USER'S

MANUAL

Thermal Label & Barcode Printer

CLP-521
CONTENTS
Before Operation
Introduction -------------------------------------------------------------------------- 3
COMPLIANCE STATEMENT FOR EUROPEAN USERS ----------------------------- 4
FCC COMPLIANCE STATEMENT FOR AMERICAN USERS ----------------------- 4
EMI COMPLIANCE STATEMENT FOR CANADIAN USERS------------------------ 5
ETAT DE CONFORMITE EMI A LUSAGE DES UTILISATEURS CANADIENS ----- 5
Important Safety Instructions ------------------------------------------------------- 6
Notice --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 7
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS ------------------------------------------------------------ 8

Chapter 1 Setup
Confirmation of Carton Contents -------------------------------------------------10
Part Names and Functions---------------------------------------------------------- 11
Connection to Power ---------------------------------------------------------------16
Driver Installation -------------------------------------------------------------------16
Connection to a Computer --------------------------------------------------------17

Chapter 2 Printer Operation

Power ON/OFF ---------------------------------------------------------------------- 18
Normal Operating Mode -----------------------------------------------------------19
Setting the Media ------------------------------------------------------------------ 21
Mode Settings ---------------------------------------------------------------------- 25

Chapter 3 Printer Adjustments

Sensor Adjustments --------------------------------------------------------------- 34
Media Thickness Adjustment ----------------------------------------------------- 37
Media Width Adjustment ---------------------------------------------------------- 38
Cleaning ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- 39

Chapter 4 Troubleshooting --------------------- 40

Appendixes
Specifications ---------------------------------------------------------------------- 42
Interfaces --------------------------------------------------------------------------- 45
Replacing the Interface Board ---------------------------------------------------- 51

2
INTRODUCTION
Thank you very much for purchasing Citizen's compact direct thermal label & barcode printer Model CLP-521
that offers high performance printing at 4 inches per second on 4.1 inch media at very low cost.

Main Features
<High-speed, high-quality printing>
This printer can be used for high-speed high-quality printing thanks to its thermal-transfer
system that uses a line thermal printhead together with its 32 bit RISC CPU and its 'history
control IC'.

<Easy operation>
It is easy to change the printers settings on the operation panel, thanks to its unique and
simple VuePrint menu system.
Its high-lift printhead and mechanism means that media can be loaded with ease and it is
constructed for easy thermal printhead cleaning, etc.
Media width adjustment, media thickness adjustment, and media sensor adjustment can all be
made easily by the user using the colour-coded operator controls.

<Interface>
In addition to a serial port, an IEEE1284 (ECP mode) and USB1.1 are standard equipment, for
quick data transfer and printing.

<Optional interface>
The CLP-521 has an optional internally housed Ethernet and a wireless LAN print server.

<Optional auto-cutter / peeler unit>

Its auto-cutter and peeler unit are constructed so they can be replaced easily.

<Adjustable sensors>
The adjustable sensors that permit the adjustment of the positions of the media gap or the
black mark detection sensor in the media width direction are standard equipment that can detect
the position of special media.

<Installation>
The interface, power switch etc. are installed towards the back and the top cover opens and
closes vertically so that the sides of the printer are not restricted.

3
 COMPLIANCE STATEMENT
FOR EUROPEAN USERS
CE marking shows conformity to the following criteria and provisions:
Low Voltage Directive (73/23/EEC)/EN60950-1
EMC Directive (89/336/EEC)/EN55022, EN55024, EN61000-3-2 & EN61000-3-3

FCC COMPLIANCE STATEMENT

FOR AMERICAN USERS
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A digital device,
pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection
against harmful interference when the equipment is operated in a commercial environment. This
equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in
accordance with the instruction manual, may cause harmful interference to radio communications.
Operation of this equipment in a residential area is likely to cause harmful interference in which case
the user will be required to correct the interference at his own expense.

4
 EMI COMPLIANCE STATEMENT
FOR CANADIAN USERS
This Class A digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003.
This equipment generates and uses radio frequency energy and if not installed and used properly,
that is, in strict accordance with the manufacturer's instructions, may cause interference to radio and
television reception. This digital apparatus does not exceed the Class A limits for radio noise emissions
from digital apparatus set out in the Radio Interference Regulations of the Canadian Department of
Communications. This equipment is designed to provide reasonable protection against such
interference in a residential installation. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not
occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause interference to radio or television
reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to
try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:
Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is
connected.
Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
CAUTION: Use shielded cables to connect this device to computers.
Any changes or modifications not expressly approved by the grantee of this device could
void the user's authority to operate the equipment.

ETAT DE CONFORMITE EMI A LUSAGE

DES UTILISATEURS CANADIENS
Cet appareil numrique de la classe A est conforme la norme NMB-003 du Canada.
Cet quipment produit et utilise lnergie radiofrquences et silnest pas install et utilis correctment,
cesst dire en accord strict avec les instructions du fabricant, il risque de provoquer des intrferences
avec la rception de la radio et de latlvision.
Le prsent appareil numrique nmet pas de bruite radio lectriques dpassant les limites applicables
aux appareils numriques de la classe A prescrites dans le Rglement sur le brouillage radiolectrique
dict par le ministre des Communications du Canada.
Cet quipment est conu pour fournir une protection satisfaisante contre de telles interfrences dans
une installation rsidentielle. Cependant, il ny a pas de garantie contre les interfrences avec les
rceptions radio ou tlvision, provoques par la mise en et hors circuit de lquipment; aussi, il est
demand a lutilisateur dessayer de corriger linterfrence par lune ou plus des mesures suivantes:
Rorienter lantenne de rception.
Installer lordinateur autre part, par gard pour le rcepteur.
Brancher lordinateur dans une prise de courant diffrente de faon ce que lordinateur et le
rcepteur soient branchs sur des circuits diffrents.

5
 Important Safety Instructions
Read all of these instructions and save them for later reference.
Follow all warnings and instructions marked on the product.
Unplug this product from the wall outlet before cleaning. Do not use liquid or aerosol cleaners. Use a damp
cloth for cleaning.
Do not use this product near water.
Do not place this product on an unstable cart, stand or table. The product may fall, causing serious damage
to the product.
Slots and openings on the cabinet and the back or bottom are provided for ventilation.
To ensure reliable operation of the product and to protect it from overheating, do not block or cover these
openings. The openings should never be blocked by placing the product on a bed, sofa, rug or other similar
surface. This product should never be placed near or over a radiator or heat register. This product should
not be placed in a built-in installation unless proper ventilation is provided.
This product should be operated from the type of power source indicated on the marking label.
If you are not sure of the type of power available, consult your dealer or local power company.
This product is equipped with a three-pronged plug, a plug having a third (grounding) pin. This plug will
only fit into a grounding-type power outlet. This is a safety feature. If you are unable to insert the plug into
the outlet, contact your electrician to replace your obsolete outlet. Do not defeat the safety purpose of
the grounding-type plug.
Do not allow anything to rest on the power cord. Do not locate this product where the cord will be walked
on.
If an extension cord is used with this product, make sure that the total of the ampere ratings on the
products plugged into the extension cord do not exceed the extension cord ampere rating. Also, make sure
that the total of all products plugged into the wall outlet does not exceed 15 amperes for 120V outlet and
7.5 amperes for 220V-240V outlet.
Never push objects of any kind into this product through cabinet slots as they may touch dangerous
voltage points or short out parts that could result in a risk of fire or electric shock. Never spill liquid of any
kind on the product.
Except as explained elsewhere in this manual, don't attempt to service this product yourself. Opening and
removing those covers that are marked "Do Not Remove" may expose you to dangerous voltage points or
other risks. Refer all servicing on those compartments to service personnel.
The mains plug on this equipment must be used to disconnect mains power. Please ensure that the socket
outlet is installed near the equipment and shall be easily accessible.
Unplug this product from the wall outlet and refer servicing to qualified service personnel under the following
conditions:
A. When the power cord or plug is damaged or frayed.
B. If liquid has been spilled into the product.
C. If the product has been exposed to rain or water.
D. If the product does not operate normally when the operating instructions are followed. Adjust only
those controls that are covered by the operating instructions since improper adjustment of other controls
may result in damage and will often require extensive work by a qualified technician to restore the product
to normal operation.
E. If the product has been dropped or the cabinet has been damaged.
F. If the product exhibits a distinct change in performance, indicating a need for service.

