Postek Printer User's Manual
Postek Printer User's Manual
Postek Printer User's Manual
FCC Notice
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device
may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that
may cause undesired operation.
This equipment may generate, use and/or radiate radio frequency energy. If not installed and used in full accordance with
this User’s Manual, interference to radio communications may occur. This equipment complies with the limits for a Class A
Information Technology Equipment pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules, which are designed to provide reasonable
protection against such interference when operated in a commercial environment. Operation of this equipment in a
residential area may also cause interference. In such case the user, at his/her expense, will be required to correct the
interference using whatever means necessary.
Trademarks
POSTEK is a registered trademark by POSTEK Electronics Co., Ltd.
ARM is a registered trademark of Advanced RISC Machines Ltd.
Microsoft, Windows are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation.
Copyright
© 2013-2023 by Postek Electronics Co., Ltd. All rights reserved. Under the copyright laws, this manual cannot be
reproduced in any form without the prior written permission of Postek. No patent liability is assumed, with respect to the use
of the information contained herein.
iQ Barcode Label Printer User’s Manual
3rd edition July 2017
Disclaimer
This manual has been validated and reviewed for accuracy. The instructions and descriptions it contains are accurate for the
POSTEK printer at the time of this manual’s distribution. However, succeeding printers and manuals are subject to change
without notice. POSTEK assumes no liability for damages incurred directly or indirectly from errors, omissions or
discrepancies between the printer and this manual.
To protect your interest, and to prevent loss due to improper handling, please read the corresponding user’s manual before
operation, and don't use the printer during abnormal conditions. In no event shall POSTEK be liable for any damage or loss
caused by human misoperation, including but not limited to loss of business profits, business interruption, loss of business
information, or other pecuniary loss.
Although this manual describes and details many issues which could possibly occur, the manufacturer cannot warrant against
unpredictable conditions during the printer’s application. For problems such as the printer not working, missed or unclear
print content, etc., POSTEK and/or its resellers are responsible for troubleshooting (according to POSTEK Warranty
Clauses). In no event shall POSTEK be liable for any direct or indirect loss, including but not limited to loss of business
profits, business interruption, loss of business information, or other pecuniary loss.
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iQ User’s Manual
Only qualified and trained service technicians should attempt to repair the printer.
Do not place the printer on or near a heat source.
Be sure that the output of the power adapter is 24VDC and your power source matches the rating listed on the power
adapter. Be certain your power source is grounded.
To avoid getting an electric shock, do not use a worn or damaged power cord. If the power cord becomes damaged or
frayed, replace it immediately.
Do not insert anything into the ventilation slots or openings on the printer.
The printer and power adapter should never be operated in a location where either one can get wet. Personal injury may
result.
The printhead becomes hot while printing. To protect from damaging the printhead and risk of personal injury, avoid
touching the printhead.
To get increased printhead longevity and higher quality printouts, always use approved labels, tags and thermal transfer
ribbons. Approved supplies can be ordered from your Postek authorized reseller.
Static electricity that accumulates on the surface of the human body or other surfaces can damage or destroy the
printhead or electronic components in this device. DO NOT touch the printhead or the electronic components with bare
hands.
Place the printer on a flat, firm, solid surface.
Never operate in a high temperature environment.
Turn off the power when not in use for extended periods.
Follow all recommendations and setup instructions included in this manual.
Warnings
This is a Class A product. In a domestic environment this product may cause radio interference in which case the user may
be required to take adequate measures (see FCC Notice).
Static electricity that accumulates on the surface of the human body or other objects can damage the print head or electronic
components in the iQ printer. Observe proper electrostatic safety precautions when handling.
