d i g i t a l c o l o r l a b e l p r i n t e r
Operation & Setup Guide
Manufacturing and Perfecting Thermal Transfer Printers Since 1971
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Digital Color Label Printer
Operation & Setup Guide
Part Number 22834-505
Version 1.5
12/04
Firmware V 1.2
Specifications are subject to change without notice
___________________________________________
QuickLabel Systems
an Astro-Med, Inc. Product Group
600 East Greenwich Avenue
West Warwick, RI 02893
Toll-Free: 1.877.757.7978 (USA & Canada only)
Tel: 1.401.828.4000
Fax:1.401.822.2430
www.quicklabelsystems.com
___________________________________________
Technical Support 1.877.757.7978
www.quicklabelsystems.com/support/
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Copyright © 2003 - 2004 Astro-Med, Inc.
This manual is copyrighted with all rights reserved. No part of this manual
may be reproduced, transmitted, transcribed, stored in a retrieval system, or
translated into any language in any form by any means without written
permission of QuickLabel Systems.
Trademarks
Microsoft Word™ and Windows™ are trademarks of Microsoft Corporation
PostScript™ and Adobe Illustrator™ are trademarks of Adobe Systems, Inc.
CorelDRAW!™ is a trademark of Corel Corporation
PCL™ is a trademark of Hewlett-Packard Corporation
Ethernet™ is a trademark of Xerox Corporation
QuickLabel® is a registered trademark of Astro-Med, Inc.
Color QuickLabel™ and RibbonRation™ are trademarks of Astro-Med, Inc.
Limited Warranty
QuickLabel Systems, An Astro-Med Inc. Product Group, warrants this
product against defects in materials or workmanship for a period of one year
from the date of original purchase. This warranty excludes printhead and
print platen, which are separately warranted. If the customer discovers a
defect, this defect must be reported promptly to QuickLabel Systems.
QuickLabel Systems will, at its option, repair or replace the defective
component at no additional charge. Repair parts and replacement parts will
be furnished on an exchange basis and will be either reconditioned or new.
All replaced parts become the property of QuickLabel Systems. Travel,
freight and other expenses related to warranty repairs are not covered.
Service Agreements are available for purchase and may provide on-site
service and/or loaner equipment.
QuickLabel Systems warrants the printhead from the date of purchase for a
period of 90 days or for 1 million inches of thermal transfer ribbon,
whichever comes first, based upon the use of QuickLabel Systems thermal
transfer ribbon. QuickLabel Systems printheads are calibrated for use with
QuickLabel Systems thermal transfer ribbon and perform correctly only
when used with this ribbon. This specific printhead warranty does not apply
to printheads damaged by accident, abuse, neglect, misapplication or the
like.
This warranty is void if the product has been damaged by accident, abuse,
neglect or misapplication, or if the product has been improperly installed, or
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if the product has been modified without the express written permission of
QuickLabel Systems.
QuickLabel Systems makes no warranty, either express or implied, with
respect to this product’s fitness for a particular purpose.
Obtaining Service
To obtain warranty service, call QuickLabel Systems Technical Support at
401.828.4000 or Toll-Free in the USA and Canada at 877.757.7978. QuickLabel
Systems, An Astro-Med Inc. Product Group, is not responsible for products
lost or damaged in transit.
Contact Information
QuickLabel Systems
An Astro-Med Inc. Product Group
Astro-Med Industrial Park
600 East Greenwich Avenue
West Warwick, RI 02893
Toll-Free: 1.877.757.7978 (USA & Canada only)
Tel: 1.401.828.4000
Fax: 1.401.822.2430
Web: www.quicklabelsystems.com
Email: [email protected]
Ownership Information
Congratulations and thank you for your business. Your purchase of a quality
QuickLabel Systems product is an investment in the finest of state-of-the-art
printing and labeling technology. Please use the spaces below to list the
model name/number and serial number of your product.
Model Name/Number: ____________________
Serial Number:
____________________
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DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY
Manufacturer’s Name:
Astro-Med, Inc.
Manufacturer’s Address:
Astro-Med, Inc.
600 East Greenwich Avenue
West Warwick, RI 02893 USA
declares that the product
Product Name:
8100 Xe Printer
conforms to the following product specifications:
Safety:
EMC:
EN 60950-1
EN 55022, Class A
EN 55024
Relevant Directives are 89/336/EEC and 73/23/EEC
Steven Holbrook / Quality Assurance Manager
10/23/2003
European Contact: Your local Astro-Med, Inc. Sales and Service Office.
FRANCE – Astro-Med SNC, Parc dʹActivities de Pissaloup, 1, rue Edouard
Branly, 78190 Trappes (Tel. 331-3482-0900 Fax: 331-3482-0571
Email:[email protected])
GERMANY – Astro-Med GmbH, Senefelderstrasse 1/T6, D-63110 Rodgau
(Tel. 49-6106-75033 Fax: 49-6106-771121
Email: [email protected])
UNITED KINGDOM – Astro-Med, Inc., Astro-Med House, 11 Whittle
Parkway, Slough, SL1 6DQ. (Tel. 44-1628-668836 Fax: 44-1628-664994
Email: [email protected])
ITALY –Astro-Med S.R.L, Via Plezzo 8, 20132 Milano. (Tel. 39-02-26411909
Fax: 39-02-26412828 Email: [email protected])
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Table of Contents
Chapter 1: Quick Start ...........................................................................1-1
QuickLabel Systems media ......................................................................................1-2
Quick Start Guide ......................................................................................................1-3
Chapter 2: Physical Setup.....................................................................2-1
Unpacking the Printer...............................................................................................2-2
Printer Orientation.....................................................................................................2-3
Features of the QLS-8100 Xe.....................................................................................2-4
Side view................................................................................................................2-5
Rear Panel View ....................................................................................................2-6
Installing the Media Unwind Mandrel...................................................................2-7
Installing the Water Cooling System.......................................................................2-8
Power Connection ...................................................................................................2-11
Computer Connections...........................................................................................2-12
Centronics Parallel Port......................................................................................2-12
RS-232 Serial Port................................................................................................2-13
Ethernet Port and TCP/IP Communication.....................................................2-14
Print Servers.........................................................................................................2-15
Utility Port Connection...........................................................................................2-16
Compressed Air Connection..................................................................................2-17
Preparing the Air Regulator ..............................................................................2-17
Connecting the Air Supply................................................................................2-17
Cover Switch ............................................................................................................2-18
Chapter 3: Loading Media and Calibration .........................................3-1
Loading Thermal Transfer Ribbon..........................................................................3-2
Loading Label or Tag Media ....................................................................................3-4
Adjusting the Media Sensor.....................................................................................3-7
Calibrating for Media Types ....................................................................................3-8
Calibrating Gap Media.........................................................................................3-8
Calibrating Reflective Media.............................................................................3-11
Calibrating Continuous Media..........................................................................3-13
Calibrating Inverted Gap Media.......................................................................3-13
Chapter 4: Keypad Controls and Menus.............................................4-1
Keypad Layout and Functions.................................................................................4-2
Print/Pause.............................................................................................................4-3
Form Feed/Advance .............................................................................................4-3
Cancel .....................................................................................................................4-3
Menu Overview .........................................................................................................4-4
QLS-8100 Xe
i
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Ready State & Adjust Menu .....................................................................................4-8
Print Intensity ........................................................................................................4-8
Print Speed...........................................................................................................4-10
Print Line Adjustment........................................................................................4-11
Cross Web Adjustment.......................................................................................4-13
Vertical Offset......................................................................................................4-15
Horizontal Offset.................................................................................................4-16
Display Counter ..................................................................................................4-18
Cut Offset .............................................................................................................4-19
Label Reprint .......................................................................................................4-20
Cal & Setup Menu....................................................................................................4-21
Calibrate ...............................................................................................................4-21
Test Print ..............................................................................................................4-22
Vertical Baseline ..................................................................................................4-23
Horizontal Baseline.............................................................................................4-24
Printer Settings ....................................................................................................4-25
Operation Menu.......................................................................................................4-27
Pull Back...............................................................................................................4-27
Label Reprint .......................................................................................................4-29
Synchronize Labels .............................................................................................4-30
Ribbon Menu............................................................................................................4-32
Ribbon Type.........................................................................................................4-32
Drop/Lift Adjust..................................................................................................4-33
Ribbon Sensor......................................................................................................4-35
Communications Menu...........................................................................................4-36
Data Port...............................................................................................................4-36
Parallel Mode.......................................................................................................4-37
RS232 Baud Rate..................................................................................................4-38
RS232 Handshaking............................................................................................4-39
TCP/IP: IP Address .............................................................................................4-40
TCP/IP Subnet Mask...........................................................................................4-41
TCP/IP Gateway..................................................................................................4-42
System Menu............................................................................................................4-43
Display Counter ..................................................................................................4-43
Memory Card - Write Protection ......................................................................4-44
Front Panel Lock/Unlock....................................................................................4-45
Memory Card - Formatting ...............................................................................4-48
Time ......................................................................................................................4-49
Date.......................................................................................................................4-50
Factory Reset........................................................................................................4-51
Options Menu...........................................................................................................4-53
ii
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Mirror Mode ........................................................................................................4-53
Cutter....................................................................................................................4-54
Cut Flag ................................................................................................................4-55
Pull Back - Enable/Disable.................................................................................4-57
Applicator ............................................................................................................4-58
Chapter 5: Operation..............................................................................5-1
Printing with the QLS-8100 Xe.................................................................................5-2
Powering the Printer On......................................................................................5-2
Operating Without Compressed Air..................................................................5-3
Memory Card Detection.......................................................................................5-3
Printer Indicators .......................................................................................................5-4
Error Messages...........................................................................................................5-5
Color Alignment ......................................................................................................5-10
Common Adjustments and Tasks .........................................................................5-12
Test Patterns ........................................................................................................5-12
Print Line Adjustment........................................................................................5-12
Cross Web Adjustment ......................................................................................5-12
Advancing the Media.........................................................................................5-12
Print Speed...........................................................................................................5-12
Evaluating Print Quality.........................................................................................5-13
Enabling and Disabling RibbonRation™..............................................................5-15
Printing Labels .........................................................................................................5-16
Chapter 6: Advanced Adjustments.......................................................6-1
Printhead Tangency Alignment...............................................................................6-2
Printhead Angularity Adjustment ..........................................................................6-3
Ribbon Wrinkling Adjustments...............................................................................6-4
Printhead & Drive Station Lift .................................................................................6-6
Vertical Baseline.........................................................................................................6-7
Horizontal Baseline ...................................................................................................6-8
Chapter 7: Maintenance and Repair ....................................................7-1
Recommended Tool List...........................................................................................7-2
Routine Cleaning .......................................................................................................7-3
Refilling the Cooling System....................................................................................7-5
Uninstalling the Cooling System.............................................................................7-6
Printhead Replacement.............................................................................................7-9
Platen Replacement .................................................................................................7-12
Drive and Pinch Roller Replacement....................................................................7-14
Drive roller replacement....................................................................................7-14
Pinch Roller Replacement..................................................................................7-15
Changing the Fuse or Line Voltage.......................................................................7-16
QLS-8100 Xe
iii
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Firmware Upgrades.................................................................................................7-17
Upgrading additional printers with the CompactFlash card........................7-20
Appendix A: Physical Data................................................................... A-1
Appendix B: Specifications.................................................................. B-1
Appendix C: Replacement Parts.......................................................... C-1
Appendix D: Color QuickLabel 99® Pro setup.................................... D-1
Appendix E: Windows Printer Driver Setup........................................E-1
Appendix F: Format error codes ..........................................................F-1
Appendix G: Menu Structure ............................................................... G-1
iv
QLS-8100 Xe
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Chapter 1:
Quick Start
Congratulations ! You have purchased QuickLabel System’s best digital color
label printer - ever. The QLS-8100 Xe represents years of careful research and
development to perfect digital color label printing technology.
The QLS-8100 Xe represents . . .
QuickLabel Systems’ Best Image Quality - Ever The all-new print station
design maintains a high degree of color registration - down to ± 1 dot
throughout an entire print run.
QuickLabel Systems’ Enhanced RibbonRation™ system which further
economizes the use of ribbons making it even more cost-effective for long
and short label runs.
QuickLabel Systems’ Easiest Printer to Use featuring a virtually adjustment
free platform that ensures consistent, smooth operation and repeatable print
quality, day after day.
QuickLabel Systems’ Most Reliable Printer featuring industrial-grade, all-
metal construction, large rollers, long-life bearings, and highly accurate
media sensing just to name a few enhancements resulting in trouble-free
operation.
This Operation and Setup Guide provides all the information you will need
to operate and maintain the QLS-8100 Xe. This Quick Start chapter provides
a step-by-step guide for experienced or trained users to quickly get up and
running.
QLS-8100 Xe
1-1
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QuickLabel Systems media
Your QLS-8100 Xe will provide correct print quality only when used with
Genuine QuickLabel Systems Labels, Tags and Thermal Transfer Ribbon.
QuickLabel Systems Thermal Transfer Ribbon is designed to function as an
integral part of the QLS-8100 Xe printing system and is formulated to
provide the most vibrant and durable image while helping to maintain long
printhead life.
QuickLabel Systems offers a unique media purchase program called a Media
Requirements Contract (MRC). With an MRC, your media costs will be
tailored to annual usage, not individually-purchased quantity. The benefit to
you is fixed low pricing for the products you plan to purchase anyway. The
benefit to us is the ability to plan our production more efficiently. You will
also receive discounted printhead replacement for the duration of the contract.
Some benefits of an MRC include:
Flexible Ordering - Order what you need, when you need it. An MRC never
locks you into purchasing media you don’t want. There is no minimum
spending requirement, no frequency requirement, no advance payment, and
you may add new items at any time.
Freeze Your Costs - Your one-year commitment to purchase your ribbons
and labels commits us to sell you media only at the contracted price. And,
with an MRC your costs will remain fixed, so you can safely budget expenses
as far as a year in advance.
Discounted Printhead Replacement - As an added incentive, QuickLabel Systems
guarantees you discounted replacement of all printheads worn by
normal use during the life of your contract. You can be confident that your
printhead wear will be “normal” because you will be using only the ribbons
and labels for which your printer was designed.
Fast Delivery - Your MRC is designed to let you place your label and ribbon
orders as you need them, anywhere from a week to a year in advance of
shipping. You decide the products you need and leave the rest to us. Your
ribbon and labels will arrive on schedule so you never experience production
downtime.
Contact your QuickLabel Systems Media Sales Specialist for more
information or to enroll in the MRC program.
1-2
Quick start
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Quick Start Guide
If you are an experienced user of a QuickLabel Systems Digital Color Printer
or you have attended QuickLabel Systems College training, use this Quick
Start Guide as a reference to begin producing beautiful color labels
immediately.
In general, these operations should be performed in the sequence listed
below, skipping over any items that may have been previously completed.
Page 2-2
Page 2-7
Page 2-8
Page 2-11
Page 2-12
Page 2-17
Page 3-2
Page 3-4
Page 3-7
Page 3-8
Unpack the printer
Install the media unwind mandrel
Connect the water cooling system
Connect the AC power cord
Connect the host computer interface
Connect the compressed air source
Load thermal transfer ribbon
Load label or tag media
Adjust the media sensor
Calibrate the printer to the appropriate media type
Setup software parameters
Appendix D
Appendix E
Printing from Color QuickLabel 99 Pro
Printing from a Windows application with the QuickLabel
Systems Windows Printer Driver
QLS-8100 Xe
1-3
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1-4
Quick start
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Chapter 2:
Physical Setup
This chapter will help you to familiarize yourself with the orientation and
components of the QLS-8100 Xe. This chapter also covers the various
connections that need to be made to the printer before it can be operated.
This chapter provides the following information:
•
•
•
•
Instructions on unpacking and orienting the printer
An overview of the features and components of the printer
Instructions for connecting the water cooling system to the printer
Instructions for connecting power and communication cables to the
printer
•
Instructions for connecting compressed air to the printer
QLS-8100 Xe
2-1
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Unpacking the Printer
1
Remove the printer from the packing carton.
2
Ensure that the printer has suffered no visible signs of damage during
shipment.
3
Verify that the following items have been included in the packing carton:
Centronics Parallel Cable
(IEEE-1284)
AC Power Cord
Media Retainer
Memory Card
Warranty Registration Card
Operation & Setup Guide
Water Cooling System Kit
Windows Printer Driver Diskette
Note: Retain all packaging should the printer need to be transported at a
later time.
2-2
Physical setup
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Printer Orientation
The illustration below is provided to orient you to the QLS-8100 Xe printer.
The keypad and display is the printer’s user interface.
QLS-8100 Xe
2-3
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Features of the QLS-8100 Xe
Facing the left side of the QLS-8100 Xe with its cover lifted, you can view the
media unwind, print stations, and related mechanical parts.
The items below identify the QLS-8100 Xe components as shown in the side-
view illustration on the following page:
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
Media Retainer
Media Supply Mandrel
TTR Rewind - print station # 4
TTR Supply - print station # 4
TTR Rewind - print station # 3
TTR Supply - print station # 3
TTR Rewind - print station # 2
TTR Supply - print station # 2
TTR Rewind - print station # 1
10 TTR Supply - print station # 1
11 Print Station Lift Lever
12 Drive Roller Lift Lever
13 Drive Roller
14 Pinch Roller
15 Print Station # 1
16 Print Station # 2
17 Print Station # 3
18 Print Station # 4
19 Cover Switch
20 Media Speed Roller
21 Media Sensor Assembly - Gap and Reflective
22 Lower Media Guide Roller
23 Media Dancer Arm
24 Upper Media Guide Roller
2-4
Physical setup
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QLS-8100 Xe
2-5
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Rear Panel View
Facing the rear panel of the printer, you will observe the air intake regulator,
power connection, and other interface connections as shown in the
illustration below.
2-6
Physical setup
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Installing the Media Unwind Mandrel
Your QLS-8100 Xe was shipped with the media unwind mandrel uninstalled
to protect it from damage during transit. The mandrel is easily installed by
following the procedure outlined below.
Tools Needed:
1/8” Allen Wrench
1
Slide the media unwind mandrel onto the shaft until the back plate
flange is seated firmly against the collar located on the inside of the shaft.
The outside of the shaft should be flush with the surface of the mandrel.
2
Firmly tighten the supplied Allen set screw against the shaft.
QLS-8100 Xe
2-7
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Installing the Water Cooling System
The cooling system circulates cool water through the printhead mounting
blocks to aid in maintaining optimum printhead temperature.
The water cooling system is shipped uninstalled to protect it during transit.
Use the following instructions to install the water cooling system.
Tools Needed:
Phillips Screwdriver
It may be helpful to refer to the following assembly diagram when installing
the water cooling system.
#6 Pan Head Phillips
Screw (3) &
#6 Flat Washer (3)
#6 Flat Head
Phillips Screw (1)
Mounting Screws
Furnished with
Cooling System Kit (4)
1
Fasten the water cooler mounting bracket to the printer using the three
#6 Pan Head Phillips screws and #6 Flat Washers.
