Tharo Systems V-Series User manual

THARO V-Series Users Manual
P/N. 920-011311-00 Edition 4 July 2004

FCC COMPLIANCE STATEMENT
FOR AMERICAN USERS
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a CLASS A digital device,
pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection
against harmful interference when the equipment is operated in a commercial environment. This
equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in
accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. Operation
of this equipment in a residential area is likely to cause harmful interference in which case the user
will be required to correct the interference at his expense.
EMS AND EMI COMPLIANCE STATEMENT
FOR EUROPEAN USERS
This equipment has been tested and passed with the requirements relating to electromagnetic
compatibility based on the standards EN50081-1 (EN55022 CLASS A) and EN61000-4-2/-3/-4/-5/-6/
-8/-11 (IEC Teil 2,3,4). The equipment also tested and passed in accordance with the European
Standard EN55022 for both the Radiated and Conducted emissions limits.
CAUTION
Danger of explosion if battery is replaced incorrectly.
Only replace battery with an equivalent type as recommended by the manufacturer.
Dispose of used batteries according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Copyright and Trademark Notice
© 2004 by Tharo Systems, Inc.
It is illegal to photocopy or electronically transmit a facsimile of this manual or any portion
of its contents for any means or purpose without the publisher’s permission. Fines of up
to $10,000.00 may be imposed for violation.
All brand or product names are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective companies.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. PRODUCT DESCRIPTION......................................................................................... 5
General Information ......................................................................................................................... 5
Printer Options.................................................................................................................................... 5
2. GENERAL SAFETY TIPS............................................................................................ 7
3. UNPACKING THE PRINTER AND ACCESSORIES.................................................. 7
4. IDENTIFYING COMPONENTS .................................................................................. 8
5. PRINTER SETUP........................................................................................................ 9
6. CONTROL PANEL..................................................................................................... 10
General Description and Operation .......................................................................................... 10
Interpreting LED Messages.......................................................................................................... 10
7. LOADING MEDIA .................................................................................................... 11
Ribbon Installation.......................................................................................................................... 11
Label Installation ............................................................................................................................. 12
Label Roll Core Installation Instructions ................................................................................ 13
Direct Thermal / Thermal Transfer Mode Switch................................................................ 14
Card / Hang tag installation ........................................................................................................ 14
8. INSTALLING THE PRINTER’S OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES ................................ 15
Stripper Sensor Module Components...................................................................................... 15
Stripper Sensor Module Installation Instructions ............................................................... 15
Stripper Sensor Module Installation Diagram ...................................................................... 17
Cutter Module Components......................................................................................................... 18
Cutter Module Installation Instructions .................................................................................. 18
2MB Flash Memory Expansion with Real-Time Clock Components.............................. 20
2MB Flash Memory Expansion with Real-Time Clock Installation Instructions....... 20
APPENDIX A. COMMUNICATION INTERFACES ....................................................... 22
Parallel Interface.............................................................................................................................. 22
Serial Interface................................................................................................................................. 22
USB Interface.................................................................................................................................... 23
Installation of the USB HS Serial Converter......................................................................... 23
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Removing the USB HS Serial Converter................................................................................. 25
APPENDIX B. ERROR MESSAGES / TROUBLESHOOTING ................................... 26
Self Test .............................................................................................................................................. 26
Dump Mode........................................................................................................................................ 26
LED Error Message Descriptions................................................................................................ 27
Problems and Recommended Solutions ................................................................................. 28
APPENDIX C. MAINTENANCE AND ADJUSTMENT ................................................. 29
Cleaning the Thermal Printhead ................................................................................................ 29
Thermal Printhead Print Line Adjustment.............................................................................. 30
Thermal Printhead Spring Box Pressure Adjustment........................................................ 30
Thermal Printhead Replacement ............................................................................................... 31
Auto Sensing ..................................................................................................................................... 32
Upgrading the Printer’s Firmware ............................................................................................. 32
Clearing Cutter Jams...................................................................................................................... 33
Cleaning Adhesive from the Cutter Blade.............................................................................. 33
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Warranty Information
The THARO V-426/V-433 printers are warranted against defects in material or workmanship for 12
months (365 days) from the date of original shipment by THARO SYSTEMS, INCORPORATED. This
warranty does not cover normal wear and tear and shall be null and void if the equipment is modified,
improperly installed or used, damaged by accident or neglect, or in the event any parts are improperly
installed or replaced by the user.
