UBI EasyCoder 401 Linerless User manual

1
UBI EasyCoder 401 Linerless –Technical Manual
Introduction Contents ..................................................................................................... 1
FCC, DOC and VDE Notices ..................................................................... 3
Preface ....................................................................................................... 4
Models EasyCoder 401 Linerless Tear-Off ............................................................. 5
EasyCoder 401 Linerless Cutter ................................................................. 7
Installation Installation Check List ................................................................................ 9
Unpacking ................................................................................................ 10
Mains Connection..................................................................................... 11
Computer Connection............................................................................... 12
Starting Up Startup Files ............................................................................................. 13
Turning On the Printer .............................................................................. 13
Messages at Startup .................................................................................. 14
Setup Parameters General Information ................................................................................. 15
Contrast .................................................................................................... 16
Serial Communication .............................................................................. 16
Detection .................................................................................................. 19
Media Size ............................................................................................... 22
Print Window (printhead in left-hand position) ......................................... 23
Print Window (printhead in right-hand position) ....................................... 24
Media Type .............................................................................................. 25
Print Defines............................................................................................. 25
Performance ............................................................................................. 26
Memory Allocation .................................................................................. 26
Setting Up EasyCoder 401 Linerless Different Methods .................................................................................... 27
Printing Principles General Information ................................................................................. 28
Direct Thermal Printing ............................................................................ 28
Printhead Pressure Adjustment ................................................................. 28
Dot Size.................................................................................................... 30
Conversion Table ..................................................................................... 30
Linerless Direct Thermal Paper General Information ................................................................................. 31
Selecting Paper Setup Options ........................................................................................... 32
Paper Dimensions Roll Size ................................................................................................... 33
Linerless Strip w/o Marks ......................................................................... 34
Perforated Strip w. Marks ......................................................................... 35
Non-Perforated Strip w. Marks ................................................................. 36
Label-Taken Sensor General Information ................................................................................. 37
Adjusting the Sensitivity........................................................................... 38
Program Example ..................................................................................... 39
Paper Jam Detection in Cutter................................................................... 39
Linerless Paper Cutter General Information ................................................................................. 40
Controlling the Cutter ............................................................................... 41
Cleaning ................................................................................................... 42
Scalable Fonts Kit General Information ................................................................................. 43
Scaling Fonts in UBI Fingerprint.............................................................. 43
Downloading Outline Font Files from a PC .............................................. 44
Printout Samples....................................................................................... 45
CONTENTS
UBI EasyCoder 401 Linerless
Technical Manual
UBI Fingerprint6.1
Edition 1, March 1996
Art. No. 1-960409-00 Continued!

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UBI EasyCoder 401 Linerless –Technical Manual
CONTENTS, cont'd.
Electronics Accessing the CPU Board ........................................................................ 46
CPU Board ............................................................................................... 47
UBI Fingerprint EPROMs........................................................................ 48
Configuration EPROMs ........................................................................... 48
ROM-expansion EPROMs ....................................................................... 48
RAM memory .......................................................................................... 49
Real-time Clock Circuit ............................................................................ 49
Fuse.......................................................................................................... 49
Potentiometers .......................................................................................... 50
Interfaces Communication Port "uart1:".................................................................... 52
RS 232C (V24) on "uart1:" ....................................................................... 53
RS 422 on "uart1:".................................................................................... 55
20 mA Current Loop on "uart1:"............................................................... 57
Parallel Interface Board ............................................................................ 60