Then use the #6 Flat Head Phillips screw to fasten the inside of the
mounting bracket to the printer. A screwdriver hole is present on the
outside of the mounting bracket.
2-8
Physical setup
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2
3
Insert the water cooling drives into the mounting bracket. The wires and
water tubing must face toward the printer.
Connect the water tubes for each cooling drive to the printer. Then
connect the power cord for each cooling drive to the printer.
The top cooling drive water tubes connect to the top water connectors on
the printer. Likewise, the water tubes from the bottom drive connect to
the lower water connectors. Push firmly on the connectors to snap them
into place.
The top cooling drive power cord connects to the top power connector
on the printer. Likewise, the power cord from the bottom drive connects
to the lower power connector.
Top Water Cooling Drive
Water Tube Connectors
Bottom Water Cooling Drive
Water Tube Connectors
Top Water Cooling Drive
Power Connector
Bottom Water Cooling Drive
Power Connector
4
Use the Mounting Screws to fasten the water cooling drives into the
mounting bracket. Two screws are used for each drive.
QLS-8100 Xe
2-9
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5
Remove the reservoir cap from each cooling drive, and then fill them
with the supplied distilled water. Ensure that the water level is between
the HIGH and LOW indicators. Then replace the reservoir caps.
H
Warning: Only use non-conductive, distilled water. Other liquid can
cause oxidation or corrosive damage to the cooling mechanism.
Note: Once the remaining setup processes in this chapter are complete,
and the printer power is turned on, check the water level. The water
level may lower due to the liquid entering the printer. It may be
necessary to add more water to the reservoirs.
Note: During printer operation, the water level must stay between the
HIGH and LOW indicators. If the water level is below the LOW
indicator, the cooling system will become ineffective. It is recommended
that you check the water level periodically and add water if necessary.
Warning: If the printer will be shipped to another location, it is necessary
to uninstall the water cooling system and purge the remaining water
from the printer.
For more information about uninstalling the water cooling system, refer
to Chapter 7: Maintenance and Repair.
2-10
Physical setup
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Power Connection
1
Locate the AC Power Input at the bottom of the rear panel.
2
Plug the power cord into the printer. Be sure to use only the AC Power
Cord supplied with the printer. Ensure that the power switch is in the
OFF position before proceeding to the next step.
3
Connect the opposite end of the AC Power Cord into an earth grounded
AC receptacle. Do not power the printer on until you have finished
making the remaining connections described in this chapter.
Warning: Do not use any type of receptacle adapter or AC Power Cord that
has not been supplied with the unit. Doing so can result in damage to the
printer.
Note: The printer has been set at the factory for the correct line voltage for
your country. The voltage setting can be viewed in a window at the top of
the AC Power Input. If this setting needs to be changed, refer to the
procedure in Chapter 7 of this manual.
Note: It is recommended that an AC line conditioner / surge suppressor is
used. Select a unit that is capable of handling the power requirements of the
printer and protecting from surges and spikes. A VA rating of at least 350
VA is required.
QLS-8100 Xe
2-11
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Computer Connections
The parallel interface is normally the primary method of sending data from
the host computer to the printer. A high-speed parallel cable (IEEE-1284) is
supplied with the printer.
The RS-232 Serial Port is a secondary method of sending data to the printer,
if a parallel port is not available on the host. Data transmission via the serial
port is much slower and therefore, the parallel port is recommended.
An ethernet connection is also available to provide a high-speed,
bi-directional connection to the printer in networked environments.
Centronics Parallel Port
1
Using the parallel cable supplied with the printer, connect the larger
connector to the parallel port on the printer.
Note: Only the supplied parallel or high-speed IEEE-1284 parallel cable
should be used to ensure reliable performance. This cable should be
stamped with an “IEEE-1284” marking to indicate that it is a high-speed
parallel cable.
2
3
Lock the two metal rings on the parallel port into the connector to secure
it to the printer.
Connect the opposite end of the parallel cable to the host computer. Be
sure to note which port (LPT1, LPT2, etc.) you have connected the
printer to as this will later be needed for driver or software setup.
Note: The maximum recommended parallel cable length is 10 feet (3 m).
2-12
Physical setup
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RS-232 Serial Port
1
2
3
Using a standard (straight through connection) RS-232 serial cable,
connect the appropriate mating end of the cable into the printer.
Tighten the cable securing screws into the serial port to secure the cable
to the printer.
Connect the opposite end of the serial cable to the host computer. Be sure
to note which port (COM1, COM2, etc.) you have connected the printer
to as this will later be needed for software setup.
Pin Assignments
Pin
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
Signal
N/C
5
1
9
6
TXD
RXD
DTR
GND
DSR
RTS
8
9
CTS
N/C
Note: The maximum RS-232 serial cable length is dependent on the
communication parameters being used. For best performance and reliability,
only serial cables supplied by QuickLabel Systems should be used.
QLS-8100 Xe
2-13
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Ethernet Port and TCP/IP Communication
The QLS-8100 Xe is a 10Base-T device that provides a 10Mbps ethernet
connection. Using hubs and routers, the printer can be connected directly
into a network using standard Category 5 (CAT5) cable or similar with a
RJ-45 connector.
TCP/IP (Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol) communication
provides a direct link to the QLS-8100 Xe printer via the ethernet port. Using
standard twisted-pair wiring, the printer can be connected to your existing
network and shared by all network users.
This method of communication provides a fast, bi-directional, real-time link
to the printer. However, it does not provide print server functionality. If you
require print server functionality and protocols other than TCP/IP, refer to
the following section for print server information.
Every ethernet device on the network contains a unique ethernet address
known as the MAC address. This address is programmed at the factory and
cannot be modified. Additionally, each device contains a TCP/IP layer
identified by a configurable IP address. Every TCP/IP device on the network
contains a unique IP address.
Your network administrator must assign IP addresses for your QLS-8100 Xe
printers. This is a common task performed on computers, printers, fax
machines, etc. to identify the devices by their unique IP addresses. The
QLS-8100 Xe printer does not support Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol
(DHCP), which automatically assigns an IP address to each device on the
network.
For simple printer/computer networks, you can assign IP addresses and
subnet masks manually and ensure that all devices are identified by unique
addresses. The default gateway address can remain at the default factory
setting of 0.0.0.0.
For detailed information on the topic of networking, refer to documentation
applicable to your network environment and/or contact your network
administrator.
2-14
Physical setup
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Print Servers
The QLS-8100 Xe can be connected to a Local Area Network (LAN) using an
appropriate external print server.
The print server must be capable of passing ASCII data to the printer
without corrupting or modifying the data stream. Any printer language
emulations such as PostScript™ or PCL™ should be disabled.
QuickLabel Systems can supply a compatible print server to be used in PC-
based or midrange/mainframe-based host environments. Please contact
QuickLabel Systems for additional information.
QuickLabel Systems PS-ENET Print Server for Windows Networks.
QuickLabel Systems Print Server for AS/400 Networks.
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Utility Port Connection
On the rear panel of the printer, the Utility Port permits connection to
external devices such as the optional QuickLabel Systems Cutter and
Cutter/Stacker or a label applicator system. The assignment of pin functions
on the utility port depends on the mode of operation. For additional
information regarding applicator mode operation, please contact QuickLabel
Systems.
Standard Mode
Pin
Signal
Notes
1
2
N/C
Ground
3
4
5
6
Cutter On/Off Output (1=on 0=off)
5 VDC
Cutter
1A max
Error Input (1=error 0=no error)
~ 250 nsec pulse output
Cutter Pulse
N/C
7
8
Pause
Input
(1=print 0=pause)
5
1
9
6
9
Error
Applicator Mode
Pin
Signal
Notes
1
2
3
4
N/C
Ground
Printing
N/C
Output (1=printing)
5
6
N/C
N/C
7
8
N/C
Go
Input (1=initiate print)
9
Skip/Apply
Output (1=apply 0=skip)
Note: If you are using a cutter or cutter/stacker, refer to the unit’s setup and
operation manual for information on setting up the unit with your printer.
Warning: Exceeding the limits of the utility port signals can result in damage
to the printer.
2-16
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Compressed Air Connection
Preparing the Air Regulator
When you receive the QLS-8100 Xe Printer, the Air Regulator is ready for
operation. The air pressure regulator has been set at the factory for the
proper air pressure. You only need to connect your in-house air supply to the
printer.
QuickLabel Systems can supply you with a portable, quiet air compressor
suitable for office use should you not have a source of compressed air.
Connecting the Air Supply
1
Obtain a suitable source of in-house air. This air should be dry, clean,
and oil-free. Be sure to turn off the supply of air to this connection before
making any connections.
2
Attach an appropriate threaded fitting to the Air Intake Regulator using
Teflon tape on the threads to seal the fitting.
3
4
5
6
Attach your in-house air source to the Air Intake Regulator.
Turn on the supply of air to this connection.
Check the indicator dial to ensure that the regulator is set to 70 PSI.
If adjustment is required, pull down on the regulator knob to unlock it
and turn the knob until the desired pressure level is reached:
•
•
Turn the knob clockwise to increase air pressure
Turn the knob counterclockwise to decrease air pressure
7
When finished adjusting the pressure, push the regulator knob upwards
to lock it into place.
Note: The QLS-8100 Xe can be used without compressed air, but the
RibbonRation system cannot be used. Refer to Chapter 5 for information on
how to disable the RibbonRation system.
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Cover Switch
A plunger-type switch monitors whether the cover is open or closed. This
safety feature helps ensure that during normal operation, the printer will run
only when the cover is closed.
If the printer cover is open, the printer will not print and the following
message will appear on the display.
Door Is Open
Note: Some printer adjustments require access to the print stations.
Therefore, the cover switch can be temporarily disabled to allow access to
the print stations while printing.
With the cover open, pull the cover switch plunger outward. It will lock in
the outward position and allow printing with the cover open. To return the
cover switch to normal operation, close the printer cover or push the switch
inward to its original location.
Caution: Do not remove or otherwise attempt to defeat the cover switch
safety feature. Running the printer with the cover open can result in personal
injury.
2-18
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Chapter 3:
Loading Media
and Calibration
Now that your QLS-8100 Xe is unpacked and all connections have been
made to the printer, you are ready to load label or tag stock, thermal transfer
ribbon, and calibrate the printer in preparation for printing.
This chapter provides the following information:
•
•
•
Instructions on loading thermal transfer ribbon
Instructions on loading label or tag stock
Instructions on calibrating the printer for the installed media
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Loading Thermal Transfer Ribbon
The QLS-8100 Xe is capable of printing using Spot Color or Process Color
thermal transfer ribbons.
When using Spot Color ribbons, each of the four stations prints a fully
saturated color. Any color can be installed on any print station and the
location of each color is defined in Color QuickLabel 99 Pro software or the
QuickLabel Systems Windows Printer Driver.
When using Process Color ribbons, each of the print stations prints a dot
pattern of a primary color (Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, or Black). These primary
colors overlap each other on the label to produce a wide range of colors.
Process Color ribbon must be installed on specific print stations as defined
below. CMYK printing is commonly used while some specific applications
may call for KCMY printing where the black ribbon is printed last.
CMYK
Cyan
Magenta
Yellow
Black
KCMY
Black
Cyan
Magenta
Yellow
Print Station 1
Print Station 2
Print Station 3
Print Station 4
As an aid, a threading diagram displaying the thermal transfer ribbon path is
printed on the center plate of the printer.
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To load thermal transfer ribbon on each print station:
1
Fully seat a roll of coated-side-in ribbon on the print station’s Supply
Mandrel. You will feel resistance as the spring clip on the mandrel
secures the roll. Ensure that the ribbon unwinds to the right and under
the roll.
2
Fully seat an empty cardboard takeup core on the associated Rewind
Mandrel.
3
4
Flip the Print Station Lift Lever counterclockwise to open the printhead.
Thread the ribbon over the ribbon guide roller located closest to the
Rewind Mandrel, then downward towards the print station.
5
6
Thread the ribbon around the lower print station ribbon guide roller and
under the print station.
Continue to thread the ribbon up around the front edge of the printhead
then between the ribbon guide roller at the front of the print station and
the anti-static brush support shaft.
7
8
9
Finally, wrap the ribbon up and over the empty takeup core. Secure the
end of the ribbon with a small piece of adhesive tape.
Turn the ribbon rewind knob clockwise to take up any slack in the
ribbon.
Flip the Print Station Lift Lever clockwise to close the printhead.
10 Repeat this process to install ribbon on each of the print stations.
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Loading Label or Tag Media
The QLS-8100 Xe is capable of printing on a wide variety of media types and
sizes and is designed to accept media up to a 12” OD (outside diameter) roll
capacity on a 3” ID (inside diameter) core.
The QLS-8100 Xe positions the printed image correctly by utilizing either a
transmissive or reflective sensor to detect the beginning of a label or tag. In
some applications, a continuous media without notches or reflective marks
can be used, and the length of the printed image is dictated by software.
When using the transmissive method of sensing, the media should have at
least a 0.125” (3 mm) gap or notch. When using a reflective sensing method,
the media should have a 0.078” (2 mm) solid black reflective mark on the
back that extends a minimum of 0.5” (12 mm) from the inside edge of the
media.
As an aid, a threading diagram showing the media path is printed on the
center plate of the printer.
To load label or tag media:
1
Lift the printer’s cover.
2
Flip each Print Station Lift Lever counterclockwise to open the
printheads.
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3
Flip the Drive Roller Lift Lever clockwise to open the drive roller.
4
5
Remove the Media Retainer from the media supply mandrel by first
loosening the small nylon retaining screw then sliding the Media
Retainer away from the printer and off the mandrel.
Orient the roll so that the labels are coming off the top and to the right.
Using the media retainer to push the roll, slide the roll onto the mandrel
until it is firmly seated against the back plate. You will feel resistance as
the spring clip on the mandrel secures the roll.
Note: If the media is not fully seated against the back plate, an unprinted
vertical area or void will appear on the printed label.
6
7
Ensure that the Media Retainer is firmly against the media roll and hand-
tighten the nylon retaining screw to secure the Media Retainer to the
mandrel.
Lift the Media Dancer Arm to the right and upwards to relieve back-
tension on the media supply roll. Unroll approximately a 3-foot length of
media.
8
9
Thread the media down and to the left, then around the Media Dancer
Arm.
Remove the Media Guide Collar from the lower Media Guide Roller.
10 Continue to thread the media over and around the Upper Media Guide
Roller then under and around the Lower Media Guide Roller.
11 Thread the media through the Media Sensor Assembly and then through
the Media Travel Roller assembly.
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12 Continue to thread the media through each of the print stations over the
platen rollers.
13 Finally, thread the media between the drive roller and pinch roller so
that it exits from the front of the printer.
14 Ensure that the media rests against each of the four Media Guide Rollers
located just behind the print stations on center plate.
15 Flip each Print Station Lift Lever clockwise to close the printheads.
16 Flip the Drive Roller Lift Lever counterclockwise to close the drive roller.
17 Reinstall the Media Guide Collar until it just rests against the outer edge
of the media.
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Adjusting the Media Sensor
The QLS-8100 Xe is equipped with two intelligent media sensors. One sensor
is used for gap, or notched media types, and the other is used for reflective
media types. Under normal operation, the sensor has to be calibrated to the
media type being used only once. When changing from gap to reflective
media types or vice-versa, a re-calibration is required.
The Gap/Notch Sensor is positioned above the media on a movable shaft
which can be adjusted out up to 2.5“ (64 mm) from the inside edge of the
media. The Reflective Sensor is positioned below the media in a position fixed
at 6 mm from the inside edge of the media.
Before calibrating the printer for gap or notched media, you must adjust the
position of the sensor so that it clearly “sees” the gap or notch. The
illustration below shows how to adjust the sensor.
To adjust the media sensor:
1
Turn the knob clockwise to move the sensor toward the outside edge.
2
Turn the knob counterclockwise to move the sensor toward the inside
edge.
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Calibrating for Media Types
Calibrating the printer for the type of media being used is essential and is the
first procedure that must be performed prior to printing and whenever the
media type is changed. If the printer is not properly calibrated, any of the
following may occur:
•
•
•
•
•
Printer will not initiate printing
Media advances but no image is printed
Printer will report a Media Out error
Image placement is incorrect or the printed image is clipped
Color QuickLabel 99® Pro software reports an error
The calibration process automatically senses any gap, notch, or index mark
on the media. This allows the printer to position widely varying types of
media automatically and correctly. The printer stores the last calibration in
non-volatile memory.
The printer’s internal label queue is reset during the calibration process. Any
labels pending in the queue are terminated. Use the procedures on the
following pages to perform a media calibration.
Note: Calibration need not be performed frequently if you use the same type
of label or tag material, regardless of size.
Calibrating Gap Media
1
Lift each of the printheads for this calibration routine in order to
conserve ribbon. Leave the drive roller engaged.
2
Remove a label from the liner between the Media Dancer Arm and the
Upper Media Guide Roller (skip this step if using notched or hole-punched
media).
3
4
Press the PRINT/PAUSE key until the printer is in a paused state.
Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Cal & Setup menu is
displayed, then press the SELECT key.
Pause: Cal & Setup
Press SELECT
5
Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Calibrate menu is displayed.
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6
7
Press the + or - key until Gap is displayed.
Calibrate
Gap
Press the SELECT key. The display will show the following prompt:
Place Liner @ Sensor
Then Press Select
8
9
Press and hold the FORM FEED/ADVANCE key until the liner is inside
the sensor bracket. On notched media, temporarily slide the media out so
that it is completely clear of the sensor assembly.
Press the SELECT key. The display will show the following prompt:
Place Media @ Sensor
Then Press Select
10 Press and hold the FORM FEED/ADVANCE key until the next label is
inside the Gap sensor.
11 Press the SELECT key. The display will show the following prompt:
Place Gap @ Arrow
Then Press Select
12 Press and hold the FORM FEED/ADVANCE key until the next gap is
positioned behind the Media Sensor Assembly and in close proximity to
the guide arrow indicated on the center plate.
13 Press the SELECT key and observe the gap size on the display. The gap
size should be the same as the measured gap of your media and the
following message will be displayed:
Gap
Calibration OK
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If calibration was unsuccessful, the following message will be displayed:
Gap
Calibration Bad
The user must re-initiate the calibration procedure.
14 After successful calibration, press the PRINT/PAUSE key to return the
printer to a Ready state.
Note: The QLS-8100 Xe is capable of sensing media with a maximum gap
or notch size of 50 mm.
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Calibrating Reflective Media
1
Lift each of the printheads for this calibration routine in order to
conserve ribbon. Disengage the drive roller by turning the Drive Roll Lift
Lever clockwise.
2
Position the reflective mark so that the red light from the reflective
sensor passes through the mark. The light will typically pass through
most media allowing you to view the mark from above. On more opaque
media, you may have to view the mark from the bottom.
3
Engage the drive roller by turning the Drive Roll Lift Lever
counterclockwise.
4
5
Press the PRINT/PAUSE key until the printer is in a paused state.
Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Cal & Setup menu is
displayed, then press the SELECT key.
Pause: Cal & Setup
Press SELECT
6
7
Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Calibrate menu is displayed.