Since printhead wear is part of normal operations, a printhead warranty of 3 months (90 days) from the
date of original shipment by THARO SYSTEMS, or 2,000,000 linear inches of use, whichever comes first.
To qualify for this warranty, the printhead must be returned to THARO or another authorized service
center. Although the user is not required to purchase THARO brand supplies (media and/or ribbons), to
the extent it is determined that the use of other supplies (media and/or ribbons) shall have caused any
defect in the thermal printhead for which a warranty claim is made, the user shall be responsible for
THARO's customary charges for labor and materials to repair such defect. To the extent that it is
determined that failure to follow the preventive maintenance schedule and procedures listed in the User
Guide shall have caused any defect in the thermal printhead for which a warranty claim is made, this
limited warranty shall be void. Any printhead returned to THARO with scratches or abrasions on the
printhead at the point of failure will be deemed abused and no warranty replacement will be provided.
THARO SYSTEMS' SOLE OBLIGATION UNDER THIS WARRANTY SHALL BE TO FURNISH PARTS AND
LABOR FOR THE REPAIR OR REPLACEMENT OF PRODUCTS FOUND TO BE DEFECTIVE IN MATERIAL
OR WORKMANSHIP DURING THE WARRANTY PERIOD.
As a condition of this warranty, the user must: (a) obtain a THARO Return Authorization for the printer,
or subassembly(s); (b) ship the printer or subassembly(s), transportation prepaid to the authorized
service location; and (c) include with the Product or subassembly(s) a written description of the claimed
defect. Unless THARO SYSTEMS authorizes return of the entire Product, the user shall return only the
subassembly(s). Products returned shall be packaged in the original packing and shipping container or
comparable container. In the event equipment is not so packaged or if shipping damage is evident, it will
not be accepted for service under warranty. Surface transportation charges for the return of the printer
to the customer shall be paid by THARO SYSTEMS within the 48 contiguous states and the District of
Columbia. Customer shall pay shipping costs, customs clearance, and other related charges outside the
designated area. If THARO SYSTEMS determines that the Product returned to it for warranty service or
replacement is not defective as herein defined, BUYER shall be subject to a minimal labor charge and all
costs of handling and transportation.
Warranty Exclusions and Conditions
The above warranties are in lieu of all other warranties, expressed or implied, oral or written, statutory
or otherwise, including any implied warranty of merchant-ability or fitness for a particular
purpose.
THARO SYSTEMS shall not be responsible for the specific application to which any Products are applied,
including but not limited to compatibility with other equipment.
All statements, technical information and recommendations relating to THARO Products are based upon
tests believed to be reliable but do not constitute a guarantee or warranty.
THARO SYSTEMS SHALL NOT, UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES WHATSOEVER, BE LIABLE TO
BUYER OR ANY OTHER PARTY FOR LOST PROFITS, DIMINUTION OF GOODWILL OR ANY OTHER
SPECIAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES WHATSOEVER WITH RESPECT TO ANY CLAIM
HEREUNDER. IN ADDITION, THARO SYSTEMS' LIABILITY FOR WARRANTY CLAIMS SHALL NOT,
IN ANY EVENT, EXCEED THE INVOICE PRICE OF THE PRODUCT CLAIMED DEFECTIVE, NOR
SHALL THARO SYSTEMS BE LIABLE FOR DELAYS IN REPLACEMENT OR REPAIR OF PRODUCTS
No salesperson, representative or agent of THARO SYSTEMS is authorized to make any guarantee,
warranty, or representation in addition to the foregoing warranty.