3
UBI EasyCoder 401 Linerless –Technical Manual
FCC Notice
United States of America
WARNING:
This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and if not installed and used in accordance with
theinstructionsmanual, maycauseinterferencetoradio communications.Ithasbeen testedandfoundtocomply withthe
limits for a Class A computing device pursuant to Subpart J of Part 15 of FCC Rules, which are designed to provide
reasonableprotectionagainstsuchinterferencewhenoperatedinacommercialenvironment.Operationofthisequipment
inaresidentialareaislikelytocauseinterferenceinwhichcasetheuserathisownexpensewillberequiredtotakewhatever
measures may be required to correct the interference.
DOC Notice
Canada
Canadian Dept. of Communication
REGULATIONS COMPLIANCE
(DOC-A)
This digital apparatus does not exceed the class A limits for radio noise emissions from a digital apparatus as set out in
the radio interference regulations of the Canadian Department of Communication.
✳ ✳ ✳
Ministère des Communications du Canada
CONFORMITE DE REGLEMENTS
(DOC-A)
Le présent appareil numérique n´émet pas de bruits radio-électriques dépassant les limites applicables aux appareils
numériques de classe A prescrites dans le règlement sur brouillage radioélectrique édicté par le Ministère des
Communications du Canada.
VDE Notice
Germany
ALLGEMEINE VORSCHRIFT:
ReparaturenodersonstigeEingriffe,diesichnichtaufnormaleBedienungderMaschinebeziehen,dürfenausschließlich
nur von einem ausgebildeten, zuständigen Fachmann vorgenommen werden.
Informationinthismanualissubjecttochangewithoutpriornoticeanddoesnotrepresentacommitment
on the part of UBI Printer AB.
© Copyright UBI Printer AB, 1996. All rights reserved. Published in Sweden.
EasyCoder and LabelShop are trademarks of United Barcode Industries (UBI).
Apple and Macintosh are registered trademarks of Apple Computer Inc.
Bitstream is a registered trademark and Speedo is a trademark of Bitstream, Inc.
Centronics is a registered trademark of Centronics Data Computer Corp.
IBM is a registered trademark of International Business Machines Corporation.
Microsoft, MS, and MS-DOS are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation.
Torx is a registered trademark of Camcar Division of Textron Inc.
TrueType is a trademark of Apple Computer Inc.
Windows is a trademark of Microsoft Corporation.

4
UBI EasyCoder 401 Linerless –Technical Manual
PREFACE
This Technical Manual is intended to facilitate installation and
setup. It also gives information on linerless labels and paper strip.
This manual is presently supplemented by the following publica-
tions:
• EasyCoder 401 Linerless, Operator's Guide
Illustrated step-by-step instructions for paper load as well as daily mainte-
nance. Multilingual.
• EasyCoder 401 Linerless, User's Manual
Gives information on how to run and maintain the printer and how to load
paper supply.
• UBI Shell Standard Startup Manual
Gives information on how to run the UBI Shell startup program.
• UBI Direct Protocol, Programmer's Guide
Introduction to the UBI Direct Protocol, an easy-to-use “slave” protocol for
computer connection.
• UBI Fingerprint, Programmer's Guide
IntroductiontotheUBIFingerprintprogramminglanguage,whichisusedto
control the printer's functions and the printing.
• UBI Fingerprint, Reference Manual
Contains information on the instructions and other features in the UBI
Fingerprint programming language.
• UBI LabelShop, various manuals
Information on how to use the UBI LabelShop WYSIWYG label-editing
program for Microsoft Windows.

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UBI EasyCoder 401 Linerless –Technical Manual
MODELS EasyCoder 401 LLT
The UBI EasyCoder 401 Linerless Tear-Off (LLT) is a rugged direct thermal printer
intended for printing on pre-perforated linerless paper strip, from which labels can be
manually torn off.
Linerlesspapereliminatestheliner(backingpaper), thatusuallyprotectstheadhesive
onlabels,andisthusmoreeconomicalwithabout60%morelabelsperroll.Thisgives
fewer paper reloads and the environment benefits from less waste.
Thankstoaspecialtopcoating,linerlesspaperhashigherresistanceagainstchemicals,
scratchingandUVlightandgivesadarker imagewithlonger lifethancommon direct
thermal labels with liner.
The EasyCoder 401 LLT is fitted with the UBI Fingerprint firmware, which is
compatible with the UBI LabelShop label-editing program and the UBI Direct
Protocol. The flexible UBI Fingerprint programming language also allows you to
create your own programs.
Optionally, the EasyCoder 401 LLT can be fitted with a scalable fonts kit that allows
theuseofoutlinefontsinSpeedoandTrueTypeformat,alabel-takensensor,andareal-
time clock circuit. It can also be upgraded to an EasyCoder 401 LLC by fitting a
linerless paper cutter.
Power Ready Error
EasyCoder 401
Print

