TSC TTP-248M User manual

TTP-248M
USER’S
MANUAL
THERMAL TRANSFER / DIRECT THERMAL
BAR CODE PRINTER

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Copyright Declaration
Information in this subject to change without notice and does not represent a
commitment on the part of TSC Auto ID Technology Co., Ltd.. No part of this manual
may be reproduced or transmitted in any form by any means, for any purpose other
than the purchaser’s personal use, without the expressed written permission of TSC
Auto ID Technology Co., Ltd..

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The FreeType Project LICENSE 2000-Feb-08
Copyright 1996-2000 by
David Turner, Robert Wilhelm, and Werner Lemberg
Introduction
The FreeType Project is distributed in several archive packages; some of them may contain,
in addition to the FreeType font engine, various tools and contributions which rely on, or
relate to, the FreeType Project.
This license applies to all files found in such packages, and which do not fall under their own
explicit license. The license affects thus the FreeType font engine, the test programs,
documentation and make files, at the very least.
This license was inspired by the BSD, Artistic, and IJG(Independent JPEG Group) licenses,
which all encourage inclusion and use of free software in commercial and freeware products
alike. As a consequence, its main points are that:
zWe don't promise that this software works. However, we will be interested in any kind
of bug reports. (`as is' distribution)
zYou can use this software for whatever you want, in parts or full form, without having
to pay us. (`royalty-free' usage)
zYou may not pretend that you wrote this software. If you use it, or only parts of it, in a
program, you must acknowledge somewhere in your documentation that you have
used the FreeType code. (`credits')
We specifically permit and encourage the inclusion of this software, with or without
modifications, in commercial products. We disclaim all warranties covering The FreeType
Project and assume no liability related to The FreeType Project.
Legal Terms
Definitions
Throughout this license, the terms `package', `FreeType Project', and `FreeType archive'
refer to the set of files originally distributed by the authors (David Turner, Robert Wilhelm,
and Werner Lemberg) as the `FreeType Project', be they named as alpha, beta or final
release.
`You' refers to the licensee, or person using the project, where `using' is a generic term
including compiling the project's source code as well as linking it to form a `program' or
`executable'. This program is referred to as `a program using the FreeType engine'.
This license applies to all files distributed in the original FreeType Project, including all
source code, binaries and documentation, unless otherwise stated in the file in its original,
unmodified form as distributed in the original archive.
If you are unsure whether or not a particular file is covered by this license, you must
contact us to verify this.
The FreeType Project is copyright (C) 1996-2000 by David Turner, Robert Wilhelm, and
Werner Lemberg. All rights reserved except as specified below.
1. No Warranty
THE FREETYPE PROJECT IS PROVIDED `AS IS' WITHOUT WARRANTY OF ANY
KIND, EITHER EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO,
WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR
PURPOSE.IN NO EVENT WILL ANY OF THE AUTHORS OR COPYRIGHT HOLDERS
BE LIABLE FOR ANY DAMAGES CAUSED BY THE USE OR THE INABILITY TO USE,
OF THE FREETYPE PROJECT.
2. Redistribution

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This license grants a worldwide, royalty-free, perpetual and irrevocable right and license
to use, execute, perform, compile, display, copy, create derivative works of, distribute
and sublicense the FreeType Project (in both source and object code forms) and
derivative works thereof for any purpose; and to authorize others to exercise some or all
of the rights granted herein, subject to the following conditions:
zRedistribution of source code must retain this license file (`LICENSE.TXT')
unaltered; any additions, deletions or changes to the original files must be clearly
indicated in accompanying documentation. The copyright notices of the unaltered,
original files must be preserved in all copies of source files.
zRedistribution in binary form must provide a disclaimer that states that the software
is based in part of the work of the FreeType Team, in the distribution documentation.
We also encourage you to put an URL to the FreeType web page in your
documentation, though this isn't mandatory.
These conditions apply to any software derived from or based on the FreeType Project,
not just the unmodified files. If you use our work, you must acknowledge us. However,
no fee need be paid to us.
3. Advertising
Neither the FreeType authors and contributors nor you shall use the name of the other
for commercial, advertising, or promotional purposes without specific prior written
permission.
We suggest, but do not require, that you use one or more of the following phrases to
refer to this software in your documentationor advertising materials: `FreeType Project',
`FreeType Engine',`FreeType library', or `FreeType Distribution'.
As you have not signed this license, you are not required to accept it. However, as the
FreeType Project is copyrighted material, only this license, or another one contracted
with the authors, grants you the right to use, distribute, and modify it.
Therefore, by using, distributing, or modifying the FreeType Project, you indicate that
you understand and accept all the terms of this license.
4. Contacts
There are two mailing lists related to FreeType:
z[email protected]
Discusses general use and applications of FreeType, as well as future and wanted
additions to the library and distribution. If you are looking for support, start in this list
if you haven't found anything to help you in the documentation.
z[email protected]
Discusses bugs, as well as engine internals, design issues, specific licenses,
porting, etc.
zhttp://www.freetype.org
Holds the current FreeType web page, which will allow you to download our latest
development version and read online documentation.