6
 Notice
Before use, be sure to read this manual. And keep it handy for reference when needed.
The contents of this manual may change without prior notice.
Reproduction, transfer, or transmission of the contents of this manual without prior consent is strictly
prohibited.
We are not liable for any damage resulting from the use of the information contained herein, regardless of
errors, omissions, or misprints.
We are not liable for any problems resulting from the use of optional products and consumable supplies
other than the designated products contained herein.
Do not handle, disassemble or repair the parts other than those specified in this manual.
We are not liable for any damage caused by user's erroneous use of the printer and inadequate environment.
Data residing in the printer is temporary. Therefore, all data will be lost if power is lost. We are not liable for
any damage or loss of profits caused by data loss due to failures, repairs, inspections, etc.
Please contact us if there are any mistakes or ambiguities within this manual.
If there are missing or incorrectly collated pages in this manual, contact us to obtain a new manual.

CITIZEN is a registered trade mark of CITIZEN WATCH CO., LTD., Japan.

CITIZEN es una marca registrada de CITIZEN WATCH CO., LTD., Japn.

Copyright 2006 by CITIZEN SYSTEMS JAPAN CO., LTD.

7
 SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
which must be strictly observed !
To prevent personal injury or property damage, the following shall be strictly observed.
The degree of possible injury and damage due to incorrect use or improperly following
instructions is described below.

Indicates a situation which, if not observed and handled

Warning properly, could result in death or serious injury.

Indicates a situation which, if not observed and handled

Caution properly, could result in injury.

: This is a mark to call attention to the reader.

Warning
Never perform the following. If not avoided, these may cause damage or trouble to the
printer or cause the printer to overheat and release smoke and cause burns or an electrical
shock. If the printer is damaged or is malfunctioning, be sure to turn the printer off
immediately and remove the power cord from the outlet, then consult our service
personnel.
Do not jolt or impact to the printer by stepping on, dropping or hitting the printer.
Do not place the printer in a poorly ventilated area, or shut off the air vent of the printer.
Do not place the printer where chemical reactions occur, such as in laboratories or where air is mixed
with salt or gas.
Do not use a power voltage or frequency other than those specified.
Do not plug/unplug the power cord or attach/detach the interface cable by simply grabbing the
power cord or interface cable. Do not pull or carry the printer when the tension of the power cord or
interface cable is increased.
Do not drop or put foreign matter such as clips and pins into the printer. This may cause problems.
Do not plug the power cord into an outlet with many loads.
Do not spill drinks such as tea, coffee and juice on the printer or spray insecticide on the printer. If
drink or water is spilled, first be sure to turn the power off and remove the power cord from the
outlet, then consult our service personnel.
Do not disassemble or modify the printer.

Discard or safely store the plastic packing bag. This bag should be kept away from children.
If the bag is pulled over a childs head, it may cause suffocation.

8
General Precautions

Caution
Prior to operation, read the safety instructions carefully and observe them.
Do not drop or put foreign matter such as clips and pins into the printer. This may cause problems.
Be careful when moving or carrying the printer. Dropping the printer may cause injury or property
damage.
Make sure if you open the top cover, it is opened all the way. If only partially open, the cover could
slam shut, possibly causing injury.
When the cover is open, be careful of the corners of the cover. They could cause injury.
Do not open the printer during printing.
When cleaning the surface of the printer case, do not use the cloth that is soaked in thinner,
trichloroethylene, benzine, ketone or similar chemicals.
Do not use the printer where there is a lot of oil, iron particles, or dust.
Do not spill liquids or spray insecticide on the printer.
Do not jolt or impact to the printer by stepping on, dropping or hitting the printer.
Operate the control panel properly. A careless, rough handling may cause problems or malfunction.
Do not use such sharp-edged tool as a ballpoint pen for operation.
Be careful of the edges of the plates so injury or property damage is possible.
If a problem occurs during printing, stop the printer immediately and unplug the power cord from
the outlet.
When printer trouble occurs, do not try to dissemble it. Instead, consult our service personnel.

Precautions When Installing the Printer

Caution
Prior to operation, read the safety instructions carefully and observe them.
Do not use or store the printer near fire, excessive moisture, in direct sunlight, near an air conditioner
or heater or other source of unusually high or low temperature or humidity or excessive dust.
Do not place the printer where chemical reactions occur, such as in a laboratory.
Do not place the printer where air is mixed with salt or gas.
The printer must sit on a firm, level surface where there is ample ventilation. Never allow the
printer's air vent to be blocked by a wall or other object.
Do not put anything on the top of printer.
Do not place the printer near a radio or television, and do not use the same wall outlet for the
printer and radio or television. Radio or television reception could be adversely affected.
Do not use a power voltage or frequency other than those specified.
Do not put anything on the power cord or step on it.
Do not drag or carry the printer with the power cord or interface cable.
Avoid plugging the power cord into an outlet with many loads.
Do not bundle the power cord when inserting the plug.
Always grip the plug housing, not the cord, to plug/unplug the power cord.
Make certain the power is turned off before connecting/disconnecting the interface cable.
Avoid lengthening the signal cable or connecting it to any noise-producing device. If it is unavoidable,
use the shielded cable or twisted pair for each signal.
Place the printer near the outlet where the power cord can be unplugged easily to shut off power.
Use the AC outlet that accepts a three-pronged plug. Otherwise, static electricity may be generated
and there will be danger of electric shock.

9
1 Setup

Confirmation of Carton Contents

Removing the Packing Material
The printer is shipped with adhesive tape in place to hold the top cover
closed. Simply remove the two pieces of tape on either side of the top cover.
Then simply open the cover by lifting up and tipping it backwards.

There is another strip of adhesive tape that must be removed which holds
the mechanism closed for shipping. Remove the tape and attached paper by
carefully peeling from the plastic case.

Retain the tape should you need to transport the printer again. A further
piece of packing paper is inside the mechanism and you can remove this
when the head is opened as explained below.

Check that the following accessories are

included with the printer in the carton.

Media holder Media holder Head cleaner

guide bar

Power cord
Test label media
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Printer

Note: The empty carton and packing materials should be stored for future
shipping of the printer.

10
 Setup

Caution
Be careful when moving or carrying the printer and when taking the
printer out of the carton. The printer may cause injury or property
damage if dropped. Be sure to grip the printer housing firmly when
taking it out of the carton. Do not grip the printer by the foam packing
material which may break, causing the printer to drop.
When opening the cover, open it all the way. If only part way open,
the cover could slam shut, possibly causing injury.
Be careful of the edge of the cover when the cover is opened. It may
cause injury or property damage.
Be careful of the edges of the metal plates so injury or property
damage is possible.

Part Names and Functions

Front View
4
1
2

1 Top cover
Is opened vertically to place or replace media.

2 Heat discharge vent

It allows warm air to vent from the printer.
Be sure not to block it with media etc.

Operation Panel (p.14) 3 Operation panel

This is used to make changes and adjustments to the printer and its
configuration.