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iQ User’s Manual Contents
Contents
Preface ............................................................................................................................................................... 1
Important Notice, Read Me First .................................................................................................................... 2
Chapter 1: Introduction ................................................................................................................................... 3
Printer Specifications .......................................................................................................................................................... 3
Specifications for Power Adapter ....................................................................................................................................... 3
Contents of Box .................................................................................................................................................................. 4
Packing List ................................................................................................................................................................ 4
Chapter 2: Setup and Use ................................................................................................................................ 6
Setting up the Printer .......................................................................................................................................................... 6
Main Parts and Structures ........................................................................................................................................... 6
Connecting the Printer ................................................................................................................................................ 8
Interface Connection ................................................................................................................................................... 9
Loading the Media ............................................................................................................................................................ 10
Standard Mode .......................................................................................................................................................... 10
Cutting Mode ............................................................................................................................................................ 15
Adjusting the Position of Media Sensor ........................................................................................................................... 17
Chapter 3: Operations and Settings.............................................................................................................. 21
Basic Operations ............................................................................................................................................................... 21
Power Switch ............................................................................................................................................................ 21
The Front Panel......................................................................................................................................................... 21
Advanced Functions ................................................................................................................................................. 22
Windows Driver ................................................................................................................................................................ 24
Label Software .................................................................................................................................................................. 24
Chapter 4: Maintenance ................................................................................................................................ 25
Cleaning the Printhead ...................................................................................................................................................... 25
Cleaning the Platen Roller ................................................................................................................................................ 25
Cleaning the Printer Interior ............................................................................................................................................. 26
Chapter 5: Troubleshooting ........................................................................................................................... 27
Error Indications ............................................................................................................................................................... 27
Miscellaneous ................................................................................................................................................................... 28
Vertical Blank Lines Appear ..................................................................................................................................... 28
Printer Timeout Error Message ................................................................................................................................. 28
Data Sent but Not Printing ........................................................................................................................................ 28
Poor Printing Quality ................................................................................................................................................ 28
Recovery ................................................................................................................................................................... 29
Appendix A: Interface Specifications ........................................................................................................... 30
Appendix B: ASCII Table .............................................................................................................................. 32
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iQ User’s Manual Preface
Preface
This manual explains how to set up and begin using your iQ printer. It also provides detailed information on configuring
your printer, basic operations, care and troubleshooting.
Please read this manual carefully before using the POSTEK iQ printer.
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iQ User’s Manual Important Notice
1. DO NOT scrape or use tools that might damage the printhead surface.
2. To protect from corroding the printhead, DO NOT touch the printhead with bare hands.
3. DO NOT use thermal paper or thermal transfer ribbons which contain Na, K or Cl.
4. Keep printhead from any form of liquid or dampness.
5. Only use a cotton swab dipped in anhydrous isopropyl alcohol to clean the printhead.
6. Always use high-quality consumables:
When the printhead module is closed, pressure is placed directly onto the printhead; dirt such as paper scraps, sand,
dust and glue can scrape or damage the printhead.
Therefore, please always inspect consumables for high quality before purchasing. Any printhead damage caused by
poor quality consumables is not covered under warranty.
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iQ User’s Manual Chapter 1: Introduction
Chapter 1: Introduction
Printer Specifications
Mode iQ/200
Printing method Direct Thermal
Printing resolution 203 dpi (8 dots/mm)
Max printing speed 5 ips (127 mm/s)
Max printing width 4.09″(104 mm)
Max printing length 40″ (1016 mm)
Memory 8 MB FLASH ROM, 16 MB SDRAM
Thermal paper
Width:4.72″ (120 mm) max., 0.98” (25 mm) min.
Media
Supply roll: OD 5″ (127 mm) max., ID 1″ (25.4 mm) min.
Thickness: 0.003″~0.006″ (0.08~0.15 mm), including liner
Fonts Five built-in dot matrix ASCII fonts, user-downloadable TrueType Fonts
1D Barcode: Code 39, Code 93, Code 128/subset A,B,C, Codabar, Interleave 2 of 5, UPC
Bar Code Types A/E 2 and 5 add-on, EAN-13/8/128, UCC-128.
2D Barcode: MaxiCode, PDF417, Data Matrix, QR Code.
Media sensor Reflective (Adjustable)/Transimissive (Adjustable)
Interfaces RS-232 Serial, USB 2.0,
Power rating* 24 VDC, 2.5 A
Weight 1.8 kgs
Dimensions W 8.3 x D 10.0 x H 5.9 inches (W 210 x D 255 x H 150 mm)
Temperature: 32 F ~ +104 F (0 C ~ 40 C)
Operation environment
Relative humidity: 5% - 85% non condensing
Temperature: -40 F ~ +140 F (-40 C ~ 60 C)
Storage environment
Relative humidity: 5% - 85% non condensing
Optional items Guillotine Cutter, External Rewinder, Media Guide Adaptor, Bluetooth, WIFI ,
Output DC 24 V, 2.5 A
Environment 0 C ~ 40 C
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iQ User’s Manual Chapter 1: Introduction
Contents of Box
Inspect the shipping carton(s) for possible shipping damage, if damage is discovered, notify the shipping company to
report the nature and extent of the damage.