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UBI EasyCoder 401 Linerless –Technical Manual
Feature EasyCoder 401 Linerless Tear-Off Notes
Print Technique Direct Thermal on Linerless Media
Quick-Mount Printhead 8 dots/mm (203.2 dpi) Thin-film technique
Print Width max. 104 mm (4.09")
Media Width max. 114 mm (4.49")
Print Length max. 1250 mm (49.2")
Print Speed max. 100 mm/sec. (4"/sec.)
Fonts, expandible 4 times Standard: 10 Bitmapped1Min. 1 Bitmapped
Smooth Fonts Yes, with UBI Toolbox or Scalable Fonts Kit2
Print Directions for Text, Images, Lines, and Boxes 4
Bar Code Generators Depends on software version1
Internal Paper Roll Diameter max. 152 mm (6.0")
Keyboard, built-in Print key only
Display 2 lines x 16 characters LCD
Dimensions (W x D x H) 275 x 382 x 239 mm (10.8 x 15 x 9.4")
Weight (excl. paper and options) 14.0 kgs (31 lbs)
Ambient Operating Temperature + 5˚C – +40˚C (+41˚F – +104˚F) Applies to printer –not to media
Humidity 20–80% non-condensing Applies to printer –not to media
Sound Emission Level < 60 dB (A)
Microprocessor 32 bit
Programming Language UBI Fingerprint 6.1 or later Incl. UBI Direct Protocol
Startup program UBI Shell Standard 4.0 or later
On-Board RAM Memory, standard 256 kbytes Max. 512 kbytes2
Paper End Sensor Standard
Mains Voltage 115/230 VAC +10/-15%, 2.6/1.3 A 60/50 Hz Selected by means of a switch
Max. Power Consumption 300 W
Communication Interface, standard RS 232C Prepared for RS 422/20 mA CL
1 x Centronics Interface2Optional On separate interface board
RS 232C Cable2Optional
Centronics Cable2Optional
Label-Taken Sensor (LTS)2Optional Not in combination with a cutter
Real-Time Clock Circuit2Optional
External RS 232C Alphanumeric keyboard2Optional
Paper Cutter Unit2, 3 Optional Special Linerless Cutter w. LTS
Paper Roll Retainer2Optional
Scalable Fonts Kit2Optional Scales Speedo and TrueType fonts
UBI Toolbox, PC Windows configuration support2Optional
UBI LabelShop, WYSIWYG Label Software for Windows2Optional UBI LabelShop 3.2 or later
1
/. See UBI Fingerprint manuals
2
/. Options to be installed by user or reseller
3
/. If a cutter is fitted on an EasyCoder 401 LLT, it becomes an EasyCoder 401 LLC, see the two following pages.
MODELS, cont'd. EasyCoder 401 LLT

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UBI EasyCoder 401 Linerless –Technical Manual
MODELS, cont'd. EasyCoder 401 LLC
The UBI EasyCoder 401 Linerless Cutter (LLC) is a rugged cutter-equipped direct
thermal printer intended for printing on continuous linerless strip, which is automati-
callycutintolabels.Thecutterisfittedwithabuilt-inlabel-takensensor,thatholdsthe
printingofanewlabeluntilthepreviousonehasbeenremoved.Thecuttercanalsobe
fittedwithaguideplate,thatfacilitatesmanualremovalofthelabels,andpreventscut-
off labels to get stuck to the printer or workspace.
Linerlesspapereliminatestheliner(backingpaper), thatusuallyprotectstheadhesive
onlabels,andisthusmoreeconomicalwithabout60%morelabelsperroll,whichgives
fewer paper reloads. Variable label length allows for fewer label sizes in stock. The
environment also benefits from less waste.
Thanks to a special coating, linerless paper has higher resistance against chemicals,
scratchingandUVlightandgivesadarker imagewithlonger lifethancommon direct
thermal labels with liner.
The EasyCoder 401 LLC is fitted with the UBI Fingerprint software, which is
compatible with the UBI LabelShop label-editing program and the UBI Direct
Protocol. The flexible UBI Fingerprint programming language also allows you to
create your own programs.
Optionally,theEasyCoder 401LLC can be fitted witha scalable fonts kit, that allows
the use of outline fonts in Speedo and TrueType format, and a real-time clock circuit.