4 Media window
The amount of media remaining can be checked through this window.

11
1 Setup
Part Names and Functions

6
5
7

9
10
8
11

5 Media holder bar

The media is supported by the media holder bar when installed in the
printer.

6 Media holder guide

This guide is moved horizontally to match the media size.
The guide can be sliding it from the holder bar.

7 Motor cover
It discharges the heat of the media feed motor.
Do not cover it with media etc.

8 Front cover
It is removed to install optional units such as the peeler or cutter.

Media Width Adjustment 9 Media width adjustment dial

(p.38) It is adjusted to match the width of the media.

Media Thickness Adjustment 0 Media thickness adjustment dial

(p.37) It is adjusted to match the thickness of the media.

- Large blue-head open lever

The head unit can be raised to install media by pushing this lever.
It locks the head unit during printing.

12
 Setup

Part Names and Functions

17
12
15
14 -1

16 -1

14 -2

13
16 -2

= Thermal printhead
This is the printhead. Avoid touching this with your fingertips and leaving
grease or dirt on the printhead surface.

~ Platen
Interlocked with the thermal printhead, it feeds media backwards or
forwards.

Setting sensor positions ! Upper sensor (!-1) and bottom sensor (!-2)
(p.23) When used as a transparent sensor (for labels and tags with notches), it
Sensor Adjustments (p.34) is used by matching the sensor markings of the upper sensor and the
bottom sensor. When used as a reflective sensor, it is used by matching
the sensor marking on the bottom sensor with the position of the black
mark on the liner or media backing.

@ Sensor arm
The media can be installed by raising this arm.
The media can be held in place by lowering this arm.
Media Setting (p.24) # Media guides
(Left fixed media guide (#-1) and right movable media guide (#-2))
The end of the media is matched to the left fixed media guide, then the
right side movable media guide is moved horizontally to match it to the
media size.

$ Optional unit connector cover

It is opened when the cables of the cutter unit and the peeler unit are
connected. Do not remove during normal use.

13
1 Setup
Part Names and Functions

Operation Panel

1
2
3
4

5 7
6

LED Functions (p.20) 1 POWER LED

This is lit when the printer power is on. (green)

2 PRINT LED
This is lit when the printer is able to print. (green)

3 CONDITION LED
This is on when selecting settings. (orange)

4 ERROR LED
This is lit or flashes when the printer is in an alarm or error status. (red)

Normal Operating Mode 5 PAUSE key

(p.19) This temporarily stops printing.

6 FEED key
This key feeds the media to the top of the next label or form.

7 STOP key
This stops printing or cancels the alarm.

8 MODE/REPEAT key
This key exits current status in the menu setting mode or reprints the
final label, depending on printer status.

14
 Setup

Part Names and Functions

Rear View

3
4

Serial interface (p.45) 1 Serial interface (RS232C)

This receives serial transmission of data from a host computer.

Parallel Interface (p.47) 2 Parallel interface (Centronics parallel or IEEE1284)

This receives parallel transmission of data from a host computer.

USB Interface (p.50) 3 USB interface

This receives USB transmission of data from a host computer.

Power ON/OFF (p.18) 4 Power switch

The is the power switch for the printer.

Connection to Power (p.16) 5 Power cord inlet

The connector of the enclosed power cord is connected here.

15
1 Setup

Connection to Power
1. Check that the power switch to the printer is turned OFF.
2. Connect the connector of the power cord to the power cord
inlet on the printer.
3. Insert the plug of the power cord in the AC outlet.

Power Switch

AC Outlet

Power Cord Inlet

Caution
Use an AC outlet that accepts a three-pronged plug. Otherwise, static
electricity may be generated and there will be danger of electric shock.

Driver Installation
The computer may automatically detect the presence of the new printer when
it is first started, depending on the computer type, interface and operating
system. Follow any on-screen instruction and also instructions supplied with
any additional CD-ROM or floppy disk included with your printer.
Your supplier will assist you with the correct drivers and software which are
compatible with your particular computer system.

16
 Setup

Connection to a Computer
This product has three interfaces that can be used to receive printing data: a
serial port (RS232C), parallel port (IEEE1284, Non-L. P. S.), and a USB port
(USB1.1). An optional internal Ethernet or Wireless LAN port can be added
by your dealer.
With the exception of a wireless LAN connection, an interface cable is
necessary to connect the printer to a computer.
To connect the cable, proceed as follows:

1. Turn OFF both power switches of the printer and the computer.
2. Connect one end of the interface cable to the interface connector
on the back of the printer and secure it with locks or locking
screws, where available.
3. Connect the other end of the interface cable to the interface
connector on the computer and secure it with locks or locking
screws, where available.

Parallel Interface Cable

Serial interface (p.45)

Parallel Interface (p.47)
USB Interface (p.50)

USB Interface Cable

Serial Interface Cable

Replacing the Interface Note: If the optional Ethernet or wireless LAN port is used, the standard
Board (p.51) parallel port is removed from the printer, so the parallel interface cannot
be used.

17
2 Printer Operation

Power ON/OFF
Turning on the power
1. Turn on the power switch on the back of the printer.
2. The POWER and PRINT LED are lit.
Operation Panel

Power Switch

Turning off the power

1. Turn off the power switch on the back of the printer.
2. The POWER and PRINT LED go off.

Power Switch

18
 Printer Operation

Normal Operating Mode

Menu Setting Mode (p.27) When the power is turned on, the printer enters normal operating mode.
The control keys activate the following functions.

1 3
2

1 PAUSE key: Temporarily pauses printing

When this key is pushed once, the PRINT LED turns off and the printer
temporarily pauses.
When it is pushed during printing, the printer pauses after the label
currently being printed is issued. Pressing the key a second time restarts
printing and the remaining number of designated labels are printed.

2 FEED key: Feeds media

Pressing this key feeds media to the print start position. The distance
it is fed is determined by automatically detecting the front end of the
media when using label media, and when continuous media has been
designated, a fixed quantity is fed, then feeding stops.
When the TEAR OFF setting is effective, feeding stops when the media
has been fed to the TEAR OFF location.
When the optional cutter unit is installed, the media is fed to the cut
position then it is cut.
Regardless of whether there is or is not a cut operation setting on the
setting menu, if the unit is installed, the media is cut each time it is fed.
If the optional peeler unit is installed, the media is fed to the peeling
location. When the media is pausing at the peeling position, feeding
does not occur, even if the FEED key is pushed.

3 STOP key: It stops printing and cancels the alarm

Pushing this key once during printing puts the printer in pause mode
after the label is issued. It is possible to cancel 1 batch of label issuing
data by pressing the STOP key for 4 seconds or longer in pause status.
(The PRINT LED flashes at high speed during cancel.)

4 MODE/REPEAT key:
It reprints the last label when pressed for 4 seconds.
Pressing this key reprints the last label in PRINT status (when the PRINT
LED is lit) The last label issued depends on the selection of theMODE/
REPEAT key menu.

19
2 Printer Operation
Normal Operating Mode

LED Functions
In addition to normal operating mode, when an abnormal condition is detected
in the printer, an alarm sounds and each LED either lights up or flashes to
indicate the type of error.
1 POWER LED
1
It lights up when printer power is
turned on. (green) 2
2 PRINT LED
This is lit when the printer is able to
3
print. (green) 4
3 CONDITION LED
This is on when selecting settings.
(orange)
4 ERROR LED
This is lit or flashes when the printer
is in error status. (red)

Table of Alarm and Error Indications

PRINT CONDITION ERROR
Item LED LED LED

When the STOP key has been pushed OFF OFF OFF
Abnormal head temperature ON OFF ON OFF OFF

Abnormal motor temperature ON OFF OFF ON OFF

Head open OFF OFF
Media end OFF OFF ON OFF

Media out
OFF ON OFF ON OFF
(media location cannot be detected)

Abnormal head resistance OFF ON OFF OFF ON

Communication error
(reception buffer overrun)

Communication error
(parity, framing) OFF ON OFF OFF

Communication error
(transmission buffer overflow)

Auto cutter abnormality

(jamming etc.) OFF OFF ON

Auto cutter temperature abnormal ON OFF OFF ON OFF

Time Axis
: ON, : OFF
Wide on/off marks indicate slow LED flashing.
Small circle on/off marks indicate quick LED flashing.