Press the + or - key until Reflective is displayed.
Calibrate
Reflective
8
9
Press the SELECT key. The display will show the following prompt:
Place Mark @ Sensor
Then Press Select
Press the SELECT key again. The display will show the following
prompt:
Place Media @ Sensor
Then Press Select
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10 Reposition the media by pressing and holding the FORM
FEED/ADVANCE key until the red light no longer shines through the
mark but through the media.
11 Press the SELECT key. The display will show the following prompt:
Place Mark @ Arrow
Then Press Select
12 Press and hold the FORM FEED/ADVANCE key until the reflective mark
is positioned behind the Media Sensor Assembly and in close proximity
to the guide arrow indicated on the center plate.
13 Press the SELECT key and observe the Reflective mark size on the
display.
If calibration was successful, the following message will be displayed:
Reflective
Calibration OK
If calibration was unsuccessful, the following message will be displayed:
Reflective
Calibration Bad
The user must re-initiate the calibration procedure.
14 After successful calibration, press the PRINT/PAUSE key to return the
printer to a Ready state.
3-12
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Calibrating Continuous Media
1
Press the PRINT/PAUSE key until the printer is in a paused state.
2
Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Cal & Setup menu is
displayed, then press the SELECT key.
Pause: Cal & Setup
Press SELECT
3
4
Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Calibrate menu is displayed.
Press the + or - key until Continuous is displayed.
Calibrate
Continuous
5
Press the SELECT key. The printer will feed a short length of media and
will then be calibrated for continuous media. The display will show the
following prompt:
Continuous
Media Calibrated
6
Press the PRINT/PAUSE key to return the printer to a Ready state.
Calibrating Inverted Gap Media
Some examples of inverted gap media include clear labels with an opaque
liner, a material which has sensing marks on the label itself, or a material on
which you must sense on a preprinted image.
When using media of this type, the printer is calibrated using the Gap
Calibration method outlined previously in this chapter.
The only difference in the procedure is that you would align the sensing
mark when the printer prompts for placement of the liner or gap.
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Chapter 4:
Keypad Controls
and Menus
The QLS-8100 Xe features an intuitive control panel consisting of a backlit
LCD display, status LED indicators, and a multi-function keypad. The
control panel permits the user to change settings and make adjustments on-
the-fly without the need for a host computer.
This chapter provides the following information:
•
•
•
Information on the layout and function of the keypad
An overview of menu functions and range of settings
Detailed descriptions for each menu function
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Keypad Layout and Functions
The keypad buttons perform the following general functions.
PRINT/PAUSE
Toggles the printer between Ready and Pause
states
Pauses or resumes printing
If viewing a sub-menu, returns you to main
Pause menu
FORM FEED/ADVANCE
When the printer is in a Pause state, feeds the
media by one calibrated label length each time
the key is pressed, or continually advances the
media when the key is held
CANCEL
Cancels the current label(s) or test pattern
Cycles the display though menu choices
PREVIOUS/NEXT
Displays current settings for various printer
parameters
+
Increases values within menus
Decreases values within menus
Accepts the displayed setting
-
SELECT
Pressing select twice returns user to top-level
menu
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Print/Pause
When the printer is idle (i.e. not printing labels), the PRINT/PAUSE key will
toggle the printer between a Ready state and a Pause state as indicated on
the display. While the printer is printing labels, pressing the PRINT/PAUSE
key will put the printer in a Pause state and label printing will halt until the
PRINT/PAUSE key is pressed again.
Ready state:
Ready
Pause state:
Pause
Certain function menus are only available when the printer is in the Pause
state, as described in the following sections.
Form Feed/Advance
The FORM FEED/ADVANCE key serves two functions. If the key is pressed
momentarily and released, the printer will advance the media by one
calibrated media length. If the key is pressed and held, the printer will
advance media until the key is released.
Cancel
While a batch of labels or the test pattern is being printed, pressing the
CANCEL key will display the following message:
Deletes all labels
SELECT to confirm
Pressing SELECT will immediately cease printing, canceling any pending
batches from memory and will return the printer to a Ready state.
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Menu Overview
The following list outlines all of the menus that are accessible via the user
interface. Some menus, as noted, are only accessible when the printer has
been paused using the PRINT/PAUSE key. Some menus, like the Cutter
menus, are only available when a specific option is enabled or in use.
The menus are organized in two levels. Top-level menus include Adjust, Cal
& Setup, Operation, Ribbon, Communications, System, and Options. By
choosing a top-level menu and pressing the SELECT key, you can scroll
though functions related to the top-level menu. Pressing the SELECT key
twice returns you to the top-level menu.
Note: For a detailed illustration of the printer menu structure, refer to
Appendix G: Menu structure.
Ready State &
Adjust Menu
Intensity
Options are available in a Ready or Pause state.
Adjusts the printhead intensity. Possible values
range from 1 – 32.
Speed
Adjusts the print speed. Possible values range from
2 – 5 inches per second.
Print Line Adj
Cross Web Adj
Vertical Offset
Horizontal Offset
Display Cntrs
Cut Offset
Adjusts the print line for printheads 1 - 3. Possible
values range from -240 to +240.
Adjusts the cross web for printheads 1 – 4. Possible
values range from <-16 to -> 16 dots.
Adjusts the print registration vertically. Possible
values range from -1200 to +1200 dots.
Adjusts the print registration horizontally. Possible
values range from <-600 to -> 600 dots.
Adjusts the display of the label counter. Possible
values are Off, Batch, or Total.
Available if cutter is enabled. Adjusts the position
of the cut line. Possible values range from -1200 to
+1200 dots.
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Label Reprint
Reprints up to 999 copies of the last label printed, if
using the Windows print driver. (Available only
from Ready state)
Cal & Setup Menu
Calibrate
Options are available in a Pause state only.
Calibrates the printer to media type. Possible
values are Gap, Reflective, or Continuous.
Test Print
Prints test patterns. Possible values are:
Test Pattern 2”, 4”, 6”, 7”, 8”
Block Pattern (All)
Proc. Block (CMYK)
Proc. Block (KCMY)
Horiz. Line Pattern
Large Blocks 2”, 4”, 6”, 7”, 8”
Vertical Baseline
Horizontal Baseline
Printer Settings
Synchronizes the vertical registration across
multiple QLS-8100 Xe printers. Possible values
range from -120 to +120 dots.
Synchronizes the horizontal registration across
multiple QLS-8100 Xe printers. Possible values
range from <-120 to -> 120 dots.
Prints all of the current settings for the printer.
Operation Menu
Pull Back
Options are available in a Pause state only.
Requires special hardware. Contact QuickLabel
Systems for more information on this function.
Label Reprint
Reprints up to 999 copies of the last label printed, if
using the Windows print driver.
Synchronize Labels
Synchronizes labels when using printer/applicator.
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Ribbon Menu
Ribbon Type
Options are available in a Pause state only.
Selects printhead intensity tailored to a specific
media type. Possible values are Standard and
Resin/Synthetic.
Drop/Lift Adjust
Ribbon Sensor
Adjust the drop and lift point for printheads 1 – 4.
Possible values are 0 to +40 mm.
Used by QuickLabel Systems’ technicians when
performing factory diagnostics. Possible values are
Enabled and Disabled, but in general use, the
sensor should always be enabled.
Communications
Menu
Options are available in a Pause state only.
Data Port
Selects the data input interface used by the printer.
Possible values are Parallel, Serial, or Ethernet.
Parallel Mode
Specifies the mode of connection for the parallel
port. Possible values are Auto or Standard.
RS232 Baud Rate
RS232 Handshaking
Specifies a baud rate for the RS232 serial port.
Possible values are 4800, 9600, 19200, or 38400.
Specifies a handshaking method for the RS 232
serial port. Possible values are Hardware or
XON/XOFF.
TCP/IP Address
Specifies the IP address of the printer for ethernet
purposes.
TCP/IP Subnet Mask
TCP/IP Gateway
Specifies the subnet mask.
Specifies the default gateway.
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System Menu
Display Cntr
Options are available in a Pause state only.
Adjusts the display of the label counter. Possible
values are Off, Batch, or Total.
Memory Card
Selects whether to write-protect the memory card.
Possible values are Write Protect ON or Write
Protect OFF.
Format Memory Card
Formats the memory card.
Front Panel
Locks/Unlocks the front panel with a password.
Lock/Unlock
Time
Sets up the time on the built-in, real-time clock.
Sets up the date on the built-in, real-time clock.
Returns the printer settings to the factory defaults.
Date
Factory Reset
Options Menu
Mirror Mode
Options are available in a Pause state only.
Activates mirror mode. Possible values are ON or
OFF.
Cutter
Activates the cutter accessory. Possible values are
Enabled or Disabled.
Cut Flag
Activates the cut flag. Possible values are ON or
OFF. This option is available only if the cutter is
enabled.
Pull Back
Enables/disables the pull back function. Possible
values are Enabled or Disabled. This option
requires special hardware. Contact QuickLabel
Systems for more information.
Applicator
Activates the label applicator mode. Possible
values are Enabled or Disabled.
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Ready State & Adjust Menu
Options in this category are accessed in two ways. You can access these
options by pressing the NEXT or PREVIOUS keys while the printer is in a
Ready state, or you can pause the printer and access them via the Adjust
menu. The following sections detail each of the features within this menu
category.
Print Intensity
The printhead intensity determines the temperature of the printhead heating
elements. The amount of heat applied to the thermal transfer ribbon
determines the darkness of the print. The amount of heat that is actually
applied to the film by the printhead is determined by two factors:
•
•
Length of time that power is applied to the printhead
Rate at which the media is traveling under the printhead
The print intensity setting determines the first factor and the second is
controlled by the print speed. The printer has 32 discrete heat settings. A
setting of 1 is the coolest setting, resulting in the lightest print. A setting of 32
is the hottest setting, resulting in the darkest print. The appropriate heat
setting will vary depending on the media and ribbons being used as well as
the print speed setting. As a general guideline, the ribbon types listed below
will function best in the following print intensity ranges:
Ribbon Type
Wax
Wax / Resin
Resin
Range
1 - 12
10 - 20
16 - 32
In general, lower-quality media that requires more heat to produce a
satisfactory image is less advantageous in terms of speed and performance
than higher-quality media that images easily and quickly at lower
temperatures. If you use media that requires more heat, it is recommended
that you set the print speed to a slower rate.
Note: Some thermal transfer ribbon (typically, Resin type) reacts differently,
actually printing lighter if too much heat is applied. This is a result of over-
burning the ink. If this occurs, decreasing the heat will darken the printed
image.
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To set printhead intensity via the front panel:
1
If the printer is in a Ready state, proceed to the next step.
If the printer is in a Pause state, press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until
the Adjust menu is displayed. Then press the SELECT key.
Pause: Adjust
Press SELECT
2
Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Intensity menu for the print
station you want to adjust is displayed.
Intensity
Head 1 = 16
Note: Head 1 is the station closest to the media exit. Heads 2, 3, and 4 are
positioned sequentially behind head 1.
3
4
With the desired print station appearing on the display, press the + or –
key until the print intensity setting you want is displayed. Intensity
settings range from 1 to 32.
Note: In most cases, higher intensities result in darker prints. Similarly,
lower intensities generally result in lighter prints.
Press the SELECT key to confirm your choice.
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Print Speed
This function allows you to choose the printing speed. The printer is capable
of printing at speeds of 2 – 5 in/s (inches per second) in 1 in/s increments.
To set the print speed via the front panel:
1
If the printer is in a Ready state, proceed to the next step.
If the printer is in a Pause state, press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until
the Adjust menu is displayed. Then press the SELECT key.
Pause: Adjust
Press SELECT
2
Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Speed menu is displayed.
Speed
3 in/s
3
4
Press the + or – key until the desired print speed is displayed. Available
print speeds are 2, 3, 4, or 5 inches per second.
Press the SELECT key to confirm your choice.
Note: Setting the print speed via software will always override this
setting. You can set the print speed via Color QuickLabel 99 Pro or the
QuickLabel Systems Windows Printer Driver.
Note: The printer’s maximum speed will depend on the content of the
format. For example, formats with incrementing or database fields may
have to be printed at slower speeds.
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Print Line Adjustment
Print line adjustments allow you to align the printing of each of the four
print stations to obtain accurate color registration in the media travel
direction.
These adjustments are made for print stations 1, 2, and 3 using print station 4
as a stationary reference. As such, there is no print line adjustment available
for print station 4.
Print line adjustments are used to compensate for minor variations in
printhead or media positions, and may be needed when media is changed or
a printhead is replaced.
Once this procedure has been performed, it rarely needs to be repeated
during normal operation. Print line adjustments are best performed
dynamically while the QLS-8100 Xe is printing a block test pattern.
To perform a print line adjustment:
1
Select the slowest print speed for the adjustment process to conserve
media and ribbon. For more information on changing print speed, refer
to the print adjustment menu functions described in this chapter.
2
Print the Proc. Block Pattern (CMYK) test pattern. For more information
on printing the test pattern, refer to the cal & setup menu functions
described in this chapter.
Printing will continue throughout the adjustment process until the
printer is paused or the operating state of the printer is changed. The
pattern on the test labels will show each of the current print stations
providing a visual indication of how much adjustment each print station
location needs.
3
If the printer is in a Ready state, proceed to the next step.
If the printer is in a Pause state, press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until
the Adjust menu is displayed. Then press the SELECT key.
Pause: Adjust
Press SELECT
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4
5
Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Print Line Adj menu for the
printhead you want to adjust is displayed.
Print Line Adj
Head 1 = +0
Press the + or – key to shift the selected print position in the desired
direction. Increasingly positive values will move the print position up on
the label. Increasingly negative values will move the print position down
on the label.
6
7
When you are satisfied with the position, press the SELECT key to
confirm your choice.
Repeat steps 4 – 6 until each of the printed bars for stations 1, 2, and 3 are
properly aligned with the bars for station 4.
Note: An efficient way to shift the print line for a given print station is to
measure the variation from the reference bar in the test pattern.
Recall that print stations 1, 2, and 3 are adjusted while referencing print
station 4. For example, if the bar printed on station 1 is measured to be
misaligned with the reference bar printed on station 4 by 2 millimeters, you
know that you need to shift station 1 by 24 pixels.
The direction of misalignment will dictate whether you move the print line
+24 or -24. Negative values adjust the line on the label away from the printer;
positive values adjust the line toward the printer.
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Cross Web Adjustment
Cross Web Adjustments allow you to align the printing of each of the four
print stations to obtain accurate color registration across the width of the
label. These adjustments can be made for print stations 1, 2, 3 and 4. One
print station is typically used as a reference and left unchanged while the
other three stations are adjusted relative to the reference station.
Cross web adjustments are used to compensate for minor variations in
printhead position, and may be needed when a printhead is replaced.
This procedure is typically performed in conjunction with a Print Line
Adjustment. Once this procedure has been performed, it rarely needs to be
repeated during normal operation. Cross web adjustments are best
performed dynamically while the QLS-8100 Xe is printing a block test
pattern.
To perform a cross web adjustment:
1
Select the slowest print speed for the adjustment process to conserve
media and ribbon. For more information on changing print speed, refer
to the print adjustment menu functions described in this chapter.
2
Print the Proc. Block Pattern (CMYK). For more information on printing
the test pattern, refer to the calibration & setup menu functions described
in this chapter.
Printing will continue throughout the adjustment process until the
printer is paused or the operating state of the printer is changed. The
pattern on the test labels will show each of the current print stations
providing a visual indication of how much adjustment each print station
location needs.
3
If the printer is in a Ready state, proceed to the next step.
If the printer is in a Pause state, press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until
the Adjust menu is displayed. Then press the SELECT key.
Pause: Adjust
Press SELECT
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4
5
Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Cross Web Adj menu for the
printhead you want to adjust is displayed.
Cross Web Adj
Head 1 = <-2
Press the + or – key to shift the selected print position in the desired
direction.
The value range is <16 to 16>. The direction of the arrow indicates the
position of the print relative to the center of the printhead. The total
range is 32 dots with 16 dots to the left and right of the printhead center.
6
7
When you are satisfied with the position, press the SELECT key to
confirm your choice.
Continue making adjustments until you observe that the blocks in the
test pattern are horizontally aligned.
When all the blocks are aligned in the media travel and the cross web
directions, and the black block prints without any color shadows, the
color alignment is optimal.
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Vertical Offset
By default, when printing on media with registration marks (gaps, reflective
marks, etc.), the printer will place the label image area between the
registration marks. You can vertically adjust the print registration in fine
increments to move the printed image relative to the sensor mark.
Adjusting the vertical offset affects each of the four print stations at the same
time. To adjust the print stations individually, refer to the section on print
line adjustments.
To set the vertical offset via the front panel:
1
If the printer is in a Ready state, proceed to the next step.
If the printer is in a Pause state, press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until
the Adjust menu is displayed. Then press the SELECT key.
Pause: Adjust
Press SELECT
2
3
Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Vertical Offset menu is
displayed.
Vertical
Offset = + 16
Press the + or – key until the desired vertical offset setting is displayed.
Offset settings range from – 1200 to + 1200 pixels (or dots). On the
QLS-8100 Xe, there are 12 pixels per millimeter.
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Negative values move the image down on the label (out away from the
printer). Positive values move the image up the label (in toward the
printer).
4
Press the SELECT key to confirm your choice.
Note: Setting the offset via software will always override this setting. You
can set the offset via Color QuickLabel 99 Pro or the QuickLabel Systems
Windows Printer driver.
Horizontal Offset
You can horizontally adjust the print registration in fine increments to move
the printed image.
Adjusting the horizontal offset affects each of the four print stations at the
same time. To adjust the print stations individually, refer to the section on
cross web adjustments.
To set the horizontal offset via the front panel:
1
If the printer is in a Ready state, proceed to the next step.
If the printer is in a Pause state, press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until
the Adjust menu is displayed. Then press the SELECT key.
Pause: Adjust
Press SELECT
2
Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Horizontal Offset menu is
displayed.
Horizontal
Offset = < 16
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3
4
Press the + or – key until the desired horizontal offset setting is
displayed.
Offset settings range from <– 600 to -> 600 pixels (or dots). On the
QLS-8100 Xe, there are 12 pixels per millimeter. The final image position
will be constrained by the label width.
Press the SELECT key to confirm your choice.
Partially printed labels under the printheads will finish printing using
the previous offset to ensure color alignment. During this time, you
cannot adjust the cross web or horizontal offset values. The new
horizontal adjustment will affect subsequent labels.
Note: Setting the offset via software will always override this setting. You
can set the offset via Color QuickLabel 99.
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Display Counter
The printer can dynamically display either the ongoing total number of
labels that have been printed since the printer was last powered up or the
number of labels that have been printed within any specific batch or print
job. The printer’s label counting feature can also be turned off.
Note: The counter will disappear while menus are being navigated during
printing. The counter will be displayed and updated when the QLS-8100 Xe
resumes printing labels.
To set up the counter:
1
If the printer is in a Ready state, proceed to the next step.
If the printer is in a Pause state, press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until
the System menu is displayed. Then press the SELECT key.