8
UBI EasyCoder 401 Linerless –Technical Manual
MODELS, cont'd. EasyCoder 401 LLC
Feature EasyCoder 401 Linerless Cutter Notes
Print Technique Direct Thermal on Linerless Media
Quick-Mount Printhead 8 dots/mm (203.2 dpi) Thin-film technique
Print Width max. 104 mm (4.09")
Media Width max. 114 mm (4.49")
Print Length max. 1250 mm (49.2")
Print Speed max. 100 mm/sec. (4"/sec.)
Fonts, expandible 4 times Standard: 10 Bitmapped1Min. 1 Bitmapped
Smooth Fonts Yes, with UBI Toolbox or Scalable Fonts Kit2
Print Directions for Text, Images, Lines, and Boxes 4
Bar Code Generators Depends on software version1
Internal Paper Roll Diameter max. 152 mm (6.0")
Paper Cutter Unit Standard Special Linerless model w. LTS
Keyboard, built-in Print key only
Display 2 lines x 16 characters LCD
Dimensions (W x D x H) 275 x 440 x 239 mm (10.8 x 17.3 x 9.4") Depth includes guide plate
Weight (excl. paper and options) 15.0 kgs (33 lbs)
Ambient Operating Temperature + 5˚C – +40˚C (+41˚F – +104˚F) Applies to printer –not to media
Humidity 20–80% non-condensing Applies to printer –not to media
Sound Emission Level < 60 dB (A)
Microprocessor 32 bit
Programming Language UBI Fingerprint 6.1 or later Incl. UBI Direct Protocol
Startup program UBI Shell Standard 4.0 or later
On-Board RAM Memory, standard 256 kbytes Max. 512 kbytes2
Paper End Sensor Standard
Mains Voltage 115/230 VAC +10/-15%, 2.6/1.3 A 60/50 Hz Selected by means of a switch
Max. Power Consumption 300 W
Communication Interface, standard RS 232C Prepared for RS 422/20 mA CL
1 x Centronics Interface2Optional On separate interface board
RS 232C Cable2Optional
Centronics Cable2Optional
Real-Time Clock Circuit2Optional
External RS 232C Alphanumeric keyboard2Optional
Paper Roll Retainer2Optional
Scalable Fonts Kit2Optional Scales Speedo and TrueType fonts
UBI Toolbox, PC Windows configuration support2Optional
UBI LabelShop, WYSIWYG Label Software for Windows2Optional UBI LabelShop 3.2 or later
1
/. See UBI Fingerprint manuals
2
/. Options to be installed by user or reseller

9
UBI EasyCoder 401 Linerless –Technical Manual
Installation Check List ❑Unpack the printer as described on next page.
❑Standard printer:
If you have a standard EasyCoder 401 Linerless printer, go on
to next step.
Customized printer:
If you have a customized EasyCoder 401 Linerless printer,
check its CPU board and possible parallel interface board in
regardofinterfacecircuitsandstrapsasdescribedinthechapters
“Electronics”and“Interfaces” at the end ofthismanual.Then
go on to next step.
❑Connecttheprintertoamainssocketasdescribedlateroninthis
chapter.
❑Connect the printer to its host computer by means of a suitable
communicationcableasdescribedlaterinthischapter.(Referto
the chapter “Interfaces” for more information on computer
connection and cable configurations).
❑Load a supply of linerless paper as described in the User's
Manual.Becarefultoadjustthepositionofthelabelstopsensor
so it will detect any black marks at the back of the paper web.
❑Check that the printhead is lowered.
❑In case of an EasyCoder 401 LLC, check that the cutter unit is
locked in closed position.
❑Turn on the power.
❑Proceed according to the chapter “Starting Up”.
INSTALLATION

10
UBI EasyCoder 401 Linerless –Technical Manual
Before starting the installation, carefully examine the delivery for
possible damage or missing parts:
❑Openthe box andlift the printer,together with thefoam-plastic
shock absorbers, out of the box.
❑Removetheshockabsorbersandcheckthatthemachinehasnot
beenvisiblydamagedduringthetransportation.Keepthepack-
ingmaterialuntilyouaresurethattheprinterfunctionsproperly.
❑Themachinesignontheprinter'srearplategivesinformationon:
• Type
• Article number
• Serial number
❑Check the printer in regard to possible options ordered.
❑In case of an EasyCoder 401 LLC printer, check that a separate
cutterguideplate is enclosed in thebox.Ifsodesired,installthe
guide plate according to the enclosed installation instructions.
❑Checkthatthemainscordhasapinconfigurationthatwillfitinto
a wall socket according to the local standard.
Should any kind of damage have occurred during transportation,
immediately make a complaint to the carrier.
Any incorrect delivery or missing parts should be reported to the
distributor.
INSTALLATION, cont'd.
Unpacking
0
230V
MADE IN SWEDEN
Type
Art. No.
Ser. No.
115/230 V 2.6/1.3 A 50–60 Hz
TA
Machine Sign
European type US/Canadian type GB type
230V mains plug 115V mains plug 230V mains plug

11
UBI EasyCoder 401 Linerless –Technical Manual
❑Make sure that the printer is set for the correct voltage by
checking the voltage switch-over on the printer's rear plate.
❑Fit the mains cord, which is included in the delivery, into the
mains receptacle. Connect the other end of the cord to a
groundedwall socket. To avoid interferencefrom noise, surges
and spikes, a dedicated line is preferred. If no such line is
available,avoidlinestowhichelectricmotors,refrigeratorsand
similar devices are connected.
❑The power can be turned on/off by means of the main switch
situated above the mains receptacle. The “Power” LED on the
printer's keyboard indicates when the power is on.
Mains Connection
INSTALLATION, cont'd.
0
230V
MADE IN SWEDEN
Type
Art. No.
Ser. No.
115/230 V 2.6/1.3 A 50–60 Hz
TA
Print
Power Ready Error
EasyCoder 401
Power On LED
Mains Receptacle
Voltage Switch-over
Main Switch