20
 Printer Operation

Setting the Media

Media Sizes
The position of label and tag media is sensed by either a transparent sensor
or a reflective sensor.
Transparent sensor: Detects the gaps between label media and notches of
tag media
Reflective sensor: Detects the black mark

Label media Continuous media

B
C A Notch detection Black mark detection
E

Label
I
Printed area
D

K
H
Label
G
L

I M
F

Label
J

N
K

Transparent sensor Reflective sensor

Media direction

Min. value mm (inches) Max. value mm (inches)

A Label width 19.50 (0.77) 118.00 (4.65)
B Liner width 19.50 (0.77) 118.00 (4.65)
C Label left edge position 0 (0) 2.54 (0.10)
D Length of gap between labels 2.54 (0.10) 812.8 (32.00)
E Label length 6.40 (0.25) 812.8 (32.00)
F Label pitch 6.40 (0.25) 812.8 (32.00)
G Liner thickness 0.06 (0.0025) 0.125 (0.0049)
H Total media thickness 0.06 (0.0025) 0.25 (0.01)
I Position of right edge of notch 3.60 (0.14) 60.80 (2.39)
J Position of left edge of notch 0 (0) 57.20 (2.25)
K Notch length 2.54 (0.10) 17.80 (0.70)
L Right edge of black mark 15.00 (0.59) 66.50 (2.62)
M Left edge of black mark 0 (0) 51.5 (2.02)
N Black mark width 3.18 (0.125) 17.80 (0.70)
* Use a transparent sensor for label media gaps and media with black marks.
* Use a transparent sensor for fan fold media.
Menu Setting Table (p.32) * If the label pitch is 1 inch or less, set the Small Media Adjustment menu to ON
and match it to the label that uses the value of the Small Media Length menu.

21
2 Printer Operation
Setting the Media

Installing the Media

1. Push the large blue-head open lever to release the head unit
and sensor arm. It can be opened to the position shown below
by lifting the head unit by hand.

Large blue-head open lever

2. Firstly, slide the two black plastic parts of the media holder
assembly together. Ensure correct alignment of the guide with
the bar as it can only be installed in one direction.
3. Slide the roll of media over the media bar. The media guide
must be on the right side of the roll of media (as viewed from
the front of the printer) with the flat surface of the media guide
touching the roll.

Media holder guide

Media holder bar

Media Sizes (p.21) 4. Set the media roll and media holder in to the printer as shown
above. It is advisable to pull a length of media forwards and
through the mechanism ready for later positioning.
5. Move the media roll so it is touching the leftside of the housing.
Then slide the black media guide so it is touching the media on
the right side. Do not try to hold the media too tightly with
these guides as it will cause the printer to jam during printing.

22
 Printer Operation

Setting the Media

Sensor Selection Method 6. Setting sensor positions.

(Transparent Reflective)
When using a transparent sensor
(p.34)
Move the bottom sensor close to the center of the width of the media,
Adjusting the Transparent then align the upper sensor marker and the bottom sensor marker (white)
sensor (p.35) using the movable media guide.
When using media that is 4 inches wide, position the upper sensor and
the bottom sensor all the way to the right (large blue-head open lever
side).

Upper sensor marker

Upper sensor

Aligned with the marker

Bottom sensor

Transparent
sensor marker

Movable
Platen media guide
Front

Adjusting the Reflective When using a reflective sensor

sensor (p.36) Adjust the position of the sensor so that the reflective sensor marker of
the bottom sensor is at the center of the black mark of the media as
shown below.

Media Black mark

Bottom sensor
Black mark

Reflective sensor marker

Platen
Front

23
2 Printer Operation
Setting the Media

7. Align the media with the left fixed media guide (2 locations),
align the right movable media guide with the media width, and
lower the sensor arm.

Fixed media guide Movable media

guide

Sensor arm

Media thickness Adjustment 8. Lower and lock the head unit. Align it with the width of the
(p.37) media that has been set, then set the media width and media
Media Width Adjustment thickness adjustment dials.
(p.38) See Chapter 3 Printer Adjustments.

Head unit

Media thickness adjustment

Media width adjustment

9. With the power switched on, push the FEED key to feed the
media.
It will halt at the next print start position.

24
 Printer Operation

Mode Settings
Operation Panel (P.14) Turning on the power while pressing keys in the following combinations starts
various functions.

Mode Key operation

HEX dump mode Turning power on while pushing the STOP key.

Self print mode Turning power on while pushing the FEED key.

Menu setting mode Turning power on while pushing the MODE/REPEAT key.

HEX Dump Mode

 When using label media
Turn on printer power while pushing the STOP key. If the PRINT LED has
begun to flash slowly, release the STOP key, and then the printer enters
HEX DUMP mode.

 When using continuous media

Turn on printer power while pushing the STOP key. If the PRINT LED has
stopped flashing slowly and begun to flash rapidly, release the STOP key,
and then the printer enters HEX dump mode.

DUMP LIST

25
2 Printer Operation
Mode Settings

Self Print Mode

Performing a self test print is an easy way to check on the state of printer
setting and printing quality. Install the media as explained in Installing the
Media and then operate the printer as follows.

 Case of label media

Setting the Media (P.21)
Turn on printer power while pushing
the FEED key. When the PRINT LED
has begun to flash slowly, release
the FEED key. After it enters TEST
MODE and media has fed, two
labels print then printing stops.
To restart printing, press the FEED
key once more.

 Case of continuous media

Media feed
direction

Turn on printer power while pushing

the FEED key. When the PRINT LED
has stopped flashing slowly and has
begun to flash rapidly, release the
FEED key. After it enters TEST
MODE and it prints then printing
Self print pattern
stops.
To restart printing, press the FEED
key once more.

Media Adjustments
Using the Self Test Print shown above, you can make adjustments to the
printer settings such as media width and media thickness (printhead pressure).
The location of these two adjustments is explained in Chapter 3.

Media thickness Adjustment The first sample, left, shows an incorrectly set media
(p.37) thickness adjustment. For standard label media, it
is recommended you set the blue dial to the 0
position.

Media Width Adjustment The second sample, left, shows an incorrectly set
(p.38) media width adjustment. For 4-inch or 100mm
wide media, the adjuster should be set to the 9
position on the blue dial.
The settings shown above are for general label media
and may not apply to specialist media.

26
 Printer Operation

Mode Settings

Menu Setup Mode

If the printer power is turn on while the MODE/REPEAT key is pressed, the
printer enters menu setup mode. In this mode, the printers configuration
can be changed using the VuePrint Menu System. During menu setting mode,
the PRINT LED and CONDITION LED are on. Media must be installed in the
printer to use the VuePrint menu system.