Pause: System
Press SELECT
2
3
Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Display Cntrs menu is
displayed.
Display Cntr
Off
Press the + or – key until the desired counter setting is displayed. The
following options are available.
Off – No counter is displayed.
Total – Count of labels printed since last power on is displayed
Batch – Count of labels printed in current batch is displayed
The selected counter mode will now appear on the display while
printing.
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Cut Offset
When printing on media with registration marks (gaps, reflective marks,
etc.), the printer will place the label image area between the registration
marks. If necessary, you can adjust the location of the cut line relative to the
printed image. The cut offset can be used to move the cut line forward or
backward with respect to the top of the label.
To adjust the cut position:
1
If the printer is in a Ready state, proceed to the next step.
If the printer is in a Pause state, press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until
the Adjust menu is displayed. Then press the SELECT key.
Pause: Adjust
Press SELECT
2
Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Cut Offset menu is
displayed.
Cut Offset
+0
3
4
Press the + or – key until the desired cut offset setting is displayed.
Cut offset settings are –1200 through +1200 dots. Negative values move
the cut line toward the bottom of the tag. Positive values move the cut
line toward the top of the tag.
Press the SELECT key to confirm your choice.
Note: Setting the cut offset via software will always override this setting. You
can set the cut offset via Color QuickLabel 99 Pro or the QuickLabel Systems
Windows Printer driver.
Note: The vertical offset will affect the cut offset. As a rule, the vertical offset
should be set first.
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Label Reprint
When using the QuickLabel Systems Printer Driver for Windows to print to
the QLS-8100 Xe, data is transmitted from the PC software application to the
printer as a bitmapped image. You can use the Reprint option to quickly
print any quantity of the last label printed.
To reprint labels:
1
If the printer is in a Ready state, proceed to the next step.
If the printer is in a Pause state, press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until
the Operation menu is displayed. Then press the SELECT key.
Pause: Operation
Press SELECT
2
Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Label Reprint menu is
displayed.
Label Reprint
Copies = 1
3
4
Press the + or – key to specify the number of the last labels you wish to
reprint. You can reprint up to 999 copies.
Press the SELECT key. The quantity you specified will be printed.
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Cal & Setup Menu
Calibration & setup options are accessed via the Cal & Setup menu. The
following sections detail each of the features within this menu category.
Calibrate
Calibrating the printer for the type of media being used is essential and is the
first procedure that must be performed prior to printing and whenever the
media type is changed. If the printer is not properly calibrated, any of the
following may occur:
•
•
•
•
•
Printer will not initiate printing
Media advances but no image is printed
Printer will report a Media Out error
Image placement is incorrect or the printed image is clipped
Color QuickLabel 99® Pro software reports an error
The calibration process automatically senses any gap, notch or index mark
on the media. This allows the printer to position widely varying types of
media automatically and correctly. The printer stores the last calibration in
non-volatile memory. The printer’s internal label queue is reset during the
calibration process. Any labels pending in the queue are terminated.
Refer to the calibration procedures outlined in Chapter 3 for detailed
information about calibrating the printer.
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Test Print
The QLS-8100 Xe is equipped with a number of built-in test patterns used for
checking color alignment, print quality, and printhead integrity.
To perform a test print:
1
If the printer is in a Ready state, press the PRINT/PAUSE key to pause
the printer.
2
Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Cal & Setup menu is
displayed. Then press the SELECT key.
Pause: Cal & Setup
Press SELECT
3
4
Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Test Print menu is displayed.
Test Print
Test Pattern = 2 in.
Press the + or – key until the test pattern is displayed. The following test
patterns are available.
Test Pattern 2”, 4”, 6”, 7”, 8” – Prints a crosshatch pattern to check print
quality.
Block Pattern (All) – Prints a spot color block pattern used for color
alignment.
Proc. Block (CMYK) – Prints a process block pattern used for color
alignment.
Proc. Block (KCMY) – Prints a process block pattern used for color
alignment.
Horiz. Line Pattern – Used to check printhead angularity.
Large Blocks 2”, 4”, 6”, 7”, 8” – Prints a solid block of each color.
Press the SELECT key to confirm your choice.
5
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The printer will immediately begin to print labels showing the selected
test pattern. Printing will continue until the printer is paused or the
CANCEL key is pressed.
Vertical Baseline
This function is used to synchronize printing when using multiple
QLS-8100 Xe printers. If you are sending the same image file to two or more
printers and notice that the image prints in different vertical locations, you
can use this function to move the vertical baseline of a printer.
To adjust the vertical baseline:
1
If the printer is in a Ready state, press the PRINT/PAUSE key to pause
the printer.
2
Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Cal & Setup menu is
displayed. Then press the SELECT key.
Pause: Cal & Setup
Press SELECT
3
4
Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Vertical Baseline menu is
displayed.
Vertical Baseline
Baseline = +0
Press the + or – key until the desired baseline setting is displayed.
Baseline settings range from -120 through +120 dots.
5
6
Press the SELECT key to confirm the baseline.
Repeat this process on each printer requiring a baseline adjustment.
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Horizontal Baseline
This function is used to synchronize printing when using multiple
QLS-8100 Xe printers. If you are sending the same image file to two or more
printers and notice that the image prints in different horizontal locations,
you can use this function to move the horizontal baseline of a printer.
To adjust the horizontal baseline:
1
If the printer is in a Ready state, press the PRINT/PAUSE key to pause
the printer.
2
Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Cal & Setup menu is
displayed. Then press the SELECT key.
Pause: Cal & Setup
Press SELECT
3
4
Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Horizontal Baseline menu is
displayed.
Horizontal Baseline
Baseline = 0
Press the + or – key until the desired baseline setting is displayed.
Baseline settings range from <-120 through -> 120 dots.
5
6
Press the SELECT key to confirm the baseline.
Repeat this process on each printer requiring a baseline adjustment.
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Printer Settings
This function prints all of the current settings of the printer using the
printhead of your choice.
To print current printer settings:
1
If the printer is in a Ready state, press the PRINT/PAUSE key to pause
the printer.
2
Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Cal & Setup menu is
displayed. Then press the SELECT key.
Pause: Cal & Setup
Press SELECT
3
Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Printer Settings menu is
displayed.
Printer Settings
Print With Head 1
4
5
Press the + or – key to specify the printhead that will be used to print the
settings.
Press the SELECT key to print out a listing of current settings for the
QLS-8100 Xe.
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The sample report shown below indicates the type of information that
will be printed.
QLS-8100 Xe Settings:
SPEED = 2 INCHES/SEC
INTENSITY (1, 2, 3, 4): 15, 15, 15, 15
OFFSET: V = 0 (0), H = 0 (0), C = 0
PRINT LINE ADJ (1, 2, 3): -23, -9, -8
CROSS WEB ADJ (1, 2, 3, 4): 0, 0, < 7, <8
DROP/LIFT (1,2,3,4): 22, 22, 22, 22
CONTINUOUS MEDIA 100 mm (1200 pixels)
CALIBRATION: YES (gap = 38 pixels)
COMPACT FLASH: YES
v01.1 (0x00:00:00:1E) (fmt err=0)
MEDIA USE: (101) 198 meters
FILM 1 USE: (56) 56 meters
FILM 2 USE: (167) 167 meters
FILM 3 USE: (146) 146 meters
FILM 4 USE: (80) 80 meters
HEAD 1 USE: (31) 31 times
HEAD 2 USE: (54) 54 times
HEAD 3 USE: (42) 42 times
HEAD 4 USE: (20) 20 times
Note: The OFFSET line displays the vertical offset, vertical baseline
(in parentheses), horizontal offset, horizontal baseline (in parentheses),
and the cut offset.
The “fmt err” value reports the last format error generated. This value
will be 0 if no format errors have occurred since power-up.
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Operation Menu
Operation options are accessed via the Operation menu. The following
sections detail each of the features within this menu category.
Pull Back
When the QLS-8100 Xe stops printing, a section of blank media will extend
from the printhead near the rear of the printer (print station #4) to the front
of the printer. When you start printing again, this section of blank media will
be advanced out of the QLS-8100 Xe as printing begins.
The pull back function allows you to pull back the blank media section.
When the next print job begins, the section will be used for printing. This
feature requires a compressed air connection and special hardware. It should
only be used in applications that have been pre-qualified by QuickLabel
Systems.
Contact QuickLabel Systems for more information on the pull back function.
Note: The pull back feature must be enabled before use. The Pull Back
Enable/Disable function is available from the Options menu.
There are two ways to activate media pull back. One method involves
selecting it from the Operation menu. Alternately, the FORM FEED button
can be used to quickly activate the media pull back function.
To activate media pull back with the Operation menu:
1
If the printer is in a Ready state, press the PRINT/PAUSE key to pause
the printer.
2
Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Operation menu is
displayed. Then press the SELECT key.
Pause: Operation
Press SELECT
3
Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Pull Back menu is displayed.
Pull Back
Press SELECT
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4
5
Press the SELECT key. A message will be displayed to confirm Pull Back
operation.
Pull Back
SELECT to confirm
Press the SELECT key.
The printer will begin rewinding media until the last unprinted label is
positioned just behind the media sensor.
If a Pull Back operation has been requested and a print batch has not
been sent to the printer or the media has been moved in any way (i.e.
Form Feed, Calibrate, Test Print, etc.) the following error message will be
displayed.
Pull Back Off
Media Moved / No Batch
To activate media pull back with the FORM FEED button:
1
While the printer is in a Ready state, press the FORM FEED key.
The printer will begin rewinding media until the last unprinted label is
positioned just behind the media sensor.
If a Pull Back operation has been requested and a print batch has not
been sent to the printer or the media has been moved in any way (i.e.
Form Feed, Calibrate, Test Print, etc.) the following error message will be
displayed.
Pull Back Off
Media Moved / No Batch
Note: The FORM FEED key will activate the pull back feature only when
the printer is in the Ready state. If the printer is paused, the FORM FEED
key will operate normally, advancing the media when pressed.
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Label Reprint
When using the QuickLabel Systems Printer Driver for Windows to print to
the QLS-8100 Xe, data is transmitted from the PC software application to the
printer as a bitmapped image. You can use the Reprint option to quickly
print any quantity of the last label printed.
To reprint labels:
1
If the printer is in a Ready state, proceed to the next step.
If the printer is in a Pause state, press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until
the Operation menu is displayed. Then press the SELECT key.
Pause: Operation
Press SELECT
2
Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Label Reprint menu is
displayed.
Label Reprint
Copies = 1
3
4
Press the + or – key to specify the number of the last labels you wish to
reprint. You can reprint up to 999 copies.
Press the SELECT key. The quantity you specified will be printed.
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Synchronize Labels
This function applies only to users integrating the printer with an applicator
system. The synchronize labels function synchronizes the printing of labels
with the applicator. This process is an initialization of the printer and media.
A synchronization must be performed after the following conditions:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Power up
Media out, after the media has been replaced
TTR out, after the ribbon has been replaced
After running the test pattern
After performing a media calibration
After performing a form feed
After performing a media advance
Note: You should never perform calibration, form feed, media advance, or
test pattern functions while labels are printing. Any of these operations will
clear all label formats from the internal queue and require synchronization.
To synchronize labels:
1
When the printer is in the “Applicator Paused” state, press the NEXT or
PREVIOUS key until the Operation menu is displayed. Then press the
SELECT key.
Pause: Operation
Press SELECT
2
Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Synchronize Labels menu is
displayed.
Synchronize Labels
Press SELECT
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3
Press the SELECT key. The printer will feed one or two labels and then
be ready for applicator mode operation. If no labels feed, the printer did
not require synchronization.
•
If the following message appears, the front panel pause is enabled
and the synchronize function will not operate. The printer must be in
the “Applicator Paused” state to perform the synchronize function.
Cannot Synchronize
Printer Is Paused
•
If the following message appears, the printer is calibrated for
continuous media. Continuous media cannot be used with an
applicator system.
Cannot Synchronize
Continuous Media Cal
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Ribbon Menu
Ribbon options are accessed via the Ribbon menu. The following sections
detail each of the features within this menu category.
Ribbon Type
Selecting a ribbon type allows you to select a printhead heat and history
profile that has been tailored to a specific media and ribbon combination.
This feature enables the QLS-8100 Xe to print on an even wider range of
specialty materials.
To change the ribbon type:
1
If the printer is in a Ready state, press the PRINT/PAUSE key to pause
the printer.
2
Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Ribbon menu is displayed.
Then press the SELECT key.
Pause: Ribbon
Press SELECT
3
Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Ribbon Type menu is
displayed.
Ribbon Type
Standard
4
5
Press the + or – key until the desired ribbon type is displayed. You can
choose from standard or resin/synthetic ribbon.
Press the SELECT key to confirm your ribbon choice.
Note: The standard profile should be selected for most applications unless
otherwise specified by QuickLabel Systems.
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Drop/Lift Adjust
The QLS-8100 Xe is equipped with QuickLabel Systems’ patented
RibbonRation™ technology. This feature automatically determines when to
enable or disable each of the four print stations, thus consuming thermal
transfer ribbon only when a particular color is needed.
In some cases, multiple drop/lift points will be used on individual labels. The
number of drops and lifts depends on the size of the label. The following
diagram illustrates sample drop/lift points, and the resulting ribbon savings,
for a particular print station.
The Drop/Lift Adjust function enables you to fine tune the point at which a
printhead will drop for printing of a subsequent color. In some applications,
dropping the printhead earlier results in smoother color application and
reduces the tendency for film wrinkle.
Note: In most cases, the default drop values will be optimal. However, if film
wrinkling seems excessive, use the following procedure to change the drop
point of the corresponding print station.
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To use the Drop/Lift Adjust function:
1
If the printer is in a Ready state, press the PRINT/PAUSE key to pause
the printer.
2
Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Ribbon menu is displayed.
Then press the SELECT key.
Pause: Ribbon
Press SELECT
3
Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Drop/Lift Adjust menu for
the desired printhead is displayed.
Drop/Lift Adjust
Head 3 = 6
4
5
Press the + or – key until the desired drop setting is displayed. Drop
settings range from 0 to 40 mm. The default value is 6. Increasing this
value will cause the printhead to drop sooner, and decreasing the value
will cause the printhead to drop later.
Press the SELECT key to confirm your choice.
Any changes will take effect only after a new label is sent.
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Ribbon Sensor
This function is for use by QuickLabel Systems’ technicians when
performing diagnostics at the factory. In general use, the TTR Sensor should
always be enabled.
To adjust the ribbon sensor:
1
If the printer is in a Ready state, press the PRINT/PAUSE key to pause
the printer.
2
Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Ribbon menu is displayed.
Then press the SELECT key.
Pause: Ribbon
Press SELECT
3
Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Ribbon Sensor menu is
displayed.
Ribbon Sensor
Enabled
4
5
Press the + or – key until the desired sensor setting is displayed.
Available options are Enabled or Disabled. Under normal operating
conditions, the sensor should be enabled.
Press the SELECT key to confirm your choice.
Caution: This capability is intended for factory diagnostics only. Do not
disable the sensor. Use of the printer with the ribbon sensor disabled could
result in damage to the printhead (due to overheating) and/or poor print
quality.
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Communications Menu
Communications options are accessed via the Communications menu. The
following sections detail each of the features within this menu category.
Data Port
The host computer transfers label formats, images, and fonts to the printer
via a designated data port. The host computer transfers information about
the printer’s status via a status port.
Either the parallel port, serial port, or ethernet connection can be used as the
data port. Only one of these communication channels be used as the data
port; the others are used as status ports. However, a data port can also be
used as a status port if the channel is bi-directional, which means it can
transmit and receive data.
The parallel port is the default data port. However, you can change the data
port using the Data Port menu option.
Note: If data port-specific commands are received via the status port, an
error will occur.
Data Port Error
Check Comm Setup
To select a data port:
1
If the printer is in a Ready state, press the PRINT/PAUSE key to pause
the printer.
2
Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Communications menu is
displayed. Then press the SELECT key.
Pause: Communications
Press SELECT
3
Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Data Port menu is displayed.
Data Port
Parallel
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4
5
Press the + or – key until the desired data port is displayed. Available
options are Parallel, Serial, or Ethernet.
Press the SELECT key to confirm your choice.
Parallel Mode
If you are using the parallel port to connect the printer to a host computer,
you can select a parallel port mode. The parallel port mode determines the
method of communication used between the host and the printer.
The default setting is Auto mode. Auto mode attempts to communicate via
an ECP (Extended Capabilities Port) connection. If it cannot communicate via
this method, it will automatically switch to standard mode, which uses a
common Centronics method of communication.
The supplied parallel or high-speed IEEE-1284 parallel cable should be used
to ensure reliable performance.
To select a parallel mode:
1
If the printer is in a Ready state, press the PRINT/PAUSE key to pause
the printer.
2
Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Communications menu is
displayed. Then press the SELECT key.
Pause: Communications
Press SELECT
3
Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Data Port menu is displayed.
Parallel Mode
Auto
4
5
Press the + or – key until the desired parallel mode is displayed.
Available options are Auto, or Standard.
Press the SELECT key to confirm your choice.
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RS232 Baud Rate
If you are using the RS232 serial port connection, you can configure the
printer to use one of four specific baud rates.
To select a baud rate:
1
If the printer is in a Ready state, press the PRINT/PAUSE key to pause
the printer.
2
Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Communications menu is
displayed. Then press the SELECT key.
Pause: Communications
Press SELECT
3
Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the RS232 Baud Rate menu is
displayed.
RS232 Baud Rate
19200
4
5
Press the + or – key until the desired baud rate is displayed. Available
options are 4800, 9600, 19200, or 38400.
Press the SELECT key to confirm your baud rate choice.
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RS232 Handshaking
If you are using the RS232 serial port connection, you can configure the
printer handshaking method.
To select a handshaking method:
1
If the printer is in a Ready state, press the PRINT/PAUSE key to pause
the printer.
2
Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Communications menu is
displayed. Then press the SELECT key.
Pause: Communications
Press SELECT
3
Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the RS232 Handshaking menu is
displayed.
RS232 Handshaking
Hardware
4
5
Press the + or – key until the desired handshaking method is displayed.
Available options are Hardware or XON/XOFF.
Press the SELECT key to confirm your handshaking choice.
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TCP/IP: IP Address
A TCP/IP address uniquely identifies each device connected to your
network. If you are using ethernet to connect your printer to a network, you
will need to assign a TCP/IP address to your QLS-8100 Xe printer.
The default TCP/IP address is 192.168.255.1.
Note: For more detailed information on the topic of networking, refer to the
documentation applicable to your network environment and/or contact your
network administrator.
To set the TCP/IP address:
1
If the printer is in a Ready state, press the PRINT/PAUSE key to pause
the printer.
2
Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Communications menu is
displayed. Then press the SELECT key.
Pause: Communications
Press SELECT
3
4
Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the TCP/IP Address menu is
displayed.
TCP/IP Address
192.168.255.1
Press the + or – key to increase or decrease the first number in the
address, then press the SELECT key.
Press the + or – key to increase or decrease the second number in the
address, then press the SELECT key.
Press the + or – key to increase or decrease the third number in the
address, then press the SELECT key.