12
UBI EasyCoder 401 Linerless –Technical Manual
INSTALLATION, cont'd.
Computer Connection
Hints:
• ForUBILabelShop,UBIDirectProtocolorUBIFingerprintprogramming,
use the "uart1:" serial RS 232C communication channel.
• UBI's standard communication cables and adapters makes it possible to
connecttheprinter directly to the serial orparallelportof an IBM AT, XT or
PS-2personalcomputer, or the serial port ofanAppleMacintosh computer.
EasyCoder401Linerlessisalwaysfittedwithonecommunication
port ("uart1:") for RS 232C on the rear plate.
As an option, this communication port can be reconfigured for
eitherRS422or20mACurrentLoopafteradditionalcircuitshave
been fitted on the CPU board, see chapter “Interfaces”.
The EasyCoder 401 Linerless can also be fitted with an optional
parallel interface board.
No communication cable is provided unless ordered separately.
Refer to the chapter “Interfaces” for cable configuration descrip-
tions.
Refertothemanualofthehostcomputerorterminalforinformation
on how to connect the other end of the communication cable.
230V
0
MADE IN SWEDEN
Type
Art. No.
Ser. No.
115/230 V 2.6/1.3 A 50–60 Hz
TA
Parallel Port
36-p female Centronics
(option)
Serial RS 232C Port
DB25 male
WARNING!
When connecting printer and host,
the power should be off!
UBI Standard Cables
RS 232C Cables:
Printer to IBM-AT 1-975581-05
Printer to IBM-XT/PS2 1-975580-05
Printer to Mac 1-010007-00
DB-25 Gender Changer 1-010008-00
Centronics Cable:
DB-25/Centronics 1-010001-00

13
UBI EasyCoder 401 Linerless –Technical Manual
At startup, the behaviour of the printer is decided by the possible
existence of a startup (autoexec) file, i.e. a program that automati-
callystartsrunningwhentheprinteristurnedon,somewhereinthe
printer's memory. There are three major possibilities:
AThe printer is fitted with the UBI Shell file-managing program,
which allows the operator to choose between a variety of
applications and functions.
BThe printer is fitted with no startup file at all.
CThe printer is fitted with a custom-made application program
that is design to perform a specific task, e.g. to print airline
tickets, baggage tags, or product labels for a certain company.
Therecanbeonestartupfilestoredineachofthefollowingpartsof
the printer's memory: RAM and ROM. If there are startup files
storedin more than oneplace, they will beused with the following
priority:
1. Printer's RAM memory.
2. Printer's ROM memory, e.g. the configuration EPROM's.
This implies that if you have a startup file stored in the configu-
ration EPROM's and another in the printer's RAM memory
whenyouturnontheprinter,thestartupfileintheRAMmemory
will be used.
The display will keep you informed on what happens and in many
cases prompt you to take some kind of action, e.g. to choose
between options. How to take action depends on the startup
program.
Do not start the printer before you have made the necessary
connections, inserted any memory card you want to use, and
checked that the printhead is lowered and the optional cutter is in
closed position.
Turn on the power by means of the main switch on the rear plate.
The “Power” LED control lamp on the front panel lights up when
thepowerison.Waitforafewmoments,whiletheprinterloadsthe
program and runs some self-diagnostic tests. Then some kind of
message will appear in the display window.
Incaseofacutter-equippedprinter,thecutterwillperformacutting
cycle at startup.
STARTING UP
Startup Files
EPROM = Erasable Programmable
Read-Only Memory
RAM = Random Access Memory
ROM = Read-Only Memory
Turning On the Printer

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UBI EasyCoder 401 Linerless –Technical Manual
STARTING UP, cont'd.
Messages at Startup The type of startup file running in the printer is indicated by the
message shown in the display window directly after power up.
A. UBI Shell Startup Program (standard in EasyCoder 401 LL):
PRINT=UBI SHELL
5 sec. v.4.0
4 sec. v.4.0
3 sec. v.4.0
2 sec. v.4.0
1 sec. v.4.0
Refer to the UBI Shell Standard Startup Manual. The digits in the
lower right corner of the display indicate the version of UBI Shell.
B. No Startup File (non-standard EasyCoder 401 LL):
UBI Fingerprint
6.1
Refer to the documentation of the corresponding version of UBI
Fingerprint for further information.
C. Custom-made Application Program (non-standard EasyCoder 401 LL):
Anyotherdisplaymessagethanthoseillustratedaboveindicatethat
theprinterisrunningsomecustom-made,non-standardapplication
program or that some error has occurred.