NO WAIVER, ALTERATION, ADDITION, OR MODIFICATION OF THE FOREGOING WARRANTIES
SHALL BE VALID UNLESS MADE IN WRITING AND SIGNED BY AN EXECUTIVE OFFICER OF
THARO SYSTEMS.
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1. Product Description
General Information
The THARO V-426 and V-433 Printers are Thermal Transfer/Direct Thermal label Printers designed for
use on a desktop. The compact V-426 and V-433 feature a small footprint to fit your work
environment. The V-Series Printers are constructed of a durable, impact-resistant composite with a
media window for easy viewing and monitoring of remaining supplies.
The THARO V-426 features a printhead density of 8 dots/mm (203 dots/in) and a maximum print
length of 1727mm (68”). The THARO V-433 features a printhead density of 12 dots/mm (300
dots/in) and a maximum print length of 762mm (30”).
The THARO V-426 and V-433 Printers provide 5” diameter label roll and 300 meter length ribbon
capacities giving you the benefit of less downtime and increased production. Both Printers come
standard with built-in USB for high-speed data transfer from your PC.
Accessories available for the THARO V-426 and V-433 Printers include a Cutter for ticket or receipt
printing applications, an internal Ethernet Card for network connectivity, a 2MB Flash expansion
module with a Real-Time Clock for time and date stamping of labels and a Stripper Sensor Module so
the Printers can be used in strip-and-peel applications.
Printer Options
Stripper Sensor Module
The Stripper Sensor Module is used to sense printed labels in strip-and-peel applications. With the
Stripper Sensor Module installed, the printed labels are presented for removal and the used liner
feeds from the printer and pools on the floor.
Cutter
The optional Cutter can be used to cut labels or tag stock up to a 10-mil (.254mm) thickness. Cutter
options include a choice of: cut after each label, cut after a specific quantity of labels, or cut at the
end of a print job.
2MB FLASH memory module with Real-Time Clock
The Printer has the ability to use internal Flash memory for storing downloaded files including
graphics and fonts. This option provides an additional 2MB of memory above and beyond the 1MB
that is standard in the Printer. This increases the available space for the storage of these files. This
module also includes a Real-Time Clock for the Time and Date stamping of your labels.
Internal Ethernet Adapter Card
The Internal Ethernet Adapter Card provides networking capability to the V-426 and V-433.
External Label Stand
The External Label Stand allows the use of label rolls with an outside diameter of 203.2 (8”).
EASYLABEL®- Label Design Software for Windows
EASYLABEL®labeling software allows you to drive your Printer and create a full range of label formats
with a minimum of effort. EASYLABEL can be installed under Microsoft Windows® on IBM PCs and
compatibles. For further information about EASYLABEL, please contact your THARO Reseller.
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Technical Specifications - Specifications are subject to change without notice.
Model THARO V–426 THARO V-433
Resolution 8 dots/mm (203dpi) 12 dots/mm (300dpi)
Print Mode Thermal Transfer/Direct Thermal Thermal Transfer/Direct Thermal
Printer CPU 16 Bit Processor
Sensor Location Moveable, center aligned
Sensor Type Reflective, Transmissive
Sensor Detection Type: Label gap and black mark sensing
Detection: Label length auto sensing and/or program command setting
Print Speed 50.8mm (2”)/sec ~ 152.4mm
(6”)/sec 50.8mm (2”)/sec ~ 76.2mm (3”)/sec
Print Length 12mm (0.47”) ~ 1727mm (68”) 12mm (0.47”) ~ 762mm (30”)
Print Width 25mm (1”) ~ 104mm (4.09”) 25mm (1”) ~ 104mm (4.09”)
Media
Label Roll: Max. 127mm (5”) O.D. on 25mm (1”) core
Core Diameter: 25mm (1”) ~ 76.2mm (3”)
Width: 25.0mm (1”) ~ 118.0mm (4.65”)
Thickness: 0.06mm (0.002”) ~ 0.25mm (0.009”)
Optional: External Label Stand allows use of 203.2mm (8”) O.D. Label Rolls
Ribbon
Material: Thermal Transfer ribbons (wax, resin and wax/resin)
Type: Ink inside
Length: 300m (981’)
Width: 30mm (1.18”) ~ 110mm (4.33”)
Inner Core Diameter: 25.4mm (1”)
Ribbon Roll Diameter: 64mm (2.52”)
Printer Language TPL (Tharo Programming Language)
Software Application: EASYLABEL®Start
Driver: Microsoft Windows 95, 98, ME, NT 4, 2000 and XP
Resident Fonts
9 resident alphanumeric fonts (including OCR A & B) that are available in 4
orientations (0°, 90°, 180°, 270°), 8-point sizes (6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 18, 24, 30),
and are expandable 8 times horizontally and vertically.