Press the + or – key to increase or decrease the fourth number in the
address, then press the SELECT key.
5
Press the SELECT key to confirm the TCP/IP address.
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TCP/IP Subnet Mask
You will use the TCP/IP Subnet Mask option in the Communications menu
to set a subnet mask for the QLS-8100 Xe printer.
The default subnet mask is 255.255.255.1.
Note: For more detailed information on the topic of networking, refer to the
documentation applicable to your network environment and/or contact your
network administrator.
To set the TCP/IP subnet mask:
1
If the printer is in a Ready state, press the PRINT/PAUSE key to pause
the printer.
2
Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Communications menu is
displayed. Then press the SELECT key.
Pause: Communications
Press SELECT
3
4
Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the TCP/IP Subnet Mask menu
is displayed.
TCP/IP Subnet Mask
255.255.255.1
Press the + or – key to increase or decrease the first number in the
address, then press the SELECT key.
Press the + or – key to increase or decrease the second number in the
address, then press the SELECT key.
Press the + or – key to increase or decrease the third number in the
address, then press the SELECT key.
Press the + or – key to increase or decrease the fourth number in the
address, then press the SELECT key.
5
Press the SELECT key to confirm the TCP/IP subnet mask.
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TCP/IP Gateway
You will use the TCP/IP Gateway option in the Communications menu to set
a subnet mask for the QLS-8100 Xe printer.
The default gateway is 0.0.0.0.
Note: For more detailed information on the topic of networking, refer to the
documentation applicable to your network environment and/or contact your
network administrator.
To set the TCP/IP gateway:
1
If the printer is in a Ready state, press the PRINT/PAUSE key to pause
the printer.
2
Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Communications menu is
displayed. Then press the SELECT key.
Pause: Communications
Press SELECT
3
4
Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the TCP/IP Gateway menu is
displayed.
TCP/IP Gateway
0.0.0.0
Press the + or – key to increase or decrease the first number in the
address, then press the SELECT key.
Press the + or – key to increase or decrease the second number in the
address, then press the SELECT key.
Press the + or – key to increase or decrease the third number in the
address, then press the SELECT key.
Press the + or – key to increase or decrease the fourth number in the
address, then press the SELECT key.
5
Press the SELECT key to confirm the TCP/IP gateway.
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System Menu
System options are accessed via the System menu. The following sections
detail each of the features within this menu category.
Display Counter
The printer can dynamically display either the ongoing total number of
labels that have been printed since the printer was last powered up or the
number of labels that have been printed within any specific batch or print
job. The printer’s label counting feature can also be turned off.
To set up the counter:
1
If the printer is in a Ready state, proceed to the next step.
If the printer is in a Pause state, press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until
the System menu is displayed. Then press the SELECT key.
Pause: System
Press SELECT
2
3
Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Display Cntrs menu is
displayed.
Display Cntr
Off
Press the + or – key until the desired counter setting is displayed. The
following options are available.
Off – No counter is displayed.
Total – Count of labels printed since last power on is displayed
Batch – Count of labels printed in current batch is displayed
The selected counter mode will now appear on the display while
printing.
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Memory Card - Write Protection
Memory cards allow you to save fonts, bitmap images, and other
configuration information in a portable format. Memory cards use non-
volatile memory, so the contents of the card remain intact even after the
printer is powered off.
You can write protect memory cards to prevent contents from being
accidentally erased while using the printer. However, write protection will
not protect the memory card data if the card is used with a PC reader.
To write protect the memory card:
1
If the printer is in a Ready state, press the PRINT/PAUSE key to pause
the printer.
2
Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the System menu is displayed.
Then press the SELECT key.
Pause: System
Press SELECT
3
Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Memory Card menu is
displayed.
Memory Card
Write Protect ON
4
5
Press the + or – key until the desired memory card protection setting is
displayed. Possible settings are On or Off.
Press the SELECT key to confirm your choice.
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Front Panel Lock/Unlock
The Front Panel Lock/Unlock feature allows you to lock the menu,
preventing unauthorized users from modifying printer settings. The front
panel is locked and unlocked with a user-defined four-digit password.
When the front panel is locked, users can scroll through the menus, but
cannot make any changes. The only available features are PRINT/PAUSE,
FORM FEED/ADVANCE, Printer Settings, and Front Panel Unlock.
An “X” character will appear on the Ready and Pause displays to indicate
the front panel is locked.
Ready
X
Pause
X
To lock the front panel:
1
If the printer is in a Ready state, press the PRINT/PAUSE key to pause
the printer.
2
Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the System menu is displayed.
Then press the SELECT key.
Pause: System
Press SELECT
3
Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Front Panel Lock menu is
displayed.
Front Panel Lock
0000
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4
Press the + or – key to increase or decrease the first number in the
password, then press the SELECT key.
Press the + or – key to increase or decrease the second number in the
password, then press the SELECT key.
Press the + or – key to increase or decrease the third number in the
password, then press the SELECT key.
Press the + or – key to increase or decrease the fourth number in the
password, then press the SELECT key.
5
Press the SELECT key to lock the front panel using the specified
password.
To unlock the front panel:
1
If the locked printer is in a Ready state, press the PRINT/PAUSE key to
pause the printer.
2
Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the System menu is displayed.
Then press the SELECT key.
Pause: System
Press SELECT
3
Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Front Panel Unlock menu is
displayed.
Front Panel Unlock
0000
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4
Press the + or – key to increase or decrease the first number in the
password, then press the SELECT key.
Press the + or – key to increase or decrease the second number in the
password, then press the SELECT key.
Press the + or – key to increase or decrease the third number in the
password, then press the SELECT key.
Press the + or – key to increase or decrease the fourth number in the
password, then press the SELECT key.
5
Press the SELECT key to unlock the front panel using the appropriate
password.
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Memory Card - Formatting
Memory cards must be formatted before they can be used. If you have a
memory card inserted in the memory card slot, which is located on the rear
panel, use the following instructions to format the card. The memory card
write protection setting must be off to allow memory card formatting.
Note: Use caution when formatting memory cards. Formatting a memory
card permanently erases all data on the card.
To format the memory card:
1
If the printer is in a Ready state, press the PRINT/PAUSE key to pause
the printer.
2
Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the System menu is displayed.
Then press the SELECT key.
Pause: System
Press SELECT
3
4
5
Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Format Memory Card menu
is displayed.
Format Memory Card
Press SELECT
Press the SELECT key. A confirmation message will be displayed before
the memory card is formatted.
Volume: QLSXE_00
SELECT to Confirm
To confirm the formatting, press the SELECT key. To cancel formatting
and return to the main Pause menu, press the PRINT/PAUSE key. When
you confirm formatting, a status message will display.
Format Complete
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Time
The QLS-8100 Xe provides a built-in, real-time clock that is used for
displaying the time and date. It is also used to provide a time/date stamp for
fonts and images. You will use the Time menu option to set the time for the
clock.
To set the time:
1
If the printer is in a Ready state, press the PRINT/PAUSE key to pause
the printer.
2
Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the System menu is displayed.
Then press the SELECT key.
Pause: System
Press SELECT
3
4
Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Time menu is displayed.
Time
10:42 am
Press the + or – key until the desired hour setting is displayed, then press
the SELECT key.
Press the + or – key until the desired minute setting is displayed, then
press the SELECT Key.
Press the + or – key until the desired am/pm setting is displayed, then
press the SELECT Key.
5
Press the SELECT key to confirm the time. At this point, the time is
stored with seconds set to zero.
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Date
The QLS-8100 Xe provides a built-in, real-time clock that is used for
displaying the time and date. It is also used to provide a time/date stamp for
fonts and images. You will use the Date menu option to set the date.
To set the date:
1
If the printer is in a Ready state, press the PRINT/PAUSE key to pause
the printer.
2
Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the System menu is displayed.
Then press the SELECT key.
Pause: System
Press SELECT
3
4
Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Date menu is displayed.
Date
2002, Aug 26
Press the + or – key until the desired year setting is displayed, then press
the SELECT key.
Press the + or – key until the desired month setting is displayed, then
press the SELECT Key.
Press the + or – key until the desired day setting is displayed, then press
the SELECT Key.
5
Press the SELECT key to confirm the date.
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Factory Reset
The factory reset feature of the QLS-8100 Xe returns all parameters available
through the printer’s front panel to their factory default values. Use the
procedure in this section to perform a factory reset to return the printer to
the default values listed below.
Factory default values
TCP/IP address
TCP/IP mask
TCP/IP gateway
Data port
Parallel mode
Baud rate
192.168.255.1
255.255.255.1
0.0.0.0
Parallel
Auto
19200
RS232 handshaking
Calibrate
Speed
DTR/DSR
Continuous
3 in/sec
Intensity (heads 1-4)
Vertical offset
Horizontal offset
Counter
16
0
0
Off
Mirror mode
Off
Cut flag
Cut offset
Off
0
Print line adj. (heads 1-3)
Cross web adj. (heads 1-4)
Vertical baseline
Horizontal baseline
Drop/Lift Adjust
Cutter
Ribbon sensor
Ribbon type
Pull back
0
0
0
0
6
Disabled
Enabled
Standard
Disabled
Disabled
Off
Applicator
Memory card write protect
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To perform a factory reset:
1
If the printer is in a Ready state, press the PRINT/PAUSE key to pause
the printer.
2
Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the System menu is displayed.
Then press the SELECT key.
Pause: System
Press SELECT
3
4
Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Factory Reset menu is
displayed.
Factory Reset
Press SELECT
Press the SELECT key to reset parameters to the factory default values.
Note: It is recommended that you print the printer settings before
performing a factory reset to aid in restoring color alignment at a later time.
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Options Menu
Other options are accessed via the Options menu. The following sections
detail each of the features within this menu category.
Mirror Mode
The QLS-8100 Xe has the ability to print labels in a mirror image format. This
format is useful when printing on transparent media to be applied to a
transparent surface such as glass. This mode mirrors the printed image
horizontally.
To enable or disable mirror mode:
1
If the printer is in a Ready state, press the PRINT/PAUSE key to pause
the printer.
2
Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Options menu is displayed.
Then press the SELECT key.
Pause: Options
Press SELECT
3
Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Mirror Mode menu is
displayed.
Mirror Mode
Off
4
5
Press the + or – key until the desired setting is displayed. Available
options are On or Off.
Press the SELECT key to confirm your choice.
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Cutter
If using an optional cutter or cutter/stacker accessory, you can enable it using
the Cutter menu option.
To enable or disable the cutter:
1
If the printer is in a Ready state, press the PRINT/PAUSE key to pause
the printer.
2
Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Options menu is displayed.
Then press the SELECT key.
Pause: Options
Press SELECT
3
Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Cutter menu is displayed.
Cutter
Enabled
4
5
Press the + or – key until the desired setting is displayed. Available
options are Enabled or Disabled.
Press the SELECT key to confirm your choice.
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Cut Flag
When using an optional cutter or cutter/stacker accessory, it is possible to
enable or disable the insertion of extra blank tags to demarcate or flag the
end of a batch.
When enabled, the printer will automatically insert one long and one short
blank tag between batches. The longer tag is approximately 10 mm longer
than the printed tag length. This extra length will allow you to quickly
identify separate batches. With the flag enabled, the minimum tag length is
38 mm.
To enable or disable the cut flag:
1
If the printer is in a Ready state, press the PRINT/PAUSE key to pause
the printer.
2
Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Options menu is displayed.
Then press the SELECT key.
Pause: Options
Press SELECT
3
Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Cut Flag menu is displayed.
Cut Flag
Off
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4
5
Press the + or – key until the desired setting is displayed. Available
options are On or Off.
Press the SELECT key to confirm your choice.
Note: Do not select Append Flag or Set as Flag in Color QuickLabel 99 Pro if
the flag is enabled via the front panel.
Note: The flag is counted as a batch of two tags (the long and the short tag).
If the batch counter is enabled, the flag will appear as a batch of two labels
printing; if the total counter is enabled, the flag is counted as two additional
tags.
Note: The Cutter Flag option is not available when using the QLS Windows
Printer Driver. Since batches cannot be queued when using the driver, there
will always be a leader of media cut between batches.
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Pull Back - Enable/Disable
You can enable/disable the pull back function using the Pull Back option
under the Options menu. This option requires a compressed air connection
and special hardware.
Contact QuickLabel Systems for more information about the pull back
function.
Note: The printer must be equipped with the media Pull Back option.
Otherwise, the printer will return an error message if Pull Back is activated
but the option is not present.
To enable media pull back:
1
If the printer is in a Ready state, press the PRINT/PAUSE key to pause
the printer.
2
Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Options menu is displayed.
Then press the SELECT key.
Pause: Options
Press SELECT
3
Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Pull Back menu is displayed.
Pull Back
Enabled
4
5
Press the + or – key to choose Enable. Available options are Enabled or
Disabled.
Press the SELECT key to confirm your choice.
Note: Media rewind can also be activated via host command. Consult the
QuickLabel Systems Host Protocol documentation for details on this
command.
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Applicator
You will use the Applicator option to enable or disable applicator mode. This
option applies only to users integrating the printer with an applicator
system.
To enable or disable the applicator:
1
If the printer is in a Ready state, press the PRINT/PAUSE key to pause
the printer.
2
Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Options menu is displayed.
Then press the SELECT key.
Pause: Options
Press SELECT
3
Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Applicator menu is
displayed.
Applicator
Enabled
4
5
Press the + or – key until the desired setting is displayed. Available
options are Enabled or Disabled.
Press the SELECT key to confirm your choice.
Note: Before printing labels in applicator mode, use the Synchronize Labels
command from the Operation menu to synchronize the printer with the
applicator system.
The following message will appear if you attempt to print without
synchronizing.
Synch Required
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Chapter 5:
Operation
To prepare the QLS-8100 Xe for printing, make sure that:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Water cooling system has been connected
Power connection has been made
Communication connections have been made between host and printer
Compressed air is supplied to the printer if RibbonRation™ will be used
Media and Thermal Transfer Ribbon has been loaded into the printer
You have installed a software application from which you will print
You have installed the QLS Windows Printer Driver (as needed)
Once you have completed and verified the above, you are ready to begin
printing with your QLS-8100 Xe.
This chapter provides the following information:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Information on printing with the QLS-8100 Xe
Descriptions of print indicators
Descriptions of error messages
Information on color alignment and adjustments
Information on evaluating print quality
Instructions for enabling/disabling RibbonRation™
Instructions for printing labels
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Printing with the QLS-8100 Xe
Powering the Printer On
When you turn on your printer, it will execute an initialization procedure
and self-test. During this process, the display will indicate the model
number, firmware version, and memory check status of the printer.
The first display will show the version number of boot software.
QuickLabel Systems
Boot Version
V:1.1
The printer will initialize, perform a self-test, and load the system firmware.
QuickLabel Systems
Loading Program . . .
The next display will show the printer model, QLS-8100 Xe, followed by the
system firmware version number. Periodically, QuickLabel Systems may
provide upgraded firmware to add functionality to the printer. You may visit
the QuickLabel Systems website to check for updated firmware.
QLS-8100Xe
V:1.2
Selftest Complete
Under normal conditions, the printer will display a Ready message at the
end of the power-up sequence, indicating that the printer is ready to accept
and print labels. When the printer is in a Ready state, the green Print/Pause
LED will be off. When the printer is in a Pause state, this LED will be on.
When you download a label to a printer, the printer will begin printing the
label as long as the printer is in the Ready state. You will note that Color
QuickLabel 99 software will temporarily put the printer in a Pause state
while it is downloading your label. This is done to ensure all data from
multiple batches is downloaded and processed before the printer begins
printing.
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Operating Without Compressed Air
The QLS-8100 Xe RibbonRation ribbon conservation system has been
designed so that the printer can operate normally without compressed air,
but without the advantage of ribbon savings.
If sufficient compressed air is not available during the power up self-test, the
printer will detect this condition and display the following message:
RUN with NO AIR?
Press: Select
Pressing the SELECT key will disable the RibbonRation system until the
power to the unit is cycled and sufficient compressed air is available to the
printer. If this message appears and you do have compressed air connected
to the printer, check the pressure level on the air regulator to ensure that it
meets the minimum 70 psi requirement. Once sufficient air pressure is
available to the printer, this message will disappear and the printer will go to
a Ready state.
Memory Card Detection
The status of the memory card is checked during the power-up sequence. If
the card is working properly, or if no card is inserted, the power-up sequence
will proceed normally. If a problem with the memory card is detected, you
will be given the option to perform a corrective action, which requires the
memory card write protection setting to be off, or remove the card.
If an unformatted memory card is detected, you can format or remove the
card. Refer to the System Menu section of Chapter 4 for more information.
Remove Flash Card or
SELECT to Format it
If the card is missing any required folders, you can press SELECT to add
them, or remove the card. The message “Folders Complete” will appear
when folders are successfully added.
Remove Flash Card or
SELECT to Add Folder
If the card is defective, you will be prompted to remove the card.
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Printer Indicators
When power is on, the printer has four indicator lights that provide a visual
cue to the printer’s current state.
Indicator
Function
POWER
When the green POWER indicator light is illuminated,
the printer is ready to operate. Assuming the printer is
properly set up and a label has been downloaded or a
test pattern has been selected pressing the PRINT/PAUSE
key will cause printing to begin.
PRINT/PAUSE
If the PRINT/PAUSE key is pressed to pause the printer,
the green indicator light adjacent to the key will
illuminate. It will remain illuminated to remind you that
the printer is in the PAUSE state, until you either resume
printing, cancel the print request, or power off the
printer. This light will also illuminate when the printer
pauses due to an error, such as a media or ribbon out
condition.
DATA
The amber DATA indicator light flashes whenever the
printer is receiving data from the host computer.
ERROR
The red ERROR indicator light illuminates whenever an
error condition has occurred. An additional message may
be displayed on the LCD display to indicate the nature of
the error.
The alphanumeric LCD display provides detailed information about the
operational status of the printer, menu functions, or specific information
about error conditions.
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Error Messages
The following pages show a number of possible error messages that may be
encountered during operation. Instructions are provided on how to clear the
condition that caused the error message to be displayed.
ERROR: Media out or
sensor is off media
•
•
The label or tag media has been consumed. Reload a new roll of media.
The printer has not been properly calibrated. Recalibrate for the proper
media.
•
•
The sensor has been repositioned off of the gap or notch. Ensure that the
sensor position is correct and recalibrate if necessary.
The printer requires media recalibration.
ERROR: Media out or
Motor Stall
•
•
The label or tag media has been consumed. Reload a new roll of media.
The media is not making positive contact with the Media Travel Roller or
the media travel roller is not turning freely. Ensure that the roller spins
freely and that the media is making contact with the roller causing it to
turn at a regular rate.
Ribbon Out!!!
Ribbon 1
•
•
The printer is out of ribbon on one or more print stations. Reload a new
roll of ribbon on the indicated print station(s).
The ribbon unwind is not turning at a steady rate. Ensure that the
ribbon has been loaded correctly and that the ribbon unwind tension has
not been set too high.
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After reloading media or ribbon, the printer will reprint any label formats
that were partially under the print stations when the error occurred.
