label sensor (3) so that the media exits the print unit between the printhead and
the print roller.
4. Adjust guides (7) against the edges of the material by turning the knob (6).
4.1.3 Setting the Label Sensor
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sensor unit (1) of the label sensor is visible from the front through the print unit and is marked with an indentation in
the label sensor retainer. When the printer is switched on, a yellow LED illuminates the sensor position.
XLoosen screw (4).
X3RVLWLRQODEHOVHQVRUZLWKWDELQVRWKDWWKHVHQVRUFDQGHWHFWWKHODEHOJDSRUDUHÀH[RUSHUIRUDWLRQPDUN
XAlternatively, if the labels are not of a rectangular shape, align label sensor using the tab (5) with the front edge of
WKHODEHOLQWKHGLUHFWLRQRISDSHUÀRZ
XTighten screw (4).
For use in tear-off mode only:
XTurn lever (2) clockwise to lock the printhead.
The labels are loaded for use in tear-off mode.
4 Loading Material

15
4.2 Loading Fanfold Media
6
1
2
3
4
5
Fig. 12 Feed path of fanfold media
1. Turn ring (2) counterclockwise, so that the arrow points to the symbol , and thus release the margin stop (1).
2. Move the margin stops (1) in a position that the media can pass between the two margin stops.
3. Position media stack (4) behind the printer. Ensure that labels on the lining are visible from above.
4. Guide the media over the roll retainer (3) to the print unit.
5. Push the margin stop (1) against the media strip without clamping or bending it.
6. Turn ring (2) clockwise, so that the arrow points to the symbol , locking the margin stop (1) of the roll
retainer (3).
7. Insert the media strip into the printhead Z4.1.2 on page 14).
8. Set the label sensor (Z4.1.3 on page 14).
9. Set the head locking system (Z4.3 on page 16).
10. Turn lever (6) clockwise to lock the printhead.
4 Loading Material

16 16
4.3 Setting the Head Locking System
The printhead is pushed on via two plungers (1). In the basic setting the plungers are in the middle of the printhead
retainer. This setting is suitable for most applications.
1 2 3
13
Fig. 13 Setting the head locking system
If the print density decreases in the outer areas of the label, when using larger media, the plungers can be moved:
XLoosen threaded pins (3) of the plungers (1) with an Allen key.
XTurn lever (2) clockwise to lock the printhead.
XDisplace plunger towards the scale value 70.
XTighten the threaded pins (3).
4 Loading Material

17
4.4 Loading Transfer Ribbon
i
Note!
Ensure previous ribbon is removed before loading a new ribbon.
6
1
2
3
4
5
Fig. 14 Loading transfer ribbon
i
Note!
7KHLOOXVWUDWLRQLQ)LJVKRZVDULEERQORDGHGXVLQJWKH,QNVLGHLQFRQ¿JXUDWLRQ
1. Clean the printhead before loading the transfer ribbon (Z6.3 on page 20).
2. Turn lever (6) counterclockwise to lift the printhead.
3. Slide transfer ribbon roll (1) onto the ribbon supply hub (2) so that the ink of the ribbon faces downward when
being unwound.
4. Position the roll in such a way that both ends of the roll show identical scale values.
5. +ROGWUDQVIHUULEERQUROO¿UPO\DQGWXUQNQRERIULEERQVXSSO\KXEFRXQWHUFORFNZLVHXQWLOWKHWUDQVIHUULEERQ
roll is secured.
6. Firmly turn knob of ribbon supply hub (5) counter clockwise until transfer ribbon core (4) is secure.
7. Guide transfer ribbon through the print unit as shown in Fig. 15.
8. Secure starting end of transfer ribbon to the transfer ribbon core (4) with adhesive tape. Ensure counterclockwise
rotation direction of the transfer ribbon take-up hub here.
9. Turn transfer ribbon take-up hub (5) counterclockwise to smooth out the feed path of the transfer ribbon.
10. Turn lever (6) clockwise to lock the printhead.
Fig. 15 Transfer ribbon feed path
i
Note!
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4 Loading Material