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CONTENTS
Copyright Declaration...................................................................................................i
1. PRODUCT INTRODUCTION................................................................................1
1.1 Compliances.................................................................................................. 1
2. GETTING STARTED.............................................................................................3
2.1 Unpacking and Inspection.............................................................................. 3
2.2 Equipment Checklist...................................................................................... 3
2.3 Printer Parts .................................................................................................... 4
2.4 Buttons and Indicators................................................................................... 5
3. Set Up...................................................................................................................7
3.1 Setting Up the Printer .................................................................................... 7
3.2 Ribbon Installation ......................................................................................... 7
3.3 Label Roll Installation ..................................................................................... 8
3.4 Self-peeling Function...................................................................................... 9
3.5 Cutter Module Installation............................................................................. 10
3.6 Self-test........................................................................................................ 11
3.7 Dump Mode................................................................................................. 11
4. USING TTP-248M...............................................................................................13
4.1 Power-on Utilities......................................................................................... 13
4.1.1 Gap/Black Mark Sensor Calibration Utility............................................. 13
4.1.2 Printer Initialization................................................................................ 14
4.2 Troubleshooting Guide................................................................................. 16
5. PRINTER CLEANING.........................................................................................18
5.1 Print Head Cleaning ..................................................................................... 18
5.2 Printer Cover Cleaning................................................................................. 18
5.3 Internal Parts Cleaning................................................................................. 18
APPENDIX LCD Control Panel Operation Map........................................................20

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1. PRODUCT INTRODUCTION
Thank you very much for purchasing TSC TTP-248M bar code printer. TTP-
248M comes with rugged steel construction and durable metal mechanism
ensuring the ability to work under extreme industrial applications.
TTP-248M is equipped with a 32-bit RISC processor, which offers up to 203.2
mm/sec (8”/sec) print speed. With back-lit LCD display, printer status can be
managed easier and operated more user friendly. The moveable sensor design
can meet wide range of label media.
All of the most frequently used bar code formats are available in TTP-248M.
Fonts and bar codes can be printed in any one of the four directions. This printer
provides a choice of five different sizes of alphanumeric font, OCR-A, OCR-B
and one true type font.
TTP-248M is the most cost-effective and high performance in its class!
1.1 Compliances
FCC Class A
FCC Part 15: 2002/08/20
ANSI.C63.4: 1992
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 reason-able 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 ac-cordance with
the instruction manual, may cause harmful interference to radio communications.
Operation of this equipment in a residential area is likely to cause harmful
interference in which the user will be required to correct the interference at his or
her own expense.
CE
EN55022 :1998 class A
EN61000-3-2 :1995 class A
EN61000-3-3 :1995
EN55024 : 1998

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UL/CUL
TÜV/Safety
EN 60950/A11: 1997
Wichtige Sicherheits-Hinweise
1. Bitte lesen Sie Diese Hinweis sorgfältig durch
2. Heben Sie diese Anleitung fűr den späteren Gebrauch auf.
3. Vor jedem Reinigen ist das Gerät vom Stromentz zu trennen. Verwenden Sie
Keine Flűssig-oder Aerosolreiniger. Am besten eignet sich ein angefeuchtetes
Tuch zur Reinigung.
4. Die Netzanschlußsteckdose soll nahe dem Gerät angebraucht und leicht
zugänglich sein.
5. Das Gerät ist vor Feuchtigkeit zu schűtzen.
6. Bei der Aufstellung des Gerätes ist auf sicheren Stand zu achten. Ein Kippen
oder Fallen könnte Beschädigungen hervorrufen.
7. Beáchten Sie beim Anschlußan das stromnetz die Anschlußwerte.
8. Dieses das Gerät kann bis zu einer Außentemperatur von maximal 40℃
betieben werden.
BSMI