Note: Media Out or Film Out errors can occur if either the media or film is
not feeding, winding or unwinding properly. A physical adjustment to the
media path or film tension usually corrects this condition. In order to resume
printing, you must raise and lower at least one printhead to clear the internal
error.
Warning: Whenever you are not using the printer, leave the drive roll in the
open position. This will prevent flat areas from developing which could
result in print quality or media slip issues.
Drive Roll Up/No Air
•
Indicates that the drive roller is in the up position or the air was
shut off/disconnected. The printer cannot resume printing until the drive
roller is lowered or the air turned back on/re-connected.
Drive Roll Up
•
•
Indicates that the drive roller is in the up position. The printer cannot
resume printing until the drive roller is lowered.
Format Error
label name: error #
Indicates that the printer received incorrect or corrupted commands
from the host software. If this error occurs when printing from Color
QuickLabel 99 software, cycle the power on the printer and attempt to
reprint the same format or a new label format.
Note: For information on the specific error number, refer to Appendix F:
Format error codes.
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Data Port Error
Check Comm Setup
•
•
Indicates that data port-specific commands were received via the status
port, causing a communications error. Ensure that the data port is set up
correctly.
Head x up
SELECT to disable
Displayed when a printhead x is lifted after the printer has been
powered on. Pressing select will disable this head until the printer power
has been cycled. The following message is displayed after a printhead is
disabled:
Head x Disabled
Printheads Disabled
Hd1 Hd2 Hd3 Hd4
•
Displayed after the self-test when the printer is powered on with one or
more of the heads already lifted. The printer indicates which heads have
been disabled upon power up.
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Deletes all labels
SELECT to confirm
•
•
Displayed when the CANCEL key is pressed while a batch is being
printed. Pressing the SELECT key will cancel all pending labels in the
batch.
NVRAM Test Failed
Please reset printer
Displayed during the printer power-up sequence if the non-volatile
RAM test fails. Powering off the printer, and then powering it back on
may resolve the issue. If this does not resolve the issue, contact
QuickLabel Systems Technical Support.
Invalid Ribbon
Detected On Head x
•
Displayed if non-QuickLabel Systems Thermal Transfer Ribbon is
loaded. The printer will not print if invalid ribbon is used. Replace the
invalid ribbon with Genuine QuickLabel Systems Ribbon to restore
printing functionality. Contact QuickLabel Systems to purchase ribbon.
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Excessive Heat
Detected on Head x
•
Displayed if the printhead exceeds a safe operating temperature. The
printer will automatically pause to prevent damage to the printhead.
Allow the printhead to cool for a period of time. Then press the
PRINT/PAUSE key to resume printing.
Ribbon Detection
System Failure
•
Displayed if the ribbon detection system is not operating correctly. The
printer will not print when this system is not operating. Contact
QuickLabel Systems Technical Support.
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Color Alignment
Color alignment refers to the alignment of each color with respect to the
other colors:
Print Line adjustment refers to the vertical adjustment of a color’s print
position on the media.
Cross-Web adjustment refers to the horizontal adjustment of a color’s print
position on the media.
To examine the color alignment, you can print the process Proc. Block test
pattern. The process black box on this test pattern should appear black,
without any other color along an edge. If a color shadow appears along an
edge, that color’s print station is in need of alignment.
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You will also examine the block patterns to observe both the horizontal and
vertical alignment. If any color appears horizontally misaligned, the cross
web values require adjustment; if any color appears vertically misaligned,
the print line adjustment values require adjustment.
When the black box prints without any color shadows and the block pattern
appears correctly aligned, the color alignment is optimal.
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Common Adjustments and Tasks
Test Patterns
The QLS-8100 Xe is equipped with a number of built-in test patterns used for
checking color alignment, print quality, and printhead integrity.
Refer to the Cal & Setup Menu section of Chapter 4 for more information on
test prints.
Print Line Adjustment
Print line adjustments allow you to align the printing of each of the four
print stations to obtain accurate color registration in the media travel
direction.
Refer to the Ready State & Adjust Menu section of Chapter 4 for more
information on print line adjustments.
Cross Web Adjustment
Cross web adjustments allow you to align the printing of each of the four
print stations to obtain accurate color registration across the width of the
label.
Refer to the Ready State & Adjust Menu section of Chapter 4 for more
information on print line adjustments.
Advancing the Media
The FORM FEED/ADVANCE key serves two functions. If the key is pressed
momentarily and released, the printer will advance the media by one
calibrated media length. If the key is pressed and held, the printer will
advance media until the key is released.
The FORM FEED/ADVANCE function will act as an ADVANCE function if
the printer has not been calibrated for the media.
Print Speed
This function allows you to choose the printing speed. The printer is capable
of printing at speeds of 2 – 5 in/s (inches per second) in 1 in/s increments.
Refer to the Ready State & Adjust Menu section of Chapter 4 for more
information on print speed adjustments.
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Evaluating Print Quality
1
Press the PRINT / PAUSE key to put the printer into the pause mode.
2
Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Cal & Setup menu is
displayed.
Pause: Cal & Setup
Press SELECT
3
4
Press SELECT. Then press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Test
Print menu is displayed.
Test Print
Test Pattern: = 2 in
Press the + or - key to scroll through the test patterns and select Test
Pattern: x in. at a width that is appropriate for the width of your media.
Print widths for the Test Pattern are 2, 4, 6, 7, or 8 inches.
5
6
Press the SELECT key again to start the printing of the line test pattern.
Evaluate the test pattern to determine if printing is uniformly solid and
crisp. Press the PRINT / PAUSE key at any time to stop printing.
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7
If print quality is not satisfactory, allow the test pattern to continue to
print and press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key to access any of the
parameters that can be adjusted while operating in the test print mode.
The print adjustment parameters that can be changed are:
•
•
•
•
•
•
Intensity for each printhead
Speed
Print line adjustment
Cross web adjustment
Vertical offset
Horizontal offset
8
9
As each parameter is displayed, press the + or - key to adjust the selected
setting.
As you change the parameter settings, examine the test pattern to ensure
that the changes you are making are improving print quality.
10 Continue to adjust the parameter settings until you are satisfied that
print quality has been optimized.
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Enabling and Disabling RibbonRation™
The QLS-8100 Xe RibbonRation™ feature can be enabled or disabled via the
user control panel of the printer as well as Color QuickLabel 99® software or
the QuickLabel Systems Windows Printer Driver. The software will always
override any setting that has been made on the front panel of the printer.
To enable/disable RibbonRation™ from the printer control panel:
1
2
3
Power off the printer if it is on.
Disconnect the source of compressed air if it is connected.
Power the printer on. The display will show the following prompt:
RUN with NO AIR ?
Press: Select
4
Press the SELECT key. RibbonRation™ is now disabled.
To enable/disable RibbonRation™ from Color QuickLabel 99®:
1
2
3
Open Color QuickLabel 99® Create or Print application.
Choose the File >> Print Setup or File >> Printer Settings... menu.
To Enable, Check the Save Ribbon option. To Disable, Uncheck the Save
Ribbon option.
To enable/disable RibbonRation™ from the Windows Printer
Driver:
1
In Windows, choose Start >> Settings >> Printers, and then right-click on
the QLS-8100 Xe driver.
2
3
Choose Properties and click on the Device Options tab.
To enable, check the Enable Ribbon Ration option. To disable, uncheck
the Enable Ribbon Ration option.
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Printing Labels
To print labels, you need to send a label from QuickLabel Systems’ Color
QuickLabel 99® Pro software program, or from a 3rd party application via
the QuickLabel Systems Windows Printer Driver. Refer to the Appendix D
and E of this manual for basic instructions in setting up the software.
Before sending a label to the QLS-8100 Xe:
1
Make sure that the QLS-8100 Xe is in a Ready state. Press the
PRINT/PAUSE pushbutton if necessary until Ready is displayed.
2
3
Specify the label quantity from within your software application.
Send the label you wish to print from your software application. The
QLS-8100 Xe will begin printing the label.
4
Use the printer menus to change any parameters may need adjustment.
Note: It is recommended that settings be changed in Color QuickLabel 99
software or the QLS Windows Printer Driver as these would override
any settings made through the printer control panel.
5
Press the PRINT/PAUSE key as necessary to pause or resume printing.
The printer will continue to print until the specified number of labels
have been printed.
Note: When the QLS-8100 Xe is paused during the course of printing a
batch of labels, a small white horizontal line will appear across the labels
in the location of the printheads. This is a normal result of interrupting
the print operation. It is recommended that you limit the use of the
Pause function while printing.
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Chapter 6:
Advanced Adjustments
Your QLS-8100 Xe has been carefully set at the factory to print optimally
using your specific type of media and ribbon. This chapter describes how to
perform advanced adjustments that may be needed when specialized media
is used in the printer.
This chapter explains how to:
•
•
•
•
•
Adjust the printhead alignment relative to the platen roll to optimize
ribbon transfer for different material types or thicknesses.
Adjust the angularity of the printheads with respect to each other so that
color alignment is consistent across the width of the media.
Adjust the thermal transfer ribbon tension to alleviate wrinkling or
smudging.
Adjust the Printhead Lift and Drive Station Lift Screws to redistribute
downward pressure when using narrow media.
Set the Vertical and Horizontal Baselines so that print jobs sent to
multiple printers result in identical image positioning on the label.
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Printhead Tangency Alignment
The proper alignment of the printhead over the platen roller produces
optimum transfer of ribbon to the media. Although this mechanical
adjustment is a factory setting, there are situations where a slight
repositioning of the platen support strut will optimize print quality on
different media types and thicknesses.
Tools Needed:
7” long, #2 Phillips Screwdriver
3/16” Open End Wrench or Adjustable Wrench
1
2
Loosen the two outside screws on either side of the platen shaft end
plate.
Insert the #2 screwdriver through the hole in the frame plate just to the
right of the endplate.
3
4
Loosen the screw on the main plate located inline with the hole.
Print a block image the width of the label with a saturated color fill of the
print station to be adjusted (i.e. pure Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Black, or
Spot Color).
Print several labels and rotate the shaft protruding out of the frame plate
just under the station printing the image. Turn the knob with the 3/16”
wrench until the printed blocks appear fully saturated with no lines,
breakup, or white pinholes throughout the fill.
5
6
Press the PRINT/PAUSE key to pause printing.
Tighten the three screws at the main plate and at the platen shaft end
plate.
7
Press the PRINT/PAUSE key to resume printing a few more labels to
verify that the alignment has been optimized.
6-2
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Printhead Angularity Adjustment
The color registration is monitored on the right side of the label as it exits the
printer. The Test Print (Proc. Block CMYK) on the display provides a test
pattern for adjusting the Print Line and Cross Web values. There is a
mechanical adjustment for aligning the color registration on the left side of
the label which positions all printheads precisely parallel to each other. The
following procedure is referred to as the color angularity adjustment.
Tools Needed:
1/4” Drive Rachet
3/8” Socket
7/64” Allen Wrench
1
2
3
4
Print a test pattern (Proc. Block CMYK) to ensure color alignment on the
right side of the label.
Scroll to Horizontal Line Pattern and print the process color lines across
the label.
Closely inspect the lines on the left side. If any colors are above or below
the lines then the printstation for that color requires an angle adjustment.
A 1/4” drive ratchet and 3/8” socket are required to loosen two nuts on
the printhead bracket. Access to these nuts is through the large 3/4”
holes in the black cover brackets over each printstation. Do not remove
these two nuts. Simply turn them counterclockwise 1/2 revolution.
5
Lift the printhead up by the handle. Locate the spring-loaded cap screw
behind the black ribbon guide roller at the rear of the printstation. The
screw faces the rear on the outside end of the printhead bracket. With a
7/64” Allen wrench turn the cap screw clockwise to shift the printed line
toward the front of the printer.
6
7
Lower the printhead and print the Horizontal lines. Note the physical
change in the printed line of the affected printstation. Repeat step 5 until
the printed line is directly over the other colors.
Tighten the two nuts on the printhead bracket. Care should be taken not
to over-tighten this hardware or damage to the printhead or print station
may result. When all printstations are aligned, all colors will be perfectly
superimposed on the process black line at the top of the test pattern.
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Ribbon Wrinkling Adjustments
The QLS-8100 Xe features an automatic ribbon tensioning mechanism to
ensure consistent tension from a full to empty ribbon supply roll.
The ribbon width should be matched to the label or tag width. Make sure
that the ribbon is not more than ¼ inch wider than the label because it may
cause the ribbon to wrinkle.
The ribbon should also not be narrower than the label or tag because it may
cause unnecessary wear to the printhead.
Normally, a manual ribbon tension adjustment is not required. However, if
you notice film wrinkling or one of the colors smudging, you can adjust the
tension to alleviate these conditions.
•
•
If film is wrinkling on a station, turn the knob on the ribbon supply
mandrel clockwise to increase the tension.
If ink is smudging at a station, turn the knob on the ribbon supply
mandrel counterclockwise to decrease the tension.
6-4
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Ribbon wrinkling may also be alleviated by adjusting the eccentric at the end
of the ribbon guide shaft located at the lower, rear section of the print station.
Loosen the screw securing the shaft and using a wrench, turn the eccentric
until wrinkles have been eliminated then retighten the screw to secure the
shaft.
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Printhead & Drive Station Lift
Your QLS-8100 Xe printhead and drive station are mounted to a center-
pivoting shaft. This permits even pressure to be applied across the width of
the media. When using narrow media, the Printhead and Drive Station Lift
Screws allows you to relieve unnecessary pressure against the platen roller
and drive roller. This will prolong the life of the printhead and platen while
providing a more even application of downward pressure onto the media
where it is needed.
Tools Needed:
Slip Joint Pliers
Using a pair of slip-joint pliers grip the Printhead Lift Screw or the Drive
Station Lift Screw
•
•
Turn the screw clockwise to lift the head or station and relieve pressure.
Turn the screw counterclockwise to lower the head or station and apply
pressure
This adjustment is best performed while the printer is printing so that you
can evaluate print quality as adjustments are made.
6-6
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Vertical Baseline
This function is used to synchronize printing when using multiple
QLS-8100 Xe printers. If you are sending the same image file to two or more
printers and notice that the image prints in different vertical locations, you
can use this function to move the vertical baseline of a printer.
To adjust the vertical baseline:
1
If the printer is in a Ready state, press the PRINT/PAUSE key to pause
the printer.
2
Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Cal & Setup menu is
displayed. Then press the SELECT key.
Pause: Cal & Setup
Press SELECT
3
4
Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Vertical Baseline menu is
displayed.
Vertical Baseline
Baseline = +0
Press the + or – key until the desired baseline setting is displayed.
Baseline settings range from -120 through +120 dots.
5
6
Press the SELECT key to confirm the baseline.
Repeat this process on each printer requiring a baseline adjustment.
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Horizontal Baseline
This function is used to synchronize printing when using multiple
QLS-8100 Xe printers. If you are sending the same image file to two or more
printers and notice that the image prints in different horizontal locations,
you can use this function to move the horizontal baseline of a printer.
To adjust the horizontal baseline:
1
If the printer is in a Ready state, press the PRINT/PAUSE key to pause
the printer.
2
Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Cal & Setup menu is
displayed. Then press the SELECT key.
Pause: Cal & Setup
Press SELECT
3
4
Press the NEXT or PREVIOUS key until the Horizontal Baseline menu is
displayed.
Horizontal Baseline
Baseline = 0
Press the + or – key until the desired baseline setting is displayed.
Baseline settings range from <-120 through -> 120 dots.
5
6
Press the SELECT key to confirm the baseline.
Repeat this process on each printer requiring a baseline adjustment.
6-8
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Chapter 7:
Maintenance
and Repair
Your QLS-8100 Xe is designed for long-life and trouble-free operation. In
order to keep your printer operating at optimal performance, some periodic
maintenance is required.
This chapter provides the following information:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
List of recommended tools for performing maintenance and repairs.
Procedure for adding water to the cooling system.
Procedure for uninstalling the water cooling system.
Procedure for cleaning the print stations.
Procedure for replacement of a printhead.
Drive roller, pinch roller, and platen roller replacement.
Changing the fuse or line voltage.
Performing a firmware upgrade.
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Recommended Tool List
The following is a list of recommended tools for maintenance and repair of
the QLS-8100 Xe.
3/16” X 4” long Slotted Screwdriver
3/32” X 4” long Slotted Screwdriver
#2 1/4” X 15/16” Phillips Screwdriver
#2 1/4” X 8” Phillips Screwdriver
#1 3/16” X 3” Phillips Screwdriver
Nut Driver Set containing 1/4”, 3/16”, 5/16”, 3/8”, and 11/32”
Ball End Allen Wrench Set containing .050”, 1/16”, 3/32”, 5/64”, and 7/64”
Open End Wrenches containing 1/4”, 3/8”, 5/16”, and 7/16”
1/4” Drive Ratchet and Socket Set containing 3/8” and 7/16” sockets
Flat Nose Pliers
Slip Joint Pliers
Snap Ring Pliers
Volt-Ohm Meter
Millimeter Scale
7-2
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Routine Cleaning
The parts of each print station, especially those that come in direct contact
with the ribbon, will accumulate residue. To maintain clear and crisp
printing, these parts should be cleaned frequently. The printheads in
particular require regular cleaning. QuickLabel Systems recommend that
these surfaces be cleaned when changing a roll of media or ribbon.
The illustration below indicates the locations for regular cleaning. It is
recommended that these surfaces be cleaned with a soft cloth or lint-free
wipe soaked with Isopropyl Alcohol. Harsh chemicals and solvents should
be avoided as damage to the printhead could occur.
1
2
3
Print Line
Platen Roller
Peel Edge
4
5
6
Ribbon Guide Rollers
Drive Roller
Pinch Roller
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To clean printheads:
1
While the printer is on, lift the printhead that will be cleaned. The
following message will display.
Head x up
SELECT to disable
Press the SELECT button. The indicated print station will be disabled
and the following message will display.
Head x Disabled
2
3
Turn the printer off and unplug the AC power cord.
Caution: Always power off and unplug the printer before cleaning the
printheads.
Clean the printhead with a soft cloth or lint-free wipe soaked with
Isopropyl Alcohol. Harsh chemicals and solvents should be avoided as
damage to the printhead could occur.
Caution: Never use a hard object of any sort to clean the printheads.
Damage will result if the edge of any hard object is used to scrape away
accumulated printing residue from the printhead.
7-4
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Refilling the Cooling System
The cooling system circulates cool water through the printhead mounting
blocks to aid in maintaining optimum printhead temperature.
During printer operation, the water level must stay between the HIGH and
LOW indicators. If the water level is below the LOW indicator, the cooling
system will become ineffective. It is recommended that you check the water
level periodically and add water if necessary
Caution: Only use non-conductive, distilled water. Other liquid can cause
oxidation or corrosive damage to the cooling mechanism.
1
Remove the reservoir cap from each cooling drive, and then fill them
with the supplied distilled water. Ensure that the water level is between
the HIGH and LOW indicators.
H
2
Replace the reservoir caps.
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Uninstalling the Cooling System
If the printer will be shipped to another location, it is necessary to uninstall
the water cooling system. After the system is uninstalled, the water
remaining in the printer must be purged.