Light up

YES/Select/Save NO/Next Item/Change Value

Next digit

Exit to previous menu

Functions of the keys

After each menu item is printed, the printer will also print the function of
each of the buttons at that time. They vary slightly depending on the menu
selected but generally fit the following guidelines:
PAUSE key (YES/Select/Save):
It is pushed to either select the current menu option or to save the new
setting after which it advances to the next menu.
STOP key (NO/Next Item/Change Value):
Whilst changing a menu value (such as head temperature), pressing this
key displays the next menu value available but does not save the setting.
In the main menu, pressing this key moves to the next menu available.
FEED key (Next digit):
With some menu options such as head temperature, there is more than
one digit than can be changed.
This key moves the cursor to the next digit.
MODE/REPEAT key (Exit to previous menu):
Exits the current menu or the VuePrint menu system.

Caution
When you are changing a menu value, pressing the "PAUSE" key (YES)
causes the printer to save the currently selected parameter. The
CONDITION LED flashes briefly. Do not turn off the power to the
printer at this time as this may cause a malfunction.
If the power is accidentally turned off, first reset the printer to factory
defaults.

27
2 Printer Operation
Mode Settings

Menu Setting Flow Chart

The following is a flow chart showing the CLP-521 VuePrint menu system.

Menu Setting Mode (p.27)

MODE/REPEAT key + Power on

Press FEED key

for 3 seconds
Do you
Example of printing during EXIT want to reset this YES Initialization of the
printer to factory Are you sure? content of the settings
top menu setting (p.30) (Initialization to the
settings?
settings when the printer
NO was shipped.)
NO

Example of printing of EXIT Do you want to YES Printing the contents of

print the current menu the present setting
contents of settings (p.31) settings?

NO

Example of printing during EXIT Do you want to

change "Page Setup
sub menu setting (p.30) Menu" items?

NO
EXIT Do you want to YES
change the menu
settings?
EXIT Do you want to
NO change "System Setup
Menu" items?

Do you want Printing the NO

EXIT YES
to print the current content of
menu settings? the changes
EXIT Do you want to
NO change "After Print
Menu" items?

NO

Completed
EXIT Do you want to
change "Interface Menu"
items?

NO

28
 Printer Operation

Mode Settings

Operation Panel

YES / Select / Save NO / Next Item / Change Value

Next Digit

Exit to previous menu

YES

Change
Sensor Level EXIT Value EXIT
Changing the
Buzzer Select Print Speed
parameter
Metric/Inch
YES Max Media Length SAVE SAVE
Settings Lock
Keyboard Lock
Control Code (DMX Mode Only)
Emulation Select Change
EXIT Value Changing the EXIT
Print Darkness
AutoConfigure parameter

YES Function Select SAVE SAVE

Cutter Action
Paper Position
Mode/Repeat Key Darkness Adjust
Continuous Media Length
Vertical Position
RS-232C Baud Horizontal Shift
RS-232C Parity Media Sensor
YES RS-232C Length Small Media Adjustment
RS-232C Stop bit
RS-232C X-ON Change
IEEE1284 EXIT Value Changing the EXIT
Small Media Length
parameter
SAVE
SAVE

29
2 Printer Operation
Mode Settings

Shown below is a sample menu output from the CLP-521 VuePrint menu
system.
This particular example is changing the print speed and print darkness then
continues through the remainder of the Print Setup menu.
The actual output from the printer is "vertically reversed" due to the way the
printer outputs the menu options. Please look at the example below to see
how the output changes.

Menu Setting Flow Chart Example of printing during top menu setting
(p.28)

Menu Setting Flow Chart Example of printing during sub menu setting
(p.28)

30
 Printer Operation

Mode Settings

Menu Setting Flow Chart Example of printing of contents of settings

(p.28)

* The settings of the Symbol Set can be changed only by a command.

Note: Citizen continually enhances its printers with new options and settings
based on our customer's requests. Extra or changed menu items may
appear on the above print out in some case.

31
2 Printer Operation
Mode Settings

Menu Setting Table

Page Setup Menu - allows you to change settings related to the media or print quality.
System Setup Menu - allows you to change settings for the printer hardware and basic control systems.
After Print Menu - changes how the printer reacts after the label has been printed.
Interfaces - changes interface parameters such as baud rate.

Menu Setting
Top Menu Sub Menu Default Menu Remarks

Page Setup Print Speed 4 IPS 2 to 4 IPS Printing speed setting

Print Darkness 10 00 to 30 Print darkness setting (printhead temperature)
Darkness adjust 0 -10 to 10 Darkness command adjustment
Continuous Media 4.00 IN 0.25 to 32.00 IN Setting default length of continuous
Length 101.6mm 6.40 to 812.8mm media, if selected. ; the lower line is in
metric mode.
Vertical Position 0.00 IN -1.00 to 1.00 IN Print start position adjustment
0.0mm -25.4 to 25.4mm
Horizontal Shift 0.00 IN -1.00 to 1.00 IN Horizontal printing location adjustment
0.0mm -25.4 to 25.4mm
Media Sensor See Through See Through Label sensor selection
Reflect
None
Small Media OFF ON Setting for small labels
Adjustment OFF
Small Media 1.00 IN 0.25 to 1.00 IN Setting length of small label media
Length 25.4mm 6.40 to 25.4mm
System Setup Sensor Level 1.5V 0.0V to 3.3V Setting the threshold of the sensor
Buzzer Select ON ON Setting buzzer sounding conditions
OFF
Metric/Inch Inch Inch Setting the units used
mm
Max Media Length 10.00 IN 1.00 to 50.00 IN Setting the maximum label length
254.0mm 25.4 to 1270.0mm
Settings Lock Off On/Off When on, prevents software commands from
changing the values set by the VuePrint menu

Keyboard Lock Off On/Off Prevents the control panel from affecting the
printer's conrfiguration. (User "lock-out")
Control Code STD STD/ALT Selects between the Standard STX control
code or the "Alternative" code. Sometimes
called "AS400 mode".
Emulation Select DM4 DMI Datamax compatibility selection
DM4 DMI DataMax IClass
DPP DM4 DataMax 400 like
DPP DataMax Prodigy Plus
After Print AutoConfigure On On Optional auto configure
Off On ...... Auto configure effective.
If a peeler unit or auto-cutter is
installed, each mode is automatically
set regardless of the function select
setting.

32
 Printer Operation

Mode Settings

Top Menu Sub Menu Default Menu Remarks

Off ...... Auto configure ineffective.

When a peeler unit or auto-cutter is
installed but has not been started, it
is off and the operation is selected
by Function select.

Function Select Tear Off Selects the type of options installed and
Tear adjusts the "paper stop" position accordingly.
Peel On* For example, the position where the label stops
Cut On* in "Tear" mode is different to that in "Peel On"
mode.

Cutter Action* Backfeed Backfeed Cutter operating method setting

Through Backfeed: it feeds back after each cutting
operation.
Through: when the number copied = n, the
back end of sheet 1 to n-1 passes through,
and the back end of the final page that is a
single sheet is copied and fed back.

Paper Position 0.00IN Peel/Cut/Tear Off The stop position can be fine tuned using this
0.00mm 0.00 to 2.00 IN menu setting. The general stop position is
0.0 to 50.8mm selected depending on the "Function" selected
Peel/Cut/Tear On above.
-1.00 to 1.00 IN
-25.4 to 25.4mm

Mode/Repeat Key Disabled LabelSet Repeat method selection

LastOne LabelSet:
Disabled Reissues multiple labels.
LastOne:
Issues only the final page.
In count case, it issues only 1 label while
continuing.
Disabled:
Makes the repeat key invalid.
Interfaces RS-232C Baud 9600 115200 Sets the baud rate of the serial interface.
57600 Interface related settings are effective after
38400 the power is turned on again.
19200
9600
4800
2400

RS-232C Parity None None Sets the communication parity of the serial
Odd interface.
Even

RS-232C Length 8 bits 8 bits Sets the character length of the serial interface.
7 bits

RS-232C Stop bit 1 bit 1 bit Sets the stop bit of the serial interface.
2 bits

RS-232C X-ON Yes Yes Selects the X-ON flow control of the serial
No interface.