18 18
4.5 Setting the Feed Path of the Transfer Ribbon
7UDQVIHUULEERQZULQNOLQJFDQOHDGWRSULQWLPDJHHUURUV7KHWUDQVIHUULEERQGHÀHFWLRQFDQEHDGMXVWHGWRSUHYHQW
wrinkling.
i
Note!
A maladjustment of the head locking system may also cause ribbon wrinkling (Z4.3 on page 16).
1
2
3
Fig. 16 Setting the feed path of the transfer ribbon
i
Note!
The adjustment is best carried out during printing.
XRead current setting on the scale (1) and record if necessary.
XTurn screw (2) with Allen key and observe the behavior of the ribbon.
In the + direction, the inner edge of the ribbon is tightened, the - direction tightens the outer edge.
4 Loading Material

19
5 Printing Operation
!
Attention!
Printhead damage caused by improper handling!
X'RQRWWRXFKWKHXQGHUVLGHRIWKHSULQWKHDGZLWK¿QJHUVRUVKDUSREMHFWV
XEnsure that the labels are clean.
XEnsure that the label surfaces are smooth. Rough labels act like sandpaper and reduce the service life
of the printhead.
XPrint with the lowest possible printhead temperature.
The printer is ready for operation when all connections are established and labels & ribbon are loaded.
5.1 Synchronization of the Paper Feed
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EHWUDQVSRUWHGWRWKHSULQWSRVLWLRQ$OOODEHOVSULRUWRLWZLOOEHIHGRXWRIWKHSULQWHU7KLVSURFHVVKHOSVDYRLGWKH¿UVW
ODEHOIURPEHLQJWRRORQJZKHQWKHSULQWHULVLQFXWWLQJPRGH7KLVSURFHGXUHPD\UHQGHUWKH¿UVWODEHOXQXVDEOH
XSelect to start the synchronization.
XRemove the blank, spent labels after the completion of the synchronization.
i
Note!
Synchronization is not necessary if the printhead was not opened between print jobs, even if the printer was
switched off.
5.2 Tear-off Mode
In tear-off mode, labels or continuous labels are printed. After printing, the label strip can be separated by hand. The
label printer must be equipped with a tear-off plate for this.

20 20
6 Cleaning
6.1 Cleaning Information
Danger!
Risk of death via electrocution!
XDisconnect the printer from the power supply before performing any maintenance work.
It is important to clean the printhead regularly. It is recommended to undertake this cleaning procedure after every
ribbon roll is depleted. This guarantees a consistently printed image and plays a major part in preventing premature
wearing of the printhead.
!
Attention!
The printer can be damaged by aggressive cleaning detergents.
Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents for cleaning the external surfaces or modules.
XRemove dust and debris from the print area with a soft brush or vacuum cleaner.
XThe cover of the printer can be cleaned with a standard cleaner.
6.2 Cleaning the Print Roller
Accumulations of dirt on the print roller may impair the media transport and the print quality.
XLift the printhead.
XRemove labels and transfer ribbon from the printer.
XRemove debris and dirt with roller cleaner and a soft cloth.
XIf the roller appears damaged, replace it.
6.3 Cleaning the Printhead
Cleaning intervals: - every ribbon roll change
Substances may accumulate on the printhead during printing and adversely affect printing, e.g. differences in contrast
or vertical stripes.
!
Attention!
Printheads can be damaged!
Do not use sharp or hard objects to clean the printhead.
Do not touch protective glass layer of the printhead.
For detailed information and advice please consult TE document 411-121037 Thermal Transfer printhead
cleaning instructions.
!
Attention!
Risk of injury from the hot printhead line.
Ensure that the printhead has cooled down before starting the cleaning procedure.
XLift the printhead.
XRemove labels and transfer ribbon from the printer.
XClean printhead surface with a cotton swab dipped in pure alcohol (IPA).
XAllow printhead to dry for 2–3 minutes before using the printer.