Two water purging tubes with plug connectors are supplied with the printer.
One tube is 12 inches in length, and the other is 36 inches in length. These
tubes are used to purge remaining water from the inside of the printer.
Tools/Items Needed:
Phillips Screwdriver
Empty Receptacle for Drained Water (such as an empty pail)
Supplied 12” and 36” Water Purging Tubes
Compressed Air Connection
It may be helpful to refer to the following assembly diagram when
uninstalling the water cooling system.
#6 Pan Head Phillips
Screw (3) &
#6 Flat Washer (3)
#6 Flat Head
Phillips Screw (1)
Mounting Screws
Furnished with
Cooling System Kit (4)
7-6
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1
2
Remove the AC power cord from the outlet, and then disconnect the
power cord from the rear of the printer.
Disconnect the power cord for each cooling drive from the printer. Then
disconnect the water tubes for each cooling drive from the printer.
Top Water Cooling Drive
Water Tube Connectors
Bottom Water Cooling Drive
Water Tube Connectors
Top Water Cooling Drive
Power Connector
Bottom Water Cooling Drive
Power Connector
3
4
5
Remove the Mounting Screws to disconnect the water cooling drives
from the mounting bracket. Two screws are used for each drive.
Remove the water cooling drives from the mounting bracket. Then
empty the water from the cooling drives.
Remove the mounting bracket by removing the #6 Pan Head Phillips
screws, #6 Flat Washers, and the #6 Flat Head Phillips screw. A
screwdriver hole is present on the outside of the mounting bracket.
6
Turn the air regulator pressure to zero (0) by pulling down on the
regulator knob to unlock it, and then turning it counterclockwise until
the pressure is 0 PSI.
Then disconnect the small flexible air tube from the air regulator by
gently pulling it out from the air regulator connector. This air regulator
connection will be used in the following steps.
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7
Place the end of the 36” flexible tube into the water draining receptacle.
Then connect the 36” tube to one of the left-side water connectors on the
rear of the printer.
Water Tube Connectors
Connect 36" Tube
To Draining Receptacle
Connect 12" Tube
To Air Regulator
Connect the 12” tube into the corresponding water connector directly to
the right, as indicated in the previous diagram. Then connect the end of
the 12” flexible tube to the air regulator.
8
Set the air regulator to 70 PSI. To adjust the pressure, pull down on the
regulator knob to unlock it and turn the knob until the desired pressure
level is reached:
•
•
Turn the knob clockwise to increase air pressure
Turn the knob counterclockwise to decrease air pressure
Water from inside the printer will be forced out of the system and into
the water draining receptacle.
When the water from the printer is emptied, turn the air regulator to
0 PSI. Then disconnect the water purging tubes from the printer.
9
Repeat steps 7 - 8 for the remaining set of water cooling drive connectors.
For example, if the top cooling drive tubes were purged in the previous
steps, repeat this process on the bottom cooling drive tubes.
10 Re-connect the small flexible air tube to the air regulator. Then set the air
regulator back to 70 PSI.
7-8
Maintenance and repair
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Printhead Replacement
After normal use or as a result of a failure, the printheads will eventually
need to be replaced.
Some symptoms of printhead failure include:
•
•
•
Significant reduction in printed image darkness that cannot be corrected
by using an increased print intensity.
Vertical line(s) of missing print running through the entire length of the
label.
A wide vertical area of missing print indicating physical wear to the
printhead or an electrical failure.
The following procedure explains how to remove and replace a printhead.
Caution: Printheads can be damaged by static electricity. Always use
standard anti-static procedures when replacing printheads.
1
While the printer is on, lift the printhead that will be changed. The
following message will display.
Head x up
SELECT to disable
Press the SELECT button. The indicated print station will be disabled
and the following message will display.
Head x Disabled
2
Turn the printer off and unplug the AC power cord.
QLS-8100 Xe
7-9
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3
Remove the black guide roller under the static brush for easier access to
the printhead mounting screw. There are three inline screws on the outer
plate at the end of the guide roller. Remove the two lower screws and
pull on the tab to slide the center shaft out, releasing the guide roller to
drop down.
4
5
6
7
Remove the platen roller if you are changing the printhead on print
station #1.
Use a Phillips screwdriver to loosen the captive printhead mounting
screw over the top of the printhead.
Raise the printhead assembly by the handle to allow the printhead to
drop down away from the bracket.
Gently pull the printhead out to the side until the three connectors on the
top of the head are exposed. These connectors are a press fit. Pull up on
each harness to disengage them from the rear of the printhead.
Note: A conductive thermal compound is present on the printhead
mounting blocks.
Use caution when handling printheads to avoid touching the compound.
If the compound comes in contact with any part of the printer other than
the printhead mounting blocks and printheads, clean the compound
from the affected area.
8
Reconnect the three harness connectors to the replacement printhead and
push the head back under the bracket. There are locating pins under the
bracket. Position the printhead over these pins until the printhead seats
flat against the bracket.
7-10
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9
Tighten the captive mounting screw 1/4 turn to secure the printhead to
the bracket.
Caution: Do not over-tighten the captive mounting screw. Damage or
warpage to the printhead could occur. The screw should only be ¼ turn
beyond hand tight.
Ensure the harness is routed straight through the hole in the main plate.
10 Reinstall the platen roller on print station #1 if it was removed.
11 Reposition the black guide roller and secure it with the two screws.
QLS-8100 Xe
7-11
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Platen Replacement
Platen rollers are like tires on a car, in that they wear with use. After
continued normal use, it may be necessary to replace the printhead platen
rollers. After prolonged use, one or more rollers may develop flat areas
which will affect print quality. The following procedures explain how to
remove and replace the platen rollers.
1
While the printer is on, lift the printhead above the platen roller that will
be replaced. The following message will display.
Head x up
SELECT to disable
Press the SELECT button. The indicated print station will be disabled
and the following message will display.
Head x Disabled
2
Turn the printer off and unplug the AC power cord. Lift the printer’s
side cover.
3
4
Remove any label stock that may be positioned over the platen roller.
Remove the two outside screws from the shaft end plate at the outer end
of the platen shaft on the frame plate.
5
Reach under the printer to loosen the collar on the outside end of the
platen roller by turning the black lever counterclockwise.
7-12
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6
Slide the plate and shaft assembly away from the frame plate. The collar
and roller will drop down as this assembly is pulled away from the
frame plate.
7
8
Reinsert the small plate and shaft assembly into the hole in the side plate.
Add the collar over the shaft behind the side plate.
Line up the new roller under the printer with the shaft. Be sure the roller
end with the 1/8” bearing surface is against the main plate on the inside
of the printer.
9
Insert the shaft end plate assembly all the way through the roller. Secure
the shaft end plate with the two outside screws.
10 Push the collar against the platen roller to reduce the side play and
tighten the lever by turning it clockwise.
QLS-8100 Xe
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Drive and Pinch Roller Replacement
After prolonged use, the drive roller or pinch roller may develop flat areas,
which will impede consistent media travel. When this occurs, the roller will
require replacement. The following procedures explain how to remove and
replace the drive roller and pinch roller.
Tools Needed:
#1 Phillips Screwdriver
3/32” Allen Wrench
1/8” Allen Wrench
Drive roller replacement
1
Turn the printer off and unplug the AC power cord. Lift the printer’s
side cover.
2
3
4
Remove any media that may be exiting over the drive roller.
Flip the drive roll cam up to relieve pressure on the roller.
Remove the two outside screws from the shaft end plate at the end of the
drive roll shaft.
5
6
Slide this end plate and shaft assembly away from the frame plate. A
3/4” cup washer will drop down as this assembly is pulled away from
the side plate.
Turn the drive roller until the cap screw located on the inside of the
roller close to the main plate is visible from the front of the printer.
Loosen but do not remove the set screw with a 3/32” Allen wrench. Turn
the roller to loosen the second set screw in the same location.
7
8
Slide the drive roll away from the main plate until it drops down.
Insert the new drive roll so the set screw is over the flat of the coupling
shaft. Tighten the set screw lightly.
9
Re-install the shaft end plate and shaft assembly back through the frame
plate and into the bearing of the drive roll. Slip the cup washer over the
plate shaft just before inserting it into the drive roll bearing. The cup
must face away from the bearing surface as illustrated.
10 Secure the shaft end plate with the two mounting screws.
7-14
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11 Loosen the set screw on the inner side of the drive roll and pull the roller
to the outside against the frame plate. This will reduce the side play on
the roller. Tighten both set screws on the inner drive roll side.
Pinch Roller Replacement
1
Turn the printer off and unplug the AC power cord. Lift the printer’s
side cover.
2
3
4
5
Remove the right side cover and control panel of the printer.
Remove any media that may be exiting over the drive roll.
Flip the drive roll cam up to relieve pressure on the roll.
Before removing the pinch roller assembly, the pressure must be taken
off of this location. There are two screws along the bottom and two
screws at the main plate. Dislodge the drive station gas spring. Grip a
pair of adjustable pliers onto the top of the gas spring. Push down and
away from the main plate to separate it from the ball joint on the main
plate.
6
Remove the collar directly above the pinch roller with a 1/8” Allen
wrench.
7
8
Slide the pinch roller assembly off of the middle shaft.
Remove the two Phillips screws on each end of the roller. The roller will
drop down.
9
Position the new roller in place. Add a cup washer between roller ends
and bracket. The cups of the washers must face away from the bearings
on each roller end. Secure the roller using the two Phillips screws.
10 Slide the roller assembly back over the middle shaft. The ball end of the
set screws must face toward the front of the printer.
11 Lock the collar against the roller assembly.
12 Press the top of the gas spring back over the ball joint on the main plate.
13 Reinstall the control panel and rear cover of the printer.
QLS-8100 Xe
7-15
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Changing the Fuse or Line Voltage
Your QLS-8100 Xe has been configured for your line voltage at the factory.
Should you need to replace the fuse(s) or reconfigure the printer for a
different line voltage, follow the procedure outlined below.
Tools Needed:
Small, flat-blade screwdriver
1
2
Turn the printer off and unplug the AC power cord.
Insert a small, flat-blade screwdriver into the slot at the top of the AC
Power Input.
3
4
5
6
Gently twist the screwdriver to pry open the plastic door. The door will
swing down when fully opened.
Insert the screwdriver between the AC Power Input and the red Fuse
Holder module.
Gently twist the screwdriver until the Fuse Holder begins to slide out.
Grasp the Fuse holder and slide it completely out of the AC Power Input.
Install the appropriate fuse(s) as follows:
110 VAC Operation
Install the metal shorting clip on fuse holder.
1 each - 8.0A fuse
(P/N 11540-008)
(P/N 24034-002)
220 VAC Operation 2 each - 6.3A fuse
Remove the metal shorting clip on fuse holder.
7
Orient the Fuse Holder such that the desired line voltage is near the top
of the Fuse Holder.
8
9
Slide the Fuse Holder into the AC Power Input until it is fully seated.
Swing the plastic door up and push firmly until a snap is heard
indicating that the door is fully closed.
10 Reconnect the AC Power Cord.
7-16
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Firmware Upgrades
Firmware is the internal operating system of the QLS-8100 Xe. Periodically,
firmware upgrades are made available to add new features or change
operational characteristics of the QLS-8100 Xe. A firmware upgrade should
only be performed when available new functionality is needed or when a
firmware upgrade is required for compatibility with QuickLabel Systems’
software.
Note: It is good operating procedure to first test the printer after installing
new firmware as some adjustments may be required. This will minimize the
impact on label production within your application.
Before beginning the upgrade process, please verify the following:
•
•
•
•
The printer is powered on and is displaying ʺReadyʺ
A CompactFlash card is installed in the printer
The CompactFlash card has at least 4M of free space
The Write Protect setting is OFF in the printerʹs System menu
Obtain the firmware upgrade software using one of the following methods:
•
•
You can obtain an upgrade CD from QuickLabel Systems. If you use this
method, follow the instructions provided on the CD label.
You can download the firmware upgrade from our website,
www.quicklabelsystems.com. If you use this method, ensure that all
upgrade files are located in the same directory (System.mot,
l11config.bld, Ocr_a.bin, xeflash.exe, etc.).
To upgrade the printer:
1
Launch the “XeFlash.exe” file. The following screen will appear.
QLS-8100 Xe
7-17
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2
Choose the Next button. The following screen will appear.
3
4
Set up communications to your printer by selecting the appropriate
connection options.
If Color QuickLabel 99 Pro is installed, these settings will reflect the last
settings used in Color QuickLabel 99 Pro. If necessary, change the setup
as required. Remember to also configure the printer, if necessary.
Choose the Next button. The following screen will appear.
The flash utility will query the printer to determine if the upgrade can
continue. When complete, the menu will indicate that you may either
continue with the upgrade or that an error occurred.
If an error occurs, follow the message instructions to correct the problem
on the printer if necessary and press the Retry button.
7-18
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5
When no error is indicated, press the Next button to proceed to the final
screen.
This last screen begins the actual upgrade process. Press the Finish
button to begin the file transfer. All of the necessary files will be
transmitted to the printer.
6
When the file transfer is complete, choose the Done or Cancel button on
the display to exit the upgrade utility.
Upon receiving the last upgrade file, the printer will reset and display
the following messages as it is performing the upgrade process:
Reading New Files
Erasing Flash
Programming Flash
OCR_A.BIN
etc . . .
QLS-8100 Xe
7-19
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When the upgrade is complete, the printer will reset again. Please verify
the version displayed during the power-up sequence. Your printer will
be ready to use.
Upgrading additional printers with the CompactFlash card
The CompactFlash card from the upgraded printer can then be used to
quickly upgrade other printers. This feature is helpful if you have multiple
printers that need to be upgraded.
On the next printer, turn the power on and hold in the SELECT key on the
front panel. This sequence will place the printer into a “forced upgrade”
mode. The following menus will appear:
Forced Upgrade
Insert CF Card and
Press SELECT Key
Insert the CompactFlash card that contains the upgrade files in the printer.
Then press the SELECT key. The printer will reset and display the following
messages as it is performing the upgrade process:
Reading New Files
Erasing Flash
Programming Flash
OCR_A.BIN
etc . . .
When the upgrade is complete, the printer will reset again. Please verify the
version displayed during the power-up sequence. Your printer will be ready
to use.
7-20
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Appendix A:
Physical Data
QLS-8100 Xe
A-1
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QLS-8100 Xe Dimensions
All dimensions are in inches
Printer shown without water cooling system installed
A-2
Physical data
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QLS-8100 Xe Dimensions
All dimensions are in inches
Printer shown without water cooling system installed
QLS-8100 Xe
A-3
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QLS-8100 Xe Dimensions
3.24
7.50
1.9
2.8
All dimensions are in inches
Printer shown with water cooling system installed
A-4
Physical data
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Appendix B:
Specifications
QLS-8100 Xe
B-1
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QLS-8100 Xe Specifications
Printing Method
Thermal Transfer, Spot and CMYK Process Color
Print Stations
4 printheads
Registration Accuracy +/- 1 dot typical (0.0030”, 80 microns)
Ribbon Management User selectable, patented RibbonRation™ systems
conserves thermal transfer ribbon automatically
using air-operated cylinders.
Resolution
Print Speed
300 dpi
2” (50 mm) - 5” (127 mm) per second
Maximum Print Area Width: 8.3” (210.8 mm); Length: 60” (1,524 mm) with
Windows® Driver; 30” (760 mm) with Color
QuickLabel 99® Pro
Fonts
7 TrueType™ fonts resident; other TrueType™ fonts
can be downloaded from your PC
Resident Barcodes
Control Panel
All Standard symbologies, including 2-Dimensional
Ergonomic Key Pad for Menu functions, Backlit
LCD display
Connectivity
PC, AS/400®.
Parallel (IEEE-1284 Centronics), Serial (RS-232),
Ethernet
Interface Software
Color Halftoning
Memory
Windows®-based
Printer Drivers included; Color QuickLabel 99® Pro
Label Creation Suite (optional)
Printer optimized for MicroCell™ dot placement
algorithm available in Windows® Driver and Color
QuickLabel 99® Pro software
Standard 128 MB
4 Mb user-available fonts
4 Mb user-available bitmap images
Compact FLASH (Type 1) memory cards
B-2
Specifications
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Dimensions
Weight
24” H x 24” D x 38” L
(609.6 mm L x 609.6 mm D x 965.2 mm L)
185 lbs. (83.9 kg) - no media, no ribbons
Power Requirements 20/240 VAC, 50/60 Hz, 8.0/6.3A
Compressed Air 1 cfm @ 70 psi required to operate RibbonRation™
Use Male NPT Plug with 3/8” body size.
(not supplied with printer)
Thermal Transfer Ribbon
4 rolls, each 300 m long; Spot or CMYK
rolls
Label / Tag Size
Width: 8.5” Max. (216 mm), 5” Min. (127 mm);
Length: 60” Max. (1,524 mm), .5 Min. (12.7 mm)
Label / Tag Thickness 12 to 16 point Max.
Label / Tag Roll Capacity
8” Max. Outside Diameter (203.2 mm)
QLS-8100 Xe
B-3
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B-4
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Appendix C:
Replacement Parts
QLS-8100 Xe
C-1
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Replacement Parts
Part Number
Description
14076-101
14039-901
14039-701
14041-202
14058-000
14057-201
14057-301
23701-211
23701-063
11540-008
24034-002
13832-000
14050-050
14050-500
RN1716
Printhead
Drive Roll
Platen Roller
Pinch Roller
Bearing Block Assembly (drive roll)
Lever Printhead Lift (4)
Lever Drive Roll Lift
Belt Timing 3mm 211T
Belt Timing 3mm 63T
Fuse 8.0 A (110VAC)
Fuse 6.3 A (220VAC)
Cleaning Pads (case of 50)
Drive Shaft
Drive Shaft Stub
Drive Snap Ring (2)
Collar (9)
Shaft End Plate (5)
#6 Pan Head Philips
Leaf spring bracket for ribbon rewind mandrels
Leaf spring bracket for label &
ribbon unwind mandrels
Motor Assy, Main
Pulley, 30T 3MM
Pulley, 15T 3MM
14109-020
14046-200
10609-016
13318-000
00058DA
25747-000
23682-030
23682-215
24847-000
14099-000
24878-000
Pulley, 56T 3MM
Gas Spring, Drive Station
Motor Assy, TTR (4)
Recommended spare parts are noted in bold.
Parts specifications are subject to change without notice.
Contact QuickLabel Systems Technical Support to identify the correct parts
and obtain current pricing. Please have the serial number of your printer
available.
C-2
Replacement parts
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Replacement Parts
Part Number
Description
12361-013
26599-900
26585-401
26585-300
14049-701
26599-100
26588-100
26599-400
26599-500
13830-000
26599-300
42679-001
42614-001
42455-001
25459-200
14193-032
24164-020
24164-000
10787-001
Slip Clutch, TTR (4)
Encoder Cable Assy
Pneumatic Cylinder Assy
Valve Stack
Sensor, Encoder Wheel
Reflective Sensor Assy
Harness, Printhead
Harness, TTR Sensor
Harness, Printhead Up Sensor
Harness, DC Power
Harness, Motor
Controller, Assy PCB
Power Supply
Keypad, Assy PCB
Display, LCD w/ harness
Memory Card, 32Mb Compact Flash
Cable, High Speed Parallel
Cable, Serial
Cord, Power
Parts specifications are subject to change without notice.