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2. GETTING STARTED
2.1 Unpacking and Inspection
After receiving the bar code printer, carefully inspect the device and its packaging.
The printer is specially packaged to withstand damage in shipping. In case of
evident damage, contact the carrier directly to specify the nature and extent of
damage. Please retain the packaging materials in case you need to reship the
printer.
2.2 Equipment Checklist
zOne TTP-248M printer unit
zOne ribbon paper core
zOne quick installation guide
zOne power cord
zOne centronics interface cable
zOne 3” paper core adapter
zOne Windows software/driver CD disk
zOne internal rewinder
Separately purchased items may also be included. These additional items may
include:
zCutter module
zPeel-off sensor
zProgrammable Stand-alone keyboard KU-007 Plus
zMemory module
zInternal print server
zExternal 802.11b/g print server
If any part is missing, please contact the Customer Service Department of your
purchased reseller or distributor.

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2.3 Printer Parts
Figure 1. Top front view
Figure 2. Printer rear view
External Label
Feed Opening
Laud Buzzer
Centronics Port
RS-232C Port
Power Switch
Power Supply
Connector
LED Indicator
LCD Display
Printer Cover
Buttons

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Figure 3. Printer interior view
2.4 Buttons and Indicators
Power Indicator
When the printer is in the power-on condition, the Power indicator is lit on.
On-Line Indicator
This green On-Line indicator is lit on when the printer is ready; the On-Line
indicator blinks when pressing PAUSE button.
Error Indicator
The red Error indicator illuminates in the event of a printer error, such as
memory full, carriage open, cutter error and so forth.
MENU/SELECT Button
Provided with a built-in menu, the printer allows the user to directly set printing
parameters or view printer status on the LCD display.
Press the MENU button to enter printer setup mode. Press the MENU button
again to proceed the cursor to the next item.
The setup is comprised of these major items: Printer Setup, Sensor Setup,
System Setup, File Setup and Printer Test. For more information, please refer to
Appendix for the structure and operation logic of the menu.
PAUSE/EXE/INC Button
Ribbon Supply Spindle
Ribbon Rewind Spindle
Print Head Pressure
Adjustment Knob
Label Spindle
Rewind Spindle
Paper Clamp
Label Rewind Spindle
Label Guide
Media Guide Bar
Carriage Release Lever
Ribbon Tension Knob

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This button combines three functions:
1. PAUSE button if the printer is in the Ready status. By pressing the PAUSE
button: (1) the printer stops at the completion of printing of the current
label,(2) the On-Line LED flashes, and (3) the printer holds all data in
memory. This allows for trouble-free replacement of label stock and thermal
transfer ribbon. A second depression of the PAUSE button will restart the
printer.
2. EXE/INC button if in the setup mode. Press EXE/INC button to increase the
value of parameters, or execute the selected item.
FEED/DEC Button
This button also has dual functions: Feed one label and decrease the value of
parameters.
Press the FEED button, the printer will advance one label.
Press the DEC button to change parameter settings or exit the submenu.
Stripper/Rewind Plate
The stripper/rewind plate can be used for strip and label rewind mode. Please
refer to the instruction of the sticker on the stripper/rewind plate to install this
plate.
Carriage Release Lever
When opening the Carriage Release Lever, On-Line LED is lit off, the LCD
display shows “Carriage Open”. After engage the carriage release lever, press
the FEED button, printer will re-register the label and then shows READY on the
LCD display, and the screen will return to ready condition.
Print Head Pressure Adjustment Knob
The print head pressure adjustment knob has 5 levels of adjustment. Because
the printer’s paper alignment is to the left side of mechanism, different media
widths require different pressure to print correctly. Therefore it may be necessary
to adjust the pressure knob to get your best printout quality. For example, if the
label width is 4”, adjust both print head pressure adjustment knobs to the same
level. If the label is less than 2” wide, increase the left print head pressure
adjustment knob and decrease the right side pressure to level 1.
Ribbon tension adjustment knob
The ribbon tension adjustment knob offers 6 levels of tension to apply to