15
UBI EasyCoder 401 Linerless –Technical Manual
1/. “Default” refers to the default setup values in the standard configuration EPROM's. A custom-made printer fitted with
non-standard configuration EPROM's may have a different combination of default setup values.
2/. There is no communication setup and no receive and transmit buffers for the optional parallel communication channel.
3/. All three options relate to the same nominal print speed.
4/. Special Feedadjust, Media Type, and Paper Type setup values for EasyCoder 401 Linerless are stored in RAM before
deliveryfromfactoryandwill have precedence over the standard default values stored in EPROM(sameasthoseofthe
non-linerless EasyCoder 401). In case of memory loss or memory reset, the values stored in RAM will be replaced by
thoseinEPROM.However,you can set uptheprinteragainaccordingtothe default values inthetableaboveortoyour
ownpreferences,e.g.bymeansofUBIShell.(Fordefaultpapertypesetup,enter“0100023122623”in“NewSupplies”).
The setup allows you to adapt the printer for the desired type of
computer communication and to control the printing. The setup
parameters are:
General Information
Parameter Options Default1
❑Contrast Variable (0–10) Middle (5)
❑Ser-Com2:
◆Baudrate 300 | 600 | 1200 | 2400 | 4800 | 9600 | 19200 9600
◆Parity even | odd | mark | space | none none
◆Char length 7 bits | 8 bits 7 bits
◆Stop bits 1 bit | 2 bits 2 bits
◆Flow control:
- RTS/CTS Enable | disable disable
- ENQ/ACK Enable | disable disable
- XON/XOFF, data from host Enable | disable enable
- XON/XOFF, data to host Enable | disable enable
◆New line CR/LF | LF | CR CR/LF
❑Detection:
◆LSS adjust Variable n.a.
◆Feedadj4:
- Startadj Variable±LLT: 0 LLC: -294
- Stopadj Variable±LLT: 0 LLC: +250
❑Service:
◆Media size:
- X-start Variable (0 – 831) 0
- Width Variable (0 – 832) 832
- Length Unlimited 1200
◆Media type4: [Label (w gaps)] | Ticket (w mark) | [Ticket (w gaps)] | LLT:Ticket(wmark)
Fix length strip | Var length strip LLC:Var lengthstrip
◆Print defs:
- Head resist Set automatically at startup n.a.
- Paper type4Select supply option. See chapter “Selecting Paper” 0100
- New supplies Select a new type of supply by means of a 13-digit code n.a.
- Testprint A series of test labels can be printed n.a.
◆Performance3: Normal | High | Ultrahigh Normal
◆Memory alloc:
- Image buff size Variable (max. 250 kbyte) 48 kbyte
- Rec buf size2Variable 300 byte
- Trans buf size2Variable 300 byte
SETUP PARAMETERS

16
UBI EasyCoder 401 Linerless –Technical Manual
SETUP PARAMETERS, cont'd.
Continued!
Thischapterexplainsthemeaningofthevarioussetupparameters.
There are several ways to change the setup:
• Bymeans of the Terminal Setup option inUBI Shell, see the UBI
Shell Standard Startup Manual.
• By means of setup files or setup strings. See the UBI Fingerprint
ReferenceManual, SETUP statement, ortheUBIDirectProtocol
Programmer's Guide.
The contrast setup allows you to make minor adjustment of the
printoutinregardofblackness,e.g.toadapttheprintertovariations
in quality between different batches of the same paper quality.
The serial communication setup controls the communication be-
tween the printer and the connected computer or other devices on
the standard serial channel "uart1:".
The serial communication setup has no consequence whatsoever
for parallel communication via an optional parallel interface
board.
For the serial communication channel, the following parameters
canbeset. Make suretheymatchthesetupof the connecteddevice
orviceversa.Thedefaultsetup(indicatedbyboldcharactersbelow)
is selected as to make the printer understand and act upon UBI
Fingerprint instructions transmitted from the host, regardless how
thehostisset up. If the setupoftheprinter and the setup of thehost
do not match, the response from the printer to host will be garbled.
• Baudrate:
The baudrate is the transmission speed in bits per second. The
following baudrates can be selected:
300
600
1200
2,400
4,800
9,600 Max. recommended baudrate for 20 mA current loop
19,200
If communication problems occur, try a lower baudrate.
Contrast
Serial Communication
• Baudrate
• Parity
• Character Length
• Stop Bits
• Flow Control
• New Line