Please check the items according to the Packing List. If there are any items missing, notify your authorized reseller.
Packing List
iQ Printer 1 pc
Power Adapter 1 pc
Media Spindle 1 pc
*CD-ROM pack 1 pc
*Note: CD-ROM pack includes the printer driver, label software, iQ User’s Manual, “How to install” video and
Programming Manual.
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iQ User’s Manual Chapter 1: Introduction
iQ Printer
Power Adapter
USB Cable
5
iQ User’s Manual Chapter 2: Setup and Use
1. Make sure there is adequate space around the printer for loading consumables and proper ventilation.
2. Make sure the printer is close to the host so the interface cable is easily accessible at either end.
3
4
5
7
6
Figure 2
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iQ User’s Manual Chapter 2: Setup and Use
2
5
3
4
Figure 3
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iQ User’s Manual Chapter 2: Setup and Use
1 2 3 4 5
Figure 4
Warnings:
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iQ User’s Manual Chapter 2: Setup and Use
Interface Connection
Note: When connecting the iQ printer to a computer via the USB interface cable, make sure to utilize the same USB
port used during the driver installation process, which enables the printer to retrieve needed commands or data from the
PC. If the same USB port is not available or not known, then in the printer’s Properties Dialogue Box, under the Ports
tab, ensure the current port location is checked.
To connect:
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iQ User’s Manual Chapter 2: Setup and Use
Standard Mode
1. Lift up the top cover to expose the media compartment (see Figure 5-1).
2. Lift the Handle of the Printhead.
3. Take out the Media Spindle.
4. Load a roll of media (labels facing up) on the Media Spindle.
5. Slide the two Media Roll Guides, with smooth sides facing toward the media, onto the Media Spindle from each
end until snug against the media.
6. Insert the entire unit into the media compartment in the printer.
7. Position the media roll in the middle of the Spindle, using the scale for guidance.
8. Slide the Media Guide to the edge of the media.
9. Route the media through the bottom of the Media Guide Rod, and slide the Media Guides to the edge of the media;
don’t squeeze the labels, make sure they remain flat (see Figure 5-3).
10. Lead the media over and pass the Platen Roller to the front of the printer, and position the media in the middle of
the Platen Roller, using the scale for guidance.
11. Press down the Handle of the Printhead to lock the Printhead (see Figure 5-4).
12. Close the cover and press the “Feed” button to feed the media and ensure proper tracking. If the printer does not
correctly sense each label, it may be necessary to perform the Media Calibration procedure (found in the Operation
Basics section.)
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iQ User’s Manual Chapter 2: Setup and Use
Figure 5-1
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iQ User’s Manual Chapter 2: Setup and Use
Figure 5-2
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iQ User’s Manual Chapter 2: Setup and Use
Figure 5-3
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iQ User’s Manual Chapter 2: Setup and Use
Figure 5-4
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iQ User’s Manual Chapter 2: Setup and Use
Cutting Mode
Note: Operating the printer in Cutting mode requires the optional Guillotine Cutter.
1. Set the 3rd DIP Switch to the ON position to enable the cutter function (see Figure 5-5).
2. Turn on the printer.
3. Reset the printer: Press and hold the “Cancel” button for 2 seconds, until the 2 indicator lamps begin to blink
simultaneously. Release the “Cancel” button and press it again one more time. The 2 indicator lamps stop blinking
and remain lit. Reset is complete.
4. Load media as shown in Figure 5-7. The Guillotine Cutter is now ready to use.
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iQ User’s Manual Chapter 2: Setup and Use
Figure 5-7
16
iQ User’s Manual Chapter 2: Setup and Use
Figure 6-1
Media Sensor cover
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iQ User’s Manual Chapter 2: Setup and Use
Media Sensor
Figure 6-2
2 – 5mm
Media gap
Figure 6-3
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iQ User’s Manual Chapter 2: Setup and Use
Media gap
Figure 6-4
Media
gap
Figure 6-5
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iQ User’s Manual Chapter 2: Setup and Use
Figure 6-6
Figure 6-7
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iQ User’s Manual Chapter 3: Operations and Settings
Basic Operations
Power Switch
The power switch is on the back panel of the printer. The symbols on the switch are defined as follows:
━ — ON
〇 — OFF
Indicator Lamps
The two lamps indicate the status of the printer (please refer to Chapter 4: Troubleshooting, for error indicators).