IEEE1284 ON ON Enable or disables the 'enhanced' features of

OFF the IEEE1284 parallel interface.

* Effective only when the optional unit is attached.

33
3 Printer Adjustments

Sensor Adjustments
The sensing level of both the transparent (see thru) and reflective sensors is
adjusted separately and independently. Firstly, the sensor type must be
selected either using the VuePrint menu system or the Sensor Method
Selection shown below. Then the adjustment and calibration of the sensor
can be made.

Entering Sensor Adjustment Mode

1. Turn on the power while pushing the PAUSE key, FEED key, and
STOP key simultaneously.

Power Switch

2. After the PRINT LED and CONDITION LED light up, release the
keys to change the printer to sensor adjustment setting mode.

Media Setting (p.23) Sensor Selection Method (Transparent Reflective)

To switch from transparent to reflective sensor, ensure the CONDITION LED
is lit then hold down the MODE/REPEAT key and then press the STOP key.
Each time you press the STOP key, you switch to back and forth between the
two sensor types.
If the transparent sensor is selected, the PRINT LED lights up and the buzzer
sounds once. If the reflective sensor is selected, the PRINT LED flashes
slowly and the buzzer sounds twice.

34
 Printer Adjustments

Sensor Adjustments

Adjusting the Transparent sensor

Media Setting (p.23) 1. Push the large blue-head open lever to open the head unit and
sensor arm, then return only the sensor arm to its original
position. Align the upper sensor marker and the bottom sensor
marker (white) using the movable media guide.
Upper sensor marker

Upper sensor

Alignment of markers

Bottom sensor

Transparent sensor marker Movable media guide

Sensor Selection Method 2. Select the transparent sensor, and open the sensor arm.
(Transparent Reflective) 3. Install only the liner media (label backing paper) with the label
(p.34) media removed so that it will pass between the platen roller and
the media sensor. (Be careful that media with black marks does
not pass the media sensor.) Then close the sensor arm and the
printhead.

Upper sensor
Label Media gap

Liner media
Bottom sensor

4. If the PAUSE key is pressed and released while the MODE/

REPEAT key is pressed, the PRINT LED goes off, after the
CONDITION LED switches from lit to rapid flashing, media
feeding starts, and the sensor is automatically adjusted.
5. If automatic adjustment stops normally, the PRINT LED and
CONDITION LED return to their original status. If it stops
abnormally (adjustment impossible), the CONDITION LED and
ERROR LED flash.
6. If the STOP key is pushed, it exits sensor adjustment mode.

35
3 Printer Adjustments
Sensor Adjustments

Adjusting the Reflective sensor

1. Open the printhead and the sensor arm, then align the position
of the sensor marker of the bottom sensor is at the center of
the black mark on the media.

Media Black mark

Bottom sensor
Black mark

Reflective sensor marker

Sensor Selection Method 2. Select the reflective sensor.

(Transparent Reflective) 3. With the reflective sensor selected, install the label media so
(p.34) that it is between the platen roller and the media sensor.
(Be careful that black mark and media gap do not pass the media
sensor.) Then close the sensor arm and the printhead.

Label

Black mark Liner media

Bottom sensor

4. If the PAUSE key is pressed and released while the MODE/

REPEAT key is pressed, PRINT LED goes off, the CONDITION
LED switches from lit to rapid flashing, media feeding starts,
and the sensor is automatically adjusted.
5. If automatic adjustment stops normally, the PRINT LED and
CONDITION LED return to their original status. If it does not
stop normally (adjustment impossible), the CONDITION LED
and ERROR LED flash.
6. If the STOP key is pushed, it exits sensor adjustment mode.

36
 Printer Adjustments

Media Thickness Adjustment

Installing the Media (p.22) It may be necessary to adjust the printer according to the thickness of the
media being used. This can be done easily by rotating the media adjustment
dial to improve the print quality.

Poor print quality across the complete printout means wrongly set media
thickness. See this section.
Poor print quality on one side of a printout means wrongly set media width.
See next section.

When using standard label media, high quality media or direct

thermal media
Self Print Mode (p.26) Adjust while performing test printing by turning the dial from the smallest
number on the dial to the largest number on the dial one step at a time.

When using thicker media (tags, card, etc.)

Adjust while performing test printing by turning the dial from the smallest
number on the dial to the largest number on the dial one step at a time.

Media thickness adjustment dial

Media Thickness
Suggested media type
Dial Position
0 Direct thermal media (thin media)
1 Standard Label media, Direct thermal media
3-5 Thicker backing paper labels
6-9 Cards, tags, thicker media stock.
* These values are guidelines. The exact media being used must be matched
with the correct media thickness adjustment position.

When shipped from the factory, it is set at dial 1.

The offset adjustment varies according to the thickness and the hardness
of the media.

37
3 Printer Adjustments

Media Width Adjustment

Installing the Media (p.22) The head pressure varies according to the width of the media being printed.
The head pressure balance must be adjusted according to media width so
that constant head pressure is applied to the head. With this printer, it can
be adjusted easily by turning the media width adjustment dial.
If the printing is blurred or lightly printed on one side or the media moves in
a zigzag pattern adjust the head pressure balance.
After making an adjustment, confirm the output quality with a test print.
Self Print Mode (p.26)

Caution
When using narrow media, be sure to MAKE this adjustment. (If you do
not, the head may be damaged by jamming, etc.)

Media width adjustment dial

Dial position Media width mm (inches) Head pressure

0 19.5 to 23.0mm (0.77 to 0.90)
1 23.0 to 30.0mm (0.90 to 1.18) Low
2 30.0 to 39.0mm (1.18 to 1.53)
3 39.0 to 49.0mm (1.53 to 1.92)
4 49.0 to 62.0mm (1.92 to 2.44)
5 62.0 to 76.0mm (2.44 to 2.99)
6 76.0 to 88.0mm (2.99 to 3.46)
7 88.0 to 99.0mm (3.46 to 3.89)
8 99.0 to 108mm (3.89 to 4.25) High
9 108 to 118mm (4.25 to 4.65)
(setting when shipped)

The following values are criteria.

38
 Printer Adjustments

Cleaning
Wipe off any foreign matter such as media dust, dirt and adhesive substances
built up around the prinhead with the head cleaning pen (head cleaner)
provided, and use a soft cloth soaked in ethyl alcohol for the platen etc.
It is particularly important to clean the thermal printhead after printing on
thermal media for long periods, which will guarantee the print quality and
extend the life of the thermal printhead.

Note: Always use the head cleaner when cleaning the thermal printhead.

Thermal printhead

Head cleaner

Platen

Caution
Do not use any solvent other than ethyl alcohol. Solvents such as
benzene, acetone and thinner will dissolve plastic parts and destroy
the thermal printhead, platen and much of the printer!
Try to avoid using "excessive amounts" of ethyl alcohol to clean the
platen. Excessive use will harden the platen surface prematurely.

39
4 Troubleshooting

This chapter explains corrective actions taken when the printer malfunctions or when
an error message is displayed.

Items to check when a malfunction occurs

When the printer malfunctions during operation, take corrective action with reference
to the following table. If the corrective action does not solve the problem, consult
with the service personnel at the dealer where you purchased the printer.

Indication Check Corrective action

Connection to Power The LED do not light 1) Is the plug of the power 1) Insert the plug of the power cord
(p.16) up when printer power cord correctly inserted into correctly in the electric outlet.
is connected. the electric outlet?

2) Is the connector of the 2) Insert the connector of the power

power cord correctly cord correctly into the power inlet of
inserted into the power inlet the printer.
of the printer?