Contact QuickLabel Systems Technical Support to identify the correct parts
and obtain current pricing. Please have the serial number of your printer
available.
QLS-8100 Xe
C-3
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C-4
Replacement parts
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Appendix D:
Color QuickLabel 99®
Pro setup
QLS-8100 Xe
D-1
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Color QuickLabel 99 Pro setup
The following guide explains how to configure Color QuickLabel 99 Pro
software for use with the QLS-8100 Xe printer. If you are using and older
version of software (i.e. Color QuickLabel), please contact QuickLabel
Systems for an upgrade.
To configure Color QuickLabel 99 Pro from Create and Print:
Note: Skip to step 4 if you are configuring the Print application. Steps 1 - 3
are for configuring a new or existing label format in the Create application.
1
Open the File >> New Label... or File >> Label Setup... menu. The
following screen will appear:
2
3
Select QLS 8100Xe from the Printer pull-down menu list.
Configure any other options as necessary, then click OK when finished.
D-2
Color QuickLabel 99 Pro setup
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4
Open the File >> Print Setup menu. The following screen will appear:
5
6
Choose QLS-8100Xe Single Sided from the Select Printer pull-down list.
Select the capacity of the memory card being used or none from the
RAM Card Size pull-down list. This option is used only when set up for
unidirectional communication.
Note: If none is selected, all images will be sent to an internal 4 Mb
dedicated to images. All fonts will be sent to an internal 4 Mb memory
dedicated to fonts. If your images/fonts exceed this capacity, some or all
of the images/fonts may not print.
7
Place a check mark in the Save Ribbon box if RibbonRation™ will be
used.
QLS-8100 Xe
D-3
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8
Click on the Communications tab. The following screen will appear:
9
Select the desired Printer Communication:
Bidirectional (recommended) - This option permits two-way
communication with the printer. The printer will report status back to
the host computer via the serial port connection. The parallel, serial, or
ethernet port is used to transmit data to the printer.
Unidirectional - This option permits one-way communication with the
printer. The printer status cannot be transmitted back to the host when
using this communication method.
Network - Used to communicate with a printer in a networked
environment. This is the optimal setting for a single printer with
multiple users requiring queuing via the Windows print spooler. Printer
status cannot be transmitted back to the host when using this
communication method. The QuickLabel Systems Windows Printer
Driver must be installed to use this communication mode.
Print to File - This communication method is used to generate ASCII
label format files and binary image/font files. No communications
interface connections are required when this option is selected.
D-4
Color QuickLabel 99 Pro setup
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10 Select the appropriate Printer Mode.
DUAL – Select this option for parallel and serial port connection.
LPT – Select this option for parallel-only connection.
COM – Select this option for serial-only connection.
TCP/IP – Select this option for an ethernet connection.
11 Select the appropriate Parallel Port, Serial Port, and TCP/IP settings as
necessary.
Note: Color QuickLabel 99 Pro supports parallel ports LPT1 and LPT2
and serial ports COM1 and COM2. The maximum supported baud rate
for the serial port is 38,400 baud. Hardware handshaking (DTR/DSR) is
always used by default.
12 Click OK when all printer settings have been made.
QLS-8100 Xe
D-5
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D-6
Color QuickLabel 99 Pro setup
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Appendix E:
Windows Printer
Driver Setup
QLS-8100 Xe
E-1
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Windows Printer Driver Setup
The following guide explains how to configure the Windows Printer Driver
for use with the QLS-8100 Xe printer.
To configure the Windows printer driver:
1
From the Start menu, select Settings >> Printers (Windows
98/Me/NT/2000) or Start >> Printers and Faxes (Windows XP).
Right click on the QLS-8100 Xe Windows printer driver and select
Properties. The driver properties window will be displayed. If you are
using Windows XP or 2000, choose the Printing Preferences button.
2
Click on the Page tab. Choose a pre-defined label size from the pull-
down list or enter a label width and length for a custom size. Choose
Portrait or Landscape to correspond to the desired orientation of the
printed image. You may also enter a default number of copies and print
offsets.
E-2
Windows printer driver setup
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3
Click on the Graphics tab. Select the desired halftoning method for your
image. A representation of the output effect each halftoning method will
have is shown to the right. Generally speaking, Coarse, Medium, and
Fine work best for line art and vector-based graphics such as clip art.
Error Diffusion and Photographic are better suited for photographic
images or images with fine details.
QLS-8100 Xe
E-3
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4
Click on the Color tab. Select Process or Spot depending on the mode of
operation being used. If Process is chosen, select CMY or CMYK for the
desired image separation method.
If Spot is chosen, you will be given the option to enable or disable each of
the print stations by checking or unchecking the box next to each head.
Click on the Change button to specify the color corresponding to your
artwork that will be printed on each print station. Place a check mark in
the Use Exact RGB Match box to print the colors only when your image
colors are an exact match to those specified in the color setup.
E-4
Windows printer driver setup
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5
Click on the Intensity & Speed tab. Select the desired default print
intensities for each of the print stations and select the print speed.
If the Print-Time menu is enabled, these default settings can be changed
just prior to printing each print job.
6
If you are using Windows XP or 2000, choose the OK button to return to
the QLS-8100 Xe Properties window.
QLS-8100 Xe
E-5
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7
Click on the Ports tab. Select the appropriate communication port that
the printer is connected to from the pull-down list of available ports.
8
Click on the Device Options tab. If a Cutter or Cutter/Stacker option will
be used, place a check mark in the Enable Cutter box. If RibbonRation
will be used, place a check mark in the Enable Ribbon Ration box.
E-6
Windows printer driver setup
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The Print-Time menu is enabled by placing a check mark in the
Enable Print-Time Menu box. Doing so will result in a popup
window appearing after a label. has been processed by the Windows
application but prior to being sent to the printer. The Print-Time
menu allows the user to change Print Intensity, Print Speed,
Quantity, and Offsets just prior to printing. You may choose to
display a full Print-Time menu (the default) or one which allows
entry of print quantity only.
9
When the Print-Time menu is enabled, the processed image can be saved
along with the print-time settings into a file which can later be recalled
for printing. This is feature is useful for creating pre-processed label
formats for printing in a production environment where you do not wish
to have the operator make content changes to the printed label.
To save the processed label:
1
From the menu, select File >> Save Processed Image As...
QLS-8100 Xe
E-7
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2
In the Save As window that appears, enter a filename for the processed
label.
Place a check mark in the Place shortcut on Desktop box if you would
like to generate a convenient shortcut to the processed label.
E-8
Windows printer driver setup
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Appendix F:
Format error codes
QLS-8100 Xe
F-1
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QLS-8100 Xe Format Error Codes
1
2
3
Field X location error
The X coordinate of a Set Field Location command (<STX>FLx,y) is
out of bounds.
Field Y location error
The Y coordinate of a Set Field Location command (<STX>FLx,y) is
out of bounds.
Alphanumeric field font error
The font parameter of a Define Alphanumeric Field Font command
(<STX>AFfont,r,w,h,m) is invalid.
4
5
Alphanumeric rotation error
Valid rotations are 0, 90, 180, 270°.
Alphanumeric character height error
Valid settings for font height are 10 to 2000 for TrueType® fonts and
1 to 10 for bitmap fonts.
6
7
Alphanumeric character width error
The range for width values is the same as for height values.
Bar-code field type error
The barcode type value of a Define Bar-code Symbol command
(<STX>BFtype,r,....) is out of bounds.
8
Bar-code field rotation error
Valid rotations are 0, 90, 180, 270°.
9
Bar-code height error
Bar-code height is out of bounds.
10
Bar-code narrow element error
The narrow element value in a Define Bar-code Symbol command is
out of range.
11
12
Bar-code wide element error
The wide element value in a Define Bar-code Symbol command is
out of range.
Bar-code interpretation error
The selection for enabling bar-code text interpretation is faulty.
F-2
Format error codes
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13
15
16
17
Bar-code check digit error
The selection for enabling the bar-code check digit is faulty.
Bar-code interpretation width error
The range for width values is the same as for height values.
Bar-code interpretation height error
Valid settings for font height are 10 to 2000 for TrueType® fonts.
Bar-code interpretation font selection error
The font parameter of a Define Bar-code Symbol command
(<STX>BFn,...,i,...) is invalid.
18
20
Alphanumeric write method error
The AF command contains an invalid “write method” parameter
(must be “1”).
Format command error
The structure of one or more label format commands is faulty. Some
examples would be:
•
•
•
misplaced or missing delimiter
invalid characters in the command string (e.g., <STX>FQ...)
missing or faulty line termination (<lf><cr> rather than <cr><lf>)
21
30
Numeric value error
A numeric value in a format string is invalid. If a non-numeric string
is placed where the printer expects a numeric string, this error will
occur.
Label length error
The length parameter of the Set Label Length command is out of
range.
31
Batch count error
Acceptable batch count range is 1 to 100000.
32
Group count error
Acceptable group count range is 0 to 100000.
33
35
Serial copies error
Acceptable serial copies range is 1 to 100000.
Box width error
The width value of a graphics field is invalid.
QLS-8100 Xe
F-3
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36
37
38
39
50
Box height error
The height value of a graphics field is invalid.
Line thickness error
The value for line thickness in a graphics field is invalid.
Print intensity error
Valid print intensity settings are 1 to 32.
Print speed error
Valid print speeds are 2 to 5 inches per second.
.PCX Bitmap error
This error results from any of the following:
•
•
Bad file format (not monochrome, not a .pcx file)
File not present (may have stored to RAM and attempted to
recall from card)
80
81
.PCX Bitmap scale error
Valid scale factors for .PCX graphics fields are 1 to 10.
Code 49 start character error
The value to enable start and stop characters in a Code 49 bar-code
field is invalid.
82
83
Code 49 group error
The group size value is out of range.
Code 49 symbol error
The symbol specifier is invalid. (Refer to the Define Bar-code Symbol
command for Code 49.)
84
Reverse-image field association parameter error
The association parameter in the Define Reverse-Image Field
command is invalid.
F-4
Format error codes
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85
Field data string error
An invalid data string is part of the label format. Valid ASCII
characters are from 20h to FFh, and all data fields must be
terminated with an End Field Data command (<STX>FE). This error
results from any of the following:
•
•
•
Too much data (barcode, font, Data Matrix)
Data Matrix symbol that extends off the label
Bar-code field strings contain characters not supported by the
chosen symbology.
86
87
Print disable command error
Print disable command contains invalid parameters (<STX PD).
Field color error
An invalid color number has been specified. Valid field colors range
from 1 to 15.
88
PDF417 security level error
An invalid error correction (security) level has been specified for a
PDF417 bar code.
89
90
91
92
PDF417 reserved 1 error
Must be 0
PDF417 reserved 2 error
Must be 0
PDF417 reserved 3 error
Must be 0
UCC/EAN-128 composite error
Invalid height of CC
QLS-8100 Xe
F-5
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F-6
Format error codes
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Appendix G:
Menu Structure
QLS-8100 Xe
G-1
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G-2
Menu Structure
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QLS-8100 Xe Menus
Ready State
Ready: Cross Web Adj
Head <-2
Ready
Ready: Intensity
Head 16
Ready: Intensity
Head 16
Ready: Intensity
Head 16
Ready: Intensity
Head 16
Ready: Speed
3 in/s
Ready: Prnt Line Adj
Head +0
Ready: Prnt Line Adj
Head +0
Ready: Prnt Line Adj
Head +0
Ready: Cross Web Adj
Head <-2
Ready: Cross Web Adj
Head <-2
Ready: Cross Web Adj
Head <-2
0015 of 0050
1
=
2
=
3
=
4
=
1
=
2
=
3
=
1
=
2
=
3
=
4
=
1
2
Ready: Vertical
Ready:Horizontal
Offset -20
Ready: Display Cntr
Off
Ready:Cut Offset
+0
Ready: Label Reprint
Copies
Offset
=
+16
=
=
1
Pause State
Pause
Pause: Adjust
Pause: Cal
&
Setup
Pause: Operation
Press SELECT
Pause: Ribbon
Press SELECT
Pause: System
Pause: Options
Press SELECT
Pause: Communication
Press SELECT
Press SELECT
Press SELECT
Press SELECT
Press SELECT
Mirror Mode
Off
Cutter
Cut Flag
OFF
Pull Back
Enabled
Applicator
Enabled
Enabled
Press SELECT
Press SELECT
3
Display Cntr
Off
Memory Card
Format Memory Card
Press SELECT
Front Panel Lock
0000
Time
Date
Factory Reset
Press SELECT
Write Protect ON
10:42 am
2002, Sep 19
Press SELECT
Press SELECT
Data Port
Parallel
Parallel Mode
Auto
RS232 Baud Rate
19200
RS232 Handshaking
Hardware
TCP/IP Address
172.16.2.255
TCP/IP Subnet Mask
255.255.3.255
TCP/IP Gateway
0.0.0.0
Press SELECT
Press SELECT
To return to the high level Pause menu, press
the PRINT/PAUSE key.
Ribbon Type
Standard
Drop Adjust
Drop Adjust
Drop Adjust
Drop Adjust
Ribbon Sensor
Enabled
—
—
—
—
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
Cut Offset option appears only if Cutter is enabled.
Head
1
=
22
Head
2
=
22
Head
3
=
22
Head
4
=
22
To enter
a
sub menu, scroll to the sub menu with
Label Reprint option appears only if
a
label was
the left/right arrow keys, then press the SELECT key.
previously printed. (requires Windows driver)
To change values in
a
sub menu, scroll values with
Format Memory Card option provides
a
confirmation
the up/down arrow keys, then press the SELECT key.
menu to prevent accidental formatting.
4
5
6
To scroll values quickly, press and hold the appropriate
arrow key. Values will scroll faster while keys are held.
Pull Back option available only if the Pull Back
function is enabled.
Pull Back
Label Reprint
Synchronize Labels
Press SELECT
Press SELECT
Copies
=
1
Label Reprint option available only if
a
label was
previously printed. (requires Window driver)
Synchronize Labels option available only if an
external applicator system is used.
Cut Offset option appears only if Cutter is enabled.
Calibrate
Test Print
Vertical
Horizontal
Printer Settings
Press SELECT
Continuous
Test Pattern:
=
1
in
Baseline
=
+0
Baseline
=
+0
Intensity
Intensity
Intensity
Head 16
Intensity
Speed
3 in/s
Prnt Line Adj
Prnt Line Adj
Head +0
Prnt Line Adj
Head +0
Cross Web Adj
Cross Web Adj
Head <-2
Cross Web Adj
Head <-2
Cross Web Adj
Head
1
=
16
Head
2
=
16
3
=
Head
4
=
16
Head
1
=
+0
2
=
3
=
Head
1
=
<-2
2
=
3
=
Head
4
=
<-2
7
Vertical
Offset +16
Horizontal
Offset -20
Cut Offset
+0
=
=
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Index
Applicator ............................................... 4-58
Calibration........................................ 3-8, 4-21
Cancel ........................................................ 4-3
Cleaning .................................................... 7-3
Color Alignment..................................... 5-10
Compressed Air
Cal & Setup Menu............................. 4-21
Communications Menu.................... 4-36
Operation Menu ................................ 4-27
Options Menu.................................... 4-53
Overview.............................................. 4-4
Ready State & Adjust Menu............... 4-8
Ribbon Menu ..................................... 4-32
System Menu ..................................... 4-43
Mirror Mode............................................ 4-53
Orientation ................................................ 2-3
Parallel Mode.......................................... 4-37
Parallel Port............................................. 2-12
Pinch Roller Replacement ............7-14, 7-15
Platen
Replacement....................................... 7-12
Power Connection .................................. 2-11
Power-on ................................................... 5-2
Print Intensity ........................................... 4-8
Print Line Adjustment ........................... 4-11
Print Quality............................................ 5-13
Print Servers............................................ 2-15
Print Speed .............................................. 4-10
Print/Pause ................................................ 4-3
Printer Settings ....................................... 4-25
Printhead
Angularity Adjustment ...................... 6-3
Lift......................................................... 6-6
Replacement......................................... 7-9
Tangency Alignment .......................... 6-2
Printing Labels........................................ 5-16
Pull Back.................................................. 4-27
Enable/Disable................................... 4-57
Quick Start................................................. 1-3
Rear Panel.................................................. 2-6
Recommended Tools................................ 7-2
Replacement Parts................................... C-2
Ribbon
Wrinkling Adjustments...................... 6-4
Ribbon Sensor ......................................... 4-35
Ribbon Type............................................ 4-32
RibbonRation .......................................... 5-15
RS-232 Serial Port ................................... 2-13
Connection......................................... 2-17
Operating Without.............................. 5-3
Cover Switch........................................... 2-18
Cross Web Adjustment.......................... 4-13
Cut Flag ................................................... 4-55
Cut Offset ................................................ 4-19
Cutter....................................................... 4-54
Data Port.................................................. 4-36
Date.......................................................... 4-50
Dimensions .............................................. A-2
Display Counter ............................ 4-18, 4-43
Drive Roller Replacement ..................... 7-14
Drive Station Lift...................................... 6-6
Drop/Lift Adjust..................................... 4-33
Error Messages ......................................... 5-5
Ethernet ................................................... 2-14
Factory Reset........................................... 4-51
Form Feed/Advance................................. 4-3
Front Panel Lock/Unlock....................... 4-45
Fuse/Line Voltage Selection.................. 7-16
Horizontal Baseline......................... 4-24, 6-8
Horizontal Offset.................................... 4-16
Indicators................................................... 5-4
Keypad....................................................... 4-2
Label Reprint ................................. 4-20, 4-29
Media
Loading ................................................ 3-4
Media Requirements Contract................ 1-2
Media Sensor Adjustment....................... 3-7
Media Unwind Mandrel
Installing .............................................. 2-7
Memory Card
Detection .............................................. 5-3
Formatting ......................................... 4-48
Write Protection ................................ 4-44
Menu
QLS-8100 Xe
i
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Baud Rate........................................... 4-38
Handshaking ..................................... 4-39
Specifications ............................................B-2
Synchronize Labels ................................ 4-30
TCP/IP
Gateway ............................................. 4-42
IP Address ......................................... 4-40
Subnet Mask ...................................... 4-41
Test Print ................................................. 4-22
Thermal Transfer Ribbon
Time ......................................................... 4-49
Unpacking................................................. 2-2
Upgrades ................................................. 7-17
Utility Port............................................... 2-16
Vertical Baseline ..............................4-23, 6-7
Vertical Offset ......................................... 4-15
Water Cooling System
Installing............................................... 2-8
Refilling ................................................ 7-5
Uninstalling ......................................... 7-6
Windows Printer Driver Setup...............E-2
Loading ................................................ 3-2
ii
Index
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