Downloadable Fonts Windows Bit-map fonts and Asian fonts are downloadable. Windows fonts in 4
orientations (0°, 90°, 180°, 270°). Asian fonts in 8 orientations.
Image Handling BMP and PCX
Bar Codes
Code 39, Code 93, Code 128 (subset A, B, C), UCC 128, UPC A, UPC E, UPC 2 &
5 digit add on, I 2 of 5, EAN 8, EAN 13, EAN 2 & 5 digit add on, Codabar,
Postnet, EAN 128, DUN 14, MaxiCode, PDF417, and DataMatrix
Interfaces Serial, Parallel, USB
Serial Interface
Transmission Speed Baud rate 4800 ~ 115200, XON/XOFF, DSR/DTR
Memory Built-In: 1MB Flash, 2MB DRAM Optional: An additional 2MB of Flash
Display Two bi-color LED lamps: Status and Ready
One Control key: Feed
Power Auto Switching 110/240VAC, 50/60 Hz
Real-Time Clock Optional Time and Date stamp
Environment Operation: 5°C to 40°C (40°F to 104°F)
Storage: -20°C to 50°C (-40°F to 122°F)
Humidity Operation: 30-85%, non-condensing. Free air.
Storage: 10-90%, non-condensing. Free air.
Agency Listings CE, CUL, FCC Class A
Printer Dimensions
Length: 285mm (13.78”)
Height: 171mm (6.7”)
Width: 226mm (8.9”)
Weight: 2.8Kg (6.2lbs)
Options
Cutter Module
Stripper Sensor Module
2MB Flash expansion + Real-Time Clock
Internal Ethernet Adapter Card
External Label Stand
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2. General Safety Tips
CAUTION!
 During the print process the printhead will become hot. Do NOT attempt to clean the
printhead until it has had time to cool.
 The Printhead is the Most Fragile part of your Printer. Do NOT use sharp or hard objects to
clean the Printhead. Do NOT touch the glass surface of the Printhead with your hand.
 This Printer is built exclusively to print labels, tickets and tags, continuous paper, etc. Only
use media that is recommended for a direct thermal or thermal transfer Printer.
 The Printer is configured for input voltages of 110 to 240 V. Connect only to a power outlet
with a grounded contact. Always ensure the Printer is switched OFF before connecting the
power cord to an electrical outlet.
 Do not expose the Printer to moisture or operate it in wet or damp areas.
 Remove the power cord from the rear of the Printer when disconnecting or attaching
accessories such as Stripper Sensors, Cutters, etc.
3. Unpacking the Printer and Accessories
Check the condition of the packaging and contents for possible damage during transit.
NOTICE: Please retain original boxes and all original packing materials in
case the Printer must be returned.
In addition to this manual the following items should be included with your Printer:
 Bar Code Printer
 Power Cord (110V or 230V)
 Switching Power Adapter
 Ribbon Shaft, Qty. 2
 Label Roll Core
 Empty Ribbon Roll
 Quick Start Guide
 Accessories CD: Includes Label Software, Manuals and Windows Drivers
The following additional items are necessary for generating labels from your Printer:
 Serial, Parallel, or USB cable
 Applicable media (label stock/ribbon)