3) Is the power cord damaged? 3) Replace the power cord. Consult with
the dealer where the printer was
purchased to make sure you obtain a
cord made especially for the printer.
Note: Do not use any power cord
except one made especially for the
printer.

4) Is power supplied to the 4) Check to make sure power is supplied

electric outlet the printer is to the outlet. If there are any
connected to? problems, make sure power is supplied
to the building. Or find out if a power
failure has occurred.

5) Is the main fuse in the 5) If necessary, replace the main fuse in

buildings fuse box burnt the buildings fuse box, and reset the
out? main breaker. Ask a qualified
serviceman to carry out the
replacement.

Cleaning (p.39) Paper is feeding, but 1) Is the thermal printhead 1) If it is dirty, remove the dirt with the
nothing is printed. dirty? attached head cleaner.
Is a label stuck to the head? If a label is stuck to the thermal
printhead remove it.
Note: Do not use a metal object to
remove a label stuck to the inside of
the printer. (This may damage the
thermal printhead .) If adhesive label
material is stuck to the thermal
printhead , remove it with a soft cloth
soaked in ethyl alcohol.

Menu Setting Table The printer is not 1) Is the printing density too 1) Set the appropriate printing density
(p.32) printing neatly. high or too low? using the menu or control software.
2) Is the platen dirty? 2) If it is dirty, clean it with ethyl alcohol.
Is it deformed? If it is deformed, replace it.
Note: Consult with the dealer that
supplied the printer concerning the
replacement.

40
 Troubleshooting

Indication Check Corrective action

Cleaning (p.39) The printer is not 3) Is the thermal printhead 3) If it is dirty, remove the dirt with the
printing neatly. dirty? attached head cleaner.
Is a label stuck to the head. If a label is stuck to the head, remove
it.
Note: Do not use a metal object to
remove a label stuck to the inside of
the printer. (This may damage the
print head.) If adhesive label material
is stuck to the thermal printhead,
remove it with a soft cloth soaked in
ethyl alcohol.

Media Thickness 4) Is the thermal printhead in 4) Adjust the offset of the thermal
Adjustment (p.37) the correct position for the printhead with the media thickness
media that is used? adjustment dial.

Media Width 5) I s t h e p r i n te r s h e a d 5) Adjust the thermal printhead pressure

pressure balance correct for with the media width adjustment
Adjustment (p.38)
the width of the media that dial.
is used?

Media Setting (p.22) The printing position 1) Is the media properly 1) Correctly install the media.
changes. installed?

Cleaning (p.39) 2) Is the platen dirty? 2) If it is dirty, clean it with ethyl alcohol.
Is it deformed? If it is deformed, replace it.
Note: Consult with the dealer that
supplied the printer concerning the
replacement.

LED Functions (p.20) 3) Are the data contents and 3) If an error message is displayed, check
the command signals from the content of the software and the
the host appropriate? communication status set by the host
computer.
Menu Setting Table 4) Are the menu values set 4) Set the correct menu values using the
(p.32) appropriately? operating panel or the host computer.
5) Are the sensitivities of the 5) S et t h e m e d i a s e n s i t i v i ty to
media sensors appropriate appropriate values.
for the media that is used? If this does not solve the problem,
change the Sensor level that is set
in the System setup.

41
Appendixes

Specifications
Item Description
Printing Printing method Thermal transfer
Resolution Main scanning line density: 203 dots/inch (8 dots/mm)
Sub- scanning line density: 203 dots/inch (8 dots/mm)
Head 864 dots (effective dots: 832 dots)
Max. print width 104 mm 4.1 inch
Max. print length 812.8 mm 32 inch
Print density Print density is adjustable with software
Printing speed Printing speed setting 4, 3 or 2 inches per second.
Print mode Batch mode Normal printing (single or multiple sheets)
Tear off mode Feeds back media to the tear-off position after printing is completed.
Cut mode *1 Prints while cutting at designated sheet units.
The following two kinds of cut mode operations are done.
Backfeed
Cut through
(Cut through refers to stopping present printing to cut the previous label
when it reaches the cut position. After cutting, printing restarts but a gap
may be created at the seam of the printing at this time.)
Peel mode*2 Peels labels from the liners after printing them.
Media Types of media Roll, fanfold
(continuous media, die-cuts, continuous tags. paper or tickets)
Kinds of media Thermal-transfer media
Recommended media Heat-transfer media: label media (140LAB Ricoh), tag media (TB2E0V, Mitsubishi Paper)
Max. media width 118.0 mm 4.65 inch
Min. media width 19.5 mm 0.77 inch
Min. label width 19.5 mm 0.77 inch
Min. label pitch 6.40 mm 0.25 inch
Max. media thickness 0.254 mm 0.01 inch
Max. media length 812.8 mm 32 inch
Min. media length 6.40 mm 0.25 inch
Min. media thickness 0.0635 mm 0.0025 inch
On-board roll media Max. external diameter: 127mm 5 inch
diameter Media core: 25.4 to 76mm 1 to 3 inch
Bar code One-dimension Code 3 of 9 UPC-A UPC-E EAN-13 (JAN-13)
EAN-8 (JAN-8) Interleaved 2 of 5 Code 128
HIBC (Modulus 43-used code 3 of 9) Codabar (NW-7)
Int 2 of 5 (Modulus10-used Interleaved 2 of 5) Plessey
Case Code UPC 2DIG ADD UPC 5DIG ADD
Code 93 Telepen ZIP UCC/EAN128
UCC/EAN128 (for K-MART)
UCC/EAN128 Random Weight FIM
Two-dimension UPS Maxi Code, PDF-417, Data Matrix, QR Code

42
 Appendixes

Specifications

Item Description
Font 1. Seven kinds of fixed pitch font
Overseas, English fonts and European fonts
2. OCR fonts OCR-A, OCR-B
3. Proportional fonts
CG Triumvirate smooth font
CG Triumvirate Bold smooth font
(6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 18, 24, 30, 36, 48 points)
Character set: Conforms with code page 850 standards
4. True type rasterizer *3
Control language Conforms to Datamax programming language *4
Outline of electronic CPU 32Bit RISC CPU
devices
ROM Standard equipment: FLASH ROM 2Mbyte
RAM Standard equipment: SDRAM 8MByte
Media detection Transparent sensor Detects media gap between labels, notches on tags, and media out
sensors
Reflective sensor Detects reflective mark on back of media and media out
Label peeling sensor *1
Communication Parallel IEEE1284 (compatible, Nibble, ECP mode)
interfaces
Serial 2400 4800 9600 19200 38400 57600 115200bps
USB FULL Speed USB1.1
Communication Network Ethernet and wireless LAN interface
interface options
Indications and switches LED POWER, PRINT, CONDITION, ERROR
Buzzer Alarms, errors, etc.
Operating panel keys PAUSE, FEED, STOP, MODE/REPEAT
Head-up detection sensor Detects head open
Power switch Turns power on and off
Power (standards) 100V version 100V, 50/60Hz (Japan)
120V (-10%+6%), 2.5A, 60Hz (U.S.A., Canada)
UL60950-1, CSA No. 950, FCC Part 15 Subpart B (Class A)
220V version 220V-240V (-10%+6%), 1.2A, 50/60Hz (Europe)
EN60950-1, EN55022 (Class A), EN55024, EN61000-3-2,
EN61000-3-3

43
Appendixes
Specifications

Item Description
Environment Operating temperature Operating temp. 0 to 40C, humidity 30 to 80%, condensation free
conditions: (Conditions: ventilation, and natural convection)
Storage temperature Temp. 20 to 60C, humidity 5 to 85%
conditions (Conditions: ventilation, and natural convection)

Operating assurance temperature

Printing assurance temperature
80
85
40

Humidity %
Humidity %

30

0 5 Temperature C 35 40 -20 Temperature C 60

Conditions assuring operation and printing Storage assurance temperature

External dimensions Approx. 231(W) X 289 (D) X 186 (H) mm

9.1(W) X 11.4 (D) X 7.3 (H) inch

Unit: mm (inch)
Approx. 186 (7.3)

Approx. 231 (9.1) Approx. 289 (11.4)

Weight Approx. 3.5 kg (7.7 lb.)