17
UBI EasyCoder 401 Linerless –Technical Manual
• Parity:
The parity decides how the software will check for transmission
errors. There are five options:
None
Even
Odd
Mark
Space
• Character Length:
The character length specifies the number of bits in a character.
Formostpurposes7bitswillbesufficient,butifspecialcharacters
orcharactersspecificforotherlanguagesaretobeused,8bitsare
recommended. Refer to the UBI Fingerprint Reference Manual
for information on which characters are available in various
combinations of character length and character set.
7Characters ASCII 0 – 127 decimal can be transmitted.
8 Characters ASCII 0 – 255 decimal can be transmitted.
• Stop Bits:
The number of stop bits specifies how many bits will define the
end of a character. There are two options:
1
2
• Flowcontrol:
There are several different ways to control the exchange of data
between the printer and the connected computer or other device
(“Handshaking”). Each option can be enabled or disabled
separately, but normally only one alternative should be selected.
Forgalvanicallyinsulatedinterfaces,i.e.20mAcurrentloopand
RS422,ENQ/ACKorXON/XOFFaretopreferinordertoretain
interference protection and limit the number of lines.
• Flowcontrol, cont'd:
RTS/CTS
This is a protocol where the communication is controlled by currents through
separate lines in the cable being set either to high or low. By default, this option is
disabled.
RTShighindicates that thetransmitting unitis abletoreceivecharacters.RTS low
indicates that the receive buffer is filled to 75% (see XON/XOFF).
CTShighindicatesthattheunittransmittingtheCTSsignalisreadytoreceivedata.
CTSlowindicatesthatthereceivebufferisfull(seeXON/XOFF).Insomecomputer
programs, e.g. MS Windows Terminal , RTS/CTS is designated “Hardware”.
SETUP PARAMETERS, cont'd.
Serial Communication,
cont'd.
Continued!

18
UBI EasyCoder 401 Linerless –Technical Manual
DTR
DTR(“DataTerminalReady”)isasignal,whichisnotcontrolledinthesetupmode,
but by straps on the CPU board or interface board. DTR high indicates that the
transmitting unit is turned on.
ENQ/ACK
In this protocol, the communication is controlled by the special characters ENQ
(ASCII 05 dec.) and ACK (ASCII 06 dec.) being transmitted on the same line as the
data.ThesendingunittransmitsENQatregularintervals.IftheresponseACKisnot
receivedthetransmissionisheldupawaitinganACKcharacterfromthereceiving
unit. By default, this option is disabled.
XON/XOFF
In this protocol, the communication is controlled by the special characters XON
(ASCII17 dec.)and XOFF(ASCII 19dec.) being transmittedon thesame lineas the
data. XON/XOFF can be enabled/disabled separately for data received from the
host by the printer (printer sends XON/XOFF), and for data transmitted to the host
from the printer (host sends XON/XOFF).
XOFF is sent from the printer when its receive buffer is filled by 75%, and the
transmission from the host is held up awaiting an XON character. When enough
data have been processed that the receive buffer is filled only to 50%, the printer
sends an XON character and the host resumes transmitting data. The same
principles apply to XON/XOFF sent by the host, even if the percentage may differ.
By default, XON/XOFF is enabled for data both ways.
• New Line:
Thissetupparameterallowsyouselectthecharacter(s)transmitted
from the printer to specify the switching to a new line. There are
three options:
CR/LF ASCII 13 dec. + ASCII 10 dec.
LF ASCII 10 dec.
CR ASCII 13 dec.
SETUP PARAMETERS, cont'd.
Serial Communication,
cont'd.