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4. Identifying Components
1 Open Cover Button 10 Printhead Pressure Adj.
Screw (left/right) 19 Fan-Fold Label Slot
2 Top Cover 11 LED (Ready) 20 Power Switch
3 Label Roll Core 12 LED (Status) 21 Power Socket
4 Ribbon Rewind Wheel 13 FEED Key 22 USB Port
5 Print Mechanism 14 Print Line Adjustment 23 Parallel Port
6
Ribbon Rewind Shaft +
Empty Ribbon Take Up
Core
15 Ribbon Supply Shaft 24 Serial Port
7 Head Latches (left/right) 16 Label Guide
8 Front Cover Panel 17 Label Sensor 25 Ethernet Socket (Optional)
9 Memory Expansion Cover 18 Platen Roller
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5. Printer Setup
CAUTION!
When choosing a location for the Printer, ensure that the Printer and
operator remain dry. If the Printer or the operator get wet, serious
injury to the operator or damage to the Printer may occur.
CAUTION!
Make sure that the Printer’s power switch is in the “O” or “Off”
position before proceeding with the installation.
1. Plug the lead from the Switching Power Adapter into the Printer’s power socket.
2. Plug the supplied power cord into the Switching Power Adapter and then plug the other end of the
power cord into a grounded outlet.
3. Select the correct cable for the chosen interface. The Printer can be directly connected to the PC
in one of 3 ways: USB, parallel, or serial. For the connection to the USB port use a suitable USB
cable. For the connection to the PC’s parallel port use a suitable parallel interface cable. If the
serial interface is used make sure the proper serial cable is used. You can find pin assignments
and descriptions for all three interfaces connectors in Appendix A.
NOTICE!
For Serial communications make sure that the Serial Port Settings in the
Printer are configured the same as in the software you will be using with
the Printer.
NOTICE!
If you wish to connect the Printer to the computer using the USB interface,
you must install the “USB HS Serial Converter”. (See ‘Appendix A.
Communication Interfaces’ for more details.)
4. Connect the Printer to the computer with the selected cable. Then secure the cable using any
screws or clips attached to the connectors. These prevent the connection from working loose.
5. Turn the Printer on, the Ready LED will glow green when the Printer is on.
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6. Control Panel
General Description and Operation
Feed Key
Pressing the Feed key will cause the Printer to advance the media (according to media type) to a
specified stop position. If the Printer is loaded with continuous media the Printer will feed the media
out a certain length. If the Printer is loaded with labels with gaps or black marks, the Printer will
advance one label at a time. If the label is not sent out in a correct position the sensor must be
calibrated. Follow the instructions for Sensor Calibration in the Maintenance and Adjustment section
of this manual.
Interpreting LED Messages
LED Beep Description
Ready Status
Green 1 Normal
Red Orange 3
The Printer is printing
a Self-Test Label.
Refer to Appendix B for
more information.
Green Orange 3
The Printer is in Dump
Mode. Refer to
Appendix B for more
information.
Orange Orange 3
Printer is in Auto-
Sensing Mode. Please
refer to Appendix C for
more information.
Red
(Flash)
The Printer is in
firmware download
mode.
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7. Loading Media
Ribbon Installation
1. Open the Printer’s top cover.
2. Release the Print Mechanism
by pushing in on the Head
Latches. The Print
Mechanism will now rotate
up.
3. Remove the Ribbon Supply
and Ribbon Rewind Shafts.
4. Place the new Ribbon Roll
onto the Ribbon Supply Shaft
and reinstall the Shaft in the
printer.
5. Feed the ribbon from the
Ribbon Supply Shaft under
the Printhead.
6. Place the empty ribbon core
onto the Ribbon Rewind
Shaft and reinstall the Shaft
in the printer.
7. Secure the ribbon to the
empty ribbon roll core with
tape or part of a label and
wrap the ribbon around the
core.
8. Close the Print Mechanism by
firmly pressing down on it.
You will hear a click when the
Print Mechanism has been
secured.
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Label Installation
1. Open the Printer’s top cover.
2. Place the roll of label stock onto the
Label Roll Core and place it in the
printer.
3. Release the Print Mechanism by
pushing in on the Head Latches.