Accessories Test label media, CD-ROM (Users Manual), Quick start guide
Head cleaner, Power cord, Media holder bar and Media holder guide

Option Auto-cutter unit, Peeler unit, Ethernet interface board and

Wireless LAN interface board

*1, *2: Options can be separately purchased.

*3: It is equipped with UFSTTM and TrueTypeTM rasterizer that are licensed from Afga Corporation.
TrueTypeTM is a trademark of Apple Computer.
UFSTTM and TrueTypeTM rasterizer are licensed from Agfa Corporation.
UFSTTM is a trademark of Agfa Corporation. TrueTypeTM is a trademark of Apple Computer.
*4: Datamax is a registered trade mark of Datamax Bar Code Products Corporation.

44
 Appendixes

Interfaces
This printer is connected to a computer and prints according to commands
sent from the computer.
There are three types of computer interfaces, and these are connected to
devices suited to each type of interface. The printer can also be connected
to a computer by the optional Ethernet and wireless LAN.

Serial Interface
Specifications
System Start/stop asynchronous duplex communication
Signal level RS-232C
Baud rate 2400, 4800, 9600, 19200, 38400,57600, 115200bps
Bit length 7Bit, 8Bit
Stop bit 1Bit 2Bit
Parity Odd, even, none
Connector D-SUB 25PIN

Signal line and pin arrangement

Pin No. Signal code Signal name Function
1 FG Protective Protective grounding
grounding
2 TXD Transmitted data Signal line that transmits data from the
printer to other devices
3 RXD Received data Signal line that transmits data from other
devices to the printer
4 RTS Transmission Pull up to +12V through 3.3k
request
5 NC ------ Not used
6 DSR Data set relay Signal line that is active when an external
device can interface with the printer
7 SGND Signal line Shows the ground level of the signal line
ground
8-19 NC ------ Not used
20 DTR Data terminal Signal line that is active when an external
relay device can interface with the printer
21-24 NC ------ Not used
25 VCC +5V (FACTRY USE ONLY )

45
Appendixes
Interfaces

XON/XOFF Protocol

Requirements to output X-ON code

Communication is possible when the power is on.
When the receive buffer has less than 128 byte available, XOFF code is
output, then the receive buffer has at least at least 1024 bytes available.

Requirements to output the X-OFF code

When the receive buffer has less than 128 bytes available

Receive buffer 16kB

XOFF
128byte

1024 byte

XON

DTR Protocol
Conditions when the DTR signal is Ready (High)
All the following conditions are satisfied.
The receive buffer is 128 byte or more available capacity.
* When the receive buffer has less than 128 byte available and the DTR signal
has changed to BUSY (Low) status, BUSY status is maintained until the capacity
of the receive buffer has reached 1024 bytes or more.

Conditions when DTR signal is Busy (Low)

When the receive buffer has fallen to less than 128 byte available.

46
 Appendixes

Interfaces

Parallel Interface
Specifications
Transmission mode 8-bit parallel data

Receive buffer size 16kB

Transmission modes Compatible mode

It is an asynchronous forward direction of the byte width
(from host to printer) channel, and the interface line of
the data is operated in accordance with signal line
definitions of Centronics.
NIBBLE mode
Nibble mode is asynchronous reverse channel
communication with data transmission controlled by the
host computer. In reverse channel transmission, the data is
nibble transmitted in two parts using four status lines (Fault,
Select, PE, and Busy). And nibble mode can be used along
with compatible mode to send data in two directions.
ECP mode
ECP mode permits bi-directional asynchronous data
transmission, and thanks to its interlock handshake, it does
not require the timing necessary with compatible mode.

Signal level IEEE1284 standard

Signal line and pin assignment table

Pin No. Signal name I/O Function
1 *STROBE Input Strobe signal to read in 8-bit data
2-9 DATA1-8 Input 8-bit parallel signal
10 *ACKNLG Output 8-bit data request signal
11 BUSY Output Signal specifying printer busy
12 PERROR Output Signal specifying media out
13 SELECT Output Signal specifying if the printer is on-line (printing
enabled) or off-line (pausing)
14 AUTOFD Input Invalid (ignored)
15 NC --- Not used
16 GND --- Signal ground
17 FGND --- Frame ground
18 P.L.H Output Peripheral logic high (pull up to +5V at 1.2k)
19-30 GND --- Ground for twisted pair return
31 *INIT Input Printer reset
32 *FAULT Output Signal specifying printer error
33-35 NC --- Not used
36 SELECTIN Input Invalid (ignored)

47
Appendixes
Interfaces

Parallel port status signals when an error occurs

The status of a signal line will not be changed in bi-directional mode such as
nibble or ECP mode.

Error Change in the status of a signal line in

compatible mode
Paper end Busy :L
H
PError :L
H
Select :H
L
nFault :H
L

Error other than paper end Busy :L
H

Head open PError : L
unchanged
Other Select :H
L
nFault :H
L
Conditions for Busy Receive buffer full
Data being read
Error

Compatible timing specification

[When power is on] (Time it goes off-line)
PowerOn

Reset

BUSY

*ACK

SELECT

[While receiving data]

Data0-7

*Strobe

BUSY

0.5s 0.5s 0.5s

Note: Busy rises when *Strobe signal starts, and data is latched with *Strobe
signal starts.

48
 Appendixes

Interfaces

[While receiving INIT signal]

Min. 10 to 15sec

*Init

BUSY

*Ack

*Fault

SELECT

Note: If the *Init signal does not have width of 10 to 15sec or more, it
cannot act as an Init signal. If it is lower, the *Init signal is ignored.
BUSY starts up when the *Init signal is perceived.

Relation of the timing of the BUSY signal and the *ACK signal
[Center ACK]

BUSY

*ACK

2 sec

49
Appendixes
Interfaces

USB Interface
Specifications
Standards Complies with Universal Serial Bus Specification
Transmission speed Compatible with 12Mbps (full speed) transmission
Receive buffer 16kB
Connector DUSB DUSB-BRA42-T11(DDK)

Signal line and pin arrangement

Pin No. Signal code Signal Function
1 VBUS USB power USB power (+5V)
2 D+ Signal line + + signal line
3 D Signal line signal line
4 GND GND GND

50
 Appendixes

Replacing the Interface Board

Caution
Always turn off the power to the printer before replacing the interface
board. Do not pull it out with unnecessary force. This will cause an
accident.

Replacement Method
1. Remove the screws (2) that anchor the bracket of the interface
board then pull the interface board towards you. When you do
this, be careful not to perform any unreasonable operations that
will damage the connecting cable and do not pull the cable too
much. If you do, it will cause a malfunction.

Interface Board

Rear Side

Screw
Interface Cable

2. Remove the connecting cable from the interface board and

reconnect the cable to the connector of the replacement
interface board

Wireless LAN
Interface Board

Rear Side
Ethernet
Interface Board

Interface Cable

51
Appendixes
Replacing the Interface Board

3. Insert the interface board into the printer so that the connecting
cable does not catch on the printer, then use the screws (2)
that you removed to anchor the bracket.

Interface Board

Rear Side

Screw

52
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