19
UBI EasyCoder 401 Linerless –Technical Manual
SETUP PARAMETERS, cont'd.
TheDetectionfacilitiesareusedtoadjustthelabelstop/blackmark
sensor (LSS) and to control the paper feed.
LSS Adjustment:
TheLSSisaphoto-electricdetectiondevicethatcontrolsthepaper
feed.Situatedinsidetheprintingmechanism,itdetectsblackmarks
printed at the back of the paper web, or out of paper conditions.
Whentheprinterissetupfor“Ticket(wmark)”,thelightisemitted
from the lower part of the LSS. The beam can be reflected back to
thereceiverbythewhitepaperatthebackoftheweb,butifthebeam
hits a black mark, practically no light will be reflected back. The
firmwareisprogrammedtodetecttherearedgesoftheblackmarks.
An out-of-paper condition is assumed, when no reflected light has
been detected within a feed length corresponding to the distance
between the dot line on the printhead and the sensor.
If the printer is set up for “Fix length strip”, or “Var. length strip”,
anarrowbeamoflightisemittedfromtheupperpartoftheLSSand
receivedbythe sensor in the lowerpart.Anout-of-papercondition
is assumed, when no interference to the beam has been detected
within a feed length corresponding to the distance between the dot
line on the printhead and the sensor.
The setup options “Label (w gaps)” and “Ticket (w gaps)” are not
used in connection with linerless paper.
Obviously,itisimportantthattheprinterissetupforthecorrecttype
of media (see “Media Type” later in this chapter) so the firmware
can interpret the signals correctly.
TheLSScan be moved max. 50mmsideways from the inneredge
the web to detect black marks at various positions. The inner edge
of the handle indicates the lateral position of the sensor.
The LSS is automatically fine-adjusted when a Testfeed operation
isperformed.Moreover,theLSSemitterscanbeadjustedinregard
of light intensity in the Setup Mode or by means of setup files, and
theLSSreceivercanbeadjustedbymeansofapotentiometeronthe
CPU board (see the chapter “Electronics/Potentiometers”).
Ifthe printer works as expected, there is noneed to adjust the LSS,
but if the printer starts to feed out labels in an unexpected manner,
check that the sensor is properly aligned in relation to the web and
that it has not become dirty. Perform a few Testfeed operations to
allow the sensor to auto-adjust itself.
If the error remains, proceed according to the description of the
Setup Mode for the printer model in question. Only as a last resort
should the potentiometer be adjusted. Continued!
Detection
• LSS Adjustment
• Feed Adjustment
Emitter and
Receiver
Emitter
The upper part of the LSS has a light
emitter to detect out of paper conditions,
whereas the lower part contains both a
receiver and an emitter for black mark
detection. Handle
Theinneredgeofthehandleindicatesthe
lateral position of the LSS.

20
UBI EasyCoder 401 Linerless –Technical Manual
SETUP PARAMETERS, cont'd.
Feed Adjustment:
TheFeedAdjustment contains two parameters, Startadjustment
and Stop adjustment, that will be effected regardless of which
programisrun.Suchglobaladjustmentscanbefurthermodifiedfor
various purposes by the use of FORMFEEDs within the currently
running program.
TheStartAdjustmentisgivenasapositiveornegativenumberof
dots:
•Apositive start adjustment means that the specified length of
paperwebwillbefedoutbeforetheprintingstarts.Accordingly,
theorigoismovedawayfromtheforwardedgeofthecopy.(This
hasthesameeffectasapositiveFORMFEEDbeforeaPRINTFEED).
•Anegative start adjustment means that the specified length of
paper web will be pulled back before the printing starts.
Accordingly,the origo ismovedtowardstheforward edge ofthe
copy. (This has the same effect as a negative FORMFEED before
a PRINTFEED).
The Stop Adjustment is set up the same way.
•Apositive stop adjustment means that the specified length of
paper web will be fed out after the printing is completed.
Accordingly, the origo is moved away from the forward edge of
nextcopy.(ThishasthesameeffectasapositiveFORMFEEDafter
a PRINTFEED).
•Anegative stop adjustment means that the specified length of
paper web will be pulled back after the printing is completed.
Accordingly,theorigoismovedtowardstheforwardedgeofnext
copy. (This has the same effect as a negative FORMFEED after a
PRINTFEED).
Notes:
IncaseofEasyCoder401LLC,keepinmindthatthisprintermodel
has a default Feed adjustment setup that is different from all other
EasyCoder printers. Since any FORMFEEDs included in the pro-
gram will be supplement the Feed adjustment setup, running an
application program originally designed for other EasyCoders in
anEasyCoder401LLCmaygiveunexpectedresults.Insuchcases,
change the Feed adjustment setup to 0/0 and see if it helps.
It is possible to turn off the label stop sensor for a certain amount
of paper feed, and to override the start adjustment and stop
adjustment setup by means of the LBLCOND statement, see UBI
Fingerprint manuals.
Detection, cont'd.
TPH density 8 dots/mm (203.2 dpi):
1 dot = 0.125 mm = 4.92 mils
For more information on the instructions
FORMFEEDandPRINTFEED, see UBI
Fingerprint Reference Manual or UBI
Direct Protocol Programmer's Guide.
Continued!