The Print Mechanism will now rotate
up.
4. Feed the label stock through the
Label Guides to the Tear-Off Bar.
5. Align the Label Guides to the label
edge.
6. Close the Print Mechanism by firmly
pressing down on it. You will hear a
click when the Print Mechanism has
been secured.
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Label Roll Core Installation Instructions
1” Roll Core Installation
1.5” Roll Core Installation
3” Roll Core Installation
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Direct Thermal / Thermal Transfer Mode Switch
To switch into Direct Thermal (DT) Mode:
1. Turn the Printer Off and press and hold the Feed key.
2. Turn the Printer On while holding down the Feed key.
3. The Printer will beep three times. Continue to hold the Feed key down until the Printer beeps
three more times. Release the Feed Key after the third beep.
4. The printer will print, “NOW IS DIRECT THERMAL (DT MODE)”. This indicates that printer is
now in DT Mode.
To switch into Thermal Transfer (TT) Mode:
1. Turn the Printer Off and press and hold the Feed key.
2. Turn the Printer On while holding down the Feed key.
3. The Printer will beep three times. Continue to hold the Feed key down until the Printer beeps
four more times. Release the Feed Key after the fourth beep.
4. The printer will print, "NOW IS THERMAL TRANSFER (TT MODE)". This indicates that printer is
now in TT Mode.
Card / Hang tag installation
When installing card tags, the tag hole must align
with the sensor arrow (as indicated in Photo), and
then use the Label Guide to secure the tags.
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8. Installing the Printer’s Optional Accessories
The Optional Stripper Sensor Module, Cutter Module, or 2MB Flash Memory Expansion with Real-Time
Clock can be easily installed and configured in the field. This section will provide a component list
and installation instructions for these optional accessories.
CAUTION!
Make sure that the Printer’s power switch is in the “O” or “Off”
position before proceeding with the installation.
CAUTION!
Unplug the power cord from the Printer before performing any service
on it. Failure to do so could result in personal injury or damage to the
Printer!
THARO V-Series Stripper Sensor Module Components
27. Stripper Sensor Module
28. Screws (M3X6), Qty. 2
THARO V-Series Stripper Sensor Module Installation Instructions
1. Open the Printer’s Top Cover.
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2. The Front Cover Panel has two
tabs, one on each side. Push
these in to release them and then
remove the Front Cover Panel as
shown.
3. To the right you will see two
sockets. Choose the socket that
has the same number of pins as
the connector on the Stripper
Sensor Module. Plug the
connector into that socket.
4. Position the Stripper Sensor
Module as shown.
5. Hold the Stripper Sensor Module
while tightening the screws.
6. Peel off the first label and feed
the liner through the roller and
peel off bracket.
7. Close the Stripper Sensor Module
by pushing it forward as shown.
8. Close the Print Mechanism by
firmly pressing down on it. You
will hear a click when the Print
Mechanism has been secured.
Then press the FEED Key.
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Stripper Sensor Module Installation Diagram
Stripper Sensor Module Installation Diagram
LABEL
LINER
LABEL
LINER
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THARO V-Series Cutter Module Components
29. Cutter Module and connector
30. Screws (M3X6), Qty. 2
THARO V-Series Cutter Module Installation Instructions
1. Open the Printer’s Top
Cover.
2. The Front Cover Panel has
two tabs, one on each side.
Push these in to release
them and then remove the
Front Cover Panel as
shown.
3. To the right you will see two
sockets. Choose the socket
that has the same number
of pins as the connector on
the Cutter Module. Plug the
connector into that socket.
4. Position the Cutter as
shown.
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5. Pull up on the Cutter’s
Stainless Cover (see photo
A) to release the Cutter and
then flip the Cutter Module
open.
6. Hold the Cutter Module
while tightening the screws.
7. Pull on the Cutter’s
Stainless Cover to release
the Cutter and then rotate
the Cutter back into place.
8. Close the Print Mechanism
by firmly pressing down on
it. You will hear a click
when the Print Mechanism
has been secured.
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