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iQ User’s Manual Chapter 3: Operations and Settings
Panel Buttons
The three buttons have different functions based on the mode of the operation is performed.
Advanced Functions
Mode Basic Functions
(see Advanced Functions below)
Advanced Functions
It is necessary to accomplish Media Sensor Calibration after a new roll of media has been loaded.
1. Press and hold the Feed/Calibration button for about 2 seconds.
2. The printer will feed approximately 200mm of media.
3. The two indicators stop blinking and remain lit; the printer is back to a normal state.
Self Test
1. Press and hold the Pause/Self Test button for about 2 seconds.
2. The printer will print out a configuration report and the 2 indicators will stop blinking and remain lit. The printer is back
to a normal state.
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iQ User’s Manual Chapter 3: Operations and Settings
1. Press and hold the Cancel/ Reset button for 3 seconds until 3 lamps blink simultaneously.
2. Release and press the Cancel/ Reset button again, when the Ready lamp is off and the Media and Wi-Fi lamps keep
blinking, the manual reset is completed.
3. Restart the printer. The printer is back to a normal state.
Note: The number of printed labels and printed length may not be reset.
ON OFF
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
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iQ User’s Manual Chapter 3: Operations and Settings
Windows Driver
The iQ printer driver is packaged with the iQ in the CD-ROM pack, and is compatible with the following operating
systems:
Windows 8 Windows 7 Windows 2000
Windows Vista Windows NT Windows 98
Windows XP Windows 2003 Windows ME
Label Software
Each iQ printer is packaged with powerful barcode label editing software.
Note: Before downloading the software, always first remove any old version that may be loaded on your computer.
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iQ User’s Manual Chapter 4: Maintenances
Chapter 4: Maintenance
Warnings:
(1) Make sure the printer is powered off before performing maintenance operations.
(2) The Printhead may be hot due to recent printing. Wait until the Printhead cools before performing maintenance.
(3) Use only anhydrous isopropyl alcohol to clean the print head.
Clean the Printhead after every (3) rolls of label media use. To clean the Printhead:
1. Turn off the printer;
2. Open the top cover of iQ printer;
3. Lift the Handle to release the Printhead, and lift the Printhead Moudule.
4. Use a cotton swab dipped in anhydrous isopropyl alcohol. Rub the swab along the Printhead until the swab no longer
accumulates ink
5. Let the Printhead dry before using the printer again
Clean the Platen Roller after every (3) rolls of label media used. To clean the Platen Roller:
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iQ User’s Manual Chapter 4: Maintenances
To clean the printer interior, use a cotton swabs dipped into anhydrous isopropyl alcohol and remove any debris.
26
iQ User’s Manual Chapter 5: Troubleshooting
Chapter 5: Troubleshooting
Occasionally situations occur that require some troubleshooting. Possible issues and potential solutions are listed in this
section. While not every situation is addressed, you may find some of these tips useful.
Error Indications
Typically, when the printer is not functioning, one or two of the two indicator lamps will begin blinking. The possible
situations addressed by the status of the two indicator lamps are listed below.
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iQ User’s Manual Chapter 5: Troubleshooting
Miscellaneous
If the printer prints vertical blank lines as shown in the below picture, it may be due to a dirty or defective Printhead. See the
table below for possible causes and solutions.
If the trouble still exists, please contact an authorized POSTEK service provider for technical support.
If the trouble still exists, please contact an authorized POSTEK service provider for technical support.
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iQ User’s Manual Chapter 5: Troubleshooting
Recovery
After the miscellaneous has been cleared, press the CANCEL button to clear the alarm or restart the printer to resume
the printing automatically.
Note: For errors not listed here, please contact an authorized POSTEK Service Provider for further assistance.
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iQ User’s Manual Appendix A: Interface Specifications
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iQ User’s Manual Appendix A: Interface Specifications
Note: Never send data from 2 ports at the same time. Data cannot be sent to more than one port simultaneously or data
corruption and print errors may occur.
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iQ User’s Manual Appendix B: ASCII Table
32