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different width of ribbon. Turn the ribbon tension knob clockwise and you will hear
a light click sound as the gear changes. The level of rewind ribbon is from loose to
tight, level 0 to level 5. You will hear a louder click for level 0.
3. Set Up
3.1 Setting Up the Printer
Place the printer on a flat, secure surface and make sure the POWER switch is
off.
Connect the printer to the computer with the provided RS-232C or Centronics
cable.
Plug the power cord into the power supply connector at the rear of the printer,
and then plug the power cord into a properly grounded power outlet.
3.2 Ribbon Installation
1. Open the printer right side cover.
2. Disengage the printer carriage lever.
3. Install a new ribbon roll onto the ribbon supply spindle.
※ It is to be noticed that ribbon should be placed to the left end of spindle.
Figure 4. Ribbon installation

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4. Place an empty paper core onto the ribbon rewind roll. (The diameter of
empty paper core must be larger then 34 mm)
5. Pull the ribbon roll leading edge forward through the ribbon sensor. Attach
the ribbon leading edge (with a tape) to the empty paper core.
6. Manually rotate the ribbon rewind roll until the ribbon overlaps the ribbon
leading edge and stretches tight.
Figure 5. Installation of ribbon.
3.3 Label Roll Installation
1. Insert the label supply roll into the label spindle.
2. Pull the label roll leading edge forward through the black media guide bar,
gap/black mark sensor and place the label leading edge onto the platen
roller.
3. Adjust the label guide to meet the width of the label, and buckle it onto the
black media guide bar.

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4. Engage the carriage release lever.
5. Close the printer cover.
6. Switch on the power. Now, the printer is ready to print.
Figure 6. Insert label supply roll into label spindle.
3.4 Self-peeling Function
1. Remove the cutter module (if installed) and the stripper/rewind plate.
2. Install the stripper/rewind plate in the direction with the sticker “The side of
plate is used with tear-off mode, cutter mode and peel-off mode” faced
outside.
3. Wind back the label leading edge.
4. Clip the label on the label rewind spindle by the paper clamp.

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Figure 7. Feed path for the printer media.
3.5 Cutter Module Installation
1. Uninstall the peel-off sensor and stripper/rewind plate.
2. Plug the mini DIN cable into the socket under the platen.
3. Install the stripper/rewind plate.
4. It is to be noted that the cutter module bracket should be mounted into the
slots, which are on the base of the printer.
5. Fix the cutter module on the printer with a screw.
Figure 8. Cutter module installation
Cutter Module

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3.6 Self-test
To initiate the self-test mode, depress the MENU button. Press MENU button to
scroll the cursor to Printer test. Press EXE button to enter the submenu and
press MENU button to “Printer Config”. item. Press EXE button to print printer
internal setting. In self-test, a check pattern is used to check the performance of
the thermal printhead. Following the check pattern, the printer prints internal
settings as listed below:
1. Printer model and firmware version
2. Check sum
3. Serial port setting
4. Code page setting
5. Country code setting
6. Print speed setting
7. Print density setting
8. Label size setting
9. Gap (Bline) width and offset setting
10.Backing paper transparence
11.File list
12.Memory available
Figure 9. Printout of self-test
3.7 Dump Mode
To enter dump mode, please press MENU button to scroll the cursor to “Printer
Test” then Press EXE button to enter the submenu. Press MENU button to scroll
dump mode. Press EXE button to select line dump mode or page dump mode.
Press MENU button to select EXIT to enter dump mode. In this mode, any

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characters sent from the host computer will be printed in two columns, as shown
in Figure 11. The characters received will be printed in two columns as below: on
the left side of the paper are the characters received and on the right side are the
corresponding hexadecimal values. This is very helpful to users for the
verification of programming commands or debugging of printer programs. Reset
the printer by pressing the FEED button.
Figure 10. Printout of dump mode